Best overall value
Local moving companies in Tacoma
- All Ready Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Mountain Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Apex Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Atlantic Relocation Systems: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Bekins Northwest: 4.52 out of 5 stars
All Ready Moving & Storage
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 2083124
Years in Business: 21
1690 Marine View Dr., Suite D, Tacoma, WA 98422 USAll Ready Moving & Storage customers rave about the moversโ professionalism, efficient service, careful handling, and positive attitudes. Across 95 reviews, 91.6% provided positive input, citing staff as friendly, polite, and highly helpful. Quick moves and support through stressful transitions stand out, with many noting items were well cared for and the teams stayed communicative throughout. Most feedback highlights a seamless experience rare among moving companies. A few clients voiced concerns regarding unexpectedly high costs, disorganized or careless packing, and occasionally unprofessional conduct, especially on more complex relocations. Only a small fraction experienced billing issues or unsatisfactory handling. Compared to other movers, All Ready delivers more consistent service with exceptional staff dedication, but clarity on pricing and consistent quality remains an area for competitors to match.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2083124
Mountain Moving & Storage
rating
4.96 / 5
DOT #: 885643
Years in Business: 62
9413 47th Ave SW Bldg 14 Suite E, Lakewood, WA 98499 USMoving with Mountain Moving & Storage feels like working with pros who get the job done efficiently, with lots of respectful and skilled movers. Feedback from 179 customers shows that 84% found the process quick and their possessions handled carefully by helpful crews. Customers trusted the teams for professionalism, fast service, and attention to detailโfactors rarely matched by other moving companies. On the downside, a few experienced issues with item damage or felt the company lacked proper communication, especially when resolving problems. A small number pointed to unprofessional behavior and found claims tough to resolve. Most noted the staff was courteous and efficient, with only a handful encountering serious problems. Overall, Mountainโs track record puts them ahead of many regional movers, but they could further stand out by sharpening their communication and quality controls.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 885643
- State license #: 885643
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Mountain Trucking Co Inc
Local Associations
Apex Moving & Storage
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 1064661
Years in Business: 25
914 Valley Ave NW Ste 102, Puyallup, WA 98371 USApex Moving & Storage stands out for its high level of customer satisfaction, with 248 reviews analyzed and about 86% offering positive feedback. Customers highlight the team's professionalism, quick and efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and strong communication from booking to delivery. Many mention thoughtful movers who show respect for property and are easy to work with, making the moving process smoother than with typical companies. Some point to better experiences with Apex compared to other movers, citing consistently prompt arrivals and accurate estimates. A handful of reviews raise concerns about items being damaged, inconsistent communication, or unexpected fees, but these make up a much smaller portion of the input. While most people report less stress and more reliability with Apex compared to other moving services, a few say their issues werenโt resolved satisfactorily. Overall, Apex receives notably more positive recommendations and repeat customers than many moving companies in the region.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1064661
- State license #: 1064661
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Apex Moving & Storage LLC
- Apex Movers LLC
- Apex Packing & Loading Service
Atlantic Relocation Systems
rating
4.52 / 5
DOT #: 2730619
Years in Business: 100
2121 S 80th St, Tacoma, WA 98409 USCustomers consistently praise Atlantic Relocation Systems for its professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, good communication, and swift moving process. Over three-quarters of feedback is positive, out of 139 reviews analyzed. Movers often receive high marks for friendliness, organization, and attention to detail, setting the company apart from many competitors. Customers appreciate how teams listen, adapt to needs, and provide strong follow-through, making relocation significantly less stressful. Negative input highlights damage to items, rude staff interactions, and delays with delivery or arrival. Issues include careless packing, property mishandling, and unsatisfactory resolution of claims, though such complaints appear less frequently than positive remarks. The overall impression is that Atlantic Relocation performs above industry standards in moving professionalism and customer care but shows room for better consistency in item protection and customer response during less-than-ideal situations.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2730619
- State license #: 2385545
Alternative Business Names
- Effort Enterprises of Tacoma Inc
Bekins Northwest
rating
4.52 / 5
DOT #: 2256609
Years in Business: 11
8500 Durango St SW, Tacoma, WA 98499 USCustomers rave about Bekins Northwest for their fast, professional teams that handle moves efficiently and take excellent care of property. Movers often get praised for being helpful and keeping the moving process smooth and organized. A few reviewers highlight swift booking, friendly staff, and transparent communication. Negative feedback is rare but points to some incidents with damaged belongings, unexpected costs due to inaccurate estimates, and frustrations with insurance. Compared to other movers, Bekins Northwest stands out for helpful service and careful handling, though a small number of clients faced problems with item damage or claims resolution. Out of 59 reviews examined, over 84% reflect highly positive feedback.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2256609
- State license #: 2256609
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Northwest Movers, LLC
- Bekins Moving & Storage
Factors influencing moving costs from Tacoma to Des Moines
What to know before moving from Tacoma to Des Moines
Moving from Tacoma to Des Moines means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Tacoma than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Tacoma compares to Des Moines so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Tacoma | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,650 | $1,150 |
| Average home value | $477,289 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,341 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $4,133 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,260 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 10.3% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.4% |
- Rent prices in Des Moines are 30% lower than in Tacoma, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Des Moines.
Home prices in Des Moines are 59.7% lower than in Tacoma. - Income in Des Moines is 20.2% lower than in Tacoma, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Des Moines include MercyOne, Principal Financial Group, and Ppw Holdings.
- The cost of living for a single person in Des Moines is 54.2% lower than in Tacoma. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Des Moines is 39.7% lower than in Tacoma.
- The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 19.18% lower than in Tacoma.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Des Moines, since the cityโs sales taxes in Des Moines are 32.04% lower than in Tacoma.
- State income taxes in Des Moines are 4.40% higher than in Tacoma.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,372.61 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Tacoma.
How life is different in Tacoma vs. Des Moines
| Des Moines | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 223,968 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 48 |
| Crime Index | 5.0 | 55.55 |
| Safety Index | 57.8 | 44.45 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 212% greater than Tacoma.
- Des Moines's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Tacoma's higher score of 6.
- Des Moines is less walkable than Tacoma with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Tacoma's 54 out of 100.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Tacoma, which has a score of 48 out of 100.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than Tacoma with a score of 5.0 compared to Tacoma's 55.55. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than Tacoma with a safety index of 57.8 vs Tacoma's 44.45.
- Air quality in Des Moines is good, and in Tacoma it's good.
Other things to consider for your Tacoma 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: Itโs a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโs a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- 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 theyโve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโs license in Iowa, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While Iowa doesnโt mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Des Moines without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Des Moines
With your sights set on "Hartford of the West", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Des Moines.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- East Village
- North of Grand
- Arbor Peaks
- Chautauqua Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Linden Heights
- Waveland Park
- Salisbury Oaks
- Meredith
- Beaverdale
Things to do in Des Moines
After getting comfortable in your new Iowa home, itโs time to see what Des Moines is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ thereโs plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art 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 cityโs Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tacoma to Des Moines?
The best time to move from Tacoma 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 Tacoma.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tacoma to Des Moines?
Because most people are moving from Tacoma 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 Tacoma to Des Moines take?
The 1,769-mile move from Tacoma, WA, to Des Moines, IA, takes five to 16 days. Some Tacoma movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Des Moines.
