The best local movers for Columbus to Phoenix moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Columbus that also handles long-distance moves to Phoenix. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 29 local movers in Columbus 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 Columbus to Phoenix.
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.92 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Integrity Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Black Tie Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 156647
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1444491
Alternate Names: MVM Columbus , MVM Columbus Incorporated.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00136562
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Alternate Names: Leaders Moving , Leaders Moving & Storage Co. , L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co. , Leaders Moving And Storage Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00151315
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1343775
Alternate Names: Integrity Moving, LLC , Integrity Moving , Columbus Piano Moving , Integrity Moving & Mobile Storage LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 604141
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2407712
Alternate Names: Black Tie Moving Columbus LLC , Black Tie Moving
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 11470
Years in Business: 143
DOT #: 1222904
Alternate Names: E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC , E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Columbus to Phoenix?
The average hourly rate for movers in Ohio is $153. 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 | $1,260 – $4,936 | $1,075 – $2,575 | $1,081 – $2,081 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,358 – $7,609 | $2,034 – $3,927 | $1,193 – $2,354 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,015 – $10,745 | $2,780 – $5,284 | $1,402 – $3,001 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Phoenix
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Columbus to Phoenix will cost between $1,260 and $4,936. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Columbus to Columbus will range from $3,358 to $7,609, and a large move from Columbus to Phoenix will cost from $6,015 to $10,745.
Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Phoenix
If you’re moving from Columbus to Phoenix, expect to pay between $1,075 and $2,575 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,034 up to $3,927. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,780 and $5,284. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Phoenix
Renting a moving truck from Columbus to Phoenix 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 $1,081 and $2,081. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,193 and $2,354. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,402 up to $3,001 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Columbus to Phoenix
The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,488, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,564.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbus, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,081–$2,822) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Columbus to Phoenix
Many movers find Phoenix easier on the wallet than Columbus – roughly 15% less for singles and 28% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,369 for one person in Phoenix versus $2,784 in Columbus. For a family of four, it’s $5,226 compared with $7,249.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Columbus | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,567 | $1,664 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,957 | $2,634 |
| Average home value | $238,832 | $411,139 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,075 | $64,552 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,784 | $2,369 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,249 | $5,226 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 6.6% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 8.6% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 2.5% |
- Rent is estimated to be 18% higher in Phoenix compared to Columbus; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 72% greater in Phoenix than in Columbus.
- Fortunately, the average income in Phoenix and Columbus is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
- 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 15% lower than in Columbus.
- Choosing to move to Phoenix can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 28% less than in Columbus.
- In Phoenix, the unemployment rate is approximately 16% higher than in Columbus, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes rise by 15% in Phoenix over Columbus, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
- Income taxes are 29% less in Arizona than in Ohio. 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 Columbus and Phoenix:
| Living Expense | Columbus | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $263.89 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.77 | $75.22 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.21 | $4.75 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.98 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $46.25 | $34.08 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Phoenix.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbus than in Phoenix.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in Phoenix.
- Bread costs less in Columbus than in Phoenix.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships cost more in Columbus than in Phoenix.
How life is different in Columbus vs. Phoenix
| Columbus | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 905,748 | 1,608,139 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 56 |
| Crime index | 49.65 | 53.06 |
| Safety index | 50.35 | 46.94 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Phoenix’s population is about 78% greater than Columbus.
- Phoenix’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Columbus’s score of 5.
- Phoenix and Columbus are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 56 out of 100, Phoenix is more bike-friendly than Columbus, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Phoenix’s crime rate is higher than Columbus with a score of 53.06 compared to Columbus’s 49.65. This means that Phoenix neighborhoods are safer than 53.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
- Phoenix is considered to be less safe than Columbus with a score of 46.94 vs Columbus’s 50.35.
- Air quality in Phoenix is Moderate, and in Columbus it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbus to Phoenix 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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Arizona’s Urban Heart, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Phoenix.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Camelback East
- Encanto
- Estrella Village
- North Gateway
- South Mountain
Best neighborhoods for families
- Arcadia/Biltmore
- Ahwatukee
- Coronado
- Gilbert
- Paradise Valley
- Scottsdale
Things to do in Phoenix
Once you’re settled into your new home in Arizona, it’s time to get out and discover what Phoenix has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Phoenix, such as the Musical Instrument Museum, Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, and Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Encanto Park, Freestone Park, Tempe Beach Park, and Desert Breeze 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 Arizona Cardinals (NFL)Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)Phoenix Suns (NBA)Arizona Coyotes (NHL)Phoenix Mercury (WNBA)Arizona Rattlers (IFL)Phoenix Rising FC (USLC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbus to Phoenix?
The best time to move from Columbus to Phoenix is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Columbus.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to Phoenix?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Columbus to Phoenix, 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 Columbus to Phoenix take?
Moving from Columbus, OH to Phoenix, covers 1,873 miles and usually takes five to 16 days. Need to move faster? Some Columbus movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Phoenix.
Which movers in Columbus give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers here honor AAA discounts. 4 movers give special rates to military members. 6 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 Columbus?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 16 movers in Columbus advertise piano moving expertise. 11 movers in Columbus provide antique moving services. State totals show 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Columbus moving services
Popular Ohio routes
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