Compare Scottsdale to Colorado moving costs, top-rated movers, and what to expect before your interstate move. Get quotes from verified carriers.
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If you're moving from Scottsdale to Colorado, you're looking at roughly 708 miles of travel across some challenging terrain. That distance and the shift from desert heat to alpine climate make this move more complex than a local haul—and the right mover makes a real difference in how smoothly it goes.
I've tracked data on movers serving this route and put together what you need to know: the best operators, realistic costs for your home size, and the actual lifestyle differences between Scottsdale and Colorado.
Out of 67 Scottsdale-area movers equipped for interstate work, here are five that consistently earn high marks for Colorado relocations:
Rating: 4.6 / 5 | Reviews analyzed: 222
Positive: 98% | Negative: 1%
Address: 4627 E Ivy St, Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: (480) 213-0395
Years in business: 20
DOT #: 1759501
Just-In Time stands out for dependable, professional crews and transparent pricing. Out of 222 reviews, 98% highlighted speedy moves, careful handling, excellent communication, and stress-free experiences. Many clients reported paying less than their original quotes—a rarity that signals honest bidding.
The 1% of negative feedback centered on item damage and claims resolution issues, which is minimal compared to most carriers. Customers consistently praised politeness from both office staff and crews, and the ease of booking and coordination.
Services offered: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, piano moving, crating, hot tubs, pool tables, antiques, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing.
Payment: Credit card, deposit required.
Rating: 4.7 / 5 | Reviews analyzed: 357
Positive: 97% | Negative: 3%
Address: 6056 E Baseline Rd, Suite 149, Mesa, AZ 85206
Phone: (480) 825-8648
Years in business: 8
DOT #: 3190108
Gilbert Moving earned the highest rating in this group with an exceptional 97% positive feedback rate. Customers describe the team as professional, quick-moving, and attentive to communication from booking through delivery. The standout: transparent pricing means fewer surprises on the final invoice. Many clients note that movers handle fragile items with visible care and work efficiently to save time and money.
The 3% of critical input involved property damage, unexpected charges, or insurance claim friction—issues that do occur across the industry but at lower frequency here than average.
Services offered: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, office relocations, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Payment: Credit card.
Rating: 4.66 / 5 | Reviews analyzed: 121
Positive: 90% | Negative: 5%
Address: 10000 N. 31st Ave., Suite C100-127, Phoenix, AZ 85051
Phone: (800) 275-7767
Years in business: 30
DOT #: 1836576
Alternate name: Scottsdale Moving & Storage Inc
NorthStar pairs efficiency with attentive communication—a combination that keeps damage rates low and customer satisfaction high. From 121 feedback entries, 90% praised fast-moving crews, courteous staff, careful handling, and clear updates throughout the move. Customers often describe teams as quick, thorough, and respectful from scheduling through delivery.
Only 5% cited problems, mainly around item damage, unfriendly staff interactions, or higher-than-expected final charges. That's well below typical industry noise levels. NorthStar's responsiveness and efficiency set it apart, especially if you value friendly movers and minimal stress.
Services offered: Local, interstate, and international moves. Packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Payment: Cash, credit card.
Rating: 4.62 / 5 | Reviews analyzed: 126
Positive: 89% | Negative: 10%
Address: 3416 S 48th St Suite 3, Phoenix, AZ 85040
Phone: (480) 605-1782
Years in business: 8
DOT #: 2911596
Mentors earns consistent praise for speed, professionalism, and careful handling. Nearly 89% of feedback highlights efficient crews, courteous attitudes, punctual arrivals, and clear communication. Customers appreciate that teams deliver without rushing and respect property—a balance many movers struggle with.
On the downside, about 10% of input flagged lost or broken items, higher-than-expected final charges, or slow claims resolution. While these complaints exist, they're less frequent than at typical moving firms. If you're shipping high-value or fragile items, verify insurance coverage and get estimates in writing.
Services offered: Local, interstate, and international moves. Packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing.
Payment: Credit card.
Rating: 4.58 / 5 | Reviews analyzed: 267
Positive: 76% | Negative: 24%
Address: 7039 E 6th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Phone: (480) 582-0747
Years in business: 26
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck delivers efficiency and professional courtesy—traits that show up in 76% of positive feedback. Customers highlight quick moves, polite staff, careful handling, and well-organized logistics. Movers are described as hard-working, courteous, and respectful of property.
The 24% of critical input centers on damaged items, surprise charges, and communication gaps from office staff. Some customers also mention friction with claims handling or unexpected fees after quoted prices. While most moves run smoothly, this company's claim resolution could be sharper. Confirm all details in writing and monitor the final invoice carefully.
Services offered: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes.
Payment: Credit card.
Here's what you'll spend based on home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,113–$3,650 | $681–$1,701 | $479–$936 |
| 2–3 bed | $2,152–$5,060 | $1,277–$2,403 | $527–$1,068 |
| 4+ bed | $3,666–$7,602 | $1,609–$3,090 | $647–$1,346 |
These estimates are based on a 708-mile move and reflect market data as of Jan 2026. Your actual cost will vary based on load size, extra services, access or parking challenges, fuel prices, and move date. Use our moving cost calculator to get personalized quotes.
A professional moving crew handles everything—packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking (if you pay for it). Costs scale with home size, distance, and whether you add specialty services like piano moving or white-glove unpacking. Summer months see higher rates; booking in fall or winter typically saves 10–20%.
Companies like PODS or U-Pack drop a container at your door, you pack at your pace, and they haul it to Colorado. You control the timeline, which appeals to flexible schedules. Containers cost less than full-service for smaller homes but more for large 4+ bedroom moves, because you're renting the box itself, not just labor.
The cheapest option—but you do all the work: packing, loading, driving 708 miles, unloading. Fuel is included in these estimates. Rental trucks make sense if you have a small load, a flexible schedule, and don't mind physical labor. For a family's entire home, the fatigue and time cost often outweigh savings.
Move size — More belongings = heavier load = higher cost. A studio runs 15–20% less than a 3-bedroom.
Time of year — Peak summer (May–September) sees 20–30% rate premiums. Spring and fall offer better pricing.
Distance and terrain — The 708-mile haul crosses elevation gain and potential weather delays. Movers price accordingly.
Specialty items — Pianos, safes, hot tubs, or fine art add $500–$2,500 depending on what you're moving.
Service level — Full packing costs more than "loading and transport only." White-glove service (unpacking and setup) adds another 15–25%.
DOT licensing and insurance — Legitimate interstate carriers charge more than unlicensed operators because they carry proper liability coverage.
Moving to Colorado typically costs less to live in, which is a real draw. Here's the financial breakdown:
| Metric | Scottsdale, AZ | Colorado | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $3,300 | $1,594 | 52% lower in CO |
| Average home cost | $827,308 | $541,072 | 35% lower in CO |
| Per capita income | $64,533 | $87,598 | 36% higher in CO |
| Cost of living index | 113 | 91 | 19% lower in CO |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 4.1% | 13% lower in CO |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 5.49% | 120% higher in CO |
The takeaway: Colorado's rent and home prices are substantially lower, and average incomes run higher—meaning more purchasing power. However, Colorado's state income tax is roughly double Arizona's, so your paycheck won't stretch as far after taxes. Run the full math before deciding.
| Factor | Scottsdale, AZ | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 241,361 | 5.8M |
| Political lean | Republican 52–48 | Democrat 54–46 |
| Summer high | 104°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 42°F | 13°F |
| Annual rainfall | 11" | 16" |
| Annual snowfall | 0" | 63" |
| Crime index | 25.8 | 36.4 |
Colorado summers are roughly 18°F cooler than Scottsdale—pleasant relief if you hate desert heat, but you'll lose that year-round outdoor lifestyle. Winters are much colder (13°F vs. 42°F), bringing 63 inches of snow annually. That means heating costs, winter vehicle maintenance, snow removal, and seasonal clothing. If you enjoy skiing, hiking in snow, or winter sports, Colorado's climate is a major upgrade. If you love heat and minimal weather drama, you're trading comfort for something unfamiliar.
Scottsdale leans Republican; Colorado leans Democratic. If politics influence your neighborhood choice, factor that into your decision on where to settle in the state.
Colorado's crime index (36.4) runs higher than Scottsdale's (25.8). Check specific neighborhoods and local crime maps before finalizing a place to live.
Moving from Scottsdale to Colorado isn't just packing and driving. Handle these details first:
Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) licensing
Colorado regulates local and intrastate movers. Verify your moving company's license on the COPUC official site before booking. Any mover claiming to do interstate work should carry a USDOT number (visible on their truck and paperwork).
Moving permits
Colorado does not require moving permits statewide. However, check if your specific city or county (Denver, Boulder, etc.) requires truck parking permits or reserved loading zones.
Elevator reservation
If you're in a multi-unit building in Scottsdale, reserve the elevator for moving day well in advance—especially during peak summer.
Truck parking and HOA rules
Some Scottsdale neighborhoods restrict moving truck parking on streets. Check your HOA rules and notify neighbors if needed. Same goes for your Colorado destination address.
USPS change of address
File your change of address at USPS.com at least one week before your move. Your mail will forward to Colorado automatically for 12 months.
Moving insurance
Colorado doesn't mandate specific insurance, but movers must carry some form of liability. Ask your carrier about two options:
Consider a moving cost calculator or third-party mover's insurance if you have valuable belongings.
Moving checklist
Use our comprehensive checklist to stay organized throughout the move. It covers packing, address changes, utility transfers, and settling-in tasks.
Once you've arrived, Colorado offers plenty:
Outdoor recreation
Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Mesa Verde, and Canyons of the Ancients are all within reach. Summer hiking, winter skiing, and fall foliage drives are world-class.
Museums and culture
Denver Botanic Gardens, Argo Mill and Tunnel, Rosemount Museum, Benson Park Sculpture Garden, Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
Sports
Denver Broncos (NFL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Rockies (MLB), Colorado Avalanche (NHL), Denver Barbarians (RSL).
Higher education
University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, University of Denver, US Air Force Academy.
How long does a move from Scottsdale to Colorado take?
One to six days on average, depending on your service type. Full-service movers typically deliver in 3–5 days. Moving containers or DIY truck rentals give you more flexibility but take longer if you pack slowly. Summer moves often stretch longer due to carrier demand and heat. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before booking.
Do Scottsdale movers offer custom crating?
Yes. 38 of the 67 Scottsdale movers on file offer custom crating for fragile, oversized, or unusually shaped items (pianos, art, sculptures). Ask about specs and timeline—custom crates add $300–$1,500 depending on size and complexity.
What's the best way to ship my car from Scottsdale to Colorado?
Use a carrier with proven car shipping experience and positive reviews. Get multiple quotes—costs typically run $800–$1,200 for open transport. For luxury or classic vehicles, enclosed transport costs more but protects against weather and road debris.
Why are people moving from Scottsdale to Colorado?
Job opportunities, lower cost of living, better income-to-cost-of-living ratio, outdoor recreation, and escape from intense heat are the top reasons. Some people also move for climate change concerns (Arizona's water scarcity) or to be closer to family in the Mountain West.
What are the best long-distance movers in Scottsdale?
The five I've detailed above—Just-In Time, Gilbert, NorthStar, Mentors, and Two Men and a Truck—have the strongest track records for Colorado moves. Compare quotes from multiple carriers to get the best price for your home size and move date.
Can I pay cash for my Scottsdale move?
About 15 movers in the Scottsdale area accept cash, but it's the exception. Most carriers require a deposit (usually 25–50% of the quote) paid via credit card or bank transfer, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Verify payment methods before booking—cash-only movers are rare and may lack proper licensing.
Moving cost calculator — Estimate your Scottsdale to Colorado move in seconds.
How to choose a mover — Our guide to evaluating carriers, checking credentials, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Moving checklist — Stay organized from packing through unpacking.
Best long-distance movers — National carriers that handle interstate routes.
Moving containers guide — Breakdown of PODS, U-Pack, and similar services.
Truck rental guide — DIY moving costs and what to expect.
You've got the costs, the carrier options, and the lifestyle facts. Next step: get quotes from multiple movers on your home size and move date. Compare prices, read recent reviews, and ask about their claims process before signing anything. Moving from Scottsdale to Colorado is a solid financial and lifestyle move for the right person—make sure your mover doesn't botch the execution.
