Quick answer: A typical 1,974-mile move from Detroit to Scottsdale runs $1,533–$9,041 and takes five to 16 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Scottsdale to Detroit guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Detroit to Scottsdale

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Detroit to Scottsdale isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to AZ movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 45 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The top local movers servicing Detroit to Scottsdale moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Detroit that also handles long-distance moves to Scottsdale. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Detroit who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Detroit to Scottsdale.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/palmermoving/, https://x.com/PalmerMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors.
Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GrossePointeMovingStorage,
91% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage stands out for delivering fast, careful, and respectful service. Out of 152 feedback entries analyzed, nearly 91% were positive. Customers routinely describe crews as professional, efficient, and polite.
Movers excel at handling belongings with caution and working quickly while keeping clients informed, making the process smooth and easy. Many clients also highlight the staff’s helpfulness and the accuracy of estimates—qualities that set this company ahead of typical industry standards. On the downside, some input identified concerns such as damaged items, bills running higher than quoted, and complaints not always being resolved satisfactorily. Still, such occurrences are much less frequent than the many glowing reports. Compared to other movers, Grosse Pointe earns notably stronger praise for speed, professionalism, and quality care, with negative incidents reported far less often.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 822-4400

Company Info

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 279708


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/whitestarmovers/, https://x.com/whitestarusa
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful.
Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/Royal-Movers-1658269400878748/,
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive.
Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenandaTruckMacomb, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
92% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stress relieved—that's the story from Two Men and a Truck feedback. Analyzing 247 reviews, 91.5% praised professional, efficient, and helpful teams. Customers repeatedly mention the staff's professionalism, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, and friendly attitude.
Moves are characterized by clear communication and efficient service, often finishing ahead of schedule, which sets this company apart from many competitors. Negative input, making up 8.5%, highlights concerns over damaged items, unexpectedly high costs, and occasional delays. The most frequent complaints involve property damage and dissatisfaction with pricing or response to claims. While most moves go smoothly, customers seeking extra assurance about item safety or cost transparency should review their options. Compared to typical moving services, Two Men and a Truck consistently delivers on professionalism and speed, with far fewer complaints about lateness or mishandling. The overwhelmingly positive response suggests the company is a reliable choice for most moving needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 359-0167

Company Info

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Scottsdale?

Detroit movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,571 - $6,504 $1,414 - $3,358 $1,430 - $2,620
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,274 - $9,041 $2,493 - $5,385 $1,533 - $3,150
4+ bedrooms $8,048 - $13,700 $3,344 - $6,907 $2,030 - $4,176
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,974 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Arizona

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Arizona, you can expect prices to land between $1,571 and $6,504. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,274 to $9,041 for the trip from MI to AZ. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $8,048 and $13,700.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Arizona

Moving containers from Michigan to Arizona will cost you $1,414 to $3,358 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,493 to $5,385. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,344 to $6,907. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Arizona

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,430 to $2,620. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,533 to $3,150, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Michigan to Arizona costs around $2,030 to $4,176.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to Scottsdaletoggle

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Detroit to Scottsdale (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,571, while larger moves may reach $13,992 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Detroit,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $1,430 to $3,702), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Scottsdale

Moving from Detroit to Scottsdale comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Scottsdale is generally more expensive than Detroit, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Detroit Scottsdale
Average rent cost $1,250 $3,300
Average home value $73,156 $827,308
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $64,533
Cost of living (single person) $2,500 $5,753
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,687 $4,570
Unemployment rate 9.06% 4.7%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.05%
State income tax 4.25% 2.5%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Scottsdale, since prices are typically 164% higher than in Detroit.
  • The home prices in Scottsdale are 1,030.9% higher than in Detroit, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Scottsdale, where incomes are, on average, 70.9% higher than in Detroit. Major employers in Scottsdale include Honor Health, CVS Health, and Scottsdale Unified School District.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Scottsdale, since the cost of living for a single person in Scottsdale is 130.1% higher than in Detroit. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • A move to Scottsdale 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 31.7% less than what it costs in Detroit.
  • The unemployment rate in Scottsdale is 48.12% lower than in Detroit.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Scottsdale, since its sales taxes are 34.17% higher than what you are paying in Detroit.
  • One perk of moving to Scottsdale is paying less in state income taxes, which are 41.18% lower than in Detroit.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $6,903.60 in Scottsdale to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Detroit.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Scottsdale

Scottsdale Detroit
Population 241,361 639,111
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 7
Walkability score 32 51
Bike friendliness score 56 52
Crime Index 25.8 72.92
Safety Index 74.2 27.08
Air Quality Good Good
  • Scottsdale's population is about 62% less than Detroit.
  • Scottsdale's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Detroit's higher score of 7.
  • Scottsdale is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 32 out of 100 vs Detroit's 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 56 out of 100, Scottsdale is more bike-friendly than Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Scottsdale's crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 25.8 compared to Detroit's 72.92. This means that Scottsdale neighborhoods are safer than 25.8% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Scottsdale is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 74.2 vs Detroit's 27.08.
  • Air quality in Scottsdale is good, and in Detroit it's good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit vs. Scottsdale move

  • Weather: Extreme heat may cause discomfort if you choose to move in the summer. Pay close attention to heat sensitive household items such as instruments, antique furniture, and electronics.
  • 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 Scottsdale. 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 Scottsdale

Ready to relocate to West's Most Western Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Scottsdale.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Old Town Scottsdale
  • Gainey Ranch
  • Kierland
  • Shea Corridor
  • South Scottsdale

Best neighborhoods for families

  • McCormick Ranch
  • DC Ranch
  • Grayhawk
  • Troon North
  • South Scottsdale

Things to do in Scottsdale

Once you're settled into your new home in Arizona, it's time to get out and discover what Scottsdale has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Scottsdale, such as the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West, Penske Racing Museum, Cosanti, Wonderspaces Arizona, and Main Street Arts District.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Chaparral Park, Xeriscape Garden, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, and Scottsdale Artists' School Rose Garden — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Scottsdale Scorpions (MiLB) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Detroit to Scottsdale?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Detroit to Scottsdale. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Detroit.

When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Scottsdale?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Detroit to Scottsdale moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Detroit to Scottsdale take?

Covering 1,974 miles, the move from Detroit, MI to Scottsdale, AZ typically takes five to 16 days. Some Detroit movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Scottsdale can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources