Best Moving Companies in Iowa (2026)

Quick answer

Iowa has many moving companies, and it can take time to figure out which ones are worth hiring. We've picked some of the best moving companies in Iowa so you can check their services, prices, and customer reviews before making your decision.

Best local mover FAMILY DISCOUNT FURNITURE
Best long-distance International Van Lines
Average local rate $193 an hour

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MGM Editorial Team
Published By:  MGM Editorial Team
Fact-Checked
Recommendation

Our Recommended Movers

These are our recommended movers from the companies reviewed on this page. We selected these based on overall service quality, customer satisfaction, pricing transparency, and available moving options. To learn more, check our How We Select and Review Movers page.
Why MGM

Why Trust My Good Movers?

Our Methodology
Verified reviews Real customer reviews and ratings Fair rankings Fair and unbiased mover rankings Accurate method Accurate method for gathering cost data User safety Fraud prevention and user safety
Find Your Fit

What's your moving situation?

Different moves call for different moving services. Select the type of move you're planning, and we'll show you companies that can help.

Moving Within Iowa Find local moving companies for moves across town or between Iowa cities. Explore Local Movers → Moving Out of Iowa Compare long-distance moving companies serving Iowa and find the right company for your interstate move. Explore Interstate Movers → Other Moving Options Explore moving containers, truck rentals, labor-only help, and specialty movers to find a service that suits your needs. Browse Moving Options →

Compare Iowa Moving Companies Side by Side

Every mover on this page in one table. Save the ones you like, then compare your shortlist.

Mover and type Based in MGM rating (reviews) Typical cost USDOT
Compare any movers side by side →

Best Long-Distance Moving Companies Serving Iowa

If you're moving from Iowa to another state, you'll want movers who can handle the long distance and make sure your belongings arrive safely. Here are some companies to look at.

X Van Lines LLC

Best for Careful Handling
4.9 97.9% positive
Avg. cost $3,743
USDOT 3391195
JE
Jessica Johnson

The movers, however, tackled each piece with determination and a can-do attitude. These movers were lifesavers during a... Read more

Get a quote Full review
See all best long distance moving companies →

Other Moving Options in Iowa

You may not need a company to handle your entire move. If you're on a tight budget or prefer to do some things yourself, you can rent a truck, use a moving container, or hire moving labor.

What a container move costs in Iowa You pack, they drive. The container sits at your home while you load.
8-ft container, local $231–$439 Small home or apartment
16-ft container, local $314–$818 2–3 bedroom home
Cross-country $2,113–$7,459 Out of Iowa

Best Moving Container Companies for Iowa Moves

1-800 Pack Rat Bethesda, Maryland
4.4
7 reviews
85.7% positive 14.3% negative
Avg. move cost $4,141
FMCSA license USDOT 1534531
Latest review
I truly appreciate their honesty and dedication.

The professionalism of the staff was outstanding. They treated me with respect, explained every step clearly,... Read more

KE
Kevin Smith Jul 06, 2026 · 2 Bedroom Home · paid $4,449
Get a quote View profile
U Pack Fort Smith, Arkansas
4.8
18 reviews
94.4% positive 5.6% negative
Avg. move cost $3,723
FMCSA license USDOT 2632086
Latest review
It was a smooth experience from beginning to end.

I couldn't be happier with the service I received. The team worked efficiently, maintained great communication... Read more

JO
Jones Travis Jul 06, 2026 · 2 Bedroom Home · paid $3,216
Get a quote View profile
PODS Moving and Storage Clearwater, Florida
4.1
13 reviews
76.9% positive 23.1% negative
Avg. move cost $4,662
FMCSA license USDOT 1397252
Latest review
Nice

I used their moving container and storage service during my move, and it made everything much easier. The cont... Read more

MA
Mary Lebow Jul 22, 2026 · 3 Bedroom Home · paid $3,253
Get a quote View profile
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Local discovery

Find Moving Companies in Iowa by City
DES Des Moines

Popular Moving Routes from Iowa

The distance to your new home can affect moving costs and delivery times. Some routes also have road conditions or other challenges that can make the move harder.

Popular Iowa-to-State Moving Routes

Explore published outbound routes.

Iowa → Alabama State-to-state moving guide Iowa → Arizona State-to-state moving guide Iowa → Arkansas State-to-state moving guide Iowa → California State-to-state moving guide
Explore all Iowa routes →

Popular Iowa-to-City Moving Routes

Find a specific destination from Iowa.

Iowa → Akron, OH State-to-city moving guide Iowa → Albany, NY State-to-city moving guide Iowa → Albuquerque, NM State-to-city moving guide Iowa → Amarillo, TX State-to-city moving guide
See all city routes →
IOWA MOVERS DIRECTORY

Browse More Moving Companies in Iowa

You have more moving companies to choose from in Iowa. Our directory lists other movers across the state, where you can check their services, read reviews, and learn about each company.

Showing 4 Iowa movers Page 1 of 1
Americas Choice Moving Group Verified
Cheyenne, WY
5 132 verified reviews
USDOT 8402975
Profile Free estimate
FAMILY DISCOUNT FURNITURE Verified
Keokuk, IA
5 1 verified review
USDOT 3179140
Profile Free estimate
White Glove Movers Verified
Marion, IA
5 1 verified review
USDOT 2991947
Profile Free estimate
ADAMANTINE SPINE MOVING Verified
Iowa City, IA
5 2 verified reviews
USDOT 1471037
Profile Free estimate
1

Are you an Iowa mover? Add your company

How We Select Moving Companies in Iowa

We know choosing a moving company is a big decision, and you deserve to know why certain movers make our list.

We look beyond star ratings and consider customer experiences, company credentials, pricing, and service quality before making recommendations.

What We Consider When Comparing Movers
Customer Reviews
We check customer experiences, review volume, and rating patterns. According to our methodology, reviews from the last 12 months carry more weight, while reviews older than 24 months receive less weight.
Real Reviews
Over 70% of our reviews are verified. Bad reviews stay up, and movers can't pay to hide them.
Licensing and Credentials
We examine company details and relevant licensing records. For interstate movers, this includes USDOT numbers and FMCSA registration.
Pricing Transparency
We consider available moving estimates, customer-reported costs, and whether companies clearly explain their charges.
Services and Availability
We consider whether a company offers the moving services needed and serves the relevant locations.
Read Our Full Selection Methodology
Pricing Data

How Much Do Movers Cost in Iowa?

The cost of movers in Iowa mostly depends on how big your home is and the amount of work involved. On average, moving companies in the state charge about $193 per hour, and most moves typically fall between $795 and $6,626 .

For a more exact price, you can use our moving cost calculator to get a detailed estimate.

Cost Calculator

Average Moving Costs in Iowa by Home Size

Home sizeAvg. total costCost per hourNumber of moversHours
Studio$811$2672 movers3 hours
1 bedroom$1065$2672 movers4 hours
2 bedrooms$1,708$3833 movers5 hours
3 bedrooms$3,843$5464 movers8 hours
4 bedrooms$4,396$5484 movers9 hours
5+ bedrooms$6,613$7695 movers10 hours
Note: These are average reported costs for moves within Iowa. Your final price can change depending on the company, the services included, and the time of year you move.
Route Costs

Long Distance Moving Cost

Below are the average costs for moving a two- or three-bedroom home on common routes from Iowa.

Route Cost Estimate
Iowa to California $3,312 to $6,172
Iowa to Texas $2,459 to $5,528
Iowa to Florida $3,046 to $6,438
Iowa to Georgia $2,835 to $6,134
Iowa to Arizona $3,095 to $6,254
Explore Iowa Interstate Routes
Cost Factors

What Affects the Cost of a Move?

Below are the main things that move your Iowa quote up or down before you book.

  • Distance

    Longer moves usually cost more because they require more travel time, fuel, and labor.

  • Size of the Move

    The more belongings you have, the more time, space, and crew members your move may require.

  • Moving Date

    Prices can be higher during weekends, summer months, and other busy moving periods.

  • Extra Services

    Packing, storage, specialty-item handling, and other add-on services can increase your total moving cost.

Plan Your Move with Confidence.

Get accurate estimates with our free moving cost calculator – no surprises on moving day!

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Checklist

Iowa Moving Checklist

Here’s your ultimate step-by-step checklist for a smooth long-distance or out-of-state move from Iowa:

  1. 3
    MO

    Make Your Plan

    • Decide Where You’re Moving: Research your new city or state, cost of living, and housing options.
    • Set Your Budget: Estimate moving costs of an interstate move from Iowa, including movers, travel expenses, and potential overnight stays.
    • Get Multiple Quotes: Request and compare quotes from at least 2–3 licensed long-distance movers in Iowa. Comparing their estimates will help you choose the most cost-effective option.
  2. 2
    MO

    Secure Housing & Schools

    • Find Your New Home: Finalize your lease or home purchase in your new city.
    • School Enrollment: If you have kids, start the enrollment process with their new school district to avoid last-minute delays.
  3. 1
    MO

    Final Prep

    • Transfer Records: Arrange to transfer medical, dental, and vet records to your new providers.
    • Change of Address: Make sure to notify USPS, your bank, and any subscription services before your move.
    • Schedule Utilities Disconnection: Arrange to turn off gas, electric, and internet at your Iowa home after your move date.
    • Start Packing Non-Essentials: Label boxes clearly and set aside items you’ll need for travel.
  4. DAY

    Make It Smooth

    • Confirm With Movers: Double-check your long distance moving details the day before to avoid any last-minute issues.
    • Travel Essentials: Keep important documents, valuables, and travel bags with you — not on the moving truck.
    • Unpack in Stages: Focus on essentials first, then settle in to your new state at your own pace.
Company vs Broker

What’s the Difference Between a Moving Company and a Moving Broker?

You’ll probably see terms like moving broker and moving company when getting quotes. Here’s what they really mean, and which one you should trust with your move.

Moving Company

A moving company owns its own trucks, employs its own movers, and physically handles your relocation from start to finish. When you hire a licensed long-distance moving company in Iowa, you’re dealing directly with the team who will pack, load, transport, and deliver your belongings.

  • Handles packing, loading, driving, and delivery.
  • Licensed and insured for interstate moves (FMCSA).
  • Directly accountable for your belongings and any damage claims.
  • You can check real customer reviews for their crews and long-distance track record.

Moving Broker

A moving broker is a middleman; they don’t own trucks or hire movers. Instead, they collect your move details and sell them to an actual moving company that does the job. You may not know which company will show up until the last minute.

  • Does not handle your move themselves.
  • Quality varies depending on which company they hire for you.
  • Some brokers are licensed, but they’re not required to guarantee service quality.
  • Not all brokers are transparent about costs and final arrangements.

Which One Should You Choose?

You should usually work directly with a licensed and insured moving company. They're registered with the FMCSA and are responsible for your belongings during the move, which gives you more accountability than working through a broker.

Choose a broker only if you want help finding a mover and are comfortable working through a middleman.

Find Verified Movers Near You.

Explore trusted nationwide movers and read real customer reviews.

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Scam Protection

How to Handle and Avoid Moving Scams

A moving scam can cost you money, time, and a lot of stress. A few careful steps can help you deal with a problem and avoid the same situation later.

  • Save all records: Keep your estimate, contract, receipts, emails, texts, and photos. These records can support your complaint, prove what happened, and help recover money later if needed.
  • Contact the mover first: Ask the company to explain the problem and fix it in writing. A clear paper trail gives you evidence if the issue becomes serious later.
  • Report the company if needed: File a complaint with the FMCSA or another consumer agency if the mover refuses to help. It can protect other customers too.
  • Verify the mover before booking: Check the company’s USDOT number, license, address, and insurance before paying. This confirms the mover is legitimate and helps you avoid fake companies and scams.
  • Get the price in writing: Ask for a written estimate that explains charges, services, and possible extras. Clear pricing makes sudden price changes easier to question and dispute later too.
  • Be careful with large deposits: Avoid movers asking for unusually large upfront payments, especially in cash. Smaller deposits and traceable payments give you more protection if something goes wrong later.
  • Check reviews from different sources: Read reviews on several websites and look for repeated complaints about pricing, damage, delays, or communication. Patterns can reveal problems before you choose a mover.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about hiring movers in Iowa, from licensing and services to timing and cost.

01

How do I find licensed movers in Iowa?

Check the mover's USDOT number and FMCSA registration before booking an interstate move. You should also confirm the company name, address, insurance, and operating status.

02

What services do moving companies in Iowa offer?

Most moving companies in Iowa offer residential moving, packing, loading, unloading, long-distance moving, and storage. Available services can vary by company.

03

How far in advance should I book movers in Iowa?

Try to book two to six weeks ahead. You may need more time during summer, weekends, holidays, and other busy moving periods.

04

Are there movers in Iowa for interstate moves?

Yes. Interstate movers in Iowa can handle moves from Iowa to another state, but they must have the proper federal registration to transport belongings across state lines.

05

Do Iowa movers provide packing services?

Many Iowa movers offer full or partial packing services. Some can also provide packing supplies, unpacking, furniture disassembly, and reassembly.

06

What is the best time of year to move in Iowa?

Spring and fall can offer more comfortable weather and less demand than peak summer months. Your best time will also depend on your schedule and budget.

07

Should I choose local or long-distance movers in Iowa?

Choose local movers in Iowa for shorter moves within the area. For moves across state lines or much longer distances, use properly registered long distance movers in Iowa.

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