If you're moving from Philadelphia to Arizona, you've got options—but not all movers handle the 2,266-mile haul equally. I've reviewed 69 Philadelphia-based moving companies that offer interstate service to Arizona, and below are the five that consistently stand out for reliability, cost, and customer experience.
Top 5 Moving Companies from Philadelphia to Arizona
1. Gentle Giant Moving Company — 4.5 / 5 2. Transtar Moving Systems — 4.58 / 5 3. Anchor Moving & Storage Inc. — 4.52 / 5 4. Keep It Moving, LLC — 4.5 / 5 5. Bellhop Moving — 4.38 / 5
Gentle Giant Moving Company
4.5 / 5 stars • 98% positive reviews
1450 S Warfield Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Gentle Giant has built a solid reputation across Philadelphia for careful, efficient moves. Their crews are trained to move fast without cutting corners—most jobs come in under the original estimate. Customers consistently praise their professionalism, respect for your stuff, and transparent pricing. Damage complaints are rare, though a few reviews mention slow claims handling when problems do occur.
What they offer:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Full packing and unpacking services
- Piano and specialty moving
- Storage and credit card payments accepted
Contact: (267) 606-4210
License: 373544 | DOT: 373544 | Years in business: 44
Transtar Moving Systems
4.58 / 5 stars • 92% positive reviews
925 N Lenola Rd, Moorestown, NJ 08057
Transtar stands out for meticulous handling and professional crews. Out of 257 reviews, over 91% praise their service. They're known for treating your belongings like their own—careful packing, efficient loading, and clear communication throughout. For a cross-country move like Philadelphia to Arizona, that attention matters. Like most movers, negative reviews tend to cluster around damage claims and delivery surprises, but Transtar's frequency of these issues is lower than industry average.
What they offer:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Full-service packing, unpacking, and crating
- Art, antiques, and piano moving
- Full-valuation coverage and storage
Contact: (856) 727-1060
License: 39PC00058806 | DOT: 939629 | Years in business: 63
Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.
4.52 / 5 stars • 88% positive reviews
8295 National Hwy Ste B, Pennsauken, NJ 08110
Anchor delivers speed and care. Customers report that estimates match final bills—no surprises—and crews finish on time. The team earns recognition for professionalism, and many movers are specifically praised by name in reviews. For a long-distance move to Arizona, this consistency is valuable. Some complaints center on damage and slow claims resolution, but Anchor generally handles these better than peers.
What they offer:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Full packing, unpacking, and custom crating
- Art and antiques expertise
- Shipment tracking and DOD certification
Contact: (856) 787-9898
License: 125550 | DOT: 125550 | Years in business: 51
Keep It Moving, LLC
4.5 / 5 stars • 70% positive reviews
300 E Godfrey Ave Suite 100, Philadelphia, PA 19120
Keep It Moving earns marks for professional, efficient work and fair pricing. Nearly 70% of customers (out of 164 reviews) highlight careful handling and timely service. The downside: over a quarter of reviews report property damage, delays, or lost items—higher than established competitors. They're a decent option if cost is your primary concern and you're willing to accept higher risk.
What they offer:
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing, unpacking, and crating
- Storage and antique moving
- Cash and credit card payments
Contact: (215) 939-2651
License: 8915205 | DOT: 2313514 | Years in business: 19
Bellhop Moving
4.38 / 5 stars • 58% positive reviews
230 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Bellhop appeals to budget-conscious movers—they're typically cheaper than traditional carriers. When moves go well, customers note efficiency, a friendly team, and clear communication. But here's the catch: a significant portion of reviews mention last-minute delays, missed appointments, and property damage. For a long-distance move to Arizona, schedule reliability matters. Only book Bellhop if your timeline is flexible.
What they offer:
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Storage and credit card payments
Contact: (866) 774-5063
License: 2878240 | DOT: 2878240 | Years in business: 14
Moving Services Available from Philadelphia
Out of the 69 movers reviewed in Philadelphia, here's what they typically offer:
| Service | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 88.4% |
| Piano moving | 76.8% |
| Antiques | 59.4% |
| Art moving | 53.6% |
| Small moves | 37.7% |
Cost to Move from Philadelphia, PA to Arizona
Moving costs depend on your home size and service type. Here's what you can expect for a 2,266-mile move:
| Home Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,146 – $4,495 | $1,228 – $3,048 | $1,183 – $2,381 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,395 – $6,598 | $2,058 – $4,432 | $1,295 – $2,695 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,951 – $10,413 | $2,942 – $5,591 | $1,602 – $3,303 |
*These ranges are estimates based on verified pricing data updated monthly. Your actual cost depends on move size, add-on services, parking access, fuel rates, and season. Get a quote from multiple movers for an accurate picture.
Full-Service Moving Costs
A studio or one-bedroom move from Philadelphia to Arizona typically costs $1,146 to $4,495. A two- or three-bedroom home runs $3,395 to $6,598. For a four+ bedroom house, expect $5,951 to $10,413.
Full-service movers handle loading, driving, and unloading—ideal if you want to avoid the physical labor. Your cost reflects mileage, truck capacity, and add-on services like packing or storage.
Moving Container Costs
If you're only moving part of your belongings or want flexibility on timing, moving containers are competitive:
- Studio / 1 bed: $1,228 – $3,048
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,058 – $4,432
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,942 – $5,591
You pack at your own pace; the company delivers a container, picks it up when ready, and delivers to Arizona. This works well if your schedule is flexible.
Rental Truck Costs
Rental trucks are the cheapest option—$1,183 to $3,303 depending on home size—but you do all the driving and heavy lifting yourself. These estimates include fuel for the 2,266-mile drive.
What Affects Your Moving Cost
Several factors swing the price up or down:
- Move size: A studio is far cheaper than a 4+ bedroom house.
- Season: Summer demand (May–September) drives rates higher. Winter moves are cheaper.
- DIY vs. professional: Self-moves cost less upfront but demand physical labor. Professional movers cost more but handle everything.
- Add-ons: Packing, storage, specialty handling (pianos, art) all add to the bill.
- Distance and logistics: The 2,266-mile Philadelphia-to-Arizona route is standard long-distance pricing; obstacles like narrow stairwells or lack of parking elevate costs.
Cost of Living: Philadelphia vs. Arizona
If you're concerned about financial adjustment after the move, here's what the data shows:
| Metric | Philadelphia | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. rent | $1,695 | $1,308 |
| Avg. home cost | $216,914 | $428,711 |
| Avg. income (per capita) | $70,746 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 104 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 2.5% |
Key takeaways:
- Rent: Arizona is roughly 23% cheaper—you'll save money on monthly housing costs.
- Home prices: Arizona homes cost about 97% more than Philadelphia. If you're buying, your mortgage will be higher.
- Income: Average earnings are nearly identical, so your purchasing power stays stable.
- Taxes: Arizona's state income tax is 19% lower, putting more money in your pocket annually.
- Jobs: Arizona's unemployment rate is 66% lower—a real advantage if you're job hunting.
- Overall cost of living: Roughly equal between the two states, so you won't face major budget shock.
Climate & Lifestyle Differences
Weather
Arizona summers are significantly hotter—highs reach 99°F vs. Philadelphia's 87°F. You'll need good air conditioning. Winters are milder: 34°F in Arizona vs. 26°F in Philadelphia, meaning less shoveling and lower heating bills.
Rainfall is the biggest difference: Arizona gets 12 inches yearly; Philadelphia gets 47 inches. Expect dramatically more sunshine and fewer rain days.
Population & Politics
Philadelphia has 1.6 million people; Arizona (the state) has 7.4 million. Arizona leans slightly Democratic statewide, similar to Philadelphia's strong Democratic lean.
Safety
Arizona has a lower crime index (24.89 vs. Philadelphia's 66.09), suggesting safer neighborhoods overall.
Important Before You Move
State Licensing & Regulations
Arizona is largely unregulated compared to other states, but local movers must comply with Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures rules. Always verify your mover's license before booking.
Permits & Parking
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check your specific neighborhood.
- Elevator reservations: If you live in a high-rise, book the elevator well in advance.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods restrict move-in days or require advance notice.
- Moving permits in Arizona: None required statewide, but check local parking regs.
Change of Address
File your USPS change of address at least one week before moving. You can do this online at USPS.com.
Moving Insurance
Moving insurance varies by state. Most movers offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, but it covers only 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV damaged in transit gets reimbursed just $15. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about enhanced options or consider third-party insurance.
Moving Checklist
Keep yourself on track with a comprehensive moving checklist. There are deadlines and details you don't want to miss.
Things to Do in Arizona
Museums
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Outdoor Attractions
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- 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)
Education
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
FAQ
How long does a Philadelphia-to-Arizona move take?
Plan for 7–18 days depending on your service type and current mover demand. Summer moves (May–September) may take longer due to peak season backlog. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before you book.
How can I find movers offering custom crating in Philadelphia?
About 46 Philadelphia movers offer custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile items. When requesting a quote, specifically ask about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What's the best way to ship a car from Philadelphia to Arizona?
For auto transport, work with professional car shippers who specialize in long-distance routes. They'll protect your vehicle and handle logistics—much easier than driving it cross-country or towing yourself.
Why are people moving to Philadelphia to Arizona?
The main reasons: Arizona's strong job market (low unemployment), sunny weather, lower taxes, and lower rents. Cost of living is comparable, so the move doesn't require drastic budget adjustments.
Can I pay my move with cash?
Thirty movers in Philadelphia accept cash. However, most prefer card, ACH, or cashier's check for documentation. Typically you'll pay a deposit to secure your date, with the balance due at pickup or after delivery. Confirm payment methods before booking.
Where can I find long-distance movers in Philadelphia?
Start by comparing quotes from top-rated interstate movers. Use our moving cost calculator to get ballpark estimates, then call your top three choices for detailed quotes.
Related Moves & Resources
Other popular routes from Philadelphia:
- Philadelphia to California
- Philadelphia to Florida
- Philadelphia to Georgia
- Philadelphia to New York
Pennsylvania moving resources:
- Best Pennsylvania movers
- Best long-distance movers in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania auto transport companies
Other helpful tools:
Ready to move? Get quotes from top Philadelphia-to-Arizona movers and compare costs, timelines, and service options. The right mover makes a 2,266-mile move manageable.