Here’s the bottom line: Whether you are looking for a local or a long-distance mover in Iowa, we got you covered. In this guide, you’ll find the best moving companies in the Hawkeye State, picked based on things like services, ease-of-use, and real feedback from folks who’ve been in your shoes.
Top 10 Local Iowa Movers
Here are our ratings of the 10 best local moving companies in Iowa
- Two Men and a Truck, 4.76 out of 5.0
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, 4.62 out of 5.0
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, 4.58 out of 5.0
- White Glove Movers, 4.58 out of 5.0
- Black Belt Movers, 4.48 out of 5.0
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc., 4.48 out of 5.0
- All Mighty Movers LLC, 4.42 out of 5.0
- Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage, 4.42 out of 5.0
- Porter Moving Company, 4.38 out of 5.0
- Key City Moving & Storage, 4.38 out of 5.0
Two Men and a Truck
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 21
- Years in business: 1998
- State License:
- Phone: (515) 216-3654
- Address: 2601 104th St #400, Urbandale, IA, 50322
Two Men and a Truck, servicing Urbandale, IA since 1997, stands out among local moving companies with their comprehensive range of services, including local and long-distance residential moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. Their exceptional ability to handle special items such as pianos and grandfather clocks truly sets them apart. Unlike other moving companies, no deposit is needed to enlist their services, making the moving process easier and more accessible for their clients. Boasting an impressive Yelp rating of 4.5 from 16 reviews, a stellar Google My Business rating of 4.6 from 433 reviews they’re a crowd favorite in the online community. Their A+ Better Business Bureau rating further corroborates their reputation for trustworthiness and high-quality service.
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 0
- Years in business: 1956
- State License:
- Phone: (712) 252-1335
- Address: 5600 Harbor Dr, Sioux City, IA, 51111
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 18
- Years in business: 2018
- State License:
- Phone: (336) 810-1801
- Address: 10500 Hickman Rd Suite H, Clive, IA, 50325
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, established in 2017, is a versatile moving company serving the Clive, IA area. This business stands out amongst local competitors with its array of services, including both local and long-distance residential moving, office relocation, along with comprehensive packing and unpacking services. Moreover, they provide labor-only services for those customers who need manpower alone. A unique feature of this company is their commitment to convenience, accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit to begin their services. The company’s reputation is notably varied, with an impressive count of 1318 Google reviews giving them an average rating of 4.8. However, their Yelp profile presents a more modest picture, with 14 reviews at an average of 3.5. It’s worth noting that the company’s Better Business Bureau rating is currently at an F, hence potential clients are urged to research thoroughly and consider all reviews before making their choice.
White Glove Movers
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 11
- Years in business: 2006
- State License:
- Phone: (319) 393-3000
- Address: 4600 Commercial Ave, Marion, IA, 52302
Established in 2004, White Glove Movers has cemented its place as a premier moving service provider in and around Marion, IA. Unlike many local moving companies, this outfit extends its services beyond local and long-distance residential moving to also include international moves, office relocations, and even specialized items like pianos, pool tables, and art pieces. Furthermore, they offer a comprehensive range of packing, unpacking, and crating services not commonly provided by other regional competitors. An impressive feature of White Glove Movers’ service is their payment flexibility; accepting credit cards and not requiring any deposit upfront. Coupled with full valuation insurance coverage, this goes above and beyond what most moving companies offer. Their reputation for quality and dependable service is evident in their glowing online reviews, averaging at 4.2 on Yelp from 5 reviews and an impressive 4.9 from a whopping 234 reviews on Google My Business. To top it all, they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, further cementing their status as a trusted industry leader compared to other nearby moving companies.
Black Belt Movers
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 15
- Years in business: 2008
- State License:
- Phone: (515) 393-4253
- Address: 1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B, ANKENY, IA, 50023
Black Belt Movers, established in 2008 and based in Ankeny, IA, is a versatile and dependable moving company that has set a high standard in the industry. Compared to other regional moving companies, their broad range of services – from office shifting to residential relocations – make them a standout option. They offer comprehensive assistance, including packing, unpacking, and crating services, along with special provisions for fragile items. Their experienced team can also efficiently handle labor-intensive tasks such as moving pianos, pool tables, art pieces, antiques, and safes. At $150 per hour for a local move, their pricing is competitive. Beyond the convenience of accepting credit cards and not requiring deposits, they provide customers with peace of mind through their full valuation insurance coverage. With an impressive 4.0 average rating from 16 reviews on Yelp, and a stellar A rating from the Better Business Bureau, it’s clear that Black Belt Movers delivers services that consistently meet customer expectations.
Action Moving & Storage, Inc.
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 0
- Years in business: 1984
- State License:
- Phone: (712) 252-1938
- Address: 514 Clark St, Sioux City, IA, 51101
All Mighty Movers LLC
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 26
- Years in business: 2015
- State License:
- Phone: (515) 313-1395
- Address: 59 Clark St., Des Moines, IA, 50314
All Mighty Movers LLC is a commendable and versatile moving company providing a range of services including local residential, long distance, and office moves in and around Des Moines, IA. With a strong presence in the industry since 2014, they have differentiated themselves from other local moving services by also offering ‘labor only’ services and specialized moving capabilities for bulky items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables and safes. Their pricing is competitive at $130 per hour for a local move, and to cater to the convenience of their clientele, they accept credit cards and do not require any deposits. This customer-centric approach to business is further reflected in their online reputation, boasting an average 4.8 rating from an impressive 455 reviews on Google My Business and a 4.0 from 26 reviews on Yelp. Their commitment to providing quality services has earned them an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, placing them among the top choices for moving services in the area.
Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 3
- Years in business: 1990
- State License:
- Phone: (319) 229-2418
- Address: 370 50th Ave Dr. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404
Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage, established in 1989, has long been a standby among Cedar Rapids movers, offering an exceptional range of services. From basic local moves to complex international relocations, Maher Bros. stands out for its comprehensive offerings. Besides residential tasks, they also adeptly tackle office relocations, a service not universally offered among competitors. Additionally, valued services such as packing, unpacking, and crating are provided, with specialized care given to move art and antiques safely. Unlike many other movers, Maher Bros. doesn’t require a deposit up-front which adds convenience for their customers. They also offer shipment tracking, a feature that not all local moving companies provide. Despite mixed reviews on Yelp, they have solidified their reputation with an impressive average rating of 4.8 on Google My Business, 20 reviews strong. Also noteworthy is their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, adding to their credibility and reliability among moving companies in the area.
Porter Moving Company
- BBB Rating: B-
- Reviews analyzed: 11
- Years in business: 2015
- State License:
- Phone: (319) 560-5050
- Address: 1151 26th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404
Porter Moving Company, a reputable player in the moving industry since 2014, offers comprehensive moving services to the residents of Cedar Rapids, IA, and surrounding areas. Distinguishing themselves from other local providers, they extend their expertise to long-distance, international residential and office relocations. Their wide range of services, which not many rivals can match, includes packing, unpacking, crating, and special item relocation – such as pianos, pool tables, art pieces, and safes. Unlike many competitors, Porter Moving Company also accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, easing the financial strain on their clients. Despite a mixed response on their Yelp profile, they shine on Google My Business with 148 reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.6. Their business practices have been recognized by the Better Business Bureau, who awarded them an A+ rating, securing their position as a highly reliable and trustworthy moving business.
Key City Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 9
- Years in business: 1911
- State License:
- Phone: (563) 582-3237
- Address: 9710 Royal Wood Dr, Peosta, IA, 52068
Top 10 Options if Moving Out of Iowa
If you are moving out of Iowa, we recommend using an interstate moving company. Here are the top options:
1. Safeway Moving Inc.
Safeway Moving Inc. operates out of Florida and offers long-distance moving services nationwide. As both a broker and carrier, they use their own teams and vetted third-party agents to handle moves. While they specialize in long-distance relocations, they also promote international moving support. Their website emphasizes values like integrity, accountability, and communication. Additionally, Safeway supports senior citizens by training move coordinators to offer extra assistance for senior moves.
Learn more about Safeway Moving
2. American Van Lines
American Van Lines is a top full-service moving company that focuses on moving challenging items. Their team of professional movers trains in a mock home to learn how to safeguard valuable belongings, making it a reliable option for protecting your possessions.
Learn more about American Van Lines
3. North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines offers full moving services for local, long-distance, and international relocations of any size. Operating in all 50 states and over 130 countries, they have a network of more than 500 local movers. The company makes the claims process easy with quick online access to forms and information. Their website has dedicated sections for international and domestic claims. Customers can also call the specialized claim support division to file claims, separate from general customer support.
Learn more about North American Van Lines
4. JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services offers comprehensive moving services. They understand that each long-distance move is unique, so they assign a move coordinator to create a tailored plan. Their skilled team can safely handle fragile items like pianos and antiques. Your entire move will be carefully planned and tracked with GPS, ensuring peace of mind throughout the process.
Learn more about JK Moving Services
5. Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines offers various moving options, from full-service packages to DIY support. They also provide short- and long-term storage, moving kits, and online resources. As the oldest moving company in the U.S., with over 90 years of experience, Allied can ship various vehicles such as cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, boats, and snowmobiles. They have their own fleet of open and enclosed car carriers. Open carriers are the trucks you see on the highway carrying new cars, while enclosed carriers are semi-truck trailers that shield vehicles from weather and road hazards. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection for high-value vehicles, like classic cars, during transport.
Learn more about Allied Van Lines
6. International Van Lines
International Van Lines (IVL) is our favorite full-service moving company. They handle all parts of the moving process. Their experienced team will pack and unpack your items, load and unload the truck, and move your belongings anywhere in the country, ensuring your important items are safe.
Learn more about International Van Lines
7. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG)
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a broker that links customers with movers. This setup saves you time by letting IMRG find the best price and services for you. With movers traveling nationwide, IMRG can often schedule moves on short notice. They offer a quick quote process that usually delivers binding estimates within a day.
Learn more about Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
8. U-Pack
U-Pack’s DIY-focused service is perfect for small or simple moves. They offer driveway-to-driveway delivery of portable moving and storage containers at fair prices with no hidden fees or need for in-home estimates. U-Pack’s ReloCubes measure 6 feet by 8 feet, big enough to fit the contents of a typical living room. You might need several ReloCubes, but U-Pack only charges for the ones you use. For larger moves, their cargo trailers are a more budget-friendly option, holding the contents of a typical three- or four-bedroom home.
Learn more about U-Pack
9. Mayflower Moving
Mayflower Moving was praised for its wide range of local and interstate moving services and its various insurance and protection options for all household items.
Learn more about Mayflower Moving
10. United Van Lines
United Van Lines is one of the oldest moving companies around, offering full-service moving solutions like packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking. They are experts in handling electronics and can disassemble and reassemble home theater systems and PC networks. This service is unique to them among our listed providers. United also has its own fleet for vehicle shipping and offers short- and long-term storage options. Their Snapmoves program is designed for those moving an apartment, dorm room, or storage unit, providing a full-service experience with a personal moving coordinator, full value protection of your items, and loading and unloading at a reduced cost.
Learn more about United Van Lines
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Moving Company in Iowa
- Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the company has the necessary permits to operate in Hawkeye State and carries adequate insurance for damage or loss coverage.
- Reputation and Customer Reviews: Choose companies with stellar reputations in Iowa for customer service and care. Online reviews and word of mouth are invaluable.
- Pricing and Transparency: Look for clear estimates without hidden fees. Comparing prices can help you get a sense of the standard rates among Iowa movers.
- Services Offered: Whether you need comprehensive services (packing, moving, unpacking) or just transportation, make sure the company caters to your specific needs.
- Local Knowledge: Opt for movers familiar with the roads, neighborhoods, and traffic in Iowa to ensure a smooth move.
- Flexibility: A Iowa moving company that can accommodate last-minute changes without hefty fees is a plus. Check for flexibility in scheduling and services.
- Equipment and Professionalism: Ensure the company uses modern equipment and maintains a professional demeanor. The right tools and a courteous team can make a big difference.
Tips for a Smooth Move in Iowa
- Weather Watch: Iowa has a humid continental climate across the state. Snow is common in Iowa. Severe weather arrives in spring. Iowa experiences around 50 thunderstorm days each year and has a tornado season. Summers in Iowa are hot and humid. Before you move, be sure to check the weather, especially in spring.. So, keep an eye on the forecast and prepare for Iowa’s unpredictable weather with necessary precautions.
- Avoid Rush Hour in Big Cities: If moving through or to Des Moines, plan to avoid traffic during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
- Familiarize Yourself with Local Ordinances: Some towns in Iowa may have specific rules for moving trucks. Checking in advance can save hassle.
- Pack with the Season in Mind: Depending on your moving season, pack essentials that match Iowa’s weather, be it warm clothing or summer essentials.
- Secure Valuable Items: It’s safer to keep valuable personal items with you, instead of in the moving truck.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Especially important on warm Iowa days, keep water handy and rest when needed during your move.
- Engage the Community: Introducing yourself to neighbors and seeking local advice can help you settle in faster in Hawkeye State.
FAQs
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in Iowa?
The average cost to hire professional movers in Iowa is $198.92 per hour. The total cost will be determined by how much stuff you have and how far you’re moving.
What should I know about Iowa’s peak moving season?
Like most places, Iowa sees a surge in moves during the summer months when the weather is favorable and school is out. This means moving companies might be busier and rates could be higher. If possible, consider moving during the off-peak season for potentially better rates.
Are there any items moving companies in Iowa won’t transport?
Most Iowa moving companies have a list of prohibited items they won’t move due to safety or regulatory reasons. Common items include hazardous materials, perishables, and in some cases, plants. It’s best to check with your chosen moving company in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.