MoveCostGuide

Long Distance

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Reno, NV

1377 miles · 28h 48m drive · Estimated cost $2,255$3,567 for a 2-bedroom move

1377 miles
28h 48m drive
Cost Index: 0.881.04

Cost Estimate: Des Moines to Reno

Average costs for a 2-bedroom move. Use the calculator below for a custom quote.

Full Service

Movers handle everything

$2,903
Range: $2,255$3,567
  • Professional packing & unpacking
  • Loading, transport & unloading
  • Basic valuation coverage

Partial Service

You pack, movers move

$2,246
Range: $1,783$2,721
  • You pack your own boxes
  • Movers load, transport & unload
  • Save 20–35% vs. full service

DIY Move

Rent a truck, do it yourself

$1,995
Range: $1,416$2,537
  • Truck rental + gas + equipment
  • No labor costs — you do the lifting
  • Full control over your schedule

Custom Moving Calculator

Adjust home size, move type, and extras to get a personalized estimate for your Des Moines to Reno move.

Cheapest Moderate Expensive

Estimated Moving Cost

Des Moines, IAReno, NV · 1,377 miles

Low

$2,255

Estimated

$2,903

High

$3,567

🟢 Off-peak pricing · March

Where Does Your Money Go?

Full-service cost breakdown for a 2-bedroom long distance from Des Moines to Reno.

Total$2,904
Labor(17.8%)
$454$583
Transportation(58.7%)
$1,340$2,072
Packing(17.8%)
$360$675
Insurance(3.8%)
$65$167
Tips(1.8%)
$36$70

Best Time to Move

Moving costs from Des Moines to Reno vary significantly by season.

January is the cheapest month (save up to 15%), while July is the most expensive (+30%).

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
CheapestModerateExpensive
Origin

Des Moines

Iowa
Destination

Reno

Nevada
Cost of Living Index
88
104
Average Rent (1BR)
$950
$1,400
Average Rent (2BR)
$1,150
$1,700
You'll spend ~48% more on housing
Average rent in Reno is $1,550/mo vs $1,050/mo in Des Moines

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Expert advice for your 1377-mile move from Des Moines to Reno.

1

Get a binding estimate

Long-distance moves from Des Moines to Reno can have surprise costs. A binding or not-to-exceed estimate protects you from a ballooning bill.

2

Move in winter to save big

January and February rates are 15–30% lower than the summer peak. If your timeline is flexible, a winter move from pays for itself.

3

Ship your car separately

At 1377 miles, driving two vehicles is exhausting and expensive. Auto transport typically costs $800–$1,500 and eliminates wear on your car.

4

Inventory everything

Create a detailed, numbered inventory with photos before the movers arrive. This is essential for filing claims if anything goes missing or gets damaged.

5

Research your new city

Before arriving in Reno, research neighborhoods, school districts, and local utilities so you can hit the ground running.

6

Use a portable container

Companies like PODS or U-Pack let you pack on your schedule and can be more affordable than traditional long-distance movers.

Top Moving Companies for Des Moines to Reno

These nationally recognized movers service the Des Moines to Reno route. Compare their rates and read reviews before choosing.

United Van Lines

$$$
4.3
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationInternational
  • Extensive nationwide agent network for reliable coverage
  • Offers a comprehensive online tracking and shipment management system
  • Strong reputation with decades of industry experience
Get a Free Quote

Allied Van Lines

$$$
4.2
Long DistanceMilitaryCorporate Relocation
  • Wide range of service options including packing and unpacking
  • Transparent online quote process with detailed estimates
  • Strong military and government relocation program
Get a Free Quote

Mayflower

$$$
4.1
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationStorage
  • Offers flexible moving and storage bundles
  • Provides detailed shipment tracking throughout the move
  • Well-established claims process for damaged items
Get a Free Quote

North American Van Lines

$$$
4
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationGovernment
  • Assigned personal move coordinator for each customer
  • ProMover certified with strong safety track record
Get a Free Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to move from Des Moines to Reno?
The average cost for a 2-bedroom full-service move from Des Moines, IA to Reno, NV ranges from $2,255 to $3,567, with a typical cost around $2,903. A DIY move with a rental truck averages $1,995. Actual costs depend on home size, time of year, and additional services.
How long does the drive from Des Moines to Reno take?
The distance from Des Moines to Reno is approximately 1377 miles. The estimated driving time is 28h 48m, though actual drive time may vary based on the route, traffic, and road conditions. Professional movers may take 4–5 days to deliver your belongings.
What's the cheapest month to move from Des Moines to Reno?
January is typically the cheapest month to move, with rates up to 15% below average. The most expensive month is July, when rates increase by about 30%. Moving mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) also helps reduce costs by 10–20%.
Should I hire movers or do it myself?
For a 1377-mile move, hiring professional movers is usually worth the investment. The logistics of a long-distance move are complex, and the physical toll of driving a large truck hundreds of miles can be overwhelming. Compare your DIY cost of ~$1,995 vs. full-service at ~$2,903 to decide.
How far is Des Moines from Reno?
Des Moines, IA is approximately 1377 miles from Reno, NV. This is classified as a long distance and the drive takes roughly 28h 48m.
What size moving truck do I need for a move from Des Moines to Reno?
For a 2-bedroom home, a 15–17 foot truck is usually sufficient. For 3-bedroom homes, plan on a 20–22 foot truck. For 4+ bedrooms, you will likely need a 26-foot truck or may need to consider two trips. When in doubt, size up — packing a too-small truck wastes time and risks damage.

Moving to Reno from elsewhere?

Compare moving costs from other cities to Reno, NV.