If you're moving from Mesa to Ohio, you're committing to roughly 1,900 miles and a move that's several categories above anything local. This is firmly long-distance mover territory — meaning who you hire matters enormously, and not every company that claims to do interstate work actually handles it well.
Below I'll walk you through what this route costs, which Mesa-area movers have the track records to back them up, and what life in Ohio actually looks like once you get there.
Local moving companies in Mesa
Out of 67 Mesa movers capable of handling state-to-state relocations, these five rank at the top for the Mesa to Ohio route:
- Gilbert Moving & Storage — 4.76 / 5
- Just-In Time Moving & Storage — 4.66 / 5
- Mentors Moving & Storage — 4.62 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.58 / 5
- NorthStar Moving Company — 4.66 / 5
Here's what the reviews actually say about each one.
Gilbert Moving & Storage
6056 E Baseline Rd, Suite 149, Mesa, AZ 85206 | (480) 825-8648
97% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB Grade A+
DOT #: 3190108 | 8 years in business
Across 357 reviews, Gilbert lands at 96.6% positive — and the specifics are what make it credible. Customers don't just say "they were great." They call out crews that worked efficiently without cutting corners, final bills that matched estimates (or came in under), and booking communication that left no surprises. The negatives cluster around property damage and insurance claim disputes, which is typical at this volume. For a Mesa-area independent, that level of consistent detail in positive reviews is genuinely hard to find.
Services: Local, interstate, packing/unpacking, offices, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Just-In Time Moving & Storage
4627 E Ivy St, Mesa, AZ 85205 | (480) 213-0395
98% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB Grade A+
DOT #: 1759501 | 20 years in business
Twenty years in business and a 98% positive rate across 222 analyzed reviews — that's not a fluke. What stands out: multiple reviewers note they paid less than their quotes. That's the opposite of what you see from shady carriers. The 1.4% negative feedback touches on item damage, claims resolution, and a few reports of unexpected charges after poor truck loading. If you want a local operator with real longevity and a reputation for transparent pricing, Just-In Time belongs on your shortlist.
Services: Local, interstate, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes.
Mentors Moving & Storage
3416 S 48th St Suite 3, Phoenix, AZ 85040 | (480) 605-1782
89% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB Grade A+
DOT #: 2911596 | 8 years in business
Mentors runs at 89% positive across 126 reviews, with consistent praise for speed, punctuality, and careful handling. The gap from the top two is where I'd pay attention: the negative reviews include reports of final charges well above estimates, and a few customers struggled to get meaningful responses after problems arose. Still a capable company — but if you're moving fragile or high-value items, get a binding estimate and confirm insurance coverage in writing before anything is loaded.
Services: Local, interstate, international, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
7039 E 6th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | (480) 582-0747
76% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB Grade A+
DOT #: 2527384 | 26 years in business
The 76% positive rate is the lowest on this list, and the 24% negative feedback — covering damaged items, surprise charges, and poor responsiveness from office staff — points to real inconsistency. That said, the positive reviews are strong: crews described as hard-working, efficient, and respectful of property. This is a case where getting everything in writing before the truck shows up makes a real difference. The franchise brand has 26 years behind it; this location has room to tighten its process on claims and billing.
Services: Local, interstate, packing/unpacking, pianos, storage, safes.
NorthStar Moving Company
10000 N. 31st Ave., Suite C100-127, Phoenix, AZ 85051 | (800) 275-7767
90% positive reviews | Yelp | BBB Grade A+
DOT #: 1836576 | 30 years in business (formerly Scottsdale Moving & Storage Inc.)
Thirty years in the industry and 90% positive feedback across 121 reviews. Reviewers consistently highlight fast crews, clear communication from scheduling through delivery, and reasonable final pricing. The 5% negative feedback mainly involves item damage and a few billing disputes — manageable for an operator this size. Worth getting a quote, especially if you want a company with deep interstate experience.
Services: Local, interstate, international, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Local moving services in Mesa, AZ
A quick look at how many Mesa movers offer key specialty services:
| Service | Count | % of Mesa movers |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 57 | 85% |
| Piano moving | 53 | 79% |
| Antiques | 36 | 54% |
| Art handling | 34 | 51% |
| Fragile-only packing | 23 | 34% |
Cost to move from Mesa, AZ to Ohio
Here's what this route looks like across home sizes and service types, based on a 1,898-mile move:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 BR | $1,206 – $4,763 | $1,066 – $2,764 | $1,034 – $1,909 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,228 – $6,745 | $1,917 – $3,776 | $1,175 – $2,511 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,685 – $9,932 | $2,726 – $5,450 | $1,481 – $2,898 |
Estimates are based on pricing data updated monthly to reflect market changes. Your actual cost will vary based on load size, additional services, access or parking conditions, fuel prices, and move date.
Use the moving cost calculator to plug in your home size and get a more precise number before you start calling around.
Cost to hire movers from Mesa to Ohio
A studio or one-bedroom with a full-service mover runs $1,206 to $4,763. Two or three bedrooms: $3,228 to $6,745. A four-bedroom or larger home lands between $5,685 and $9,932.
Those ranges are wide for a reason. The low end assumes straightforward access, no storage-in-transit, and off-peak timing. The high end reflects summer rates, elevator carries, long walks from the truck, and extra services. Get at least three quotes before committing.
Cost of moving containers from Mesa to Ohio
Moving containers sit between full-service and full DIY — you pack on your timeline, the company handles the long haul. A studio or one-bedroom runs $1,066 to $2,764. Two to three bedrooms: $1,917 to $3,776. Four or more bedrooms: $2,726 to $5,450.
Containers make the most sense if you're flexible on the delivery window and want to avoid the single-day pressure of a traditional move. If budget is your primary driver, compare container quotes alongside affordable full-service options — sometimes the gap is smaller than you'd expect.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Mesa to Ohio
The DIY truck route is cheapest on paper — but you're driving nearly 1,900 miles yourself and doing all the heavy lifting. A studio or one-bedroom rental runs $1,034 to $1,909. Two to three bedrooms: $1,175 to $2,511. Four or more bedrooms: $1,481 to $2,898. Fuel is already factored into these estimates.
If you're seriously considering the rental truck route, be honest about the cost of your time, the physical effort involved, and the risk of operating a large vehicle cross-country. For some situations it makes sense. For most four-bedroom moves, I'd price out the container option first.
Factors influencing moving costs from Mesa to OH
Three variables move the needle most on a move this far:
- Move size: Volume and weight drive cost more than distance at this range. A fully loaded four-bedroom costs significantly more than a studio even across the same miles.
- Time of year: Summer in Arizona is peak moving season. Book early and expect higher rates between May and August — both for movers and containers.
- DIY vs. professional: Going rental truck cuts the bill but adds real physical risk, time commitment, and driving stress. Professional movers cost more upfront but protect your belongings and your sanity.
What you should know before moving from Mesa to OH
Moving to Ohio is a genuine lifestyle shift — new climate, different community character, and a meaningfully lower cost of living. That last part is the headline for most people making this move.
Compare cost of living: Mesa vs. Ohio
| Mesa, AZ | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,786 | $945 |
| Average home cost | $432,892 | $230,798 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,524 | $66,990 |
| Cost of living index | 113 | 94 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.1% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 3.5% |
Mesa sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Ohio sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.
What those numbers mean in practice:
- Rent is about 47% cheaper in Ohio — that's real money back in your budget every month.
- Home prices are roughly 47% lower, which changes what homeownership looks like entirely.
- Income is roughly equal, so your earning potential doesn't take a hit when you move.
- Cost of living is about 17% lower overall, compounding across housing, groceries, and utilities.
- Unemployment is around 41% lower in Ohio, which points to a stronger job market.
- State income tax is higher in Ohio (3.5% vs. Arizona's 2.5%) — expect a slightly smaller paycheck.
How life is different in Mesa, AZ from Ohio
| Mesa, AZ | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 504,258 | 11,785,935 |
| Political leaning | Republican 52–48 | Republican 55–45 |
| Summer high | 105°F | 84°F |
| Winter low | 40°F | 20°F |
| Annual rain | 10" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 28" |
| Crime index | 44.67 | 20.76 |
Mesa sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Ohio sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow.
Here's what those stats actually feel like day-to-day:
- Politics: Both lean Republican, so that element stays consistent.
- Summer weather: Ohio's 84°F summer average is a substantial drop from Mesa's 105°F highs. Lower AC bills, more time spent outside.
- Winter: Ohio hits 20°F lows vs. Mesa's 40°F. You'll need cold-weather gear, a snow shovel, and a different relationship with January.
- Rain: Ohio gets 40 inches annually versus Mesa's 10. Greener landscapes, wetter commutes — pack a real rain jacket.
- Snow: Ohio sees about 28 inches per year. Mesa sees none. Budget time and money for winter preparation before your first season.
- Crime: Ohio's crime index of 20.76 compares favorably to Mesa's 44.67. For most people making this move, that's a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade.
Comparing the pros of Mesa, AZ versus Ohio
| Pros of living in Mesa, AZ | Pros of living in Ohio |
|---|---|
| Abundant outdoor activities | Strong economic opportunity |
| Beautiful desert scenery | Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living (relative to other AZ cities) | Excellent recreational options |
| Generally safe communities | Famous craft beer culture |
| Diverse food scene | Great food cities |
Comparing the cons of Mesa, AZ versus Ohio
| Cons of living in Mesa, AZ | Cons of living in Ohio |
|---|---|
| Heavy traffic | Lower happiness ratings |
| Tourism congestion | Limited diversity in some areas |
| Brutal summer heat | Political polarization |
| Wage pressure | Harsh winters |
Other considerations when moving to Ohio
Long-distance moves surface logistics you won't deal with on a local move. Work through these before moving day:
- HOA rules: Check your new community's moving policies — some restrict timing, truck access, or entry points.
- Elevator reservation: Moving into a building with an elevator? Reserve it in advance. The kind of thing that's obvious once you've forgotten it.
- Truck parking permits: Some Ohio cities require permits for oversized vehicles on residential streets. Confirm for your specific address.
- State licensing: Ohio doesn't require a state mover license, but your carrier must be registered with the USDOT. Ask for their DOT number and verify it directly through the FMCSA before signing a contract.
- Moving permits: Ohio has no statewide permit requirement, but check local parking rules for your destination neighborhood.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address at least a week before your move date. Set the forwarding start date to your actual move day.
- Moving insurance: Federal law requires movers to offer Released Value Protection at no charge — that's 60 cents per pound per item, which barely covers anything valuable. Ask about full-valuation coverage or a third-party policy before the truck leaves Mesa.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every step — especially important on a cross-country move where small oversights compound.
Things to do in Ohio
Ohio holds up well as a place to actually live — not just as a cost-of-living move. There's genuine depth in culture, outdoor space, and sports.
Museums in Ohio
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Cleveland Museum of Art
- A Christmas Story House
- National Museum of the US Air Force
Parks in Ohio
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Wayne National Forest
- Upper Falls at Old Man's Cave
- Maumee Bay State Park
Sports teams in Ohio
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB)
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
- Cleveland Browns (NFL)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Universities in Ohio
- The Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
- Case Western Reserve University
- Kent State University
- Bowling Green State University
FAQ
How long does a move from Mesa to Ohio take?
On a roughly 1,900-mile route, most moves take five to 16 days. Summer moves trend toward the longer end as carriers deal with peak-season demand. Ask for a firm delivery window before you book — and get it in writing so there's no confusion when you're waiting in Ohio with an empty apartment.
Do movers in Mesa offer custom-built crate services?
38 Mesa movers list custom crating as a service. It's worth asking about if you have fragile items, odd-shaped furniture, or anything valuable that standard wrapping won't protect well. Ask for specific crate dimensions and whether they'll build to your item's requirements before committing.
What is the best way to get a car from Mesa to Ohio?
Auto transport is the practical choice for a move this far. Use a carrier with verifiable credentials and a track record on this route. You can estimate what it'll cost using our car shipping calculator.
Why are people moving from Mesa to Ohio?
The most common reasons: Ohio's lower cost of living and better employment picture. On the Mesa side, traffic and the relentless summer heat are the most frequently cited push factors. If housing affordability or a job opportunity is driving your decision, Ohio makes real economic sense for a lot of Mesa households.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Mesa?
The five companies above are a solid starting point. For a broader comparison that includes national interstate carriers, check our full long-distance movers guide.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from Mesa, AZ?
15 Mesa movers accept cash, but it's increasingly the exception. Most carriers require traceable payment methods and prefer digital receipts. Standard practice is a deposit to lock in your date, with the balance due at pickup or after delivery. Confirm both the timing and the acceptable payment methods before you sign anything.
Ready to get real numbers? Compare mover quotes and estimate your move before locking in any carrier.