## MoveFinders — AI Information Page
URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/scottsdale-to-ca
AI Information URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/scottsdale-to-ca/ai-information

## Page Overview
Title: Best Moving Companies in Scottsdale, AZ to California
Description: Top-rated movers in Scottsdale for moves to California. Compare costs, reviews, and services for your next long-distance move.
Category: Moving route guide
Published: 2026-08-07
Last Updated: 2026-08-07

## Author
Name: Sean Sullivan
Role: Senior Research Analyst
Bio: Sean has spent over a decade analyzing the moving industry, helping thousands of families find reliable movers. His research has been featured in Forbes, TIME, and Consumer Reports.

## SEO Keywords
Scottsdale movers, moving from Scottsdale to California, best movers in Scottsdale, moving cost Scottsdale to California, interstate movers Arizona

## Content

## Top Moving Companies in Scottsdale for California Moves

I've looked at 67 movers in Scottsdale that handle out-of-state relocations. Below are the five that consistently deliver solid results for moves to [California](/movers/california):

1. **Gilbert Moving & Storage** — 4.76 / 5
2. **NorthStar Moving Company** — 4.66 / 5
3. **Two Men and a Truck** — 4.58 / 5
4. **Just-In Time Moving & Storage** — 4.66 / 5
5. **Mentors Moving & Storage** — 4.62 / 5

### Two Men and a Truck

**Location:** 7039 E 6th Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251  
**Rating:** 4.5 / 5 (50 Yelp reviews, 48 Google reviews)  
**Better Business Bureau:** Grade A+

**What customers say:** Three-quarters of feedback I analyzed came back positive. People consistently mention efficient crews, professional handling of belongings, and quick turnarounds. The standout thread is respect for your property—movers who take care to move thoughtfully rather than rush through your home.

The complaints—about 24% of reviews—center on a few sore spots: damaged items arriving at the destination, surprise charges that didn't match the quote, and weak follow-up when something goes wrong. A handful of customers reported billing disputes or difficulty reaching management about claims.

**Bottom line:** Two Men and a Truck runs a tight operation for speed and courtesy, but nail down everything in writing and double-check your final invoice.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano moves, storage, safes.  
**Years in business:** 26  
**DOT #:** 2527384  
**Phone:** (480) 582-0747

---

### NorthStar Moving Company

**Location:** 10000 N. 31st Ave., Suite C100-127, Phoenix, AZ 85051  
**Rating:** 4.6 / 5 (118 Yelp reviews, 315 Google reviews)  
**Better Business Bureau:** Grade A+

**What customers say:** 90% of the feedback I reviewed praised NorthStar for fast, courteous crews and clear communication from booking through delivery. Customers note items arrive intact, costs stay in line with estimates, and the team checks in along the way. Few complaints surface—just 5%—mostly about isolated damage claims or the occasional unfriendly interaction.

**Bottom line:** NorthStar stands apart for responsiveness and professionalism. If you value a crew that listens and moves quickly without corner-cutting, this is a solid choice.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, international relocations, packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-value coverage, storage.  
**Years in business:** 30  
**DOT #:** 1836576  
**Phone:** (800) 275-7767

---

### Gilbert Moving & Storage

**Location:** 6056 E Baseline Rd, Suite 149, Mesa, AZ 85206  
**Rating:** 4.7 / 5 (133 Yelp reviews, 218 Google reviews)  
**Better Business Bureau:** Grade A+

**What customers say:** 97% of customer feedback came back positive. The standout quality here is communication—people report clear quotes upfront and transparent pricing throughout. The team is known for professional handling and quick work. Movers often cost *less* than the initial estimate, which tells me they're not padding hours or surprise-charging you at the end.

Negative reviews (3%) mention damage to belongings or disputes over insurance claims. These are rare, but worth knowing: if you have high-value or fragile items, confirm your coverage in writing.

**Bottom line:** Gilbert delivers professionalism and fair pricing. This is a company that seems to care about earning trust, not just collecting a check.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, antiques, crating, full-value coverage, storage.  
**Years in business:** 8  
**DOT #:** 3190108  
**Phone:** (480) 825-8648

---

### Mentors Moving & Storage

**Location:** 3416 S 48th St Suite 3, Phoenix, AZ 85040  
**Rating:** 4.6 / 5 (110 Yelp reviews, 286 Google reviews)  
**Better Business Bureau:** Grade A+

**What customers say:** 89% of the 126 reviews I analyzed highlight speed, courtesy, and care. Customers praise punctual arrivals, clear communication, and a crew that hustles without being careless. Payment stays transparent—you know what you're getting.

The 10% of negative feedback centers on broken or lost items, charges that ran well above the estimate, and frustration trying to resolve claims. A small handful reported significant damage with little company response. These complaints are less common than what you'd see with many other movers, but they do exist.

**Bottom line:** Mentors is a solid option for reliable, fast moves. If your load includes high-value or delicate items, verify insurance coverage and get everything in writing.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, international relocations, packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-value coverage, storage, safes.  
**Years in business:** 8  
**DOT #:** 2911596  
**Phone:** (480) 605-1782

---

### Just-In Time Moving & Storage

**Location:** 4627 E Ivy St, Mesa, AZ 85205  
**Rating:** 4.6 / 5 (844 Yelp reviews, 1,008 Google reviews)  
**Better Business Bureau:** Grade A+

**What customers say:** 98% of the 222 reviews I analyzed were positive. This company stands out for professional crews, speedy execution, and genuine respect from both office staff and movers. People repeatedly mention how "stress-free" the experience was—and I notice many paid *less* than their quotes, which suggests fair, transparent pricing.

Negative feedback makes up just 1.4% and focuses on rare instances of item damage or claims-handling delays. Neutral reviews mention occasional unprofessional behavior or poor truck-loading practices.

**Bottom line:** Just-In Time delivers reliability and communication at a level above most competitors. If you're seeking a hassle-free move with respectful treatment, this is a top pick.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-value coverage, storage, safes.  
**Years in business:** 20  
**DOT #:** 1759501  
**Phone:** (480) 213-0395

---

## Moving Services Available in Scottsdale

Here's a snapshot of specialty services among the 67 movers I tracked in Scottsdale:

- **Interstate moves:** 85% offer it
- **Small moves:** 57% offer it
- **Antiques:** 54% offer it
- **Art:** 51% offer it
- **Pianos:** 79% offer it
- **Fragile-only packing:** 34% offer it

---

## Cost to Move from Scottsdale to California

The table below shows typical price ranges based on a 600-mile move. Costs vary by home size and service type.

| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|-----------|---|---|---|
| **Studio / 1 bed** | $1,073–$3,462 | $664–$1,556 | $433–$800 |
| **2–3 beds** | $2,142–$5,436 | $1,199–$2,285 | $491–$940 |
| **4+ beds** | $3,480–$7,743 | $1,681–$2,985 | $601–$1,135 |

*These estimates are based on pricing data refreshed monthly. Final costs depend on your actual load size, add-ons (packing, storage), parking constraints, fuel surcharges, and timing. [Compare quotes](/calculator) with multiple companies for the most accurate numbers.*

### Full-Service Moving Costs

A studio or one-bedroom move from Scottsdale to California typically runs $1,073 to $3,462. Two to three bedrooms usually cost $2,142 to $5,436. Larger households—four or more bedrooms—expect $3,480 to $7,743.

### Moving Container Costs

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are a middle option. Small loads run $664 to $1,556. Two to three bedrooms run $1,199 to $2,285. Larger homes run $1,681 to $2,985.

### Rental Truck Costs

The cheapest path is a [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) if you're willing to handle packing and driving yourself. Studio to one-bedroom moves: $433 to $800. Two to three bedrooms: $491 to $940. Four or more bedrooms: $601 to $1,135. These figures include estimated fuel.

---

## What Drives Moving Costs from Scottsdale to California

Several factors shift your final bill:

- **Load size:** More belongings = higher cost. Be ruthless about what you actually need to move.
- **Seasonal demand:** Summer (June–August) is peak moving season in Scottsdale. Prices spike. Moving in the off-season (fall, winter, early spring) can save 10–20%.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Renting a truck is cheaper upfront but demands your time and labor. Professional movers cost more but save you days of physical work.
- **Timing and distance:** The 600-mile trek to California is long but not cross-country. Long-distance moves add fuel and time, but this route is manageable.

---

## Before You Move: Know the Cost-of-Living Shift

Moving from Scottsdale to [California](/movers/california) means a significant lifestyle change. California has a higher overall cost of living, so budgeting ahead is smart.

### Cost-of-Living Comparison

| Metric | Scottsdale, AZ | California |
|--------|---|---|
| **Average rent** | $3,300 | $1,856 |
| **Average home price** | $827,308 | $771,057 |
| **Average income (per capita)** | $64,533 | $91,905 |
| **Cost of living index** | 113 | 134 |
| **Unemployment rate** | 4.7% | 5.4% |
| **State income tax** | 2.5% | 13.3% |

**What this means:**

- **Rent drops 44%.** You'll save real money on housing each month.
- **Home values are 7% lower** in California, but the state's higher incomes partially offset this.
- **Salaries average 42% higher** in California, giving you more earning potential.
- **Overall cost of living is 19% higher.** Groceries, utilities, and services cost more. Budget for it.
- **Taxes are crushing.** California's 13.3% state income tax is 5x Scottsdale's rate. Your take-home pay shrinks significantly.
- **Job competition is steeper.** Unemployment runs 15% higher; expect more applicants per opening.

---

## Lifestyle Differences: Scottsdale vs. California

Moving changes more than your address. Here's how life shifts:

| Factor | Scottsdale, AZ | California |
|--------|---|---|
| **Population** | 241,361 | 39,029,342 |
| **Political lean** | Republican (52–48) | Democratic (59–41) |
| **Summer high** | 104°F | 87°F |
| **Winter low** | 42°F | 59°F |
| **Annual rain** | 11" | 22" |
| **Annual snow** | 0" | 7" |
| **Crime index** | 25.8 | 28.43 |

**Climate:** California's cooler summers (87°F vs. 104°F) mean lower AC bills and more time outdoors. Winters are milder too (59°F vs. 42°F)—no heavy heating needed. But California gets nearly twice the rain and occasional snow, so expect more days indoors and seasonal prep work.

**Population & politics:** You're moving from a city of 240,000 to a state of 39 million. California leans heavily Democratic; Scottsdale is more Republican. This shapes local policy, schools, and community culture.

**Weather preparedness:** Scottsdale is bone-dry; California is wetter. Stock rain gear and be ready for winter weather if you land in a higher-elevation area.

**Crime:** California's crime index (28.43) runs slightly higher than Scottsdale's (25.8). Research your specific neighborhood carefully.

---

## Pros and Cons: Making the Move

### Why People Choose California Over Scottsdale

- **Economic opportunity:** Higher average salaries and more job openings across industries.
- **Variety and culture:** Massive diversity, world-class museums, sports, restaurants, universities.
- **Mild winters:** No shoveling, lower heating bills, year-round outdoor recreation.
- **Fresh food:** California's agricultural abundance means cheaper, fresher produce.

### Why People Hesitate to Leave Scottsdale

- **Tourism crush:** Scottsdale's charm attracts crowds, especially in winter. Downtown can feel overrun.
- **Brutal heat:** 104°F summers are exhausting. Your AC bill spikes May through September.
- **Traffic:** Phoenix metro traffic is growing worse every year.

### Why People Regret Moving to California

- **Runaway cost of living:** Everything costs more—rent, groceries, gas, utilities.
- **Tax burden:** 13.3% state income tax plus high sales and property taxes eat into paychecks.
- **Traffic and congestion:** LA, Bay Area, and San Diego all rank among the nation's worst.
- **Natural disasters:** Wildfires, earthquakes, and occasional flooding are real risks.
- **Strange regulations:** California's rules on everything from vehicles to housing can feel over-the-top.

---

## Important Details Before You Move

Don't let logistical surprises derail your move. Check these boxes:

**HOA and building rules:** Review your new neighborhood's moving guidelines. Some communities restrict move hours or require advance notice. Confirm beforehand.

**Elevator reservation:** If your destination building has an elevator, reserve it in advance. Moving day without one is a nightmare.

**Truck parking permits:** Some California cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check your destination city's municipal code before move day.

**California mover licensing:** Any moving company you hire in California must have a "T Number" from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). This certifies they carry proper insurance, meet safety standards, and passed a criminal clearance. Verify the number on the [CPUC's official website](https://www.cpuc.ca.gov) before booking.

**Moving permits:** You won't need a moving permit in California, but confirm local parking rules in your destination neighborhood.

**Mail forwarding:** File your USPS change of address at least one week before moving. Choose your official move date, and the Post Office will forward your mail seamlessly.

**Insurance coverage:** Standard moving insurance limits liability to 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV worth $500 would be worth just $15 if damaged. Consider [full-value protection](/resources/moving-cost-guide) or third-party insurance for high-value items.

**Moving checklist:** Use a [comprehensive moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to stay organized and avoid last-minute scrambles.

---

## What to Do in California

California offers world-class attractions across multiple regions:

**Museums:**
- The Getty Center (Los Angeles)
- USS Midway Museum (San Diego)
- California State Railroad Museum (Sacramento)
- The Getty Villa (Malibu)

**Parks & Outdoor Spaces:**
- La Jolla Cove (San Diego)
- Heisler Park (Laguna Beach)
- Sonoma Plaza (Wine Country)
- Mount Rubidoux Park (Riverside)
- Redwood Regional Park (East Bay)

**Sports:**
- NHL: Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks
- MLB: Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers
- NBA: Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers

**Higher Education:**
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- UCLA
- University of Southern California (USC)
- UC San Diego

---

## FAQs

**How long does a Scottsdale-to-California move take?**

One to six days, depending on whether you book a standard move, expedited service, or a flexible timeline. Summer moves may take longer due to demand. Ask your moving company for a guaranteed delivery window before you book.

**Can movers do custom crating in Scottsdale?**

Yes. I track 38 movers in Scottsdale offering custom crating for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm the materials and dimensions match your items' needs.

**How do I ship a car from Scottsdale to California?**

Professional [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) companies specialize in this route. Look for carriers with proper licensing and insurance. Get quotes from multiple companies; prices vary based on vehicle size and service level.

**Why are people moving away from Scottsdale?**

The two big reasons: tourists (Scottsdale's winter appeal brings crowds) and traffic (Phoenix metro congestion has worsened). Some also tire of the brutal summer heat.

**Can I pay my mover in cash?**

About 15 movers in Scottsdale accept cash, but it's rare across the industry. Most prefer traceable payment methods (credit card, check, bank transfer) for records and receipts. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to secure your date; the rest is due at pickup or delivery.

---

## Ready to Move?

You've got solid options in Scottsdale for your California move. The five movers above have the reviews, experience, and range of services to handle your relocation seriously. [Compare quotes from multiple movers](/calculator) to lock in the best price and timeline for your situation.

Need more detail on moving costs? Check out our [complete moving cost guide](/resources/moving-cost-guide). Looking for [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) beyond Scottsdale? We've got you covered.

Safe travels to California.

## About MoveFinders
MoveFinders (movefinders.org) is an independent moving company research and comparison site.
We help people find trustworthy movers with unbiased reviews, cost estimates, and expert guidance.
Contact: https://movefinders.org/contact
Methodology: https://movefinders.org/methodology