Moving from Tucson to Ohio: Top Local Movers & Cost Guide
If you're moving from Tucson to Ohio, you're looking at a 1,900-mile interstate haul. That's the kind of distance where your choice of mover actually matters—you want a crew that shows up on time, handles your stuff with care, and doesn't nickel-and-dime you halfway through.
I've pulled together the five Tucson-based movers that have the best track records for long-distance moves to Ohio. These companies handle everything from full-service packing to temporary storage, so you've got real options depending on your budget and how hands-on you want to be.
Top 5 Tucson Movers for Moves to Ohio
Here's who I'd recommend based on customer reviews and experience:
- Abba & Sons Moving LLC — 4.58 / 5 stars (295 reviews)
- Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc. — 4.52 / 5 stars (202 reviews)
- E-Z Move — 4.48 / 5 stars (290 reviews)
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.56 / 5 stars (799 reviews)
- Daniel's Moving and Storage, Inc. — 4.52 / 5 stars (174 reviews)
Abba & Sons Moving LLC
Address: 237 W Fort Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
Phone: (520) 444-3133
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | BBB Grade: A+
Years in Business: 16 | DOT #: 1921793
What customers say
Abba & Sons shows up, works hard, and doesn't disappear when something goes sideways—that's the consistent refrain from customers. Nearly 90% of their 295 reviews are positive, highlighting on-time arrivals, efficient crews, and genuine care for your belongings. Customers appreciate honest pricing and smooth bookings, especially when they're scrambling to move on short notice.
The main gripe: damage complaints pop up more than you'd want, and a few people have cited surprise charges or late arrivals. But compared to other Tucson movers, Abba & Sons stands out for reliability and respect.
What they do:
- Local and interstate moves
- Full packing and unpacking
- Specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, art, antiques)
- Storage and full-valuation coverage
Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc.
Address: 501 S Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719
Phone: (520) 722-0456
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | BBB Grade: A
Years in Business: 35 | DOT #: 667348
What customers say
Nicolosi has been around since 1988, and repeat business tells the story. Out of 202 reviews, 86% are glowing—people rave about efficient service, careful handling, professional staff, and communication that actually happens before and during the move. Referrals are frequent because customers trust them to get it right.
Flip side: lost or missing items come up more often than you'd hope, along with property damage and slow follow-up on claims. Some customers complained about communication breakdowns or unexpected extra costs.
What they do:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Packing, unpacking, and crating
- Specialty handling (pianos, antiques, grandfather clocks)
- Full-valuation coverage and storage
E-Z Move
Address: 890 W Grant Rd Ste J, Tucson, AZ 85705
Phone: (520) 808-0347
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | BBB Grade: A+
Years in Business: 25 | DOT #: 1966983
What customers say
E-Z Move's crews are quick and polite—about 68% of 290 reviews praise efficient service, careful handling, and movers who go above and beyond. Many customers highlight how the team makes complex moves feel simple.
The catch: nearly 31% of reviews flag surprise costs, inaccurate quotes, and unprofessional conduct. Billing transparency is their weak spot. If you go with E-Z Move, lock down pricing in writing before moving day.
What they do:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Packing, unpacking, and crating
- Specialty items (pianos, art, antiques)
- Storage and credit card payments
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Address: 3773 W Ina Rd Ste 174, Tucson, AZ 85741
Phone: (520) 277-5825
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | BBB Grade: A
Years in Business: 19 | DOT #: 2527384
What customers say
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earns consistent praise for professionalism and speed. 81% of nearly 800 reviews highlight on-time arrivals, efficient work, respectful handling, and strong communication. Customers often compare them favorably to competitors and many book them again for repeat moves.
Downsides: about 16% report damaged items—broken furniture, mishandled valuables, and refund disputes. Some mention surprise charges above the quote or poor follow-up from office staff.
What they do:
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Specialty items (pianos, safes)
- Storage and credit card payments
Daniel's Moving and Storage, Inc.
Address: 3135 S Dodge Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: (520) 314-3686
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | BBB Grade: A+
Years in Business: 47 | DOT #: 1293335
What customers say
Daniel's has nearly five decades in the business, and most customers describe them as genuinely professional. 83% of 174 reviews praise careful handling, top-notch communication, efficiency, and courteous crews. When things go right, customers become repeat clients.
The problem: 16% report damaged or missing items, occasional unprofessional conduct, and slow responses to damage claims. Loss or damage can sour an otherwise smooth experience.
What they do:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Full packing, unpacking, and specialty crating
- Handling antiques, pianos, hot tubs, art
- Crane vans, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage
Tucson Moving Services Overview
Of the 13 interstate movers in Tucson that can handle a move to Ohio, here's what services they commonly offer:
| Service | % of Tucson Movers |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 100% |
| Small moves | 61.5% |
| Antiques handling | 69% |
| Art handling | 69% |
| Pianos | 84.6% |
| Fragile-only packing | 23% |
Cost to Move from Tucson to Ohio
Here's what you're actually looking at for a 1,907-mile move from Tucson to Ohio. Prices vary by home size and service type:
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,148 – $4,672 | $1,127 – $2,573 | $1,034 – $1,931 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,155 – $7,121 | $1,873 – $3,923 | $1,142 – $2,394 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,795 – $10,718 | $2,537 – $5,019 | $1,498 – $3,110 |
These are ballpark estimates based on 1,907 miles and updated pricing data. Your actual quote will depend on move size, optional services, parking challenges, fuel surcharges, and timing.
Hiring Full-Service Movers from Tucson to Ohio
Expect $1,148 to $4,672 for a studio or one-bedroom. Two to three bedrooms run $3,155 to $7,121. A four-bedroom or larger move falls between $5,795 and $10,718. The price factors in labor, truck, fuel, and basic liability coverage.
Moving Containers from Tucson to Ohio
If you want more flexibility—load on your timeline, they store and deliver—containers cost $1,127 to $2,573 for a small load, $1,873 to $3,923 for two to three bedrooms, and $2,537 to $5,019 for four or more bedrooms.
Rental Truck from Tucson to Ohio
DIY truck rental is the cheapest option: $1,034 to $1,931 for a studio, $1,142 to $2,394 for 2–3 bedrooms, and $1,498 to $3,110 for four or more. These quotes include estimated fuel. You'll do all the loading, driving, and unloading yourself.
What Drives Moving Costs from Tucson to Ohio
A few things will shift your final price:
- Move size: Bigger home = bigger truck = bigger bill. It's straightforward.
- Time of year: Summer is peak season. Book in May through August and you'll pay a premium. Off-season moves (November through March) usually cost less.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks are cheaper but demand your time and physical effort. Professionals cost more but handle the heavy lifting.
To estimate your specific move, use our moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least three companies.
Cost of Living: Tucson vs. Ohio
Moving isn't just about the transport—your everyday budget shifts too. Here's the breakdown:
| Metric | Tucson, AZ | Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,295 | $945 |
| Average home cost | $327,203 | $230,798 |
| Per capita income | $61,749 | $66,990 |
| Cost of living index | 97 | 94 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 3.5% |
What this means for you:
Rent in Ohio is about 27% cheaper than Tucson, and home prices run roughly 29% lower. That's real money in your pocket each month. Incomes in Ohio average about 8% higher, which can offset some cost increases elsewhere.
The overall cost of living is nearly identical—Ohio's index is 94 vs. Tucson's 97—so your budget shouldn't shift dramatically. But watch income taxes: Ohio's 3.5% tops Arizona's 2.5%, so plan for a bit more tax drag.
The big win: Ohio's unemployment rate (3.6%) vastly outpaces Tucson's (7.4%), meaning better job market conditions and more career stability.
Life in Ohio vs. Tucson
Moving 1,900 miles means real lifestyle changes. Here's what to expect:
| Factor | Tucson, AZ | Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 542,629 | 11,785,935 |
| Summer high | 101°F | 84°F |
| Winter low | 38°F | 20°F |
| Annual rain | 12″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 28″ |
| Crime index | 54.43 | 20.76 |
Weather Reality Check
Ohio summers are dramatically cooler—84°F vs. Tucson's brutal 101°F. You'll spend far less on air conditioning. Winters, though? Ohio hits 20°F while Tucson bottoms out at 38°F. That means heating costs, snow shoveling, and buying winter gear you don't need in Arizona.
Rain jumps from 12 inches annually in Tucson to 40 inches in Ohio. Pack an umbrella and waterproof boots. You'll also get about 28 inches of snow per year in Ohio—beautiful if you like winter sports, tedious if you don't.
Safety & Community
Ohio's crime index (20.76) is significantly lower than Tucson's (54.43). That translates to safer neighborhoods and less stress about break-ins and property crime. Both regions voted Republican in the last presidential election, so political climate isn't a major shift.
Pros of Living in Tucson
- Beautiful Sonoran Desert nature
- Renowned local food scene (especially Mexican cuisine)
- Mild winters with minimal snow
- Lower humidity
Pros of Living in Ohio
- Ample job opportunities and stronger job market
- Significantly lower cost of living
- Lower crime rates and safer neighborhoods
- Rich recreational opportunities (parks, outdoor activities)
- Famous craft beer scene
Cons of Living in Tucson
- High crime rate
- Limited economic opportunities
- Scorching summers
- Dangerous wildlife (scorpions, rattlesnakes)
Cons of Living in Ohio
- Harsh winters with heavy snow and ice
- Lower overall happiness ratings in some surveys
- Limited cultural diversity in some areas
- Political polarization in certain communities
- Gray, overcast days during winter months
Logistics Before You Move
Don't just book a truck and go. These details matter:
HOA & building rules: Confirm whether your HOA or building has moving restrictions, truck parking rules, or elevator reservation requirements. Some buildings require 48-hour notice and deposits for elevator use.
Truck parking permits: Certain Ohio cities require moving truck parking permits. Check local regulations before move day to avoid fines or towing.
USDOT registration: Ohio doesn't require a separate state license, but your mover must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Ask for their USDOT number and verify it before hiring.
Moving permits: Ohio doesn't mandate moving permits statewide, but local ordinances vary. Check with your destination city or county.
Change of address: Submit your USPS change-of-address form at least a week before moving. Set your move date on the form so mail starts forwarding automatically.
Moving insurance: Standard liability ("Released Value Protection") maxes out at 60 cents per pound per item—basically nothing. Consider full replacement coverage or third-party insurance if you're moving valuables.
Moving checklist: Use a structured moving checklist to stay organized and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
What to Do in Ohio
Ohio's worth the move. Here's what's waiting:
Museums & Culture
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland)
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (Columbus)
- Cleveland Museum of Art
- A Christmas Story House (Cleveland)
- National Museum of the US Air Force (Dayton)
Parks & Outdoor Space
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Wayne National Forest
- Upper Falls at Old Man's Cave
- Maumee Bay State Park
Sports
- Cincinnati Reds & Bengals
- Cleveland Guardians, Browns & Cavaliers
- Columbus Blue Jackets
Higher Education
- The Ohio State University (Columbus)
- University of Cincinnati
- Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland)
- Kent State University
- Bowling Green State University
FAQ
How long does a Tucson to Ohio move take?
Typically five to 16 days, depending on the service. Summer moves can take longer due to higher demand. Confirm delivery dates with your mover ahead of time to avoid surprises.
How many Tucson movers offer custom crating for art and antiques?
About 11 movers in Tucson can build custom crates for delicate or unusual items. Confirm with your chosen company that they can handle your specific pieces.
What's the best way to ship a car from Tucson to Ohio?
Choose a carrier that prioritizes vehicle care and has solid experience. Check our guide on auto transport for detailed options and pricing.
Why do people move from Tucson to Ohio?
The main draws are better job opportunities and lower cost of living. People leave Tucson primarily because of high crime and limited economic prospects.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Tucson?
Start with the five I've profiled here, then compare quotes from at least two more companies to lock in competitive pricing.
Do Tucson movers accept cash?
No. Most movers require credit cards, ACH transfers, or certified checks. Expect a deposit upfront to secure your date and crew, with the balance due at pickup or after delivery.
Ready to Move?
You've got solid options in Tucson for a long-distance haul to Ohio. The companies I've listed here have real track records—check your top choice's reviews on Yelp and Google Maps before committing.
Compare moving quotes from at least three movers to see where the real savings are. Most will give you a binding estimate over the phone once you provide basic details about your home and move date.
Got questions or want more detail on a specific mover? Reach out—I'm here to help you find the right fit for your Tucson to Ohio move.