10 best movers in Marshalltown, Iowa

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for relocating out of Iowa. Use the filters below to find other movers for a local move in the Marshalltown area.

Long-distance movers in Marshalltown

A long-distance move is when you move to a different state or over 50 miles away. If you're crossing state boundaries, you must be especially careful that the mover you choose has the necessary federal licensing. Interstate movers are required to have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input these numbers or the mover's name into the FMCSA's database to look up a carrier's licensing status.

The long-distance movers below are experienced and have an active license. They can help get your belongings safely and efficiently across state lines.

Featured

4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

GET ESTIMATE

4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

GET ESTIMATE

3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

GET ESTIMATE

Why is moving so expensive?

Relocating within or out of Marshalltown is relatively costly, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Marshalltown is above 46.3% of the country.

Moving expenses add up quickly, as there are many factors involved. Typical moving expenses include the following:

• Storage
• Supplies
• Professional labor
• Packing
• Fuel
• Junk removal

These additional factors can add even more cost to your total:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are breakable, valuable or oversized. The following items often cost more to move:

• Artwork and sculptures
• Pianos
• Safes
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Family heirlooms or antiques

When researching moving companies, ask whether they move these items and how much it'll cost.

Tipping your movers

While tipping movers is optional, it's common to tip if they provide quality service. For long-distance moves, a typical tip is $20–$40 per mover per day. For local moves, tip $5–$10 per mover per hour.

Unexpected delays

Traffic, bad weather, transportation emergencies and limited supplies can all delay your move and add to the time and cost. Prepare for delays by allocating 25% more than your movers quote you to your moving budget and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to save money on moving in Marshalltown.

Be communicative

Communicate any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Tell them about additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

Small items may not be an issue, but inform them of large additions such as new furniture or appliances. The movers may need to charge more for those items and won’t begin your move until you’ve agreed to the additional cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving during the week or in the off-season can reduce costs and ensure you get the movers you want.

The busiest moving period is between May and September. Consider moving during other months if you have a flexible schedule, as there may be lower moving rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find an affordable moving company that meets your needs, there are several alternatives to consider.

Handling the move by yourself is an option. Before going this route, consider the following costs along with the labor required:

• Packing supplies
• Fuel
• Moving truck rental

Enlisting help from friends, family or neighbors for loading and unloading large items such as furniture can make your move quicker and easier. Hiring movers is beneficial if you don't have the time or anyone who can help you move.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr, which can be more affordable. However, these gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Marshalltown

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your hired movers manage all aspects of the moving process for you. They supply packing materials, provide packing services for your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving is more expensive than standard moving services, which typically only include the loading up and transport of your belongings. The cost can be justified, considering the time and labor packers spare you, as well as covering the cost of packing supplies. Additionally, full-service moving tends to provide better insurance coverage compared to self-packed items, which are generally only protected up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed goods can also be challenging.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will show proof of registration on their fleet vehicles, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're planning an interstate move, check the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Iowa are also required to have a license from the Iowa Department of Transportation.

How does moving insurance work?

Approximate the total worth of your belongings to accurately choose the ideal insurance policy. Released-value coverage applies to all moves, which insures 60 cents per pound per item. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're transporting expensive goods — just know that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The most favorable moving time is between May and September, creating lower availability and inflated rates countrywide for both large and small moves. Understandably, this might give you pause about making a move during the summertime.

We recommend moving in the spring or early fall seasons when you can expect more favorable weather and lower costs.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

To be safe, keep important financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your personal car. We also recommend keeping valuable technology with you while moving.

Moving businesses often limit insurance coverage on costly items, like jewelry and heirlooms. Carry irreplaceable and valuable possessions in your own car if you're worried about loss or damage.

There are certain goods and items prohibited for transportation by moving companies. These include the following:

• Batteries
• Fertilizers
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Fuel sources
• Aerosols
• Perishable foods and produce
• Plants
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.