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.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
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
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:
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% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- 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 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- 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.
Helpful moving resources
North Carolina moving services
Popular North Carolina routes
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