Best Moving Companies in Scottsdale, AZ 2026

To make sure you get a trustworthy mover in Scottsdale, start by figuring out your specific needs. Research at least three licensed moving companies and compare written estimates. Check independent customer reviews for complaints about hidden costs or lost or damaged items.

Hiring the right moving company can be one of the largest expenses of your entire move, so it’s smart to take some extra time to research. Here’s a step-by-step approach for choosing a mover that matches your needs:

1. Determine your move type

Begin by deciding whether you’re moving within Scottsdale or across state lines. Consider if you want everything professionally packed or if you just need help with the heavy lifting.

Figuring out what kind of move you’re planning narrows down your options. Full-service movers do all the packing, loading and unloading but cost more. If you’re comfortable doing some of it yourself, self-service or labor-only movers cost less but require more effort on your end. Check out this guide to types of moving companies for more details.

2. Research movers in your area

Ask neighbors, friends or your real estate agent for recommendations. Check online reviews from customers in Scottsdale. The most common complaints about moving companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

• Damage to belongings during transit: Customers describe items arriving broken, furniture scratched or valuables missing, with many facing slow or unresolved claims. Some movers deny responsibility or offer only partial compensation for loss or damage.
• Hidden fees and cost overages: Final bills sometimes include unexpected add-ons for fuel, stairs or additional labor, which weren’t in the original estimate. Many report being hit with hundreds of dollars in extra charges on moving day, with limited options to dispute.
• Poor crew quality and unprofessional conduct: Some movers are late, work sluggishly or handle possessions carelessly. Others are described as rude or uncooperative when clients try to address problems during the move.
• Unmet delivery dates and communication breakdowns: Delays are common, with delivery dates changing or movers showing up hours (or days) late. Customers often struggle to reach anyone for updates or help after their move begins.

  Maryn from Scottsdale reported that this happened during her move. She stated, “During those two weeks of uncertainty, we received minimal and inaccurate updates about the status of our move.”

3. Compare multiple quotes

Contact at least three movers and get written estimates. The most accurate quotes come from in-home surveys, where the company can see your items and access points. Closely compare each quote to be sure you’re looking at what’s included, not just the bottom line.

Watch out for bids that are much lower than others — this could mean something is missing or the mover is unreliable. Review the paperwork for details on labor, truck fees and any extra costs.

4. Ask about extra services

Find out ahead of time what you’ll pay for add-ons, like packing, unpacking, moving pianos or art or storage. Also, ask about extra fees for things like stairs or limited parking. Knowing these details up front lets you budget accurately and avoid last-minute surprises.

5. Verify credentials

All quality moving companies should be properly licensed and insured in Arizona. If you’re moving out of state, the company also needs a USDOT number with the U.S. Department of Transportation. You can check this on the FMCSA website. Before you sign, make sure you understand how the mover’s insurance works and what to do if something is damaged.

Moving costs can range from a few hundred dollars for small local moves to several thousand for cross-country or full-service relocations, depending on how far you’re going, how much you’re moving and what services you select.

Provide the gate code for the community to avoid delays at entry.

Factors that affect pricing include:

• Distance: A move from Old Town to DC Ranch is cheaper than relocating across the US.
• Volume: Larger homes and more belongings increase labor and truck space needs.
• Services: Packing, unpacking and specialty item handling add to the total.
• Timing: Peak seasons (summer) and weekends are more expensive; off-season rates are typically 20 to 30% lower.
• Deposits: Brokers often require 20 to 50% upfront (as a broker fee); the remainder is due upon completion. Deposits for carriers are typically much lower.

Rates average $120 to $160 per hour. Seasonal pricing applies; winter is expensive due to snowbirds, and summer is expensive due to 'hazard pay' for heat.

Average cost for moving services from and within Scottsdale

The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.

Tipping is always optional, but it’s a common way to show appreciation for hard work. A typical moving tip is $20 to $50 per mover for local jobs. For long-distance moves, you can tip a higher amount or a percentage of the total cost. Even offering cold drinks or snacks on a hot day goes a long way.

» COMPARE: Best national movers

• Start planning at least two months in advance: This gives you time to get multiple quotes, organize your belongings and handle any unexpected issues.

Start at sunrise in summer to avoid peak heat and extra fees.

• Create a moving budget: Estimate all costs, including movers or truck rental, distance, volume, packing supplies, travel expenses, storage, insurance and tips. Research average costs for similar moves to stay realistic.
• Declutter before packing: Most movers charge by weight and volume, so reducing unnecessary items saves money and hassle. Host a garage sale, donate gently used items or recycle what you don't need.
• Pack strategically: Start with less-used areas (guest rooms, closets, garage). Pack room by room and label every box with contents and destination. Use quality supplies and appropriate materials for fragile items.
• Prepare an essentials box: A week before moving, pack a box with items you'll need immediately: toiletries, medications, a change of clothes and important documents.
• Get contact information: Confirm the moving company's day-of contact so you can communicate about parking, timing and access.

» MORE: How to save money on a cross-country move

All legitimate moving companies in the U.S. should be licensed and insured. For moves crossing state lines, companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and have a valid USDOT number (verify on the FMCSA website).

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) oversees licensing, and movers must carry liability and cargo insurance. State law prohibits movers from holding your goods hostage if you pay the estimated amount.

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