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($1,044) Movers From South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

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Estimated cost & time: A move from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA spans roughly 1,102 miles and averages $779 to $5,899. It generally takes two–eight days, with final cost shaped by your moving date, load size, and whether you use movers or handle it yourself.
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Best movers from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

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
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
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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
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 South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,102-mile move from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified moving price points from carriers across the U.S., refreshing the data every month to account for seasonality and market shifts. Your actual cost can change with factors like move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest getting quotes from several movers to understand pricing accurately.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,992 – $4,307
  • Moving Container $1,187 – $2,109
  • Rental Truck $659 – $1,358
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,251 – $5,899
  • Moving Container $1,499 – $2,846
  • Rental Truck $779 – $1,552
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,154 – $7,857
  • Moving Container $2,066 – $4,034
  • Rental Truck $904 – $1,928
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.
United Van Lines
Wellford, SC Bevington, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 03, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Five Forks, SC Alleman, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 15, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
St. George, SC Reasnor, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 15, 2025
Safeway Moving
Prosperity, SC Redfield, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 13, 2025
American Van Lines
Gifford, SC Clive, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 10, 2025
North American Van Lines
Fairfax, SC Elkhart, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
BLVD Moving
Bowman, SC Ackworth, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Denmark, SC Martensdale, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 16, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Hardeeville, SC Madrid, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 03, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Brunson, SC Norwalk, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025

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

Local moving companies in South Carolina

When making the move from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.

Out of 40 South Carolina movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.

  1. HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. Carey Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.4% of all reviews were positive
11.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast among movers: HD Auston Moving Systems stands out for professionalism, careful handling, courteous staff, and their willingness to help clients through stressful moves. Out of 225 feedback submissions, nearly 89% praised staff efficiency, promptness, and respectful handling of belongings. Customers describe movers as attentive, polite, and quick, repeatedly noting that furniture arrived undamaged. Many clients highlight stress-free booking, responsive communication, and teams going above and beyond, which explains why so many recommend them. Some issues do appear—a handful of critical voices detail damages to items, complaints over poor packing quality, and occasional missing or lost property. Compared to most moving companies, HD Auston earns notably higher marks for consistent, careful service, but a few reports suggest improvement is needed in damage prevention and packing methods.
Get a Quote (864) 523-0559

Company Info

Years in Business: 79

DOT #: 271654

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.4% of all reviews were positive
5.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Smooth Move Charleston means you’ll likely be impressed. Out of 270 customer inputs, 94% praised the company for efficient service, professional staff, careful handling of possessions, clear communication, and a smooth moving process. Multiple people noted easy scheduling, as well as fast, cautious crews that often finished under budget and with no surprises. Customers described their moves as stress-free with property and valuables respected throughout. Hardworking, fast-moving teams and personable attitudes have made these movers stand out when compared to others in the industry. Negative input made up just 5%, with issues concentrated around property damage, unprofessional conduct, or communication gaps. These incidents involved broken or lost items and inconsistent follow-up, which customers found frustrating. Overall, most people felt their belongings were handled safely and the staff was knowledgeable and courteous. Few companies in Charleston earn the consistent, high marks for reliability and skill Smooth Move Charleston receives from its customers.
Get a Quote (843) 860-9717

Company Info

State license #: 9823

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2357653

Alternate Names: Go Smooth Move, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.1% of all reviews were positive
13.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When it comes to moving, feedback for Two Men and a Truck stands out. Out of 252 customer reviews, 86% report positive experiences. Customers praise the staff’s professionalism, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, quick moves, and good communication. Movers are frequently described as polite, accommodating, and attentive to details many others overlook. The booking process and office communication receive special mention for making stressful moves feel manageable. While most input spotlights courteous and hardworking crews, a minority describe significant problems. The most common complaints involve damage to items, higher-than-expected costs, and difficulty communicating with management. Claims of scratched furniture, inaccurate estimates, and unresolved issues do occur, though they are far less frequent than positive references. Compared to similar moving companies, Two Men and a Truck routinely earns higher marks for reliability and customer care, but attention to detail during packing and cost estimates could still improve based on negative accounts.
Get a Quote (864) 474-6171

Company Info

State license #: 9664-B

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Upward Endeavors, 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
83.8% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Ballantyne & Beyond lands at the top for professionalism and attentive staff. In 185 feedback sources, 83.8% of customer input is positive. Polite team members, efficient timelines, and careful handling stand out, with many customers mentioning prompt response, accurate estimates, and extra help from movers. Many highlight stress-free moving days and furniture treated with care, which sets them above most competitors. On the other hand, some customers faced damaged items, issues with how belongings were packed, or communication lapses, especially during complex moves. Compared to other movers, Ballantyne & Beyond delivers higher-than-average professionalism and careful service, but some moves have resulted in costly item mishaps and unmet service expectations.
Get a Quote (803) 547-1800

Company Info

State license #: 9784-A

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 2557751

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.9% of all reviews were positive
26.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving days get a lot easier with Carey Moving & Storage, according to customer feedback. Out of 128 reviews, nearly 72% reflect a positive experience, with people praising the team’s efficiency, professional attitude, careful handling, and approachable staff. Many remarked that crews worked quickly without sacrificing care, often describing them as friendly and highly organized. Customers frequently recommend the company to others, noting that even complex or large moves went smoothly. A sizeable portion of feedback, nearly 27%, points to serious concerns. The most common issues are damaged items, missing or misplaced belongings, and slow or unsatisfactory complaint resolution. Some customers report substantial losses and damages, especially on long-distance moves or storage jobs, and describe unsatisfactory experiences with claims processes or compensation. Compared with similar companies, Carey Moving & Storage stands out for fast, friendly service but receives more complaints about item handling and claim follow-up. The input shows that while many enjoy stress-free, efficient moves, others encounter significant problems when something goes wrong.
Get a Quote (864) 877-6683

Company Info

State license #: 2973

Years in Business: 117

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA, by home size and moving service.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,044 – $4,448 $845 – $1,961 $693 – $1,345
2-3 bedrooms $2,251 – $5,899 $1,499 – $2,846 $779 – $1,552
4+ bedrooms $4,154 – $7,857 $2,066 – $4,034 $904 – $1,928

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,102-mile move from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 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 South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA, you can expect prices to land between $1,044 and $4,448. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,251 to $5,899. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,154 and $7,857.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

Moving containers from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA, will cost you $845 to $1,961 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,499 to $2,846. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,066 to $4,034. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina 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 $693 and $1,345 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $779 to $1,552. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $904 to $1,928.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Compare local moving companies from South Carolina 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
HD Auston Moving Systems × × ×
Smooth Move Charleston × × ×
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK × × ×
Ballantyne & Beyond Moving × × ×
Carey Moving & Storage × × ×

Considering the 3,180 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how South Carolina movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:

South Carolina Nationwide
Full Service 98% 96%
Antiques 34% 46%
Military Discount 0% 4%
Senior Discount 0% 4%

Things to know before moving from South Carolina to Des Moines, IA

Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Des Moines, IA stacks up against South Carolina. 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: South Carolina vs. Des Moines, IA

South Carolina Des Moines
Average rent cost $1,065 $1,150
Average home cost $295,769 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $63,623 $58,492
Cost of Living Index 96 87
Unemployment rate 4.7% 5.9%
State Income Tax 7.0% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 8% more expensive in Des Moines than in South Carolina, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
  • Moving to Des Moines means you’ll spend about 35% less on housing compared to South Carolina, so your budget will go further.
  • Salaries in Des Moines are typically about 8% lower than in South Carolina. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
  • Unemployment in Des Moines runs 26% above South Carolina, so be proactive with networking and applications.
  • Income taxes are 37% lower in Iowa than in South Carolina, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.

How life is different in Des Moines from South Carolina

Des Moines South Carolina
Population 699,292 5,373,555
Political leaning Democratic 57-41 Republican 58-42
Summer high 86ºF 91ºF
Winter low 13ºF 33ºF
Annual rain 36″ 48″
Annual snow 33″ 1″
Crime index 5.0 28.0
  • In the last presidential election, Des Moines voted Democratic and South Carolina voted Republican.
  • Summers in Des Moines typically reach highs of 86ºF, which is comparable to the average 91ºF in South Carolina. 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 33ºF winters of South Carolina. 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 48 inches you typically see in South Carolina. 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, it snows about 33 inches annually while South Carolina gets only about 1 inch. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
  • Des Moines is safer than South Carolina, with a crime index of 5.0 compared to 28.0. 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 South Carolina to Des Moines take?

The time it takes to move from South Carolina 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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina to Des Moines?

Because of the 1,102-mile move, it’s best to book your move from South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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.

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