10 best movers in Scottsdale, Arizona

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for moving out of Arizona. Use the filters below to find other moving companies for a local move in the Scottsdale area.

Long-distance movers in Scottsdale

A long-distance move means moving over 50 miles away or from one state to another. If you're moving across state lines, you need to be especially careful that the moving company you choose has the right federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database to look up a carrier's licensing status.

We’ve verified that the long-distance moving firms below are actively licensed. These reliable movers can help get your belongings safely and efficiently to your new home.

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

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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

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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

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Why is moving so expensive?

Relocating within or out of Scottsdale is relatively expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. The higher moving rates make sense as the cost of living in Scottsdale is above 94.4% of the country.

Numerous factors are involved in moving, so expenses add up quickly. The following are typical moving expenses:

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

These extra factors can cause your final moving bill to climb even more:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring a moving companiy, you may have to pay extra for moving breakable, valuable or oversized items. The following items can cost more to move:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they provide good service. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

It's common for a move to be delayed due to issues such as traffic, a lack of supplies, inclement weather and transportation emergencies. These can add to your moving costs and extend your timeline. Although delays are unpredictable, you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to lower moving costs in Scottsdale.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid unexpected charges on the day of your move. Be especially communicative about items you’re adding to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

For example, small items can usually be added to the truck without a problem, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — need to be discussed before the move. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t begin the move until you’ve consented to the cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Schedule your move in the off-season or during the week to lower the cost and reserve the movers you want.

The busiest moving period is from May through September. If your timeline is flexible, moving during less hectic months may result in lower rates or less competitionfor services.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find an affordable relocation service that works for you, there are alternative routes you can take.

Move on your own 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 moving bulky items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. If you don't have the time or support system needed for a DIY move, hiring movers is valuable.

You can also hire movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack, which can be less expensive. However, these independent contractors may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Scottsdale

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving means the movers handle the entire moving process, including providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Full-service moving costs more than services that only include loading and transporting your belongings, but it can be worth it considering the time, labor and packing materials it saves. Full-service moving may also provide more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are generally only covered for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be challenging to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving companies will display proof of registration on their moving trucks and on all official documents like estimates and contracts. As stated above, you should confirm a company’s USDOT and MC numbers when planning an interstate move by checking the official FMCSA website. Arizona does not mandate licensure for moving companies at the state level, but federal regulations still are in effect.

How does moving insurance work?

You should also look into a mover's insurance policies. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, inquire about your mover's full-value protection policies. However, you may want to inquire about full-value protection, which most movers offer at an additional cost, if your belongings include expensive items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The best time to move ranges across May through September, resulting in lower supply and inflated pricing nationwide for relocations of all scopes. The steep rates may dissuade you from a summer move. Furthermore, you may wish to avoid relocating in the summer given Scottsdale's intense heat, which could further complicate a move.

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?

Load up your car with anything too valuable to lose, such as photographs, financial records, identification documents and technology.

Many moving companies limit insurance coverage for costly items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about potential loss or damage, keep those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including the following:

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

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.