Quick answer: A move from Arlington to Des Moines costs $885–$6,705 and takes two to eight days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 1,018-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Des Moines to Arlington guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Arlington to Des Moines

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Arlington to Des Moines isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to IA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 73 Virginia movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies in Arlington

  1. 495 Movers, Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. Artisan Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/495movingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/495moversinc
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with a well-organized team can transform a stressful day into a smooth experience. Across 410 reviews for 495 Movers, 83.7% of feedback is positive, reflecting results that outpace many competitors. Most customers found efficient service, careful handling, and friendly, professional movers who kept fragile belongings safe and finished jobs on (or ahead of) schedule.
Many appreciated clear estimates, honest pricing, and responsive communication before and during the move. Free packing supplies and flexibility made preparation easier, and follow-up calls reassured customers their move details were covered. A much smaller portion of feedback reports dissatisfaction. Some customers cite damage to their items, unexpected charges not matching estimates, or lost belongings—especially for long-distance or storage moves. A few also mentioned that claims for lost or broken possessions were hard to resolve, and communication could suffer after the move. Negative experiences frequently came with higher costs or struggles reaching resolution, leaving affected customers frustrated. Most feedback highlights efficiency, a courteous team, attention to detail, and billing transparency. Problems with damage or unexpected fees, though rare, are more common than with industry leaders renowned for flawless claims handling and rigid cost guarantees. On balance, 495 Movers is rated better than most moving companies for local or regional moves, especially for customers seeking cost clarity and respectful crews.
Show more
Get a Quote (855) 243-1717

Company Info

State license #: 1893270

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1893270


Services Offered

  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/zipmovingatlanta/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. stands out for efficient, professional service and careful attention to belongings. In an analysis of 372 customer reviews, 91% of the input praised the company's fast moving teams, careful handling of items, professionalism, prompt communication, and swift processes. Most feedback highlights that movers arrive on time, work efficiently, and treat possessions with respect, which is often hard to find among competitors.
Many also note transparent pricing and flexibility when scheduling or dealing with last-minute changes. While positive feedback dominates, some customers report problems with damages to items, unexpected cost increases, or delays in delivery, especially for long-distance moves. Compared to other movers, Zip consistently delivers a reliable, courteous experience but could improve by minimizing damages and clarifying pricing for every customer.
Show more
Get a Quote (855) 947-6543

Company Info

State license #: 2586700

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3306591


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • 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/OlympiaMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/olympiams
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storage’s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry.
On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

Company Info

State license #: 70719

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 70719


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/artisanmoving, https://twitter.com/artisanmovers
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input points to Artisan Movers as a standout in the moving industry, with 259 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% offering positive input. Most feedback highlights a team respected for professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, effective communication, and quick moving processes—qualities consistently recognized in top-rated movers. Customers frequently note that their belongings arrive undamaged and praise the crew's friendly, accommodating manner.
On the downside, a small percentage report concerns like item damage, surprise charges, or slow responses from management. When compared with other companies, Artisan Movers receives higher marks for reliability, staff courtesy, and transparent communication, though there are isolated reports of property damage or issues with the billing process. These trends show a company excelling in service standards, with a few exceptions relating to damage and administrative follow-through.
Show more
Get a Quote (240) 570-8593

Company Info

State license #: 2957382

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2957382

Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantmove
95% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Glowing feedback cements Gentle Giant Moving Company as a leader in their field. Out of 311 reviews, 95% of customers offer high praise, citing efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams as standout qualities. Many describe the moving process as quick, with thorough communication from booking to delivery, creating a smooth and stress-free experience.
Hundreds of customers report their belongings arrived safely—even during challenging or long-distance moves. On the downside, a handful of users express dissatisfaction with final costs exceeding estimates, a few unmet expectations around communication, and occasional scheduling or arrival delays. Compared to many moving companies, reports of damaged goods or loss are remarkably rare. For those weighing reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind, Gentle Giant is a top-tier choice, though budget-focused clients may encounter higher-than-expected pricing.
Show more
Get a Quote (202) 758-0213

Company Info

State license #: 373544

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Arlington movers charge $110 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,428 - $5,928 $1,044 - $2,444 $852 - $1,603
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,999 - $6,705 $1,817 - $3,616 $885 - $1,867
4+ bedrooms $4,915 - $9,526 $2,576 - $5,097 $1,156 - $2,250
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,018 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Virginia to Iowa

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Virginia to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,428 and $5,928. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,999 to $6,705 on the same route (VA to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Virginia to Iowa typically runs between $4,915 and $9,526.

Cost of moving containers from Virginia to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Virginia to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $1,044 and $2,444 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,817 up to $3,616. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,576 and $5,097. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Virginia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia 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, expect to pay between $852 and $1,603. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $885 to $1,867. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,156 and $2,250.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from Arlington to Des Moinestoggle

The cost of Arlington movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Arlington to Des Moines (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,428, while larger moves may reach $7,807 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Arlington,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $852 to $1,977), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Arlington to Des Moines

Moving from Arlington to Des Moines means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Arlington than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Arlington compares to Des Moines so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Arlington Des Moines
Average rent cost $2,718 $1,150
Average home value $810,670 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $128,145 $58,492
Cost of living (single person) $6,867 $1,891
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,970 $4,380
Unemployment rate 4.0% 5.9%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 5.75% 4.4%
  • Rent prices in Des Moines are 58% lower than in Arlington, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Des Moines.
    Home prices in Des Moines are 76.3% lower than in Arlington.
  • Income in Des Moines is 54.4% lower than in Arlington, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Des Moines — including MercyOne, Principal Financial Group, and Ppw Holdings — may pay more.
  • 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 72.5% lower than in Arlington.
  • A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 63.4% less than what it costs in Arlington.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 47.50% higher than in Arlington.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Des Moines, since its sales taxes are 16.67% higher than what you are paying in Arlington.
  • One perk of moving to Des Moines is paying less in state income taxes, which are 23.48% lower than in Arlington.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $826.12 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Arlington.

How life is different in Arlington vs. Des Moines

Des Moines Arlington
Population 699,292 238,643
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 9
Walkability score 45 71
Bike friendliness score 39 72
Crime Index 5.0 15.67
Safety Index 57.8 79.15
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Des Moines is about 193% greater than Arlington, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Getting around Des Moines without a car might be more difficult than in Arlington. Des Moines has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, whereas Arlington is ranked 9. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Des Moines neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Arlington. Based on its score of 45 out of 100, Des Moines isn't as walkable as Arlington, which has a score of 71 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Des Moines, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Arlington. While Arlington has a bike-friendliness score of 72 out of 100, Des Moines earned a 39. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Des Moines has a lower crime rate than Arlington based on scores of 5.0 and Arlington's 15.67, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Des Moines. With a crime index of 57.8, Des Moines ranks lower in overall safety than Arlington, whose index is 79.15. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Des Moines and Arlington is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Arlington vs. Des Moines move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Des Moines

Ready to relocate to Hartford of the West? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Des Moines.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Sherman Hill
  • Downtown
  • North of Grand
  • Beaverdale
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith

Things to do in Des Moines

After settling into your new Iowa home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • 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, Salisbury House, and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
  • 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 sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Arlington to Des Moines?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Arlington to Des Moines are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Arlington. are lower.

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

Because most people are moving from Arlington to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Arlington to Des Moines take?

Moving from Arlington, VA to Des Moines, IA covers 1,018 miles and usually takes two to eight days Need to move faster? Some Arlington movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.

Helpful moving resources