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($1,051) Cost to Move From Winston-Salem, NC to Des Moines, IA

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 1,012 miles from Winston-Salem to Des Moines, expect to pay between $678 and $5,745. The journey should take about two–eight days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

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
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
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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

For a stress-free interstate move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 15 interstate moving companies in Winston-Salem, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Des Moines.

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 Winston-Salem to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,012-mile move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,981 – $4,641
  • Moving Container $1,092 – $2,076
  • Rental Truck $661 – $1,304
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,347 – $5,745
  • Moving Container $1,421 – $2,945
  • Rental Truck $678 – $1,534
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,845 – $7,676
  • Moving Container $1,936 – $3,952
  • Rental Truck $923 – $1,813
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.
Allied Van Lines
Sedalia, NC De Soto, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 18, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Pleasant Garden, NC East Peru, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 04, 2025
PODS
Oak Ridge, NC Maxwell, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 04, 2025
Safeway Moving
Rockwell, NC Stuart, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 29, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Harmony, NC Colo, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
American Van Lines
Ronda, NC Altoona, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Granite Quarry, NC Redfield, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
BLVD Moving
Bermuda Run, NC St. Charles, IA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
Roadway Moving
Thomasville, NC Van Meter, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
United Van Lines
Archdale, NC Windsor Heights, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Winston-Salem, NC guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Winston-Salem to Des Moines moves

When planning a move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 21 local movers in Winston-Salem who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Winston-Salem to Des Moines.

  1. American Moving & Hauling, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  4. Todd’s Easy Moves: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Steele & Vaughn Moving and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.6% of all reviews were positive
7.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reports pour in for American Moving & Hauling, Inc., with over 90% of customer feedback applauding professional, courteous teams who treat possessions with care and efficiency. Customers praise fast service, clear communication, and friendly, organized movers who handle challenges with a positive attitude. Most describe stress-free moves—whether local or cross-country—and many highlight prompt scheduling, transparent pricing, and responsive office staff. Issues occasionally arise, including property or item damage, slow claims response, unexpected costs, or inaccurate estimates. Some clients encounter trouble resolving complaints or receiving insurance payouts, which makes the claims process slower than at top-rated competitors. While these negatives affect a small portion of moves, the overwhelmingly positive experiences far outweigh the few drawbacks, placing American Moving & Hauling among the most trusted moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (336) 765-3499

Company Info

State license #: 2411

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2007351

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.9% of all reviews were positive
10.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Efficiency with a personal touch shines through customer feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Out of 239 reviews, nearly 88% highlight positive experiences, making this company stand out among movers. Clients repeatedly mention professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, promptness, and clear communication. Friendly and respectful teams turn stressful moves into smooth transitions, and rates are often considered reasonable. Quick, careful, and knowledgeable crews handle belongings with skill and courtesy. Some customers, though, report issues like staff rudeness—mostly with phone representatives—along with problems such as damaged items or poor communication. Negative feedback, just over 10%, usually centers on these areas, while a few people cite unresolved complaints. Compared to most moving companies, feedback shows TWO MEN AND A TRUCK consistently delivers reliable, prompt, and courteous moving services. Most clients highly recommend this team for moves of any size.
Get a Quote (336) 310-0235

Company Info

State license #: 126

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Kline, LLC , Greensboro Movers, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
54.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day with College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving generates strong reactions, with feedback from 35 customers: 43% positive and 54% negative. Customers praise the team’s swift work, careful item handling, professionalism, rapid moving, and reasonable rates. Many mention courteous service and punctuality as standout qualities compared to other movers. Yet, frequent issues involve damaged items, a lack of professionalism, and surprise charges, overshadowing positive experiences for many. Numerous complaints mention broken furniture, poor damage resolution, and unexpected fees, suggesting the company’s claims process and communication lag behind industry leaders. Customers seeking both speed and caution might find value, but those prioritizing the protection of high-value items may wish to consider alternative service providers.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 2525

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: Triad Expeditors Inc , Moving Hunks , College Hunks Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.5% of all reviews were positive
29.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is a promise Todd’s Easy Moves customers say the company delivers on. Out of 54 pieces of customer feedback, about 69% of experiences are marked by professionalism, careful handling, prompt service, and helpful movers. Users frequently comment on the staff’s efficiency and respectfulness, noting that belongings are well-protected and moves progress quickly. Many reviewers say the crew is friendly and accommodating, going beyond basic service expectations. Pricing transparency and communication are highlighted more than is typical for similar moving companies. Customers consistently mention that even under challenging circumstances, staff maintain politeness and a positive attitude. On the other hand, some feedback points to significantly higher costs than anticipated and describes incidents of unprofessional behavior, such as rudeness, abrupt cancellation of moves, or lack of accommodation on scheduling. A few reviewers mention that arrival or delivery timing was unreliable. While the majority report satisfaction with the service, prospective customers should be vigilant about quotes and timelines. Compared to similar moving services, Todd’s Easy Moves stands out for professionalism but sees isolated cases where customer service falls short.
Get a Quote (336) 998-6683

Company Info

State license #: 2276

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 2390090

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.9% of all reviews were positive
17.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Steele & Vaughn Moving and Storage earns strong praise from the vast majority of customers, with 76 reviews analyzed and over 80% delivering positive feedback. Customers highlight the company’s professional and polite staff, outstanding care with personal items, and efficient moving process. Many mention the team’s quickness, attention to detail, and willingness to go above and beyond, which leads to frequent recommendations to others. On the downside, reports of damaged property, claims of unprofessional behavior, and occasional issues with poor packing quality stand out in negative feedback—especially for more challenging or long-distance moves. While many customers find the experience smooth and stress-free, a smaller number raise serious concerns about item safety and respectful treatment, contrasting with the typical experience at reputable moving services.
Get a Quote (336) 273-0546

Company Info

State license #: 2331

Years in Business: 58

DOT #: 3002076

Alternate Names: J Five Investments, Inc. , Steele & Vaughn Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines?

Movers in North Carolina charge $145 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,051 – $4,641 $825 – $1,991 $634 – $1,279
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,347 – $5,745 $1,421 – $2,945 $678 – $1,534
4+ bedrooms $3,845 – $7,676 $1,936 – $3,952 $923 – $1,813
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 1,012-mile relocation from Winston-Salem to Des Moines, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Winston-Salem to Des Moines, you can expect to spend between $1,051 and $4,641. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,347 to $5,745 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Winston-Salem to Des Moines typically runs between $3,845 and $7,676.

Cost of moving containers from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

When moving from Winston-Salem to Des Moines, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $825 and $1,991. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,421 to $2,945. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,936 up to $3,952. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck in Winston-Salem is usually your cheapest option to get to Des Moines. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $634 and $1,279. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $678 and $1,534. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $923 and $1,813.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

The cost of Winston-Salem movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,160, but larger homes can run up to $6,167.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Winston-Salem.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($634–$1,545) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Winston-Salem to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Winston-Salem – roughly 22% less for singles and 17% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,420 in Winston-Salem. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $5,265.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Winston-Salem Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,490 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,260 $1,763
Average home value $248,806 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $62,431 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,420 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $5,265 $4,380
Unemployment rate 5.2% 5.9%
Sales tax 7.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.5% 4.4%
  • Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 12% lower in Des Moines than in Winston-Salem, giving you more disposable income monthly.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 23% lower in Des Moines than in Winston-Salem.
  • It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 6% less in Des Moines than in Winston-Salem.
  • Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, where the cost of living for a single person is 22% less than in Winston-Salem.
  • Moving to Des Moines could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 17% less than in Winston-Salem.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 13% higher compared to Winston-Salem, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are similar in Des Moines and Winston-Salem (within about 5%), meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
  • Income taxes are quite comparable between Iowa and North Carolina, being within a range of about 5%. This similarity helps to maintain steady financial outflows, providing a smooth transition phase.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Winston-Salem with Des Moines:

Living Expense Winston-Salem Des Moines
Basic utilities $188.00 $144.82
Cell phone plan $52.67 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.71 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.95 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $77.50
Gym membership $17.50 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Winston-Salem than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Winston-Salem vs. Des Moines

Winston-Salem Des Moines
Population 249,545 699,292
Transportation score 3 5
Walkability score 22 45
Bike friendliness score 29 39
Crime index 32.67 5.0
Safety index 67.33 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 180% greater than Winston-Salem.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Winston-Salem’s score of 3.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Winston-Salem with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Winston-Salem’s 22 out of 100.
  • With a score of 39 out of 100, Des Moines is more bike-friendly than Winston-Salem, which has a score of 29 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Winston-Salem with a score of 5.0 compared to Winston-Salem’s 32.67. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Winston-Salem neighborhoods are safer than 32.67%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Winston-Salem with a score of 57.8 vs Winston-Salem’s 67.33.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Winston-Salem it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Winston-Salem to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Iowa doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Des Moines smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Des Moines

Now that you’ve chosen Hartford of the West as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Des Moines to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Sherman Hill
  • Downtown
  • East Village
  • North of Grand
  • Woodland Heights
  • Arbor Peaks
  • Chautauqua Park
  • Beaverdale
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Westwood
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

After getting comfortable in your new Iowa home, it’s time to see what Des Moines is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Des Moines offers cultural landmarks like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Winston-Salem are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines?

Because spring and fall moves from Winston-Salem to Des Moines are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Winston-Salem to Des Moines take?

A move of 1,012 miles from Winston-Salem, NC to Des Moines, generally takes two to eight days. Movers in Winston-Salem sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Des Moines is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Winston-Salem?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in Winston-Salem offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 16 movers in Winston-Salem have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 11 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across NC, there are 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

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