Best Moving Companies in Iowa (March 2026)
We analyzed 37 moving companies throughout Iowa and highlighted the ones that combine strong value with straightforward pricing and solid reputations. Use the list below to compare estimates, see what each company offers, and choose with confidence.
Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | 4.7
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Colonial Van Lines | 5.0
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
At FreightWaves Checkpoint, we routinely evaluate more than 4,000 moving companies across the country using a data-driven scoring system built around performance, accountability, and overall customer experience. Our editorial team assigns weighted scores to the factors that matter most to consumers planning a move.
Here’s how we rank movers:
Customer feedback (40%): Verified consumer reviews carry the most weight in our methodology. We evaluate overall ratings, review volume, consistency across platforms, and patterns in customer experiences to measure satisfaction and service reliability.
Complaint track record (20%): While issues can arise in any move, resolution matters. We review complaint history through public consumer databases, focusing on frequency, severity, and how proactively a company works to address and resolve disputes.
Pricing transparency (15%): Clear estimates, well-defined deposits, and straightforward contracts score higher in our system. We prioritize movers that make it easy to understand what you’ll pay — without hidden fees or vague pricing language.
Service offerings (12%): Companies that provide a wide range of services — including full packing, specialty item handling, storage solutions, and interstate moving — earn stronger marks for flexibility and convenience.
Online experience (8%): We look at how easy a company makes it to get information, request a quote, and understand its services online. Up-to-date websites, clear contact details, and responsive review engagement all factor into the score.
Company track record (5%): Longevity, proper licensing, and overall business stability also play a role. Movers with a consistent operating history and verified credentials receive higher marks.
Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect new data, evolving consumer feedback, and shifts in company performance — helping you compare movers with confidence.
Top Local Movers in Iowa
We dug into the data, gathered quotes, and analyzed customer reviews from 37 local movers. The results? TWO MEN AND A TRUCK leads the pack for transporting household goods within the state, delivering efficiency without compromising on care.
Explore all our top picks for IA movers:
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, 4.48 out of 5.0
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, 4.58 out of 5.0
- White Glove Movers, 4.36 out of 5.0
- Black Belt Movers, 4.38 out of 5.0
- Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage, 4.5 out of 5.0
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (DOT: 2527384) offers an array of moving services including full-service packing, interstate moves, junk removal, and unpacking services. They provide a 5% discount on local moving services, which can be an attractive incentive for nearby customers. However, they do not offer international moving services, which might be a downside for those looking to move abroad.
The company also caters to specific needs with services like piano moving and safe transport. Despite these extensive offerings, they do not provide shipment tracking, which may not meet the expectations of customers who prefer to track their move in real-time.
"Two men and a truck exceeded my expectations. They were efficient, communicative, pleasant, and didn’t break anything. Very happy with the experience and the cost was worth every penny."
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Helpful movers
- Good communication
Cons
- Damage to items
- Inexperienced movers
- Unexpected charges
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Junk hauling
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Debris clean-up
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- Heavy safes
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc (DOT: 70719) offers a wide array of services that cater to various moving needs. They provide full-service and interstate moving, and their offerings include specialized services like junk removal, packing, and climate-controlled storage facilities. Additionally, they ensure the safe transport of valuables such as antiques and pianos. However, they do not offer international moving services, which might be a limitation for clients looking to move overseas.
The company also provides convenient payment options, accepting both cash and credit cards, and offers instant email quotes to make planning easier for their customers.
"Hands down THE ABSOLUTE BEST moving experience EVER! They are serious pros...super friendly and super professional...ridiculously fast. Didn’t damage one single thing. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!"
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Highly recommended
- Affordable rates
Cons
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Junk hauling
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
White Glove Movers
White Glove Movers (DOT: 2991947) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service moving, interstate and international relocations, and unpacking services. They also cater to specialized needs with crating services and the handling of delicate items such as pianos, art, and pool tables. Customers can appreciate the convenience of paying by credit card, though the company does not accept cryptocurrency.
While White Glove Movers provides extensive capabilities, they do not offer fragile-only packing or handle items like hot tubs and safes, which could be a drawback for certain clients. Despite some limitations, they stand out with a commitment to quality service, evident in their provision of full valuation coverage and climate-controlled storage. Although they offer multiple service options, potential customers should know that they lack certain discounts commonly sought after, such as for seniors or military personnel.
"The crew who helped me move were awesome
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Friendly and approachable staff
Cons
- Damage to items
- Unprofessional behavior
- Misplaced or lost items
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Black Belt Movers
Black Belt Movers (DOT: 3527158) offers a comprehensive range of services catering to a variety of moving needs, including full-service moves, fragile-only packing, and antique handling. They provide services for small moves and offer unpacking solutions, alongside the capability to move specialty items like pianos and safes. Additionally, they are well-equipped for moves involving pool tables and provide crating and storage options.
While Black Belt Movers offers an array of services and the convenience of paying by credit card, some customers might find the lack of interstate and international moving services a limitation. The company also supports professionals, such as teachers and seniors, though no specific discounts are detailed for these groups in their offerings.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Services
- Full-service
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- Heavy safes
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage
Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage (DOT: 763103) offers a comprehensive range of services, including full-service moving, interstate and international moving, climate-controlled storage, and junk removal. They also provide specialized handling for items such as pianos, pool tables, antiques, and art, along with unpacking and crating services.
While they accept payments via cash and credit card, they do not offer payment options such as cryptocurrency or money orders, which might be a drawback for some customers. Unfortunately, they do not provide certain discounts, like senior or military discounts, which prospective clients might find limiting.
"Kyle and his team did an excellent job. They were on time very organized and kept great communication the whole time. Made stressful move easy. Would recommend the Horizon Movers"
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Cons
- Unprofessional behavior
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Junk hauling
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Debris clean-up
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Local Movers In Iowa
Looking for a local moving company to work with? Check out these resources:
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Local Movers in IA?
Local moving rates in Iowa run about $199 per hour. That rate gets multiplied by how many crew members are on your job — and how long it takes to complete your move. Check out the table below to see what your local IA could cost:
| Home Size | Crew Size | Move Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 BR | 2 movers | 3–4 hours | $1,194 – $1,591 |
| 2 BR | 3 movers | 4–5 hours | $2,387 – $2,984 |
| 3 BR | 4 movers | 6–7 hours | $4,774 – $5,570 |
| 4+ Bedroom | 4–5 movers | 8+ hours | $6,365 – $8,951 |
Best Long-Distance Movers in Iowa
With 37 options to choose from in Iowa, it can be tough to figure out who’s actually dependable. We did the homework for you, and Colonial Van Lines earned our top spot thanks to strong performance in areas that matter: pricing, professionalism, and safe delivery.
Below are the movers we trust most for long-distance hauls in IA:
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Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Colonial Van Lines
Colonial Van Lines (USDOT: 1434373) is a full-service moving company based in Pompano Beach, Florida, that handles long-distance moves across 48 states. With more than 50 years in the business and over 12,000 moves completed each year, they know their way around an interstate move. Colonial offers packing, storage, and long-distance transport throughout the continental US, all handled by highly trained crews. Their easy-to-use mobile app makes getting a quote quick, and customers often highlight the company’s friendly, professional, and reliable customer service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Expert in-house crews
- Home electronics setup
- Trash & debris removal
Cons
- No local or international moves
- Not available in AK or HI
Services
- Long-distance moving (nationwide service across contiguous 48 states; excludes Alaska & Hawaii)
- Cross-country & interstate moving (full-service coordination from packing to delivery)
- Professional packing & unpacking (trained packers, specialty blankets, shrink-wrap, custom crating)
- Moving storage services (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled storage options)
- Corporate & commercial relocation (efficient packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
- Full-service moving (end-to-end handling by CVLU-trained professionals)
- Customizable quotes via moving app or specialist (accurate, transparent estimates with virtual inventory)
- Colonial Moving App (virtual estimates, inventory updates, checklists, and box ordering)
- Colonial Van Lines University training (movers with 2–4 week curriculum and ~10-year average experience)
- Family-owned national service (50+ years, 250k+ moves, 4.6 Trustpilot rating)
Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving (USDOT: 3756000) is a veteran-owned moving company built around the idea of military-level precision. Thanks to its nationwide network of truck capacity, Safeway is able to offer very competitive pricing without cutting corners. The company also uses a multi-stage quality assurance process to keep moves on track from pickup through delivery. That combination of accurate pricing and consistent quality is a big reason Safeway earned a spot on our list.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- Long distance and cross country moves only
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
- Verification process to guarantee pricing and quality of service
- High level of customer service and support
- Veteran owned company
Cons
- Require a deposit at booking
- No local moving services offered
Services
- Long-distance moving (all 50 states, GPS tracking, barcode-scanned inventory)
- Flat-rate pricing (virtual walk-throughs, no hidden fees)
- Price matching (meets or beats quotes from qualified competitors)
- Comprehensive insurance ($6/lb full-value protection option)
- Packing and unpacking services (includes last-minute packing for an extra charge)
- Custom crating (for fragile, heavy, or high-value items like art and electronics)
- Storage options (30 days free, climate-controlled, long-term available, prorated billing)
- International moving (limited info online, contact customer service)
- 24/7 customer service (available by phone at all times)
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT: 614506) is a long-distance moving company known for its hands-on approach and experienced crews. Based in Florida, the company handles interstate moves nationwide and stands out for using full-time, background-checked movers rather than temporary labor. American Van Lines offers packing, storage, and specialty services for items like antiques and pianos, with a strong focus on careful handling. Customers often point to the company’s professionalism and attention to detail as key reasons it earns high marks.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- Last-minute moves
- Private storage options
- Handles antiques, pianos & fine art
- Flat-rate pricing
Cons
- May require a deposit at booking
- Automated calls may be overwhelming
Services
- Local moving (affordable hourly rates, packing, custom crating)
- Long-distance moving (nationwide service, excludes Alaska and Hawaii)
- Packing services (upgrade to include professional wrapping, packing, inventorying)
- Antique and piano moving (specialized handling of fragile/oversized items, custom crating available)
- Military moves (in-home estimates, discounts, packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
- Corporate relocation (commercial moving, furniture disassembly/reassembly, storage)
- Storage options (secure, private units with surveillance, climate control, fire/storm protection)
- Moving boxes and supplies (available for purchase from AVL)
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines (USDOT: 076235) is one of the most recognizable names in the moving industry, with a nationwide and global network backed by more than 80 years of experience. Alongside full-service local, long-distance, and international moves, Allied offers Allied Express, a portable container option that includes professional loading and unloading. With packing, storage, and specialty services also available, Allied provides flexible solutions for a wide range of moving needs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Specialty packing services
- Short- and long-term storage
- Appliance disconnection & reconnection
- International shipping
Cons
- Pricing is generally higher than other van lines
- Pricing estimates can take 3-5 days
Services
- Household moving (local, long-distance, cross-country — packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking)
- Long-distance & interstate moving (contiguous U.S.; full-service options)
- International moving (130+ countries; online tracking, customs clearance, destination services)
- Military moves (PCS, deployment; temporary/in-transit storage; compliance with DoD regulations)
- Corporate & office relocation (employee moves, office packing, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
- Packing & unpacking services (professional crews, specialty materials, custom crating for fragile/odd items)
- Moving supplies & kits (boxes, shrink-wrap, moving kits available)
- Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units with security)
- Portable storage containers (rentable containers for packing/storing during move)
- Full-service moving coordinators & 24/7 support (dedicated move coordinator, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation (USDOT: 2513600) is a long-distance moving company that focuses on transparent pricing and a more hands-on customer experience. The company coordinates interstate moves nationwide and is known for assigning a dedicated move coordinator to guide customers from booking through delivery. With professional packing, storage options, and consistent communication throughout the process, Mayzlin Relocation is a solid choice for customers who want clarity, support, and fewer surprises on moving day.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
- 24/7 customer support
- Residential, corporate & military moves
Cons
- Only service moves originating on the east coast
- Deposit required at booking
Services
- Local moves (residential service with professional teams and packing assistance)
- Long-distance & out-of-state moves (nationwide across all contiguous states with online quotes, price-match guarantee, and real-time GPS tracking)
- Corporate moves (commercial & office relocation, employee moves, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
- Military moves (compliant with regulations, trained crews, full-service support)
- Packing & unpacking services (trained packers, durable materials, wrapping for fragile items like antiques, pianos, fine arts)
- Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units, 30 days free storage included)
- Small moves (efficient handling of smaller load requirements)
- Price match guarantee (ensures competitive pricing)
- Deposit & cancellation policy (25% deposit, full refund if canceled within 7 days)
- Online estimates & booking (virtual inventory, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
- Furniture disassembly & reassembly (handled by crew as part of full-service)
- Dedicated move coordinator & customer support (personalized planning, 24/7 assistance throughout)
How Iowa Movers Stack Up
- Total movers: Of the 3,178 total professional moving companies in the U.S., 37 are located in IA.
- Average rating: 4.2 stars — compared to the national average rating of 4.31 stars.
- Mover associations: Iowa has 3 in-state mover associations — a strong indicator of quality standards and coordination in the local moving industry.
Specialty Services Offered
| Service | IA Movers | IA % | National Movers | National % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antiques | 15 | 40.54% | 1,465 | 46.1% |
| Art | 17 | 45.95% | 1,451 | 45.66% |
| Climate-Controlled Storage | 6 | 16.22% | 1,044 | 32.85% |
| Debris Removal | 8 | 21.62% | 819 | 25.77% |
| Fragile-Only Packing | 8 | 21.62% | 754 | 23.73% |
| Labor-Only | 19 | 51.35% | 1,734 | 54.53% |
| Office Moving | 29 | 78.38% | 2,710 | 85.27% |
| Small Moves | 21 | 56.76% | 1,561 | 49.12% |
| Total Movers | 37 | 100% | 3,178 | 100% |
Discounts Offered
| Discount Type | IA Movers | IA % | National Movers | National % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA Discount | n/a | n/a | 36 | 1.13% |
| Military Discount | 1 | 2.7% | 129 | 4.06% |
| Senior Discount | n/a | n/a | 152 | 4.78% |
| Student Discount | n/a | n/a | 36 | 1.13% |
| Teacher Discount | n/a | n/a | 10 | 0.31% |
| Total Movers | 37 | 100% | 3,178 | 100% |
What Impacts the Cost of Iowa Long-Distance Moves?
- Move date: Moving during summer or early fall usually costs more, thanks to peak demand for trucks and crews.
- Add-on options: In Iowa, 94.59% of movers offer packing and unpacking services — for an added fee. And if you need storage, 29 companies can provide short- or long-term options, which will be added to your total quote.
- Distance: Longer moves mean more miles, fuel, and drive time — all factors that raise your overall cost.
- Move size: Bigger moves require more handling, space, and time, which can drive up the cost of your household freight shipment.
How To Choose the Right Iowa Mover
Finding the right mover in Iowa takes more than comparing prices. You need a team that handles your shipment professionally and keeps you informed. The best companies are upfront, flexible, and well-reviewed.
Use this checklist before you commit:
- Licensing and credentials: Confirm your mover is properly insured and listed in the FMCSA database as a licensed household goods transporter.
- Pricing and estimates: Avoid ballpark quotes. Ask for a detailed estimate after a walkthrough (virtual or in-person), and compare at least three.
- Discounts and price matching: Look for promos — 1 movers in IA offer military discounts and 0 have senior savings. Some even price match competitors.
- Service and reviews: Check online reviews to see how well the company handles real-world shipments.
- Booking and flexibility: Ask about scheduling terms, including reschedules or cancellations.
FAQs
Do I need to be present when my shipment is picked up or delivered?
Yes. Movers usually require someone to sign off at both ends of the shipment to verify inventory, condition, and delivery accuracy.
How are fragile or high-value items handled during a move?
Reputable movers use custom packing techniques and may offer crating for delicate or expensive items. These goods are often loaded into the truck separately or last to reduce risk in transit.
Can I move some of my household goods and store the rest?
Absolutely. Many moving companies allow split shipments and offer storage for overflow belongings at an additional cost.
What’s the difference between a direct and shared moving truck?
A direct moving truck carries only your household goods, while a shared truck consolidates items from multiple customers. Direct service is faster but usually more expensive.
Thinking About Moving to Iowa?
Relocating to a new state takes more than just unpacking. This section covers the basics of what to expect in Iowa, from how much things cost to what locals do for fun and where job seekers might land.
Life in Iowa: What To Expect
- Iowa is 11% cheaper than the national average, with average rent near $914 and home values around $220,277.
- The job market in Iowa is more competitive, with an unemployment rate of 3.0%. Top industries include Manufacturing ($33.6 billion), Finance and insurance ($25.9 billion), and Real estate and rental and leasing ($19.5 billion).
- Recreation options in Iowa include attractions like Iowa State Capitol and Amana Colonies, outdoor escapes such as Vander Veer Botanical Park and Gray's Lake Park, and museums like National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Figge Art Museum.
- Sports lovers can cheer on teams like Iowa Wolves (NBA G League) and Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA), which draw fans from across the state.
Iowa Relocation Resources
