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($1,147) Movers From Raleigh, NC to Iowa

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 1,094 miles from Raleigh, NC to Iowa averages $725 to $5,955. Your move could take anywhere from two to eight days. It all depends on the size of your move, the distance, your moving date, and whether you hire pros or go DIY.
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Best movers from Raleigh, NC to Iowa

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Raleigh, NC to Iowa

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,094-mile move from Raleigh, NC, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted moving price points sourced nationwide to account for seasonality and market trends. Final pricing can vary with the size of your move, extra services, access or parking constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Comparing multiple mover quotes is the best way to nail down an accurate estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $1,957 – $4,766
  • Moving container $1,146 – $2,118
  • Rental truck $664 – $1,313
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $2,432 – $5,955
  • Moving container $1,568 – $2,917
  • Rental truck $725 – $1,546
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $3,921 – $7,977
  • Moving container $2,118 – $3,848
  • Rental truck $938 – $1,939
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Mayflower Transit
Newton Grove, NC Webster, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 28, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cary, NC Jesup, IA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Bunn, NC Hedrick, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 29, 2025
North American Van Lines
Fuquay-Varina, NC Morning Sun, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
BLVD Moving
Louisburg, NC Donahue, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 14, 2025
PODS
Wake Forest, NC Alvord, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 27, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Wendell, NC Badger, IA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Kenly, NC Riverton, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 21, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Sanford, NC Oxford, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
Roadway Moving
Holly Springs, NC Kirkville, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Iowa to Raleigh, NC guide .

Local moving companies in Raleigh

Out of 28 Raleigh movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62.0% of all reviews were positive
34.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking. On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave input says Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, professional teams who handle belongings with care and keep things moving efficiently. Out of 315 reviews, an overwhelming 93.7% rate the company highly, often calling out polite staff, excellent communication, careful handling, and fast, organized service as reasons to recommend them. Quotes usually match the final cost, and customers note that movers arrive on time, stay upbeat, and make stressful moves feel easy. On the other hand, negative feedback—about 5.4%—focuses on damaged items, with a few cases of slow or careless service, and occasional complaints about unexpectedly high or confusing charges and poor communication during claims or repairs. With positive ratings far above industry averages, Little Guys Movers garners trust through skilled teams and transparent pricing practices, though a handful of customers encounter problems with damage resolution or billing discrepancies.
Get a Quote (919) 439-2454

Company Info

State license #: 2548

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1931566

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts gets top marks from customers who appreciate reliable, courteous, and hardworking crews. Nearly 94% of feedback is positive across 334 reviews. People routinely mention how efficiently the teams work, how carefully they handle belongings, and how friendly and communicative they are throughout the process. Fair pricing stands out as another frequent highlight compared to competitors. A few clients, however, report issues such as damaged or poorly packed items, especially during busy or larger moves. Some negative input also cites crews lacking experience or rushing, which led to mistakes. In the rare neutral reviews, most concerns relate to minor service lapses or pandemic-related policy misunderstandings rather than major moving problems. Athens’s consistent reputation for speed, respectful service, and professionalism places them ahead of most local movers, but a small number of clients wish for even greater attention to packing quality and oversight during complex jobs.
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3205320

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.4% of all reviews were positive
18.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Excel Moving & Storage stands out with a stellar reputation for professionalism, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Of 283 customer experiences reviewed, 78% highlight attentive staff, timely communication, and a smooth moving process. Customers value the team’s politeness, quick work, and the sense that their possessions are respected. When compared to typical industry input, Excel’s high marks for effective communication and detail-oriented care put them ahead of many competitors. Despite the strong positive feedback, 18% report concerns, mainly regarding damaged or missing items and communication lapses after incidents. While most feedback applauds reliability, negative reviews reveal challenges with problem resolution, lost goods, and slow or absent responses when something goes wrong. Neutral feedback, just over 3%, notes good customer service but occasional delivery delays or minor damages. Excel earns frequent recommendations for large or complex moves, but customers should confirm policies on claims and coverage for valuable items. The company reliably delivers efficient, careful moves, though improvements in post-move communication could further strengthen their standing.
Get a Quote (919) 213-6694

Company Info

State license #: 2311

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—customers praise Next Stop Movers for quick and careful service, friendly and professional staff, and a consistently hassle-free experience. Seven customer feedback entries analyzed, with 100% rated positively. Movers handle furniture attentively, offer efficient solutions, and communicate clearly. People appreciate affordable rates and flexibility, standing out compared to less responsive companies. No negative feedback was reported, and no recurring issues surfaced among the reviews.
Get a Quote (919) 249-8351

Company Info

State license #: 1267633

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3619230

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

Local moving services in Raleigh, NC

Quick breakdown of Raleigh movers that offer specialty add-on services:

Interstate
27 96.43%
Small moves
16 57.14%
Antiques
8 28.57%
Art
8 28.57%
Pianos
20 71.43%
Fragile-only packing
8 28.57%

Cost to move from Raleigh, NC to Iowa

The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Raleigh to Iowa, varying by home size and service option.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,147 – $4,420 $815 – $1,969 $684 – $1,247
2-3 bedrooms $2,432 – $5,955 $1,568 – $2,917 $725 – $1,546
4+ bedrooms $3,921 – $7,977 $2,118 – $3,848 $938 – $1,939

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,094-mile move from Raleigh, NC, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.

Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to Iowa

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Raleigh to Iowa will cost between $1,147 and $4,420. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,432 to $5,955, and a large move will cost from $3,921 to $7,977.

Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to Iowa

If you’re moving from Raleigh to Iowa, expect to pay between $815 and $1,969 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,568 up to $2,917. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,118 and $3,848. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Raleigh.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Raleigh to Iowa

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck from Raleigh to Iowa, expect to spend between $684 and $1,247. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $725 and $1,546. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $938 up to $1,939 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Raleigh to IA

When calculating the price of Raleigh movers, consider:

  • Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Raleigh, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.

What you should know before moving from Raleigh to IA

Leaving Raleigh for Iowa means embracing a new lifestyle — and likely saving some cash. Living in Raleigh typically comes with a higher price tag, so your move could open the door to more affordable living.

Check out the cost of living comparison below to understand how Raleigh and Iowa measure up, helping you to prepare for the future.

Compare cost of living: Raleigh vs. Iowa

Raleigh, NC Iowa
Average rent $1,670 $914
Average home cost $431,795 $220,277
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $70,571
Cost of living index 106 89
Unemployment rate 4.3% 3.0%
State income tax 4.5% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 45% less expensive in Iowa compared to Raleigh, leaving you more flexibility with your income.
  • You’ll pay roughly 49% less for housing in Iowa compared to Raleigh, saving you money each month.
  • Expect incomes in Iowa to be about 2644% higher than in Raleigh, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
  • You’ll spend roughly 16% less on the cost of living in Iowa compared to Raleigh, a boost for your budget.
  • In Iowa, the unemployment rate is about 30% below Raleigh’s, a positive sign of healthier job opportunities.
  • With nearly identical income tax rates in Iowa and North Carolina, your paycheck should look about the same in either place.

How life is different in Raleigh, NC from Iowa

When relocating from Raleigh to Iowa, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in Iowa stacks up against life in the Raleigh.

Raleigh, NC Iowa
Population 467,665 3,207,004
Political leaning Republican 51-48 Republican 53-45
Summer high 90ºF 84ºF
Winter low 30ºF 10ºF
Annual rain 46″ 35″
Annual snow 4″ 30″
Crime index 38.87 16.18
  • In the last presidential election, both Raleigh and Iowa voted Republican.
  • Cooler summer days in Iowa reach typical highs around 84ºF, whereas Raleigh sees warmer peaks approaching 90ºF. By selecting a cooler spot, you’ll enjoy less heat, decreased energy costs, and lots of fresh-air activities, which is ideal if comfort and time spent outside are your priorities.
  • Winter lows in Iowa can drop to 10ºF, colder than Raleigh at 30ºF. Moving here means preparing for chillier winters, higher heating costs, and more intense seasonal weather — but also scenic snowy days and winter activities.
  • You’ll enjoy about 35 inches of annual rain in Iowa, which is less than the 46 inches you’re used to in Raleigh. That means brighter skies, extra outdoor time, and fewer rainy-day interruptions.
  • Every year, Iowa gets around 30 inches of snow, much more than the 4 inches that Raleigh typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
  • Iowa has a lower crime rate than Raleigh, with indexes at 16.18 vs 38.87. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.

Comparing the pros of Raleigh, NC versus Iowa:

Moving to a new place brings exciting possibilities. Here’s what makes living in Raleigh special compared to Iowa.

Pros of living in Raleigh, NC Pros of living in Iowa
Exceptional beauty Low cost of living
Ample economic opportunity Ample economic opportunity
Quality education High quality of education
Bountiful arts and recreational activities No traffic
Quality healthcare Beautiful outdoors

Comparing the cons of Raleigh, NC versus Iowa:

Making the move from Raleigh to Iowa isn’t always easy, and there are important factors to consider.

Cons of living in Raleigh, NC Cons of living in Iowa
High cost of living Severe weather conditions
Quiet nightlife Limited recreational opportunities
Temperamental weather High taxes
Allergy-inducing pollen High emphasis on politics
Urban sprawl Rustic food

Other considerations when moving to Iowa

If you’re moving from Raleigh to Iowa, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.

  • HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one for your move.
  • State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check a Iowa moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.

Things to do in Iowa

No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—Iowa is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.

Museums in Iowa

  • National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
  • Figge Art Museum
  • National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
  • The Putnam Museum & Science Center
  • Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Parks in Iowa

  • Vander Veer Botanical Park
  • Gray’s Lake Park
  • Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Eagle Point Park
  • Terry Trueblood Recreational Area

Sports teams in Iowa

  • Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
  • Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
  • Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
  • Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
  • Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)

Universities in Iowa

  • Iowa State University
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Northern Iowa
  • Maharishi International University
  • Grinnell College

FAQ

How long does a move from Raleigh to Iowa take?

Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Raleigh, NC to Iowa? Typically, the process takes about two to eight days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.

Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.

How many Raleigh movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?

There are 12 movers in Raleigh that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Raleigh moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.

What is the best way to get a car from Raleigh to Iowa?

Looking to move your car from Raleigh to Iowa? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from North Carolina to Iowa.

Why are people moving from Raleigh to Iowa?

Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity. On the other hand, people are moving away from Raleigh because of the high cost of living and quiet nightlife.

Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Raleigh?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Raleigh.

Do movers in Raleigh, NC, accept cash?

Yes, six movers in Raleigh accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.

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