The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Council Bluffs, IA

Quick answer: Our top pick for the best long-distance moving company in Council Bluffs, IA, is Safeway Moving. We like Safeway Moving for its overall value. The company provides high-quality service without the high price tag.

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We know that every move is different. Jump to a mover that fits your unique needs:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Same-day estimates

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best long-distance movers in Council Bluffs for those moving out of state

If you’re leaving Council Bluffs and crossing state lines for a new home outside of Iowa, these are our recommendations for top interstate movers:

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best for Quick Quotes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 794-6004
At A Glance
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Binding estimates
read our full review
(844) 794-6004
Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

Best long-distance movers in Council Bluffs for those staying in state

Are you moving from Council Bluffs but staying in Iowa? Depending on how far you’re relocating, some in-state moves are still considered long-distance.

If your move within Iowa is a couple hundred miles or more, you should hire one of the best long-distance moving companies.

Consider these top Council Bluffs, IA, movers:

Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (28%)
  • Good communication (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (38%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (27%)
  • Unexpected charges (25%)
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck has 291 customer reviews, 60% of which are positive. Many customers praise the company's efficiency and professionalism during their moves. The movers are often described as friendly and hardworking, making the moving experience easier. However, numerous complaints highlight issues with damage to items, lack of communication, and unexpected charges, leading to frustration for some customers. While many appreciate the service, others warn potential clients to consider their options carefully due to these problems.
Get a Quote (402) 764-1002

Company Info

State license #: 2590545

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: JTW Omaha Movers, Inc.


Two Men and a Truck has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Omaha, NE since 1995. Unlike several nearby movers, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making the payment process straightforward. Their comprehensive offerings include packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, with specialized capabilities in moving both pianos and safes. Consumer reviews highlight a significant contrast between platforms, with a strong 4.4 average rating on Google My Business from 1042 reviews, but a notably lower 1.8 average on Yelp from 70 reviews. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, Two Men and a Truck stand out as a reputable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (33%)
  • Professional and polite staff (31%)
  • Careful handling (29%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (17%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (15%)
  • Lack of communication (12%)
Review Analysis
King's Moving has 228 online customer reviews, with 90% of them being positive. Customers praise the company for its efficient service, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many noted that the team was professional and quick, making moving a smoother experience compared to other companies. Some feedback pointed out issues with communication and unexpected costs, but overall, the majority of reviews highlight a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability.
Get a Quote (402) 676-0719

Company Info

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 960979


King's Moving has been a reliable choice for local residential moving services in and around Omaha, NE since 2015. Compared to other nearby moving companies, King's Moving stands out with its impressive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and hot tubs. Consumer reviews reflect high satisfaction, with a stellar 4.9 rating from 599 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Whether you need labor-only services or comprehensive moving assistance, King's Moving offers it all without requiring a deposit, making them a trusted and flexible option for your local move.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (25%)
  • Efficient service (22%)
  • Good communication (20%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (30%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (27%)
  • Lack of communication (20%)
Review Analysis
Select Van & Storage Co. has 235 customer reviews, with 75% being positive. Many customers praised the friendly and efficient staff, noting how well they packed and handled items. Many also appreciated the good communication throughout the process. However, some customers reported significant issues, including damaged items during moves and poor communication regarding delivery times. These negative experiences contrast sharply with the many positive accounts, highlighting the company's inconsistency compared to other moving services.
Get a Quote (402) 935-3700

Company Info

Years in Business: 79

DOT #: 1098759

Alternate Names: Mayflower Movers, Mayflower Transit, Select Van & Storage Co.


Select Van & Storage Co. offers local residential moving services in and around Omaha, NE, and has been a trusted name since 1946. This well-established company also provides packing, unpacking, and office moving services, making it a versatile choice for a variety of moving needs. While their Yelp profile features 19 reviews with an average rating of 2.4, their Google My Business profile boasts 301 reviews with an impressive average rating of 4.8, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike some nearby competitors, Select Van & Storage Co. also accepts credit cards, requires no deposit, and offers full valuation insurance coverage, enhancing their reputation as a reliable and comprehensive service provider.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
Pros
  • Efficient service (34%)
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Careful handling (29%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (22%)
  • Unexpected charges (19%)
  • Lack of communication (16%)
Review Analysis
Firefighters on the Move has 236 online customer reviews, 84% of which are positive. Many customers praise the company for its efficient service and professional staff. They highlight the careful handling of belongings and the quick moving process. However, some feedback points out issues with damage to items and unexpected charges. Overall, the company is seen as a reliable choice for moving, especially compared to others in the area.
Get a Quote (402) 850-0145

Company Info

Pricing: $132/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 1686194


Firefighters on the Move, based in Papillion, NE, has been providing exemplary local residential moving services since 2011. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google from numerous satisfied clients, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, this company stands out in comparison to other local movers. Not only are they highly reputable, but they also offer specialized services such as piano and antique moving, packing and unpacking, and labor-only services—all without requiring a deposit. Their competitive pricing at $132 per hour for a local move further enhances their appeal for those seeking reliable and professional moving assistance.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
Pros
  • Efficient service (41%)
  • Professional and polite staff (38%)
  • Good communication (37%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (15%)
  • Lack of communication (10%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (8%)
Review Analysis
Action Movers has 159 customer feedback entries, with 95% reflecting positive experiences. Customers consistently praised the team's efficiency, professionalism, and careful handling of items, especially pianos. Many highlighted the ease of booking and reasonable pricing. On the downside, a few mentioned issues with damage to items and miscommunication regarding move details. Despite these concerns, the overwhelming majority recommend Action Movers for their excellent service and reliability, making them a standout choice among moving companies.
Get a Quote (402) 813-5800

Company Info

Years in Business: 35


Action Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Omaha, NE since 1990. Renowned for their professionalism and reliability, they boast stellar consumer reviews, averaging 4.4 stars on Yelp and an impeccable 5.0 on Google My Business, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike some competitors, they offer extensive services such as packing, unpacking, and the capability to move delicate items like pianos and antiques, ensuring all your moving needs are met with care. No deposit is required, and they provide full valuation insurance coverage, setting them apart as a dependable choice for your next move.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Best long-distance movers in Council Bluffs, IA, for small moves

Did you know that most professional moving companies have a minimum requirement for the total weight of your belongings? This means that if you are moving a small amount of items, those companies will likely not be an option for your relocation.

Some companies, however, specialize in small moves. So, if you are moving a studio apartment or just have a few pieces of furniture to relocate from Council Bluffs, check out these suggestions:

Best for Small Moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • No minimum size
  • Top-quality materials
  • Full-service packing
read our full review
Check prices Check prices
best for small moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Check prices 800-626-1257
At A Glance
  • Specializes in small moves
  • Guaranteed delivery date
  • Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
  • Car shipping services
  • Gives back with charitable donations
read our full review
Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Council Bluffs, IA

Moving containers, also known as pods, offer short- and long-term storage so you can move from Council Bluffs at your own pace. With this option, you pack and load the container yourself and the professionals drive the container to your new home for you.

Our top picks for moving containers for long-distance moves from Council Bluffs include:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
Check prices Check prices

Rental trucks in Council Bluffs, IA for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks are often the cheapest way to move long-distance from Council Bluffs, but also require the most work. You do everything yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading, driving the whole way, and unloading on your own. Costs can increase dramatically when you add on mileage fees, tolls, and gas though so make sure this option really is cheaper for your move before making a final decision.

Here are our favorite rental truck companies for long-distance moves:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

Labor-only moving companies in Council Bluffs, IA

Labor-only companies handle the heavy-lifting for you, offering services related to packing, loading, and assembly. You’ll provide the truck, packing supplies, and other materials. Think of it as hiring professional movers without the truck.

Hire these top-notch labor-only movers for your long-distance move from Council Bluffs, IA:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Council Bluffs, IA

Company Our Rating Quote
King's Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.76 overall rating
Get A Quote
Select Van & Storage Co. starstarstarstarstar
4.66 overall rating
Get A Quote
Firefighters on the Move starstarstarstarstar
4.58 overall rating
Get A Quote
Action Movers starstarstarstarstar
4.34 overall rating
Get A Quote
Safeway Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.85 overall rating
Get A Quote
Mayzlin Relocation starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
Get A Quote
BLVD Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.25 overall rating
Get A Quote
PODS starstarstarstarstar
4.8 overall rating
Get A Quote
American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Council Bluffs, IA

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best moving companies. We look at:

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): Companies that consistently deliver services in a timely manner — with good communication and within the estimated cost — score the highest within this category.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry, so we look for companies that take a customer-focused approach to handling their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): We look at whether a company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): It’s important to us that a company maintains a professional website with accurate information and promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
  • Service options (10%): We look for companies with a wide breadth of services, including packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of a long-distance move out of Council Bluffs, IA

The average cost for professional movers in Iowa is $199 per hour, but even the best interstate moving companies need more information about the distance and size of your move to give you a moving quote.

Here’s the average long-distance move cost from Council Bluffs, IA to popular cities:

Destination Distance Home size Cost
Atlanta, GA 982 miles 3 bedroom $3,509 - $6,108
Wichita, KS 303 miles 2 bedroom $1,674 - $4,110
New Orleans, LA 1,028 miles 1 bedroom $2,294 - $5,081

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Council Bluffs, use our moving cost calculator. And, be sure to check out our detailed post about moving costs in Iowa.

FAQs

What else should you know about moving out of state?

A moving company helping you move out of Iowa must be properly licensed and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number. Of course, all the Council Bluffs movers we’ve included on this list have everything in order, but you can check for yourself on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

If you’re moving from one state to another, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving from Council Bluffs?

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Council Bluffs is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of Iowa, using a national moving company like Safeway Moving comes with more experience, which may cost a bit more.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Council Bluffs?

Moving companies in Council Bluffs are usually slower in November and December due to the holidays and kids being in school, so you can negotiate with a mover more during those months and save some money.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Council Bluffs?

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Council Bluffs. The cheapest options for moving out of Council Bluffs are usually renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. We’ve also got a helpful guide if you’re looking for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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