--- title: "Council Bluffs, IA Long-Distance Movers" url: https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/council-bluffs/ date: 2026-01-04 modified: 2026-10-01 lang: en author: "Jason" description: "Find out why American Van Lines is the go-to choice for quality and affordable long-distance moves in Council Bluffs, IA" word_count: 2544 --- # Council Bluffs, IA Long-Distance Movers ![American Van Lines movers preparing a long-distance move from Council Bluffs](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/dist/img/long-distance-moving-companies.webp) Long-Distance Moving From Council Bluffs # Council Bluffs, IA Long-Distance Movers - **Full-service long-distance moving.** AVL handles your move directly, from pickup through delivery. - **A dedicated move coordinator.** One contact stays with you from quote to final delivery. - **Binding flat-rate pricing.** Your quote is set upfront so you can plan with confidence. [ (888) 851-7421 ](tel:+18888517421) ## Request a FREE Moving Quote All online requests will be processed within 24 hours. "*" indicates required fields Δ LinkedInThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Moving Date* Size of your Move*---Moving Boxes OnlyStudio1 Bedroom Apt1 Bedroom House2 Bedroom Apt2 Bedroom House3 Bedroom Apt3 Bedroom House4 Bedroom Apt4 Bedroom House5 Bedroom Apt5 Bedroom House6 Bedroom Apt6 Bedroom House6 or more Bedroom Apt6 or more Bedroom HouseMoving From* ZIP Code Moving To* ZIP Code First Name* First Last Name* Last Phone Number*Email* By clicking “Get My Free Quote” button, you agree to our [Privacy Policy](https://www.americanvanlines.com/privacy-policy/). You also consent American Van Lines, to use automated telephone dialing technology or SMS Text messages, to contact you at the number and email provided. This consent is not required to make a purchase. Clicking “Get My Free Quote” constitutes my electronic signature. GET MY FREE QUOTE! [ (888) 851-7421 ](tel:+18888517421) ## America's Trusted Moving Company Since 1995 [![Newsweek best national moving companies](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/static/images/avl-2026-newsweek-readers-choice-awards.webp)](https://www.americanvanlines.com/american-van-lines-named-a-top-national-moving-company-in-newsweeks-2026-readers-choice-awards/) ![Forbes top moving companies](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/static/images/forbes-logo.webp) ![US News](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/static/images/us-news-logo.webp) [![Consumer Affairs Buyer](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/static/images/american-van-lines-2026-buyers-choice-awards.webp)](https://www.americanvanlines.com/american-van-lines-2026-buyers-choice-award/) [![USA Today Customer Service Champions](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/static/images/usa-today-cs-champions-2024.webp)](https://www.americanvanlines.com/how-american-van-lines-is-reshaping-the-moving-industry/) [![American Van Lines are the official moving company of the Flordia Panters](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-child/static/images/official-moving-company-of-the-florida-panthers.webp)](https://www.americanvanlines.com/american-van-lines-named-official-mover-of-the-florida-panthers/) ## What Our Customers Have to Say ![Reviewer of AVL](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocIVJr9MZ6CtqnGNRIXUg2tc3GWAFnhaeYxxKSnl2nYZVmef9Q=s120-c-rp-mo-br100) Reyhaneh Shenassa 5 stars "Josh and Anthony from American Van Lines were beyond our wildest expectation and did care of ever..."Read More Josh and Anthony from American Van Lines were beyond our wildest expectation and did care of everything at the highest level. They were polite and hard working and didn’t leave our house until completely made sure we were happy and satisfied with everything. I will recommend them to everyone who plans to move and need a caring, polite, and pleasant movers. ![Reviewer of AVL](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjVIRztjrtZkYZ6GW6l-daFxQFJZTasv7NPFmqAaBhScQfrXA_2-7A=s120-c-rp-mo-br100) Fred Strong 5 stars "AMV was able to move us coast-to-coast in a challenging, post-pandemic time when other companies ..."Read More AMV was able to move us coast-to-coast in a challenging, post-pandemic time when other companies couldn't even provide quotes. Everything - furniture (including a piano), boxes of all weights and sizes and other items arrived safely and promptly (actually, early). Veteran driver/foreman David Thornton was communicative and trustworthy. Unbelievably, we were charged $1000 LESS than what we were expecting! We would have been in a bad situation if not for AVL. ![Reviewer of AVL](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjUNBS7r8zHFXZuhvv-sQvWkXUYkNoVTJgjiuJOqu_ClN8DgCjQ9=s120-c-rp-mo-br100) Norbie Schickel 5 stars "Jeffrey and team did amazing. Very fast, clean and professional. Thank you so much."Read More Jeffrey and team did amazing. Very fast, clean and professional. Thank you so much. ![Reviewer of AVL](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjUV8sZsRZ3sJ9OSCgz70Rnvj79LPuULIR-u5TCOqrxr23QVVfe0=s120-c-rp-mo-br100) edwinna reagan 5 stars "“I have had my share of relocation throughout the USA where moving companies have been chosen by ..."Read More “I have had my share of relocation throughout the USA where moving companies have been chosen by the company I worked for. I didn’t have anything to worry about but there were some hurdles along the way. This time, I chose the moving company. I made the right choice. Courteous, Clean, Fast, Pick up/Delivery on the due date and no hurdles. Smooth from the reservation to the delivery. THANK YOU American Van Lines” ![Reviewer of AVL](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjVzW2GRqKAaKCO8TwIQY4sWmedP141Y97L-ehDsfrbgeXPjhSLf=s120-c-rp-mo-br100) Gabi Hasson 5 stars "Jose Angarita was great!"Read More Jose Angarita was great! [Read More Reviews](https://www.americanvanlines.com/reviews/) [Get A Quote   (888) 851-7421 ](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-quotes?utm_source=avl-dice&utm_medium=referral) ## Long-Distance Moving Services From Council Bluffs, IA ### Long-Distance Moving Specialists Wherever you're moving from Council Bluffs, American Van Lines keeps the entire move under one plan and one point of contact. From your first quote through final delivery, you'll know who is managing the details and what comes next. [Learn More](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/long-distance/) ### Full-Service Packing and Unpacking Good packing matters even more when your belongings are traveling hundreds of miles. American Van Lines can pack your entire home, handle only the fragile items, or provide the materials you need to pack on your own. [Learn More](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/packing-services/) ### Moving and Storage We own storage warehouses in Florida, Texas, and North Carolina. For your move from Council Bluffs, we can coordinate storage through our national partner network and schedule it alongside your move, so you aren't left dealing with separate providers and timelines. [Learn More](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/moving-and-storage/) ### Commercial and Office Moves Office moves are about more than loading quickly. We coordinate the move around your business hours, equipment, and timeline so your team can get back up and running as soon as possible. [Learn More](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/business/) ### Military Relocation American Van Lines is DoD certified for military relocations. Locally that qualification shows up in only 1 of the 13 movers we track in Council Bluffs, so it is worth confirming before you book. We handle the documentation, scheduling, and delivery requirements that come with PCS and other military moves. [Learn More](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/military/) ### High-Value and Specialty Items Safes, pool tables, hot tubs, and other specialty items can quickly exceed what a standard moving crew is equipped to handle. American Van Lines provides the crew size and specialized equipment needed to move them safely. [Learn More](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/piano-antique/) Ready to move from Council Bluffs, Iowa? Get a binding quote from American Van Lines and see what your long-distance move will cost before moving day. [Start My Free Quote](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-quotes?utm_source=avl-dice&utm_medium=referral) ### Why Choose American Van Lines - **A trusted carrier with a proven track record.** We’re a licensed interstate carrier, not a broker, and have been family-owned since 1995. Take a look at [our credentials.](https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/query.asp?searchtype=ANY&query_type=queryCarrierSnapshot&query_param=USDOT&query_string=614506) - **Upfront pricing you can plan around.** Our flat-rate pricing and binding estimates protect your budget from unexpected charges on moving day. - **One dedicated team from start to finish.** Work directly with American Van Lines from planning through delivery, and let your coordinator and experienced moving crew handle every detail. ![American Van Lines Named a Top National Moving Company in Newsweek](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/american-van-lines-customer-service-awards-2026.png.webp) American Van Lines is a [2026 Newsweek Readers' Choice Best National Moving Company](https://www.americanvanlines.com/american-van-lines-named-a-top-national-moving-company-in-newsweeks-2026-readers-choice-awards/) and a [2024 Customer Service Champion](https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2024/04/10/top-customer-service-plant-a/73194082007/), with five consecutive years of America's Best Customer Service recognition from 2019–2023. ## Comparing Council Bluffs, IA Moving Costs ### Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments | **Origin City** | **Destination** | **Distance** | **Price Range** | | --------------- | --------------- | ------------ | --------------- | | Council Bluffs, IA | Kansas City, MO | 164 miles | $1,010 - $2,597 | | Council Bluffs, IA | Memphis, TN | 527 miles | $1,718 - $3,258 | | Council Bluffs, IA | Bakersfield, CA | 1,318 miles | $2,619 - $5,404 | ### 2 - 3 Bedrooms | **Origin City** | **Destination** | **Distance** | **Price Range** | | --------------- | --------------- | ------------ | --------------- | | Council Bluffs, IA | Denver, CO | 492 miles | $2,047 - $4,692 | | Council Bluffs, IA | Dallas, TX | 587 miles | $2,152 - $4,561 | | Council Bluffs, IA | Bronx, NY | 1,146 miles | $2,924 - $5,773 | ### 4+ Bedrooms | **Origin City** | **Destination** | **Distance** | **Price Range** | | --------------- | --------------- | ------------ | --------------- | | Council Bluffs, IA | Milwaukee, WI | 426 miles | $3,412 - $6,191 | | Council Bluffs, IA | Dallas, TX | 587 miles | $4,125 - $7,351 | | Council Bluffs, IA | Seattle, WA | 1,373 miles | $5,411 - $8,349 | American Van Lines uses flat-rate pricing, which means you'll get a straightforward, upfront quote with no hidden fees. You can budget for your long-distance move from Council Bluffs, Iowa with confidence, knowing exactly what your move will cost. Our pricing is based on factors like the distance and size of your move and any extra services you choose, such as packing, specialty item handling, or storage. For example, we recently quoted a 1-bedroom, 164-mile move from Council Bluffs to Kansas City, Missouri at $1,010. A similarly sized move from Council Bluffs to Memphis, Tennessee, was estimated at $1,718 due to the 527-mile distance. ## How American Van Lines Is Unique ### Experienced Crews The people who show up matter more than the truck they arrive in. Our full-time movers handle everything from everyday boxes to pianos and antiques, with the right equipment for each. ### Transparent Pricing We price the move up front based on what you're actually shipping and how far it's going, and we stand behind that figure. ### Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly We'll break down large pieces for safe transport and reassemble everything on arrival. No tools required on your end. ### Nationwide Network Whether you're heading across one state line or to the other coast, our network of routes and crews means we can handle the move without skipping a beat. ### Commitment to Quality We stay up-to-date on the best practices for protecting your belongings. Our moving crews regularly complete certifications in moving-related areas. ### National Reach No matter where you're headed in the Lower 48 from Council Bluffs, we're equipped to manage moves across state lines and cross-country with ease. With AVL, you deal with one company and one plan, from your first quote to your last box. You get a dedicated coordinator who knows your dates, your inventory, and your route. Questions go to one person instead of a queue, and the answer doesn't change depending on who picks up the phone. ## Are You Moving to Council Bluffs, Iowa? - Council Bluffs was designated by President Abraham Lincoln as the official starting point of the transcontinental railroad in 1869. - The city is home to one of the few remaining rotary jails in the United States, known as the Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail, built in 1885. - Council Bluffs features the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, a 3,000-foot cable-stayed bridge connecting Iowa and Nebraska, opened in 2008. - The city played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States, serving as a major hub for multiple railroad companies. - Council Bluffs, IA, has a rich history that has helped shape the city that 62,670 people call home today. Job Market You'll find a variety of career opportunities in Council Bluffs through major employers like Council Bluffs Community School District, Iowa Western Community College, and Caesars Entertainment (Horseshoe Council Bluffs). Quality of Life Council Bluffs offers parks, like Bayliss Park, Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park, and Lake Manawa State Park, and museums, including Union Pacific Railroad Museum, Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail and Museum, and RailsWest Railroad Museum, for recreation and cultural enrichment. Union Pacific Railroad Museum, Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail and Museum, and Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge are among the city's top attractions. Safety Council Bluffs has a crime index of 35.03, meaning the city is safer than 64.97% of all U.S. cities. Top Neighborhoods If you're moving with kids, these neighborhoods are among the best in Council Bluffs for families: - Manawa - Fairmount Park - West End - Lincoln–Fairview - Willow Creek If you're moving solo, these neighborhoods are some of the best in Council Bluffs for singles: - Twin City - East End - North Broadway - Kingsville - Huntington Park ![American Van Lines moving truck](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-theme/static/images/background-11.webp) ## Plan your long-distance move from Council Bluffs Every move starts with the specifics of your home and destination. Once we know what's going and where, we can recommend the services, timing, and moving setup that make sense for your relocation. Leave the moving logistics to us. For relocations out of Council Bluffs, Iowa, we handle the behind-the-scenes coordination that keeps the move on track while you focus on your new home, work, family, and everything else that comes with relocating. ## Why AVL Instead of DIY? ### DIY Isn't Always Cheaper Between truck rentals, fuel, packing materials, and the physical toll of a long-distance move, the DIY route often costs more than it looks like on paper. ### Upfront Pricing, No Surprises American Van Lines offers flat-rate pricing with no surprises. We'll work with you to build a relocation package that fits your needs and your budget. ### Saving Money vs. Saving Yourself DIY moves require you to handle the heavy lifting, driving, and logistics yourself. American Van Lines takes that off your plate entirely. ## Get a Tailored Council Bluffs, IA Moving Plan in Minutes Planning your move from Council Bluffs with American Van Lines is straightforward. Our booking process puts you in charge. We'll build a customized moving plan that covers only the services you need without charging for the ones you don't. ![American Van Lines moving truck](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-theme/static/images/background-12.webp) **Here's how it works:** Start with a free quote over the phone or online. We'll gather a few details about your move, then provide a flat-rate estimate with no hidden fees. Your dedicated move coordinator takes it from there and keeps you informed through delivery. Every move is customized to fit your needs. You choose the services, we handle the rest. ## What to Expect When Moving From Council Bluffs Here's what the moving journey looks like, step by step: - 1 ### Get Your Free Estimate Request a free quote to get started. We'll gather a few key details about your inventory, schedule, and destination, then provide a flat-rate estimate with no obligation to book. - 2 ### Get Guidance From Your Coordinator Once you book, your move coordinator becomes your go-to contact. They'll handle scheduling and paperwork, keep you updated, and help with any changes along the way. - 3 ### Add Services as Needed Need packing support, storage, or help with specialty items? We'll tailor your services to match your needs and budget so you get the right level of help without paying for extras you don't need. - 4 ### Get Ready for Moving Day As moving day approaches, we'll send reminders and prep tips. You'll know what to handle ahead of time, what our crew will manage, and how the day will flow. - 5 ### Loading, Transport, and Updates On moving day, our team arrives ready to load and secure your items with care. From there, your shipment heads to its destination and you'll receive tracking updates along the way. - 6 ### Delivery, Unloading, and Follow-Up Once we arrive, we'll unload your belongings with care and place everything where it belongs. After the move, your coordinator checks in to make sure you're settled in. [Get A Quote](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-quotes?utm_source=avl-dice&utm_medium=referral) [ (888) 851-7421 ](tel:+18888517421) ## Tips for Your Long-Distance Move From Council Bluffs - **Do a quick check a week out.** Confirm your timeline, addresses, and contact numbers with your moving coordinator so everyone is on the same page. - **Declutter before you pack.** Every item you get rid of is one item fewer to pack, move, and unpack. Go through each room before you start boxing anything up. - **Mark boxes with a priority level.** Label boxes as "open first," "open later," or "storage" so unpacking at your new place feels manageable instead of overwhelming. - **Build in extra time.** Add a buffer to your schedule for delays, traffic, or weather. Long-distance moves have more variables than local ones, and flexibility reduces stress. - **Build in a weather buffer.** Council Bluffs winters average lows around 13°F. Ice and snow can delay pickup or delivery, so if your dates are flexible in winter, book earlier in the week and leave room in your schedule on both ends. - **Watch the weather window.** Council Bluffs averages 25" of snow a year. Clear walkways and driveways before the crew arrives, and confirm your delivery window if a storm is forecast. - **Sort out the truck’s parking spot early.** Council Bluffs has permit and parking requirements that apply to moving trucks. Handling that in advance beats improvising while a loaded truck sits idling. - **Redirect your mail before you leave.** File your change of address with USPS so nothing piles up at your old place after you’ve gone. ![Moving with AVL from Council Bluffs, IA](https://avl.dicedigital.co/wp-content/themes/avl-theme/static/images/avl-movers-1b.jpg) ## FAQs How long does a long-distance move usually take? Most long-distance moves take anywhere from a few days to 2 weeks from pickup to delivery. Distance, truck scheduling, and any add-on services affect the timeline. We'll set clear expectations at booking and keep you updated throughout. What's the best time of year to move? The off-season, roughly late fall through early spring, tends to offer better availability and lower rates. Summer is the busiest time for movers, so if you're set on a summer move, booking at least 6 to 8 weeks ahead is key. What is an inventory? An inventory is a complete list of the items you plan to move. It helps us calculate an accurate flat-rate quote and ensures every piece is tracked from pickup to delivery. What payment methods do you accept, and when are payments due? Payment options include major credit cards, debit cards, and certified checks. For long-distance moves, payment is usually collected at delivery. Your coordinator will clarify the exact timeline before your move begins. Do you provide or sell packing materials? Yes. High-quality packing materials like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap are included with our [packing services](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-services/packing-services/). If you're packing yourself, you can purchase materials and we'll deliver them to your door. Additional Service Areas Near Council Bluffs, IA - [Cedar Rapids, IA](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/cedar-rapids/) - [Davenport, IA](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/davenport/) - [Des Moines, IA](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/des-moines/) - [Iowa City, IA](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/iowa-city/) - [Marion, IA](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/marion/) - [West Des Moines, IA](https://www.americanvanlines.com/moving-company/iowa/west-des-moines/)