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Local moving companies in California
When making the move from California to Phoenix, AZ, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local moving companies that specialize in relocations from the Golden State to the vibrant Arizona's Urban Heart, ensuring your move is as smooth as possible.
Out of 239 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Phoenix, AZ.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0192497
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
Seka Moving, serving Los Angeles, CA, since 2019, has quickly built a stellar reputation for local residential moving services. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 137 Google reviews and 4.5 from 17 Yelp reviews, this A+ BBB rated company stands out among local competitors. Seka Moving offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized handling for fragile items, pianos, art, and antiques. Clients can also opt for labor-only services, with the convenience of paying via cash, credit cards, or money orders. For those looking for a reliable and highly rated moving partner in Los Angeles, Seka Moving is a top choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Comparing local moving companies from California to Phoenix, Arizona:
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best California Movers | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Grace Moving Company | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| All Star Movers & Storage | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Meathead Movers | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Seka Moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,885 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how California movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 99% | 97% |
| Antiques | 63% | 48% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Phoenix, AZ
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Phoenix, AZ has in store compared to California. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: California vs Phoenix, AZ
| California | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,695 |
| Average home value | $771,057 | $411,139 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $64,552 |
| Unemployment rate | 5% | 7% |
| State income tax | 13% | 3% |
Phoenix sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 9% less expensive in Phoenix than in California, so you could take advantage of the savings to build an emergency fund, upgrade your living space, or cover other moving-related costs.
- Home prices are about 47% lower in Phoenix than in California, which could make buying a home more affordable.
- The average income is about 30% lower in Phoenix than in California. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
- Although unemployment rates in Phoenix are about 22% higher than California, plenty of job opportunities still exist. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Income taxes are 81% lower in Phoenix than in California. You may be able to boost your savings, pay down debt faster, or enjoy a bit more financial flexibility.
How life is different in Phoenix from California
| Phoenix | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,608,139 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 52-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 105ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 9" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 7" |
| Crime index | 53.06 | 28.43 |
Phoenix sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Phoenix voted Republican, while California was Democratic.
- Get ready for summer highs of around 105°F in Phoenix, warmer than the average 87°F in California. With more sunshine, you'll have extra chances for outdoor fun, but expect higher cooling costs and a hotter daily routine.
- Winter in Phoenix packs a colder punch, often dipping to lows of 43°F, which is quite a bit chillier than the 59°F winters you’re used to in California. Be prepared for those frosty months with potentially higher heating costs and a few changes to your daily routine. On the bright side, Phoenix offers crisp air, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy.
- In Phoenix, you’ll get just 9 inches of rain annually, less than the 22 inches you typically see in California. With all the extra sunshine, you’ll have more opportunities to explore your new surroundings. This sunnier forecast is the perfect way to start your next chapter.
- In Phoenix, you’ll see just 0 inches of snow each year, much less than the 7 inches you’re used to in California. Milder winters mean less shoveling, safer streets, and fewer cold-weather headaches. If a gentler winter is what you’re after, Phoenix is definitely the place to be.
- Crime rates in Phoenix are higher than in California, with a crime index of 53.06 compared to 28.43. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in Phoenix
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Phoenix has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in Phoenix
Parks in Phoenix
Sports Teams in Phoenix
Universities in Phoenix
Other considerations when moving to Phoenix, AZ
- Weather: The climate is unlikely to affect your move but summers in Phoenix are unsurprisingly very hot with daily averages over 100° F. You should take this into consideration because moving often requires spending many hours outdoors. You should also be sure that air conditioning is set up in your new home before move day, especially if you're moving in the summer.
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they're properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Arizona moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Arizona, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to Arizona right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Insurance rules vary from state to state. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
Compare the pros and cons of California vs. Phoenix, AZ
Comparing the pros of California vs. Phoenix, AZ:
Moving to a new place is always exciting! Here’s a quick look at what makes living in Phoenix unique compared to life in California.
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Beautiful nature |
| Pleasant weather | Bountiful arts and recreational activities |
| Abundant recreational options | Ample economic activity |
| High quality of life | Low cost of living |
| Fresh and healthy foods | Delectable food |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Phoenix, AZ:
It’s not all smooth sailing when you move. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when moving from California to Phoenix.
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens | Tourists |
| Natural disasters | Limited public transportation |
| Terrible traffic | Hot summers |
| Strange laws | Poor education |
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Phoenix take?
How long it takes to move from California to Phoenix, AZ depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re heading to Phoenix from northern California, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Getting your stuff from California to Phoenix can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Phoenix?
If you’re gearing up for a 590-mile move from California to Phoenix, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Phoenix, AZ?
Summer temperatures in Phoenix can soar to 105°F, while winters can get as chilly as 43°F. That’s why most people making the move from California to Phoenix prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
