Local moving companies in Irvine

  1. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Merit Moving Systems: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication. Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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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
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/meatheadmovers?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful. Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057481208808, https://twitter.com/meritmovingsyst
Customer Praise
  • Good communication
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Moving with Merit Moving Systems stands out for smooth coordination and a dedicated customer-focused team. Of the 258 customer inputs analyzed, 95.3% express positive experiences. Customers frequently highlight prompt and friendly communication, consistent professionalism, careful handling of items, speedy service, and movers who work efficiently. Many stress that their property arrived safely, with no or minimal damage, and that the moving crews were courteous and respectful throughout. A substantial number also mention how staff provided regular updates and accommodated last-minute timeline shifts. On the downside, a small percentage report cases of belongings being damaged, items lost or misplaced, or surprise charges that were not clearly explained beforehand. Most criticism centers on damage or incomplete claims resolution, with some reviewers citing miscommunication regarding insurance or inventory. Compared to typical moving companies, Merit receives more praise for communication and professionalism, though negative feedback follows common moving industry complaints about damage and claims. For those seeking a moving partner that values customer interaction and efficiency, Merit matches or exceeds industry standards in key service areas.
Get a Quote (855) 950-4471

Company Info

State license #: 0192009

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 1839600

Alternate Names: Merit Moving & Logistics LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/VIPMayflower/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Stellar service and professionalism are at the heart of most customer input for VIP Transport, Inc. Out of 244 reviews analyzed, 88.5% reflect positive feedback with standout praise for the company’s professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling of possessions. Movers are routinely described as efficient, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile, making the moving process much less stressful. Customers also highlight helpful attitudes and strong organizational skills from both office and field staff, setting VIP Transport ahead of many competitors. The main negative feedback, making up about 9%, centers on damaged items, slow resolution of claims, or lapses in communication and delivery timelines. Still, these issues appear in a small minority of cases. A few neutral comments mention price competitiveness and the condition of vehicles. With consistent praise for attentive and skilled teams, transparent communication, and a reputation for reducing the hassle of relocation, VIP Transport remains a top choice for complex or long-distance moves—even if some room for improvement persists regarding claims and rare mishandled items.
Get a Quote (951) 272-3700

Company Info

State license #: 0137029

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit, VIP Transport East, Inc, VIP Transport - United Van Lines, VIP Transport - Mayflower Transit, United Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

Key factors that impact the cost of your Irvine to Phoenix movetoggle

The cost of Irvine movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Irvine to Phoenix might cost as little as $1,246, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,210.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Irvine, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $417 to $986 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Irvine to Phoenix

Moving from Irvine to Phoenix means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Irvine than in Phoenix, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Irvine compares to Phoenix so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Irvine Phoenix
Average rent cost $4,000 $1,695
Average home value $1,561,760 $411,139
Average income (per capita) $114,027 $64,552
Cost of living (single person) $9,167 $2,369
Cost of living (family of 4) $18,000 $5,226
Unemployment rate 5.4% 6.6%
Sales tax 7.75% 8.6%
State income tax 13.3% 2.5%
  • Rent prices in Phoenix are 58% lower than in Irvine, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Phoenix.
    Home prices in Phoenix are 73.7% lower than in Irvine.
  • Income in Phoenix is 43.4% lower than in Irvine, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Phoenix — including the State of Arizona, Walmart, Inc., and Banner Health — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Phoenix. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 74.2% lower than in Irvine.
  • A move to Phoenix can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 71.0% less than what it costs in Irvine.
  • The unemployment rate in Phoenix is 22.22% higher than in Irvine.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Phoenix, since its sales taxes are 10.97% higher than what you are paying in Irvine.
  • One perk of moving to Phoenix is paying less in state income taxes, which are 81.20% lower than in Irvine.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $775.28 in Phoenix to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Irvine.

How life is different in Irvine vs. Phoenix

Phoenix Irvine
Population 1,608,139 307,670
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 4
Walkability score 41 43
Bike friendliness score 56 69
Crime Index 53.06 31.01
Safety Index 46.94 68.99
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Phoenix's population is about 423% greater than Irvine.
  • Phoenix's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Irvine's lower score of 4.
  • Phoenix and Irvine are similarily walkable.
  • Phoenix has a bike-friendliness score 56 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Irvine, which has a score of 69 out of 100.
  • Phoenix's crime rate is higher than Irvine with a score of 53.06 compared to Irvine's 31.01. This means that Phoenix neighborhoods are safer than 53.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Irvine neighborhoods are safer than 31.01%.
  • Phoenix is considered to be less safe than Irvine with a score of 46.94 vs Irvine's 68.99.
  • Air quality in Phoenix is moderate, and in Irvine it's good.

Other things to consider for your Irvine vs. Phoenix move

  • 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Phoenix. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Phoenix

Now that you've chosen Arizona's Urban Heart as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Phoenix to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Camelback East
  • Encanto
  • Estrella Village
  • North Gateway
  • South Mountain

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Ahwatukee
  • Coronado
  • Gilbert
  • Paradise Valley
  • Scottsdale

Things to do in Phoenix

Now that you've made the move to Arizona it's the perfect time to explore Phoenix From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Phoenix is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Musical Instrument Museum, Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, and Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Encanto Park, Freestone Park, Tempe Beach Park, and Desert Breeze Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Phoenix Suns (NBA), or Arizona Coyotes (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Irvine to Phoenix?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Irvine to Phoenix You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Irvine.

When is the cheapest time to move from Irvine to Phoenix?

Because spring and fall moves from Irvine to Phoenix are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Irvine to Phoenix take?

The 359-mile journey from Irvine, CA to Phoenix, AZ, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Irvine offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Phoenix.

Helpful moving resources