Local moving companies in Philadelphia
Out of 68 Philadelphia movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 51
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Anchor Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 10
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
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 44
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 39PC00058806
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 939629
Alternate Names: A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Philadelphia, PA
At a glance, the number of Philadelphia movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Philadelphia, PA to Iowa
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Philadelphia to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,111 – $4,695 | $832 – $2,094 | $665 – $1,302 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,437 – $5,639 | $1,552 – $3,067 | $748 – $1,594 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,032 – $7,604 | $2,036 – $3,924 | $949 – $1,810 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,059-mile move from Philadelphia, PA, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Philadelphia to Iowa
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Philadelphia to Iowa typically costs between $1,111 and $4,695. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,437 and $5,639. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,032 up to $7,604.
Cost of moving containers from Philadelphia to Iowa
If you’re relocating from Philadelphia to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $832 and $2,094 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,552 up to $3,067. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,036 and $3,924. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Philadelphia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Philadelphia to Iowa
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Philadelphia to Iowa, expect to pay between $665 and $1,302. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $748 to $1,594. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $949 and $1,810.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from Philadelphia to IA
The cost of a move in Philadelphia can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in Philadelphia often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from Philadelphia to IA
Relocating from Philadelphia to Iowa could mean a change in lifestyle and might also help you save some money. The cost of living in Philadelphia is generally higher, so moving could provide a chance for more budget-friendly living.
Explore the detailed cost of living analysis below to see how Philadelphia fares against Iowa, so you’re well-prepared for what’s next.
Compare cost of living: Philadelphia vs. Iowa
| Philadelphia, PA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,695 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $216,914 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 104 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 3.0% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 4.4% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 46% lower in Iowa than in Philadelphia, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
- The cost of homes in Iowa is similar to Philadelphia, so your monthly mortgage budget should remain steady.
- The average income is about equal in Iowa and Philadelphia, meaning your budget should hold up just fine.
- The cost of living is around 14% lower in Iowa than in Philadelphia, freeing up money for savings or lifestyle upgrades.
- The unemployment rate in Iowa is around 72% lower than in Philadelphia, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
- Taxes in Iowa are roughly 43% higher than in Pennsylvania, so you’ll notice a smaller paycheck.
How life is different in Philadelphia, PA from Iowa
When planning a move from Philadelphia to Iowa, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Philadelphia behind for life in Iowa.
| Philadelphia, PA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,603,797 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 81-18 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 26ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 47″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 13″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 66.09 | 16.18 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Philadelphia supported Democratic.
- Summer highs typically reach about 84ºF in Iowa and 87ºF in Philadelphia. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Colder winters await in Iowa, where lows average 10ºF, compared to Philadelphia at 26ºF. This shift means more heating costs and brisker weather, but also unique seasonal charm and activities.
- In Iowa, rainfall totals about 35 inches a year, less than the 47 inches you’re used to in Philadelphia. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
- Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, far more than the 13 inches you might be accustomed to in Philadelphia. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
- Iowa has a lower crime index of 16.18 versus Philadelphia at 66.09, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.
Other considerations when moving to Iowa
If you’re relocating from Philadelphia to Iowa, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a Iowa moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- Moving permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Iowa without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in Iowa
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, Iowa has plenty for you to discover 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 Philadelphia to Iowa take?
The time it takes to move from Philadelphia, PA, to Iowa ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take two to eight days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in Philadelphia offer custom-built crate services?
46 movers in Philadelphia list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Philadelphia mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Philadelphia to Iowa?
Need to ship your car from Philadelphia to Iowa? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Pennsylvania to Iowa.
Why are people moving from Philadelphia to Iowa?
Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Philadelphia?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Philadelphia.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from Philadelphia, PA?
THere are currently, 29 movers in Philadelphia that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Pennsylvania moving services
Popular Pennsylvania routes
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