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($967) Movers from New York City, NY to Des Moines, IA

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Image of a moving truck going from New York City to Des Moines
Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,107 miles from New York City to Des Moines has an average cost ranging from $725 to $5,046. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–eight days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I’m Ryan.
Let’s get moving.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.

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Best professional movers from New York City to Des Moines

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from New York City to Des Moines. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 152 interstate moving companies in New York City. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey 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 New York City to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,107-mile move from New York City to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,737 – $3,906
  • Moving Container $1,104 – $2,126
  • Rental Truck $691 – $1,277
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,216 – $5,046
  • Moving Container $1,451 – $2,900
  • Rental Truck $725 – $1,563
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,663 – $7,067
  • Moving Container $1,941 – $3,906
  • Rental Truck $902 – $1,829
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Mineola, NY Maxwell, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 29, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Spring Valley, NY Lambs Grove, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 24, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Thomaston, NY Stuart, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 20, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Garden City, NY Pella, IA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Nov 11, 2025
BLVD Moving
Haverstraw, NY State Center, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Nov 08, 2025
PODS
Matinecock, NY St. Marys, IA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Oct 29, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Hewlett Neck, NY Lucas, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 24, 2025
United Van Lines
Great Neck Estates, NY Cumming, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Oct 16, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Nanuet, NY Polk City, IA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Oct 10, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cove Neck, NY Rhodes, IA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 06, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for New York City to Des Moines moves

Organizing a move from New York City to Des Moines can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 165 local movers in New York City known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from New York City to Des Moines.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Great Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. NYC Great Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving earns top marks from customers who praise efficient service, careful handling of belongings, professional and polite staff, speed, and clear communication. In 495 reviews, 85% are positive, suggesting that most find the company reliable and courteous. Feedback consistently highlights movers’ attention to protecting property and working swiftly, even with challenging jobs or tight schedules. Customers appreciate that estimates and pricing tend to be accurate. Negative input accounts for 13%, where the main complaints center on damaged items, delayed arrival or delivery, and unexpected charges after the move. These issues can be especially frustrating during long-distance relocations, where delivery windows or extra fees sometimes catch people off guard. Neutral reviews typically note reasonable moves but cite problems like slow packing or unclear fee explanations. Compared to many movers, Seka stands out for its organization, efficiency, and respectful treatment of customers’ property, but like others in this industry, a few operational or scheduling missteps sometimes occur. The company’s strength lies in its fast, attentive, and careful crews, making it a leading choice among moving services, especially for local moves.
Get a Quote (212) 203-0280

Company Info

State license #: 40118

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input about Great Movers stands out for its consistency—210 out of 221 reviews are positive, amounting to 95% glowing feedback. Clients repeatedly praise the company for efficient, friendly, and highly professional service. Most cite careful handling of possessions, quick and seamless moves, affordable pricing, and clear communication as standouts. People frequently highlight stress-free relocations, respectful crews, and precise timing, making Great Movers an appealing choice for those seeking reliability. Negative feedback, only 5%, centers largely on significant damages to items, disappointing insurance payouts, and surprise charges. Some report unprofessional behaviors during complaints and claim poor handling of property damage issues. Compared with other movers, Great Movers excels in customer satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, but documented damages and insurance disputes are notable risks, so care is warranted on that front.
Get a Quote (718) 306-9980

Company Info

State license #: 39493

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2180117

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions. Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Get a Quote (212) 651-7273

Company Info

State license #: 40244

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3066988

Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Across 741 customer reviews, White Glove Moving & Storage shines for their meticulous handling, professionalism, and swift, efficient work—nearly 90% of feedback expresses satisfaction. Movers are repeatedly recognized for careful treatment of items, reliable communication, and prompt execution, often exceeding expectations. Customers cite friendly, organized teams and well-wrapped belongings as standout features. A minority report issues like damaged goods, delayed delivery, or unexpected fees, especially with long-distance jobs or storage. Compared to typical moving companies, White Glove receives notably fewer complaints about lost or mishandled property. While most customers strongly recommend them, a few warn to clarify terms up front to avoid delivery surprises or extra expenses. White Glove’s track record for dependable, courteous service sets them ahead in the industry, as reflected in consistently positive input from clients.
Get a Quote (877) 941-0568

Company Info

State license #: 648262

Years in Business: 29

DOT #: 648262

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer satisfaction runs high for NYC Great Movers, with 95% of the 221 feedback entries praising fast, efficient service and diligent care for belongings. Customers frequently note the team’s professionalism, clear communication, and careful handling during moves. Efficient service and affordability rank as distinguishing features, with many saying the process felt streamlined and organized. While most clients encountered smooth, stress-free moves, some negative input describes incidents with property damage, disputes about unexpected or added charges, and slow or absent follow-up from management when issues occurred. Compared to competitors, NYC Great Movers earns strong marks for reliability and value, but those seeking high-limit insurance coverage or ironclad pricing transparency may want to review policies closely before booking. The overwhelming input leans positive, highlighting the company as a trusted choice for quick, professional moving experiences in New York and beyond.
Get a Quote (718) 285-8565

Company Info

State license #: 39493

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2180117

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from New York City to Des Moines?

On average, moving companies in New York charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $967 – $4,240 $851 – $1,957 $698 – $1,264
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,216 – $5,046 $1,451 – $2,900 $725 – $1,563
4+ bedrooms $3,663 – $7,067 $1,941 – $3,906 $902 – $1,829
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,107-mile move from New York City to Des Moines are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Jan 22, 2026. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from New York City to Des Moines

When planning a move to Des Moines from New York City, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $967 and $4,240. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,216 and $5,046 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,663 to $7,067.

Cost of moving containers from New York City to Des Moines

When you’re heading from New York City to Des Moines, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $851 and $1,957. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,451 and $2,900. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,941 to $3,906. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from New York easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York City to Des Moines

A moving rental truck from New York City to Des Moines is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $698 to $1,264. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $725 to $1,563, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from New York City to Des Moines costs around $902 to $1,829.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from New York City to Des Moines

The cost of New York City movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from New York City to Des Moines may only cost $2,040, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,175.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in New York City.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($698–$1,725), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from New York City to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than New York City – roughly 67% less for singles and 71% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $5,683 in New York City. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $15,081.

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

New York City Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $3,992 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $8,817 $1,763
Average home value $752,778 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $5,683 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $15,081 $4,380
Unemployment rate 11.2% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.0%
State income tax 10.9% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 74% less expensive in Des Moines than in New York City, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 74% cheaper in Des Moines than in New York City.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 25% less in Des Moines than in New York City.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person there is 67% below that of New York City.
  • A move to Des Moines can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 71% lower compared to New York City.
  • Des Moines has a lower unemployment rate than New York City by about 47%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 13% cheaper in Des Moines compared to New York City. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 60% less in Iowa compared to New York, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in New York City versus Des Moines:

Living Expense New York City Des Moines
Basic utilities $186.67 $144.82
Cell phone plan $57.90 $51.25
Dozen eggs $6.33 $3.61
Loaf of bread $5.04 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $28.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $135.00 $77.50
Gym membership $159.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in New York City than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in New York City than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in New York City than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in New York City than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in New York City than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in New York City than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships cost more in New York City than in Des Moines.

How life is different in New York City vs. Des Moines

New York City Des Moines
Population 8,258,035 699,292
Transportation score 10 5
Walkability score 88 45
Bike friendliness score 69 39
Crime index 50.83 5.0
Safety index 49.17 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 92% less than New York City.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than New York City’s score of 10.
  • Des Moines is less walkable than New York City with a score of 45 out of 100 vs New York City’s 88 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 New York City, which has a score of 69.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than New York City with a score of 5.0 compared to New York City’s 50.83. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than New York City with a safety index of 57.8 vs New York City’s 49.17.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in New York City it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your New York City to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: Costs across New York City and Des Moines are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Iowa, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Iowa, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Des Moines. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Des Moines

With your sights set on Hartford of the West, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider 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

With your move to Iowa complete, you can dive right into experiencing Des Moines. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines is home to museums and cultural arts centers 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 spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New York City to Des Moines?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from New York City to Des Moines. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in New York City.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Des Moines?

Want to save on your move from New York City to Des Moines? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from New York City to Des Moines take?

The 1,107-mile move from New York City, NY, to Des Moines, , takes two to eight days. Some New York City movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Des Moines.

What kinds of discounts do New York City movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In New York City, 3 movers provide AAA member discounts. 8 movers offer special pricing for military members. 9 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in New York City?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 146 movers in New York City provide piano moving services. 117 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,299 and 1,464.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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