Local moving companies in Rhode Island
When making the move from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 8 Rhode Island movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Economy Movers & Storage Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Correira Brothers’ Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Chris Corrigan Moving Inc.: 4.34 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 43
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 #: 31627
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 2178203
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage of RI , All My Sons Moving and Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 1058463
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3095364
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3095364
Alternate Names: Correira Bros. LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 125
DOT #: 49955
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
Cost to move from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,045 – $4,411 | $892 – $2,055 | $735 – $1,461 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,586 – $5,510 | $1,613 – $3,020 | $827 – $1,652 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,005 – $7,665 | $2,100 – $4,048 | $1,010 – $2,057 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,270-mile move from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA, you can expect prices to land between $1,045 and $4,411. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,586 to $5,510. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,005 and $7,665.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA
Moving containers from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA, will cost you $892 to $2,055 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,613 to $3,020. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,100 to $4,048. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Rhode Island.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $735 and $1,461 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $827 to $1,652. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,010 to $2,057.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gentle Giant Moving Company | ✓ | × | × | × |
| All My Sons Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Economy Movers & Storage Inc | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Correira Brothers’ Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. | ✓ | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,180 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Rhode Island movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Rhode Island | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 90% | 96% |
| Antiques | 20% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Des Moines, IA stacks up against Rhode Island. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Des Moines, IA
| Rhode Island | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,195 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $467,485 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $81,370 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.6% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 5.99% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent prices in Des Moines and Rhode Island are about the same, so your budget should still work.
- Moving to Des Moines means you’ll spend about 59% less on housing compared to Rhode Island, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Des Moines are typically about 28% lower than in Rhode Island. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Des Moines runs 28% above Rhode Island, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes are 27% lower in Iowa than in Rhode Island, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Des Moines from Rhode Island
| Des Moines | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 1,093,734 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 35″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 14.58 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Rhode Island and Des Moines voted Democratic.
- Summers in Des Moines typically reach highs of 86ºF, which is comparable to the average 82ºF in Rhode Island. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Winter in Des Moines can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 13ºF, much chillier than the 19ºF winters of Rhode Island. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Des Moines have their own special appeal.
- In Des Moines, you’ll get just 36 inches of rain annually, less than the 50 inches you typically see in Rhode Island. With all the extra sunshine, you’ll have more opportunities to explore your new surroundings. This sunnier forecast is the perfect way to start your next chapter.
- In Des Moines, you’ll get about 33 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, Rhode Island usually sees around 35 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
- Des Moines is safer than Rhode Island, with a crime index of 5.0 compared to 14.58. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Des Moines
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Des Moines can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Des Moines
- Des Moines Art Center
- State Historical Museum
- Science Center of Iowa
- Salisbury House
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Parks in Des Moines
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
- Clive Greenbelt Trail
Sports teams in Des Moines
- Drake Bulldogs
Universities in Des Moines
- AIB College of Business
- Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Drake University
- Grand View University
- Vatterott College Des Moines
Other considerations when moving to Des Moines, IA
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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 booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Iowa moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Iowa, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- 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 so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Rhode Island to Des Moines take?
The time it takes to move from Rhode Island to Des Moines, IA varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Des Moines from northern Rhode Island, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Rhode Island to Des Moines typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Rhode Island to Des Moines?
Because of the 1,270-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Rhode Island to Des Moines as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
With summer temperatures reaching 86°F and winter nights dipping to 13°F, most people make the move from Rhode Island to Des Moines in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
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