Find the best movers for your Des Moines to California move. Compare costs, companies, and get quotes for long-distance relocation.
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You're looking at a 1,807-mile haul from Des Moines to California—that's a serious move. Out of the movers in and around Des Moines that can handle interstate jobs, I've narrowed it down to the five that consistently deliver solid results.
2601 104th St #400, Urbandale, IA 50322
92% positive reviews | Yelp | Google reviews | BBB (Grade A+)
What customers say: This crew earns its reputation for speed and care. Out of 23 Yelp reviews and 505 Google reviews, the consistent theme is efficient work—movers who show up on time, handle your stuff carefully, and communicate clearly. Most people praised the professionalism and noted they came in under budget because the teams worked fast without cutting corners. The few negatives mention damage to items and inexperienced crew members, but those are outliers.
Services:
Contact: (515) 216-3654 | DOT #: 2527384 | 27 years in business
59 Clark St., Des Moines, IA 50314
64% positive reviews | Yelp | Google reviews | BBB (Grade A+)
What customers say: Fast and affordable—that's the pitch, and most reviews back it up. Out of 25 reviews analyzed, customers consistently praised low rates and quick turnaround. The crews are polite and efficient, and your furniture arrives intact. The downside? About 36% of feedback flags inaccurate estimates or surprise charges at the end. If you book with them, get everything in writing and confirm final costs upfront.
Services:
Contact: (515) 313-1395 | $130/hr | DOT #: 2468266 | 10 years in business
10500 Hickman Rd Suite H, Clive, IA 50325
93% positive reviews | Yelp | Google reviews | BBB (Grade A+)
What customers say: Out of 260 reviews, nearly 93% are positive. Customers rave about friendly crews, quick work, and careful handling of belongings. The communication tends to be solid, and people appreciate the transparency. The 7% downside mentions occasional damage, unexpected charges, or unprofessional behavior in edge cases. Overall, this is a reliable outfit that keeps things moving smoothly.
Services:
Contact: (336) 810-1801 | DOT #: 2378173 | 7 years in business
4701 NW Urbandale Dr., Des Moines, IA 50322
100% positive reviews | Yelp | Google reviews | BBB (Grade A+)
What customers say: This is the standout. Across 223 reviews analyzed, 99.6% are positive. Customers consistently mention professional crews, accurate quotes, careful handling, and strong communication. People describe moves as effortless because the team is organized and polite. The one negative note involved a billing discrepancy that wasn't resolved quickly, but it's a single complaint against hundreds of rave reviews. If you want the peace of mind of near-perfect execution, this is your best bet.
Services:
Contact: (319) 519-0154 | $100/hr | DOT #: 1471037 | 25 years in business
523 S 18th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265
68% positive reviews | Yelp | Google reviews | BBB
What customers say: Out of 34 reviews, two-thirds are positive. People appreciate the professional, polite staff and the quick, efficient service. Many noted transparent pricing and finishing ahead of schedule. The downside: late deliveries, occasional damage or lost items, and communication lapses. It's a solid option if you confirm all details upfront, but don't expect the consistency of top-ranked competitors.
Services:
Contact: (515) 223-8329 | DOT #: 1098759 | 79 years in business | Also operates as Mayflower
Here's a quick breakdown of specialty services offered by Iowa movers in the Des Moines area:
| Service | # of Movers | % Available |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 9 | 69% |
| Small moves | 9 | 69% |
| Antiques | 6 | 46% |
| Art | 7 | 54% |
| Pianos | 10 | 77% |
| Fragile-only packing | 4 | 31% |
Here's what you're looking at for a 1,807-mile move:
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | DIY Truck Rental |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,211 – $4,758 | $1,042 – $2,625 | $998 – $1,979 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,040 – $6,716 | $1,857 – $3,650 | $1,134 – $2,285 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,981 – $10,411 | $2,665 – $5,162 | $1,403 – $2,684 |
*These estimates are based on verified pricing data as of January 2025. Your actual quote will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access challenges, fuel surcharges, and timing. Always get estimates from multiple movers for accurate pricing.
A studio or one-bedroom move will run $1,211 to $4,758. For two to three bedrooms, expect $3,040 to $6,716. A larger move of four bedrooms or more will cost $5,981 to $10,411. Prices vary based on the mover, the time of year, and how much stuff you have.
If you prefer moving containers—where you load at your own pace and they handle transport—expect $1,042 to $2,625 for a small load. For two to three bedrooms, $1,857 to $3,650. Larger moves run $2,665 to $5,162. Containers give you flexibility, but you'll pack and unpack yourself.
The cheapest option is renting a truck—but you do all the work. A studio or one-bedroom move costs $998 to $1,979. Two to three bedrooms run $1,134 to $2,285. A four-bedroom or larger place runs $1,403 to $2,684. These estimates include fuel.
A few key factors shape your final bill:
Use our calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your exact situation.
California is a bigger move than it might sound. Your cost of living will jump, wages may be higher, and the whole environment is different. Here's how the two stack up:
| Des Moines, IA | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150/month | $1,856/month |
| Average home price | $192,347 | $771,057 |
| Per capita income | $58,492 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
The practical impact:
| Des Moines, IA | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 39,029,342 |
| Political lean | Democratic 57–41 | Democratic 59–41 |
| Summer high | 86°F | 87°F |
| Winter low | 13°F | 59°F |
| Annual rainfall | 36″ | 22″ |
| Annual snowfall | 33″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 8.43 |
Here's what changes:
Before you book movers and load the truck, handle these items:
Once you land, there's no shortage of things to explore:
Museums: The Getty Center, USS Midway Museum, California State Railroad Museum, The Getty Villa
Parks: La Jolla Cove, Sonoma Plaza, Mount Rubidoux Park, Redwood Regional Park
Sports: Anaheim Ducks (NHL), Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), San Jose Sharks (NHL)
Universities: Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, UC San Diego
Typically 5 to 16 days, depending on the service. Summer moves may take longer due to higher demand. Confirm delivery timelines with your mover before booking to avoid surprises.
Eight movers in the Des Moines area offer custom crating for art, antiques, and fragile items. If you need this service, confirm capabilities with your mover before signing.
Look for an auto transport company with solid reviews and experience on long-haul routes. Check our car shipping resource for top-rated carriers.
Economic opportunity and weather are the big drivers. California offers more job options in tech, entertainment, and other sectors, plus year-round milder weather.
Start by comparing quotes from the top companies listed above. Use our moving cost calculator to estimate your specific move, then get detailed quotes from at least three movers.
Yes, four movers in the area accept cash. However, most moving companies prefer traceable payments. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to secure your booking, with the balance due on moving day. Confirm payment methods when you get your quote.
Looking for movers in other Iowa cities?
Popular routes from Iowa:
Other helpful guides:
The best next step is comparing quotes from multiple movers. Use the calculator to estimate your move, then reach out to at least three companies from the list above. You'll get a clear picture of pricing, timelines, and service quality—and you can make a decision based on real numbers, not guesses.
