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($1,298) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Tucson, AZ

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 1,981 mile move from Detroit to Tucson, costs typically range from $1,289 to $7,419. Plan for the travel time to be around five–16 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Detroit to Tucson

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Detroit to Tucson

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Detroit to Tucson, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 26 interstate moving companies located in Detroit, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Tucson seamless and enjoyable.

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

Estimated cost to move from Detroit to Tucson

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,981-mile move from Detroit to Tucson using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Oct 22, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,473 – $5,451
  • Moving Container $1,632 – $2,886
  • Rental Truck $1,156 – $2,164
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,616 – $7,419
  • Moving Container $2,110 – $4,129
  • Rental Truck $1,289 – $2,496
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,496 – $11,493
  • Moving Container $2,778 – $5,456
  • Rental Truck $1,501 – $3,282
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Wixom, MI Vail, AZ
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 24, 2025
BLVD Moving
Inkster, MI Mammoth, AZ
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 16, 2025
United Van Lines
Clawson, MI Catalina Foothills, AZ
2 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
American Van Lines
Bloomfield Hills, MI Flowing Wells, AZ
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 14, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Grosse Pointe Park, MI South Tucson, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Hazel Park, MI Rincon Valley, AZ
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 04, 2025
PODS
Farmington, MI Saddlebrooke, AZ
1 Bedroom (large)
Jul 17, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lathrup Village, MI Sahuarita, AZ
Studio apartment
Jul 14, 2025
North American Van Lines
Keego Harbor, MI Tucson Estates, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Jul 10, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Gibraltar, MI Elephant Head, AZ
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 03, 2025

The best local movers for Detroit to Tucson moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Detroit that also handles long-distance moves to Tucson. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 35 local movers in Detroit who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Detroit to Tucson.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Palmer Moving Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.8% of all reviews were positive
6.6% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.5% of all reviews were positive
8.5% 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.
Get a Quote (586) 359-0167

Company Info

Years in Business: 0

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 Tucson?

The average hourly rate for movers in Michigan is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,298 – $5,205 $1,116 – $2,791 $1,133 – $2,164
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,616 – $7,419 $2,110 – $4,129 $1,289 – $2,496
4+ bedrooms $6,496 – $11,493 $2,778 – $5,456 $1,501 – $3,282
*Approximate cost ranges for a 1,981-mile move from Detroit to Tucson are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Oct 22, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Tucson

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Tucson will cost between $1,298 and $5,205. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Detroit to Detroit will range from $3,616 to $7,419, and a large move from Detroit to Tucson will cost from $6,496 to $11,493.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Tucson

If you’re moving from Detroit to Tucson, expect to pay between $1,116 and $2,791 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,110 up to $4,129. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,778 and $5,456. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Tucson

Renting a moving truck from Detroit to Tucson is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,133 and $2,164. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,289 and $2,496. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,501 up to $3,282 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to Tucson

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,628, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,756.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Detroit, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,133–$3,053) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Tucson

Many movers find Tucson easier on the wallet than Detroit – roughly 4% less for singles and 10% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,390 for one person in Tucson versus $2,500 in Detroit. For a family of four, it’s $6,043 compared with $6,687.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Detroit Tucson
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,265
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $2,177
Average home value $73,156 $327,203
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $61,749
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $2,390
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $6,043
Unemployment rate 9.06% 7.4%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.7%
State income tax 4.25% 2.5%
  • Budgeting for a move from Detroit to Tucson won’t necessitate major adjustments since rent remains relatively constant.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 347% greater in Tucson than in Detroit.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 64% higher in Tucson than in Detroit, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • The cost of living for a single person is within about 5% of the same in Tucson and Detroit, so you likely won’t notice a major difference.
  • Choosing to move to Tucson can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 10% less than in Detroit.
  • Tucson enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 18% lower compared to Detroit, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 45% in Tucson over Detroit, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 41% less in Arizona than in Michigan. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Detroit and Tucson:

Living Expense Detroit Tucson
Basic utilities $251.12 $271.98
Cell phone plan $55.77 $70.53
Dozen eggs $3.52 $4.22
Loaf of bread $2.94 $3.33
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $75.00
Gym membership $43.00 $35.28
  • Basic utilities cost less in Detroit than in Tucson, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Detroit than in Tucson.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Tucson.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Tucson.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Tucson.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Tucson.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Tucson

Detroit Tucson
Population 639,111 542,629
Transportation score 7 5
Walkability score 51 43
Bike friendliness score 52 66
Crime index 72.92 54.43
Safety index 27.08 45.57
Air quality Good Good
  • Tucson’s population is about 15% less than Detroit.
  • Tucson’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Tucson is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 66 out of 100, Tucson 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.
  • Tucson’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 54.43 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Tucson neighborhoods are safer than 54.43% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Tucson is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 45.57 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Tucson is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Tucson move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Arizona doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Tucson. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Tucson

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Old Pueblo, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Tucson.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Armory Park
  • Dunbar Spring
  • Old Fort Lowell
  • El Presidio
  • Sam Hughes

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Armory Park
  • Broadmoor-Broadway
  • Catalina Foothills
  • Dunbar Spring
  • Sam Hughes

Things to do in Tucson

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Tucson, such as the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Pima Air and Space Museum, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum, and The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Agua Caliente Park, Himmel Park, Rillito River Park, and Brandi Fenton Memorial Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an University of Arizona Wildcats (NCAA)Tucson Saguaros (Pecos League)Tucson Roadrunners (AHL)FC Tucson (USL)Tucson Monsoon (IWFL)Tucson Sugar Skulls (IFL) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Detroit to Tucson is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Detroit.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Detroit to Tucson, 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 Tucson take?

Moving from Detroit, MI to Tucson, covers 1,981 miles and usually takes five to 16 days. Need to move faster? Some Detroit movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Tucson.

Which movers in Detroit give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Detroit?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 21 movers in Detroit advertise piano moving expertise. 8 movers in Detroit provide antique moving services. State totals show 46 piano movers and 18 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,173 and 1,401.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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