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($1,146) Cost to Move From Chattanooga, TN to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 786 mile move from Chattanooga to Des Moines, costs typically range from $582 to $5,690. Plan for the travel time to be around two–seven 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to Des Moines

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Chattanooga 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 5 interstate moving companies located in Chattanooga, 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 Chattanooga to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 786-mile move from Chattanooga 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 $1,701 – $4,452
  • Moving Container $1,001 – $1,921
  • Rental Truck $549 – $1,034
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,231 – $5,690
  • Moving Container $1,314 – $2,770
  • Rental Truck $582 – $1,179
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,857 – $8,208
  • Moving Container $1,799 – $3,577
  • Rental Truck $728 – $1,445
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.
American Van Lines
Beersheba Springs, TN Sandyville, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 18, 2025
PODS
Gruetli-Laager, TN Bondurant, IA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Altamont, TN Collins, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 17, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Dunlap, TN Spring Hill, IA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Cleveland, TN Grimes, IA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 04, 2025
Safeway Moving
Collegedale, TN Jamaica, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Powells Crossroads, TN De Soto, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 21, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Charleston, TN Pella, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
BLVD Moving
Ridgeside, TN Runnells, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 27, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Benton, TN State Center, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 14, 2025

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

The best local movers for Chattanooga to Des Moines moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Chattanooga that also handles long-distance moves to Des Moines. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated six local movers in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to Des Moines.

  1. Good Guys Moving & Delivery : 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Bellhop Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. All Out Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. Elizabeth’s Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.9% of all reviews were positive
5.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe Good Guys Moving & Delivery as one of the most dependable options in the Chattanooga region, with 94% of 245 feedback entries praising efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and courteous, professional movers. Shoppers appreciate consistent, clear communication from booking to follow-up, often noting the team’s promptness and willingness to go above and beyond—including challenging moves and busy schedules. Many recommend Good Guys to friends and family, citing seamless, damage-free moves and transparent pricing. On the downside, some negative experiences focus on items arriving damaged, drivers acting rudely, or incidents of delayed or missed deliveries. Damage cases are often linked with perceived unhelpfulness or poor complaint resolution. While such problems are rare compared to the glowing majority, customers with valuable or sentimental belongings may want extra assurances. Relative to others, Good Guys earns notably higher marks for both efficiency and care, but a small minority highlight issues in damage response and professionalism during certain deliveries.
Get a Quote (423) 531-3841

Company Info

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 1906318

Alternate Names: Good Guys of Chattanooga, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.0% of all reviews were positive
10.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easier—customers repeatedly share that Bellhop Moving excels at getting the job done with friendly, professional teams who arrive on time and handle belongings with great care. Most feedback points to efficient and polite movers, hassle-free processes, and quick turnaround times that set Bellhop apart from typical competitors. Customers value the crew’s attitude and careful approach to protect furniture and follow directions. Problems, though less common, revolve mainly around damaged items, slow or confusing claims processes, and occasional scheduling hiccups or lack of communication from headquarters. Some clients faced delays, billing issues, or frustrating responses when trying to reclaim for damaged property. Out of 946 reviews analyzed, 89% reflected positive experiences—much higher than many moving companies—while just over 10% reported disappointments, often involving claims and reliability concerns. Most people trust Bellhop for efficient, courteous moves, but those needing extensive insurance coverage or full service should double-check their options.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.9% of all reviews were positive
13.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe All Out Moving & Storage as a go-to choice for efficient and professional moves. 202 out of 238 customer comments (about 85%) praise careful handling of belongings, fast work, and courteous, communicative movers. Many note a well-organized process and staff who go out of their way to prevent damage. Competitive pricing is often highlighted, with crews frequently finishing faster than estimated. Negative feedback, making up 13% of responses, centers on property damage, problems collecting insurance compensation, and charges higher than originally quoted. Several individuals mention difficulties resolving claims or getting clear communication post-move. Compared to others in the business, All Out Moving & Storage earns strong loyalty for move-day performance but some concerns about damage claims, similar to issues at many competitors. Most people would recommend them, but some recommend handling valuables personally and keeping documentation for claims.
Get a Quote (423) 454-3957

Company Info

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3241000

Alternate Names: All Out Moving & Storage – Chattanooga Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.0% of all reviews were positive
21.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day relief is what most customers feel with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. After analyzing 246 pieces of customer input, 76% praised the company’s professional and polite teams, fast and careful service, and strong communication. Their crews consistently earned high marks for efficiency, quick moving, and respect for property. Many noted how the staff made stressful moves much easier and were careful with valuables. Yet, about one in five experienced significant problems, such as damaged items, surprise costs, or delayed arrivals. Some customers reported broken furniture, bill discrepancies, or difficulty getting compensation for damage. Few companies in the moving industry reach this level of consistent professionalism, but negative reports about property damage and hidden fees show where operations can improve. When compared to other movers, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for friendly service but needs to address damage claims and maintain transparent pricing for all moves.
Get a Quote (423) 201-4154

Company Info

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Chattanooga 081 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
92.6% of all reviews were positive
7.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Elizabeth’s Moving & Storage stands out with a remarkable 93% positive rating out of 95 analyzed reviews. Clients highlight the professionalism and courtesy shown by the moving teams, with careful handling of belongings and efficient, timely service frequently praised. Staff members consistently display positive attitudes, are helpful with logistics, and demonstrate quick, organized moving processes. These qualities set the company above competitors, especially in reliability and attention to detail. On the downside, a small portion of feedback describes concerns about lost or misplaced items, inaccurate move estimates, and challenges reaching the company for bookings. Despite a few incidents involving missing belongings, most experiences report high satisfaction and a sense of trust, making Elizabeth’s a top choice compared to typical moving services.
Get a Quote (423) 531-6672

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2438253

Alternate Names: Elizabeth’s Moving Services, LLC

Services Offered

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

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

The average hourly rate for movers in Tennessee is $123. 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 $1,146 – $3,948 $790 – $1,863 $571 – $1,045
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,231 – $5,690 $1,314 – $2,770 $582 – $1,179
4+ bedrooms $3,857 – $8,208 $1,799 – $3,577 $728 – $1,445
*Approximate cost ranges for a 786-mile move from Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to Des Moines

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Chattanooga to Des Moines will cost between $1,146 and $3,948. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Chattanooga to Chattanooga will range from $2,231 to $5,690, and a large move from Chattanooga to Des Moines will cost from $3,857 to $8,208.

Cost of moving containers from Chattanooga to Des Moines

If you’re moving from Chattanooga to Des Moines, expect to pay between $790 and $1,863 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,314 up to $2,770. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,799 and $3,577. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chattanooga to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Chattanooga 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 $571 and $1,045. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $582 and $1,179. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $728 up to $1,445 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Chattanooga to Des Moines

The cost of Chattanooga movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,917, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,905.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chattanooga, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($571–$1,406) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Chattanooga to Des Moines

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Des Moines runs about -43% higher for singles and 1% higher for families than Chattanooga.

Singles spend around $1,891 in Chattanooga versus $3,300 in Chattanooga; families pay $4,380 compared with $4,350.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Chattanooga Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,517 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $3,138 $1,763
Average home value $302,565 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $60,164 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $3,300 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $4,350 $4,380
Unemployment rate 5.6% 5.9%
Sales tax 9.25% 7.0%
State income tax 0.0% 4.4%
  • If you’re heading to Des Moines from Chattanooga, you’ll find that rent is roughly 22% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 36% less in Des Moines than in Chattanooga.
  • Fortunately, the average income in Des Moines and Chattanooga is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 43% lower than in Chattanooga.
  • The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Des Moines and Chattanooga, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
  • The unemployment rates of Des Moines and Chattanooga are very similar, with less than a 5% difference, thus maintaining a consistent employment landscape.
  • Sales taxes drop 24% in Des Moines compared to Chattanooga, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Iowa has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

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

Living Expense Chattanooga Des Moines
Basic utilities $160.78 $144.82
Cell phone plan $56.00 $51.25
Dozen eggs $3.92 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.58 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $77.50
Gym membership $40.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Chattanooga than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Chattanooga vs. Des Moines

Chattanooga Des Moines
Population 181,099 699,292
Transportation score 3 5
Walkability score 29 45
Bike friendliness score 35 39
Crime index 53.89 5.0
Safety index 46.11 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 286% greater than Chattanooga.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Chattanooga’s score of 3.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Chattanooga with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Chattanooga’s 29 out of 100.
  • With a score of 39 out of 100, Des Moines is more bike-friendly than Chattanooga, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Chattanooga with a score of 5.0 compared to Chattanooga’s 53.89. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chattanooga neighborhoods are safer than 53.89%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Chattanooga with a safety index of 57.8 vs Chattanooga’s 46.11.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Chattanooga it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to Des Moines?

The best time to move from Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to Des Moines take?

Moving from Chattanooga, TN to Des Moines, covers 786 miles and usually takes two to seven days. Need to move faster? Some Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 2 movers in Chattanooga advertise piano moving expertise. 1 movers in Chattanooga provide antique moving services. State totals show 46 piano movers and 21 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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