---
title: "Moving from San Bernardino to Arizona: Top Movers & Real Costs"
description: "Compare the best San Bernardino movers for Arizona relocations. Get pricing, reviews, and cost-of-living data to plan your move."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords:
- san bernardino to arizona movers
- moving from san bernardino ca to arizona
- san bernardino moving companies
- cost to move san bernardino to arizona
- arizona movers
---
Moving from San Bernardino to Arizona: Top Movers & Real Costs
If you're moving from San Bernardino to Arizona, you're looking at a 466-mile haul that'll land you in a warmer, significantly cheaper market. I've reviewed 34 movers in the San Bernardino area who handle this route regularly, and I've narrowed it down to the five worth your time.
Top 5 San Bernardino to Arizona Movers
- VIP Transport, Inc. — 4.62 / 5 stars
- Burgess Moving and Storage — 4.42 / 5 stars
- Alex Moving and Storage — 4.38 / 5 stars
- Golden West Moving Systems, Inc. — 4.38 / 5 stars
- Inland Empire Movers — 4.36 / 5 stars
VIP Transport, Inc.
Rating: 4.6 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Address: 2703 Wardlow Rd, Corona, CA 92882
Phone: (951) 272-3700
License #: 0137029 | DOT #: 125563 | Years in Business: 43
Why they stand out
Out of 244 reviews I analyzed, 88.5% were positive. VIP Transport's strength lies in professional crews who communicate clearly and handle your stuff with genuine care. Customers consistently mention efficiency paired with a willingness to tackle complex moves without cutting corners. The teams are described as friendly and organized—both in the office and on the truck.
The weak spot: about 9% of reviews cite damaged items or slow claims resolution. A few mention delivery timeline hiccups. Still, these issues are the exception, not the rule.
Services offered
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Full packing and unpacking
- Crating, piano, art, and antiques handling
- Full-valuation coverage and storage
Burgess Moving and Storage
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | Yelp | BBB A+
Address: 1625 Iowa Ave., Riverside, CA 92507
Phone: (951) 682-4300
License #: 0056647 | DOT #: 070851 | Years in Business: 78
Why they stand out
Burgess has been around since 1945, and it shows. Out of 100 reviews analyzed, 86% praised them for professional, respectful movers who genuinely care about your belongings. Customers highlight clear communication, thoughtful packing (they label well), and an ability to handle fragile or complicated moves without drama.
The downside: 11% of feedback mentions damage, poor follow-up on claims, or surprise charges. A small number had delivery delays. They're solid, but accountability on the back end isn't flawless.
Services offered
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Packing, unpacking, and full-valuation coverage
- Piano, art, and crating services
- Storage and fragile-only packing
Alex Moving and Storage
Rating: 4.3 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Address: 1877 N Massachusetts Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92411
Phone: (714) 482-3599
License #: 0164751 | DOT #: 582228 | Years in Business: 35
Why they stand out
Alex earned praise for fast moves and professional teams. Customers note clear communication and careful handling when things go right. They offer a wide range of specialty services—pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, antiques, art.
The reality: 54.8% of the 126 reviews analyzed were negative, citing damaged items, lost boxes, and communication breakdowns. Only 42.9% shared positive experiences. The inconsistency matters. You might get a smooth move or a frustrating one; it's a coin flip.
Services offered
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Packing, unpacking, and specialty crating
- Piano, hot tub, pool table, art, and antiques handling
- Full-valuation coverage, storage, shipment tracking
- Crane vans and DOD certification
Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.
Rating: 4.3 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Address: 5455 24th St, Riverside, CA 92509
Phone: (800) 548-2400
License #: 0190351 | DOT #: 70719 | Years in Business: 61
Why they stand out
Golden West earns solid marks for professional, efficient service. Customers praise accurate estimates, respectful crews, and smooth handling of both straightforward and complex moves. The company delivers higher-than-average reliability across residential and business relocations.
The weak spot: 13% of reviews focus on employee conduct issues, property damage, or limited service availability in some areas. These aren't deal-breakers, but they're worth knowing before you book.
Services offered
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Full packing and unpacking
- Crating, piano, art, and antiques handling
- Full-valuation coverage, storage, and safe relocation
- DOD certified
Inland Empire Movers
Rating: 4.3 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Address: 665 Center St #2, Riverside, CA 92507
Phone: (909) 922-0000
DOT #: 1778475 | Years in Business: 16
Why they stand out
Inland Empire handles a high volume of moves—they've accumulated nearly 1,200 reviews across platforms. The sheer volume tells you they're established and keep the work flowing. They offer specialty services like grandfather clock handling and crating, which some competitors skip.
Limited detail available on overall sentiment, but they maintain consistent ratings and have an A+ BBB profile, suggesting no serious systemic issues.
Services offered
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing, unpacking, and specialty crating
- Piano, art, and antiques handling
- Storage and flexible payment options
What San Bernardino Movers Actually Offer
Quick snapshot of specialty services available among the 34 movers I reviewed in the area:
- Interstate moves: 91.18%
- Piano moving: 85.29%
- Art handling: 64.71%
- Antiques: 58.82%
- Fragile-only packing: 47.06%
- Small moves: 38.24%
If you need specialty handling, you've got options. Most movers here handle interstate work—the San Bernardino-to-Arizona route is standard for them.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from San Bernardino to Arizona?
Here's what you're looking at for a 466-mile move:
| Home Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck (DIY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $994 – $3,030 | $644 – $1,427 | $371 – $651 |
| 2–3 bed | $1,925 – $4,867 | $1,130 – $2,284 | $383 – $845 |
| 4+ bed | $3,263 – $7,044 | $1,502 – $2,816 | $508 – $1,017 |
These are approximate estimates based on verified quotes as of January 2026. Your actual cost depends on move size, added services, parking conditions, fuel rates, and scheduling.
Full-Service Moving Companies
A studio or one-bedroom runs $994 to $3,030. If you're moving a 2–3 bedroom home, expect $1,925 to $4,867. For four or five bedrooms, plan on $3,263 to $7,044.
Full-service movers handle packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking. You pay more, but your time and stress take a hit that's worth the money on a 466-mile move.
Moving Containers (PODS, U-Pack, etc.)
These work best if you're flexible on timing. A studio or one-bedroom costs $644 to $1,427. Two to three bedrooms run $1,130 to $2,284. Four or more bedrooms land you at $1,502 to $2,816.
You pack and load yourself, they deliver the container, you unload at your own pace. Saves money compared to full-service, but requires more elbow grease.
Rental Trucks (DIY)
The cheapest option, but you're doing all the work. Studio or one-bedroom: $371 to $651. Two to three bedrooms: $383 to $845. Four or more: $508 to $1,017 (includes estimated fuel).
This route only makes sense if you're handy, have friends willing to help, and value saving $1,500+ over a weekend of labor.
To get personalized quotes from multiple movers, use the calculator.
What Drives Your Moving Cost
A few key factors shape your final bill:
- Move size. A studio is half the price of a five-bedroom home. There's no getting around this.
- Time of year. Summer (May–September) is peak demand. Expect higher rates. Winter is cheaper but your move date might be less flexible.
- DIY vs. professional. Professional movers cost more upfront but save you time, injury risk, and potential damage. Self-service saves money but demands real effort.
Cost of Living: San Bernardino vs. Arizona
Here's the financial reality of the move:
| Metric | San Bernardino | Arizona | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,950 | $1,308 | 33% cheaper in Arizona |
| Average home price | $481,419 | $428,711 | 11% cheaper in Arizona |
| Per capita income | $55,372 | $72,581 | 31% higher in Arizona |
| Cost of living index | 119 | 107 | 10% cheaper in Arizona |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% | 81% lower in Arizona |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 3.6% | 66% lower in Arizona |
What this means:
- Rent drops 33%. A $1,950 apartment in San Bernardino costs roughly $1,308 in Arizona. Real monthly savings.
- Home prices are 11% lower. If you buy, your mortgage shrinks.
- Salaries run 31% higher. Arizona employers pay more, on average, than San Bernardino. Your paycheck could go further.
- Income taxes are 81% lower. California's 13.3% state income tax versus Arizona's 2.5% is a massive difference. A $50,000 salary nets you nearly $5,500 more per year in Arizona.
- Jobs are easier to find. Arizona's unemployment is 3.6% versus San Bernardino's 10.6%. Better odds of landing work quickly.
Bottom line: If you're escaping California's high cost of living, Arizona delivers measurable relief.
Life in Arizona vs. San Bernardino
Beyond the spreadsheet, a few things shift when you move from San Bernardino to Arizona:
| Factor | San Bernardino | Arizona | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 222,101 | 7,431,344 | Arizona is much larger overall; Phoenix metro is dense |
| Political lean | 49.8% Dem / 48.3% Rep | 56% Dem / 44% Rep | Both lean Democratic, but Arizona is slightly more blue |
| Summer high | 95°F | 99°F | Slightly hotter; dry heat vs. any humidity |
| Winter low | 42°F | 34°F | 8 degrees colder; real winters with occasional snow |
| Annual rainfall | 13" | 12" | Nearly identical; dry climates both |
| Annual snowfall | 0" | 6" | Arizona gets actual snow; San Bernardino doesn't |
| Crime index | 73.87 | 24.89 | Arizona is significantly safer |
The reality:
- Summers are hotter but drier. Arizona averages 99°F vs. San Bernardino's 95°F. The difference is small, but Arizona's dry heat feels different from Southern California's occasional humidity.
- Winters are real. Expect lows around 34°F and about 6 inches of snow annually. San Bernardino gets neither. You'll need heating, snow removal prep, and winter gear.
- Crime is lower. Arizona's crime index (24.89) is roughly one-third of San Bernardino's (73.87). Safer neighborhoods, statistically.
- Politics are similar but not identical. Both regions lean Democratic, though Arizona isn't as blue. No major culture shock here.
- Rain and snow patterns don't change much. Both areas are dry. Don't expect lush vegetation anywhere.
Important Moving Logistics for Arizona
Before you book your mover, handle these details:
Permits & Parking
- Truck parking permits. Some Arizona cities require permits for large moving vehicles. Check your city's parking regulations ahead of time.
- HOA rules. Gated communities and HOAs often restrict move-in times or require advance notice. Verify before your move date.
- Elevator reservations. Apartment buildings may require you to reserve the elevator in advance. Ask your landlord or building manager.
- You don't need a moving permit in Arizona, but always confirm local parking rules.
State Regulations & Insurance
- Arizona moving licenses. Arizona's Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures oversee movers. Ensure your company has an active license before hiring.
- Moving insurance matters. Most movers offer Released Value Protection (60 cents per pound per item) at no extra charge. This is bare-bones coverage. A 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds would only get $15 reimbursement if lost. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about third-party insurance or request higher liability limits in your contract.
Before You Leave
- USPS change of address. File at least one week before your move at usps.com. Set your official move date so mail forwards without gaps.
- Utilities and subscriptions. Notify your provider at least two weeks out. Cancel or transfer internet, electricity, water, insurance, and any recurring services.
- Use a moving checklist to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Things to Do in Arizona
Once you're settled, Arizona offers plenty to explore.
Museums
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks & Outdoor
- 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)
Education
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a San Bernardino-to-Arizona move take?
One to four days, depending on the service and season. Summer moves may take longer due to demand. Always confirm the delivery timeframe with your mover before booking.
Do San Bernardino movers offer custom crating?
Yes. 27 movers in the San Bernardino area offer custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile items. When requesting quotes, ask about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What's the best way to ship a car from San Bernardino to Arizona?
Professional auto transport companies handle the logistics and protect your vehicle. Compare options at the calculator or reach out to our car shipping specialists.
Why are people moving from San Bernardino to Arizona?
Economic opportunity, lower cost of living, and pleasant weather are the big draws. Arizona's job market is stronger, salaries are higher, and taxes are much lower.
Can I pay my movers in cash?
Ten movers in San Bernardino accept cash, but it's rare in the industry. Most prefer card, ACH, or cashier's check for documentation. You'll typically pay a deposit to lock in your date, with the remainder due at pickup or after delivery. Always confirm payment methods and timing before you book.
Where can I find long-distance movers in San Bernardino?
Check our best long-distance movers guide, or compare quotes from multiple carriers.
Ready to move?
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If you're exploring moving to California from elsewhere or comparing other routes, we've got guides covering popular moves across the US. Whatever your route, start with real numbers.
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