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($1,068) Cost to Move From Albany, NY to Des Moines, IA

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Estimated cost & time: For a 1,134 mile move from Albany to Des Moines, costs typically range from $788 to $5,643. Plan for the travel time to be around two–eight days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Albany 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 Albany to Des Moines

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Albany to Des Moines, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 6 interstate moving companies located in Albany, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Des Moines seamless and enjoyable.

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 Albany to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,134-mile move from Albany to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,844 – $4,403
  • Moving Container $1,191 – $2,271
  • Rental Truck $723 – $1,376
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,410 – $5,643
  • Moving Container $1,472 – $3,008
  • Rental Truck $788 – $1,603
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,888 – $7,256
  • Moving Container $2,180 – $4,180
  • Rental Truck $952 – $1,952
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.
Roadway Moving
Brunswick, NY Truro, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Valatie, NY Indianola, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Schodack, NY Pella, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 16, 2025
North American Van Lines
Green Island, NY Nevada, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 16, 2025
United Van Lines
Fonda, NY Pleasantville, IA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
Safeway Moving
East Glenville, NY De Soto, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 11, 2025
American Van Lines
Loudonville, NY Reasnor, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Bethlehem, NY Grimes, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 09, 2025
PODS
Ravena, NY Stuart, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Preston-Potter Hollow, NY Bouton, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 05, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Albany, NY guide.

The best local movers for Albany to Des Moines moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Albany that also handles long-distance moves to Des Moines. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated eight local movers in Albany who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Albany to Des Moines.

  1. Mabey’s Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Clark Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Don’s Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  4. Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  5. All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Mabey’s Moving & Storage stands out with an impressive 92.5% positive feedback from 254 reviews, setting a high bar for moving companies. Customers consistently describe the staff as professional, respectful, and attentive, praising the team’s careful handling of belongings and efficient work ethic. Many highlight smooth communication, quick processes from booking to move day, and successful management of complex or long-distance moves. Most clients recommend Mabey’s without hesitation, citing reliable estimates and stress-free experiences as major strengths. Negative input, making up about 7% of feedback, points to issues like damaged items, discrepancies in final costs versus estimates, and communication shortfalls in rare cases. Complaints sometimes reference insurance limitations or mishandling claims. A single neutral review notes both prompt reimbursements and delays during delivery. Compared to typical industry standards, Mabey’s earns stronger praise for care, politeness, and problem resolution, though accurate cost estimation remains an area for improvement. The company’s reputation for professionalism and reliability is consistently reinforced by customer input.
Get a Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

State license #: 623

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 125550

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.5% of all reviews were positive
17.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Clark Moving & Storage stands out for delivering reliable results and excellent service, supported by feedback from 81 reviews with over 81% positive ratings. Customers consistently praise their professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and quick moving process. Many highly recommend the company for making stressful moves feel smooth and straightforward. Numerous reviewers note clear communication, organized packing, and affordable pricing compared to other moving companies. Some even highlight the movers’ thorough preparation and respect for customers’ belongings. On the downside, less than one in five reviewers cite problems such as damaged items, unexpected charges, or lack of communication. Negative input describes instances where items were broken or missing, or costs changed without warning. By comparison, Clark Moving & Storage regularly delivers a higher level of care and professionalism than most moving companies in the region, though a few dissatisfied customers experienced avoidable setbacks. Clark is a strong option for quality moving services, with overwhelmingly positive feedback and only minor recurring problems.
Get a Quote (518) 370-4100

Company Info

State license #: 37553

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage , Clark Moving and Storage of Albany

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.8% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Don’s Moving & Storage scores high marks from customers, with nearly 95% of input expressing satisfaction. Clients single out the team’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of items, quick moves, and a positive, friendly staff as defining traits. Movers consistently offer supportive care during stressful transitions and make a point of being courteous and respectful. Negative feedback, in contrast, centers largely on unexpected or high final costs, occasional damage to items, and rare instances of unprofessional or dismissive behavior. Communication around pricing and damage claims draws the most frequent complaints. Compared to competitors, Don’s stands out for reliability, speed, and a personable touch, though clients recommend clarifying terms in advance for the smoothest results. With over 250 positive reviews, most customers consider Don’s a top choice for moving in the region.
Get a Quote (518) 492-1041

Company Info

State license #: 1462

Years in Business: 75

DOT #: 134890

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.3% of all reviews were positive
34.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Arnoff Moving & Storage stands out for its consistently professional, courteous staff, efficient moving teams, and excellent care in handling belongings—earning praise in nearly two-thirds of the 238 customer feedback items reviewed. Customers frequently commend their strong communication, punctual crews, and smooth, quick-moving experiences. People highlight Arnoff’s attention to detail, competitive pricing, and a willingness to answer questions or resolve logistical challenges, often noting how their movers made stressful moves less overwhelming. Yet, nearly one in three customers report serious complaints, with the chief frustrations being damaged or lost items, lengthy delivery delays, and poor follow-up when problems arise. Reports include mishandling of valuable furniture, missed scheduling windows, and a lack of responsiveness from support staff. A few critics point to problems with insurance claims for damage or missing property, suggesting performance can be inconsistent, especially for large or high-value moves. Compared to similar moving companies, Arnoff generally exceeds expectations for professionalism and efficiency, but the risk of communication breakdowns and damaged goods appears higher than average. Prospective customers seeking attentive and careful handling will likely be pleased, but those with complex, valuable shipments should confirm all details ahead and document any special requirements.
Get a Quote (518) 463-5525

Company Info

State license #: 35196

Years in Business: 99

DOT #: 1566123

Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.8% of all reviews were positive
3.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about All-Ways Moving & Storage Co, consistently praising their professionalism, efficient service, and fast-moving crews. Nearly all customer input is positive, with 97% giving glowing feedback out of 62 reviews. Clients highlight good communication, quick moving processes, and highly recommend the staff for moves big and small. The team’s attention to detail, careful handling, and flexible approach set them apart from other moving companies, especially when accommodating date changes or special requests. Some customer input shines a light on billing often coming in below initial estimates and on the team’s respectful handling of property. On the downside, a small portion of feedback points to concerns with inaccurate estimates, occasional communication breakdowns, and isolated incidents of damage to belongings. Unlike many competitors, All-Ways Moving has a reputation for exceeding expectations and building trust, making them a go-to choice for stress-free relocations.
Get a Quote (413) 499-1577

Company Info

Years in Business: 48

DOT #: 55254

Alternate Names: All-Ways Moving & Storage Co.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Albany to Des Moines?

The average hourly rate for movers in New York is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,068 – $4,274 $874 – $2,008 $694 – $1,376
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,410 – $5,643 $1,472 – $3,008 $788 – $1,603
4+ bedrooms $3,888 – $7,256 $2,180 – $4,180 $952 – $1,952
*Approximate cost ranges for a 1,134-mile move from Albany to Des Moines are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Albany to Des Moines

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Albany to Des Moines will cost between $1,068 and $4,274. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Albany to Albany will range from $2,410 to $5,643, and a large move from Albany to Des Moines will cost from $3,888 to $7,256.

Cost of moving containers from Albany to Des Moines

If you’re moving from Albany to Des Moines, expect to pay between $874 and $2,008 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,472 up to $3,008. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,180 and $4,180. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Albany to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Albany to Des Moines 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, expect to spend between $694 and $1,376. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $788 and $1,603. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $952 up to $1,952 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Albany to Des Moines

The cost of Albany movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,063, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,363.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Albany, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($694–$1,787) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Albany to Des Moines

Overall, Albany and Des Moines land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.

Singles average $1,891 in Des Moines and $1,801 in Albany, while families in Des Moines see $4,380 versus $4,205 in Des Moines.

Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:

Albany Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,426 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,900 $1,763
Average home value $281,584 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $66,546 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $1,801 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $4,205 $4,380
Unemployment rate 7.1% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.0%
State income tax 10.9% 4.4%
  • If you’re heading to Des Moines from Albany, you’ll find that rent is roughly 21% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 32% less in Des Moines than in Albany.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 12% lower in Des Moines compared to Albany.
  • The cost of living for a single person is within about 5% of the same in Des Moines and Albany, so you likely won’t notice a major difference.
  • The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Des Moines and Albany, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
  • Des Moines enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 17% lower compared to Albany, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes drop 13% in Des Moines compared to Albany, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Income taxes are 60% less in Iowa than in New York. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Albany and Des Moines:

Living Expense Albany Des Moines
Basic utilities $203.15 $144.82
Cell phone plan $57.53 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.71 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.93 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $79.50 $77.50
Gym membership $31.25 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Albany than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Albany than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Albany than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Albany than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Albany than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Albany than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Albany than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Albany vs. Des Moines

Albany Des Moines
Population 99,224 699,292
Transportation score 8 5
Walkability score 65 45
Bike friendliness score 55 39
Crime index 10.0 5.0
Safety index 49.65 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 605% greater than Albany.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Albany’s score of 8.
  • Des Moines is less walkable than Albany with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Albany’s 65 out of 100.
  • Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Albany, which has a score of 55.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Albany with a score of 5.0 compared to Albany’s 10.0. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Albany with a safety index of 57.8 vs Albany’s 49.65.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Albany it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Albany to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Iowa doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Des Moines

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Hartford of the West, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Des Moines.

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

Once you’re settled into your new home in Iowa, it’s time to get out and discover what Des Moines has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Des Moines, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Albany to Des Moines?

The best time to move from Albany to Des Moines is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Albany.

When is the cheapest time to move from Albany to Des Moines?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Albany to Des Moines, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Albany to Des Moines take?

Moving from Albany, NY to Des Moines, covers 1,134 miles and usually takes two to eight days. Need to move faster? Some Albany movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Albany?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 4 movers in Albany advertise piano moving expertise. 3 movers in Albany provide antique moving services. State totals show 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

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