Best moving companies in Billings for Arizona relocations
If you're moving from Billings to Arizona, you've got options. I looked at the interstate-capable movers operating in Billings and narrowed it down to the ones with solid track records for long-distance work.
- Aaron's Back Company — 4.2 / 5
- Baker Transfer & Storage — 4.2 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 3.8 / 5
- McKell Brothers Hauling Inc. — 3.7 / 5
Aaron's Back Company
Rating: 4.2 / 5 (166 reviews)
Out of 166 reviews, 97% were positive. This is the kind of consistency you want to see. Customers consistently mention professional, courteous staff who handle both heavy and delicate items without drama. The team moves quickly without cutting corners, and pricing comes in at $140/hr—reasonable for the quality you're getting.
The few complaints mention occasional item damage or slow follow-up, which aren't deal-breakers but worth asking about when you call. After 17 years in business, Aaron's Back handles local and interstate moves, and they'll pack, unpack, or just haul. They take pianos, hot tubs, antiques, safes—the full spectrum.
Phone: (406) 670-4045
Baker Transfer & Storage
Rating: 4.2 / 5 (27 reviews)
Baker Transfer earned an A+ from the BBB and has been in the game for 13 years. 78% of reviews were positive, with customers praising professionalism and efficient movers who treat your stuff carefully. The staff gets high marks for courtesy and willingness to go the extra mile.
The downsides: some customers hit unexpected cost bumps, and there were occasional scheduling delays or property damage reports. Still, compared to the wider moving industry, Baker Transfer's staff quality is a genuine strength. They handle packing, unpacking, specialty items like pianos and pool tables, and they offer storage if you need it.
Phone: (406) 245-3147
License: 469163
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Rating: 3.8 / 5 (23 reviews)
About 61% of reviews were positive. Customers like the professionalism and speed—movers here are reliable and careful with your valuables. But nearly 39% of feedback mentions unprofessional behavior, item damage, or surprise charges, especially on larger moves. That's a red flag ratio worth considering.
If you use them, get everything in writing and ask hard questions about what's included in your quote. They handle local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, and safes.
Phone: (406) 219-4070
License: 3796877
Billings to Arizona moving costs
The price you'll pay depends on what you're moving and how much help you want. Here's what the numbers look like for a 1,182-mile move from Billings to Arizona.
| Move size | Full-service movers | Moving containers | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,364 – $5,497 | $867 – $2,181 | $706 – $1,426 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,909 – $7,048 | $1,475 – $2,896 | $763 – $1,535 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,920 – $9,213 | $2,079 – $4,197 | $930 – $2,048 |
These are estimates based on our database of verified rates from moving companies across the country, refreshed monthly. Your actual cost depends on the scope of work, add-ons, parking constraints, fuel, and timing. Compare multiple quotes to get a real number.
Full-service moving companies
For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $1,364–$5,497. A two- or three-bedroom typically runs $2,909–$7,048. If you've got a four- or five-bedroom house, budget $4,920–$9,213. You're paying for the crew, truck, fuel, and labor—everything done for you.
Moving containers (PODS and similar)
Moving containers let you pack at your own pace and they handle transport. A small load costs $867–$2,181. Two or three bedrooms: $1,475–$2,896. Four-plus bedrooms: $2,079–$4,197. Containers work well if you're not on a tight schedule.
Rental trucks (DIY option)
This is the cheapest way if you don't mind doing the work yourself. Truck rental for a studio or one-bedroom: $706–$1,426. Two or three bedrooms: $763–$1,535. Four-plus bedrooms: $930–$2,048. These prices include fuel. You pack, you drive, you unload—savings come with sweat equity.
What affects your moving cost
Move size: More belongings = higher cost. This is obvious, but worth being honest about what you actually own.
Season: Summer is peak moving season in Billings. Rates spike June through August. If you can move in fall or winter, you'll see lower quotes.
DIY vs. professional: A full-service mover handles everything but costs more. Truck rental is cheaper but you do the heavy lifting. Containers split the difference.
Cost of living: Billings vs. Arizona
Before you move, understand the financial picture. Arizona is more expensive than Billings overall, so budget accordingly.
| Metric | Billings, MT | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,300 | $1,308 |
| Average home price | $381,592 | $428,711 |
| Per capita income | $63,515 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 95 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 6.75% | 2.5% |
Rent is essentially the same—no shock there. But home prices in Arizona run about 12% higher, so your mortgage will climb if you're buying.
On the bright side, average earnings in Arizona are 14% higher than in Billings, giving you more income to work with. Unemployment is about 12% lower, meaning easier job hunting. And here's the kicker: Arizona's income tax is 63% lower than Montana's. You'll see real money hit your take-home pay.
Overall, living in Arizona costs about 13% more, so factor that into your post-move budget.
How life differs: Billings vs. Arizona
| Factor | Billings, MT | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 184,167 | 7,431,344 |
| Political lean | Republican 61-37 | Democrat 56-44 |
| Summer high | 88°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 16°F | 34°F |
| Annual rain | 14″ | 12″ |
| Annual snow | 46″ | 6″ |
| Crime index | 48.63 | 24.89 |
Climate is the biggest shift. Arizona summers are scorching—expect 99°F compared to Billings' 88°F. You'll need air conditioning and higher cooling bills. Winters are a gift: 34°F lows instead of 16°F. No 46 inches of snow to shovel; Arizona gets maybe 6 inches a year.
Rain is nearly identical (12 vs. 14 inches), so weather patterns won't feel radically different.
Crime is lower in Arizona—an index of 24.89 versus Billings at 48.63. Safer neighborhoods, generally stronger sense of security.
Politics shift hard. Arizona leans Democrat; Billings is solidly Republican. If you're politically engaged, you'll notice the difference.
Scale matters. Arizona's population is 7.4 million; Billings is 184,000. You're going from a mid-sized city to a sprawling state. Traffic, density, and urban culture all change.
Before you move: practical checklist
HOA and building rules
Check your new community's HOA or building rules before moving day. Some neighborhoods have restrictions on moving truck parking, noise hours, or elevator reservations. Ask ahead and avoid surprises.
Elevator and parking permits
If your Arizona destination has an elevator, reserve it in advance. Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check local requirements and get permits early.
State licensing and regulations
Arizona is largely unregulated, but local movers still fall under Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) oversight. Verify your moving company's license before booking. You can check status on the state regulator's official website.
Moving insurance
Read up on insurance before you move. Released Value Protection is the minimum—it's free but covers only 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV damaged in transit gets you $15. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about alternatives or third-party insurance providers.
Change of address
File your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving day. You can pick your official move date so mail forwarding syncs up correctly.
Moving checklist
Use a moving checklist to stay organized. It keeps the details straight so you focus on settling in, not scrambling.
What to do in Arizona
Arizona isn't just desert and heat. There's a lot to explore once you arrive.
Museums: Musical Instrument Museum, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Commemorative Air Force Museum, Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, Jerome State Historic Park.
Parks & outdoors: Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments, Petrified Forest National Park, Walnut Canyon National Monument, Saguaro National Park.
Sports: Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Arizona Coyotes (NHL), Arizona Rattlers (IFL).
Universities: Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, University of Arizona, American Indian College, Carrington College.
FAQ
How long does the move take?
Most moves from Billings to Arizona take 2–8 days, depending on whether you're doing full-service, container, or truck rental. Summer moves can stretch longer due to volume. Ask your mover for a specific delivery timeframe before you commit.
Can I get custom crating in Billings?
One mover in Billings offers custom crating for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm with your mover that materials and dimensions match your items' requirements.
How do I ship my car?
If your car is making the move too, hire specialists who know how to handle it. Check out car shipping options from Montana to Arizona.
Why are people moving to Arizona?
Economic opportunity and weather. Arizona's job market is strong, unemployment is low, and winters are mild. Folks escape harsh climates and find better tax treatment on income.
Do Billings movers accept cash?
Three movers in Billings take cash, but most of the industry prefers traceable payment (credit card, check). You'll typically pay a deposit to secure your date, then the balance at pickup or delivery. Ask your mover's payment schedule upfront.
Next steps
Ready to move? Get quotes from top movers and compare pricing for your specific route. The fastest way to settle on a real number is to request estimates from three or four companies—you'll see how rates vary and catch any hidden fees.
Need more info on routes from Billings? Check out other popular Montana moves or explore long-distance moving options nationwide.