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($1,430) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Tempe, AZ

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Quick answer: For a 1,979-mile move from Detroit to Tempe, expect to spend around $1,350 – $8,173 and five to 16 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you’re going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our guide to moving from Tempe to Detroit.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Forbes
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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
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best movers by type

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Best professional movers from Detroit to Tempe

A full-service mover can streamline every step of your interstate move from Detroit to Tempe. While they handle the packing, loading, and transportation, you’re free to focus on securing your new home, planning your first few weeks, or just taking a breath before the next chapter begins.

There are 26 interstate moving companies in Detroit, below, you’ll find our top recommendations equipped to get you to Tempe efficiently and with minimal stress.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

What moving services are available in Detroit?toggle

Availability varies a lot by market. Use this table to see how common each service is among movers in Detroit, compared to all of MI and nationwide, so you can spot what’s easy to book and what may take extra planning.

Service Detroit (Count) Detroit (%) MI (Count) MI (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 35 100% 73 97% 2,833 98%
Unpacking 35 100% 72 96% 2,798 96%
Fragile-only packing 5 14% 13 17% 718 24%
Packing materials 28 80% 54 72% 1,684 58%
Storage
Long-term 31 88% 65 86% 2,499 86%
Climate-controlled 14 40% 22 29% 977 33%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 20 57% 34 45% 1,884 65%
Art 7 20% 18 24% 1,398 48%
Antiques 8 22% 18 24% 1,401 48%
Piano 21 60% 46 61% 2,173 75%
Hot tub 5 14% 13 17% 670 23%
Pool table 6 17% 13 17% 941 32%

How we chose the best movers MI→AZ moverstoggle

Our team at moveBuddha evaluated moving rates from 75 Michigan moving companies, highlighting the top options based on client feedback, reviews, and pricing.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): Services are delivered promptly, with excellent communication, and at the cost initially quoted.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Problems sometimes come up during moves. We favor companies that admit faults and focus on making things right for the customer.
  • Industry reputation (15%): Known for its positive standing, the company is respected in the moving industry and contributes through conferences and memberships.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information and responds to online customer inquiries promptly and courteously.
  • Service options (10%): Movers that offer a wide range of services — from packing and storage to specialty handling and fast delivery — rank higher in our evaluations.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Top-rated local movers that handle Detroit to Tempe moves

When planning a move from Detroit to Tempe, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Detroit who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Detroit to Tempe.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Fordson Movers, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.2% 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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.0% of all reviews were positive
7.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive.
People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Show more
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.0% of all reviews were positive
10.3% 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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.9% of all reviews were positive
11.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fordson Movers, Inc. receives strong praise from nearly 90% of customers, making them stand out among local moving companies. Customers highlight their professionalism, careful handling of belongings, reasonable prices, quick service, and friendly movers. Input emphasizes efficient work and attention to customer needs.
The only negative feedback points to unprofessional behavior and lack of responsibility from management during a difficult move, which caused extra expense and stress. Most feedback positions Fordson Movers as an affordable and reliable choice, especially for those valuing courteous service and careful treatment of items.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 247-0001

Company Info

Years in Business: 8

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.3% of all reviews were positive
25.7% 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

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

Movers in Michigan charge 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 $1,430 – $5,079 $1,242 – $2,953 $1,199 – $2,383
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,568 – $8,173 $2,168 – $4,414 $1,350 – $2,725
4+ bedrooms $6,943 – $12,517 $2,881 – $5,895 $1,703 – $3,236
These ranges are approximate, calculated from 1,979 miles and past averages. Your actual price may vary depending on move size, services added, parking access, market trends, and scheduling.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Tempe

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Tempe, you can expect to spend between $1,430 and $5,079. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,568 to $8,173 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Detroit to Tempe typically runs between $6,943 and $12,517.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Tempe

When moving from Detroit to Tempe, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,242 and $2,953. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,168 to $4,414. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,881 up to $5,895. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Tempe

Renting a moving truck Detroit is usually your cheapest option to get to Tempe. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,199 and $2,383. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,350 and $2,725. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,703 and $3,236.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Detroit to Tempe toggle

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,781, but larger homes can run up to $11,832.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Detroit.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,199–$3,168) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Tempe

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tempe runs about 117% higher for singles and 2% higher for families than Detroit.

Singles spend around $5,433 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $6,810 compared with $6,687.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Detroit Tempe
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,900
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $2,450
Average home value $73,156 $471,494
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $64,080
Unemployment rate 9.06% 5.4%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.1%
State income tax 4.25% 2.5%
  • As you consider relocating to Tempe, note that rent can be roughly 47% more expensive than it is in Detroit; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 545% higher in Tempe than in Detroit.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 70% higher in Tempe compared to Detroit, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Tempe, since the cost of living for a single person is 117% more than in Detroit. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • You’ll find the cost of living for a family to be nearly equivalent in Tempe and Detroit, with only a minor variance of about 5%, so you’ll likely see minimal difference in daily expenses.
  • Tempe experiences an unemployment rate that is about 40% lower than that of Detroit. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
  • Sales taxes are 35% higher in Tempe than in Detroit. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 41% lower in Arizona compared to Michigan. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Detroit with Tempe:

Living Expense Detroit Tempe
Basic utilities $251.12 $256.54
Cell phone plan $55.77 $70.53
Dozen eggs $3.52 $4.75
Loaf of bread $2.94 $4.18
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $19.17
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $80.00
Gym membership $43.00 $30.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Detroit than in Tempe, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Detroit than in Tempe.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Tempe.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Tempe.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Detroit than in Tempe.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Tempe.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Tempe.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Tempe

Detroit Tempe
Population 639,111 180,587
Transportation score 7 8
Walkability score 51 54
Bike friendliness score 52 75
Crime index 72.92 42.36
Safety index 27.08 57.64
Air quality Good Good
  • Tempe’s population is about 72% less than Detroit.
  • Tempe’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Tempe is more walkable than Detroit with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 75 out of 100, Tempe is more bike-friendly than Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Tempe’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 42.36 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Tempe is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 57.64 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Tempe is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Tempe move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Arizona doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Tempe smoothly. Start the process 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Tempe

Now that you’ve chosen Tempe as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Tempe to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cyprus Southwest
  • Daley Park
  • Kyrene-Superstition
  • Mitchell Park West
  • University Heights

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Alta Mira
  • Dava-Lakeshore
  • Meyer Park
  • Sandahl
  • Tempe Gardens

Things to do in Tempe

After getting comfortable in your new Arizona home, it’s time to see what Tempe is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Tempe offers cultural landmarks like the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park, Tempe History Museum, Arizona State University Art Museum, and ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tempe Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, and Papago Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Detroit to Tempe?toggle

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Detroit to Tempe are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Detroit are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Tempe?toggle

Because spring and fall moves from Detroit to Tempe 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 Detroit to Tempe take?toggle

A move of 1,979 miles from Detroit, MI to Tempe, generally takes five to 16 days. Movers in Detroit sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Tempe is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Detroit?toggle

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 2 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 2 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in Detroit offer piano or antique moving?toggle

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 21 movers in Detroit have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 8 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across MI, there are 46 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,173 and 1,401.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

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