Get Quotes from Top Movers in Phoenix, AZ

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Mover in Phoenix

According to the United States Census Bureau, the average American moves 11.7 times in their lifetime. Due to the sunshine, lower cost of living, and job availability, Phoenix is one of the most coveted cities for movers across the country. However, when you are moving into the city or to a new home, it is best to ask your movers the following questions to ensure you are picking the best company for the job:

Are You Licensed to Practice as a Moving Company in Phoenix?

Moving companies that operate in-state are regulated by the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Department of Weights and Measures, while interstate movers are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can check if a mover is federally licensed for interstate transfers by using the online FMCSA search application or calling (202) 385-2423. You can check a mover's local registration status using the Arizona Corporation Commission. Be aware that local moving businesses must also have a USDOT number from the United States Department of Transportation.

In addition to the occupational license, movers in Phoenix also need to register their business with the city. The transaction privilege tax (TPT) license is Arizona's most important state-level authorization or license. Anyone who does business in Arizona and wants to sell a product or provide a service subject to TPT must get a TPT license. Transporting activities, in particular, necessitate a TPT license. To apply for a TPT license, use the Arizona Department of Revenue's online platform or download the application and mail it to the department at:

Customer Care and Outreach
Arizona Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 29032
Phoenix, AZ 85038-9032

The business owner must also select a suitable business structure and obtain an EIN from the United States Internal Revenue Service for taxation purposes. For inquiries about licensing in Phoenix, contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety at:

Arizona Department of Public Safety
2222 West Encanto Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Phone: (602) 223-2000

How Much Do You Charge Compared with Other Movers in Phoenix?

While searching for a moving company to help you move inside or outside of Phoenix, knowing how much you will pay is crucial. The volume and size of objects being moved, the quantity to be covered, additional services like storage of household properties and assembly or disassembly of furniture, and tips are all factors that determine moving prices in Phoenix. In any case, moving companies in the city commonly use one of the following ways to determine their moving rates:

  • Hourly rate: Charges are based on the time it takes to accomplish the job, including the time it takes the mover to get to and from the houses in question, and are usually estimated per hour.
  • Weight/distance rates: Charges are calculated using the weight of the goods being moved and the distance traveled during the move.
  • Written binding rates: The mover provides a written estimate that includes all transportation charges and agreed-upon services, and this estimate is usually accompanied by an inventory of the items being moved. This is usually the only pricing method that allows for a precise estimate of the move's cost before the operation is completed.

It is always a brilliant idea to get and compare moving rates from several movers in the neighborhood before picking a moving company for your move within and outside of the city. Also, regardless of the method used to calculate moving rates, always obtain a bill of lading from the moving company at the time of pickup, as this can serve as a receipt for your goods that the mover transferred.

Phoenix's transportation and material moving workers earn an average annual wage of $42,370. The list below compares the hourly average wages earned by these workers in the city against those of transportation and material moving workers in other parts of Arizona as well as several other major cities in the country:

Phoenix Movers' Hourly Average Wage
$20.37
Arizona Movers' Hourly Average Wage
$19.83
Los Angeles Movers Hourly Average Wage
$21.09
Seattle Movers' Hourly Average Wage
$25.50
Chicago Movers' Hourly Average Wage
$20.86
Philadelphia Movers' Hourly Average Wage
$19.55
Houston Movers Hourly Average Wage
$20.53
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Will You Get a Moving Permit as Required by Phoenix Regulations?

A moving company in Phoenix may require permits to operate. To travel to or through the state legally, foreign-based interstate carriers entering Arizona must provide proof of a valid Arizona registration or International Registration Plan credential, as well as a valid fuel tax license.

In the absence of these, carriers must obtain the necessary permits to travel in the state. These permits, like the motor carrier permit for a commercial vehicle or vehicle combination with a gross vehicle weight rating of 12,000 pounds or more, expire after 96 hours (four days) or when the vehicle or vehicle combination leaves the state, whichever comes first. Permits can be purchased online or by mailing the application form to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

A Class A oversize/overweight permit may be required for vehicle and load combinations within particular size and weight limits. The Class A permit is valid for 30 days or one trip. Class A permits can only be used on state highways. For more information about permits required by moving companies in Phoenix, contact the Arizona Department of Transportation at:

1655 W. Jackson Street,
MD 111F
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 225 0072

What Kind of Moving Services Do You Offer?

When relocating inside or outside of Phoenix, it is vital to choose a moving company that not only offers the services you need but also has the experience you need. Moves or relocations in Phoenix are frequently categorized into five categories:

  • Local move
  • Long-distance move
  • Inter-state move
  • International move
  • Small move

A local move occurs within 50 to 100 miles of your existing residence and does not require you to relocate outside the state. Long-distance moves occur within the state but cover a greater distance than a local move. When you make an interstate move, you move to a new state. The weight of your belongings will influence the cost of this move. You will need to hire a mover who specializes in international moves if you are moving from one country to another. The volume of the shipment will determine the cost of the transfer. Finally, any local relocation, including things valued at less than 2,000 pounds, is considered a small move.

There are two types of supplementary services that movers may provide. The first is a full-service relocation, which means you won't have to do anything. The crew will handle everything, including packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and repacking your belongings to their final destination. A self-service move is one in which the moving company loads, transports, and unloads the belongings. You will be responsible for packing and unpacking.

It is always advisable to be aware of the exact nature of the services that a moving company provides before entering into any agreements with them to ensure that these services will meet your unique needs. It is crucial to note that it is your responsibility to inform the moving company about the sort and number of objects you will be transferring and any additional services you might require. This helps them to provide you with an exact estimate for the cost of the moving services and avoid any future disputes or misunderstandings.

The following are cost estimates for basic moving services provided by professional moving companies in Phoenix:

Local/long-distance residential moving (per hour, cost of moving truck inclusive)
$92.93 - $106.48
Piano moving (within Phoenix)
$260.39 - $291.37
Mobile home moving (for single-wide trailer at a distance of no more than 50 miles)
$2,224.95- $2,757.83
Moving out of studio apartment (item packing and unpacking included)
$238 - $357
Moving out of a two-bedroom apartment (item packing and unpacking included)
$267 - $476
Moving out of a three or four-bedroom apartment (item packing and unpacking included)
$595 - $1190

Do You Provide Packing and Storage Services?

Knowing whether or not your chosen moving company offers packing and unpacking services saves you time and energy while guaranteeing that your belongings are safely packed and organized before and after your move. Full packing services, partial packing services, professional box handling and organizing, and used box pick-up services are all standard packing services offered by moving companies in Phoenix.

Also, you may need to store your things at a storage facility, which can be mobile or stationary, before they are transferred to your new home or company. Apart from these considerations, there are a variety of other reasons why you might require self-storage, such as:

  • You are renovating your current home and require a secure temporary storage facility for your expensive mobile belongings while the work is being completed.
  • You are planning to move shortly and won't be able to access your present location until then.
  • You are downsizing and will not be able to fit all of your possessions in your new place.
  • You are planning a long-distance relocation and need time to settle in before your belongings arrive.

Irrespective of why you require packing or storage services, you should always check with your prospective moving company to see if they offer these services and if they will be charged separately. If your chosen moving company does not provide packing and storage, it may be in your best interest to choose one that does, as this will simplify the process by guaranteeing that you are dealing with a single organization. Find out how your belongings will be safeguarded and tagged, whether you will be allowed to see the storage facility ahead of time to guarantee it will be suitable for your belongings, and make a detailed note of everything you pack. Some moving firms also allow customers to bring their packing materials, which you should confirm if this is an option for you because it is a cost-effective approach to save money.

What is an Appropriate Tip for Your Movers in Phoenix?

When a service provider performs a fantastic job, it is usual to express gratitude with a tip, and movers are no exception. The following are some of the most typical reasons for tipping movers in Phoenix:

  • They arrive on time and work efficiently and professionally.
  • They transport bulky, heavy goods up and down numerous flights of stairs.
  • They handle your belongings with care, paying special attention to fragile and sensitive objects.
  • They treat you and your family with respect.

While the industry norm for tipping movers in the city is usually 15 to 20 percent of the whole move cost, it is sometimes a better idea to calculate these tips using an hourly average of $4 to $5 per mover per hour, which will put a half-day move of about 4 hours at $16 to $20 per person. This method is better because total charges typically include distance costs and other fees, most of which do not require the movers to perform any actual work.

Because tipping is optional, moving firms do not include the cost of these tips in their overall rates for your move. However, before finalizing any hiring arrangements with your selected moving company, inquire about what they consider an appropriate tip for their movers. If your movers deliver poor service, you should reduce your tip or not tip them at all, and you should also warn your moving firm of their movers' lack of professionalism.

Do You Carry the Necessary Insurance Policy for Movers in Phoenix?

Working in the moving industry is not risk-free and can result in property damage and work-related injuries. Transportation and material moving workers, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, accounted for 20 percent of all on-the-job injuries that required time off in 2018.

Federal law requires interstate movers to provide a minimal degree of damage protection. However, this protection depends on the item's weight rather than its value - 60 cents per pound is the minimum coverage required by law. While this coverage is included in most moves and costs nothing extra, it will not help if anything more valuable is damaged. As such, you will need to buy full damage coverage from the mover or buy insurance from a third party if you want complete coverage. You can also investigate if any loss or damage during the move is covered by your homeowner's or renter's insurance.

It is crucial to double-check that your selected moving company complies with all insurance requirements, as it will shield you from unforeseen costs and legal liabilities if any work-related damages or accidents occur during your relocation. By contacting the insurance company that provides it, confirm that the insurance is current and adequate to cover the scope of your relocation project.

Can You Provide References or Recommendations in Phoenix?

If your planned movers in Phoenix are unwilling to supply potential consumers with references or letters of recommendation from delighted past clients, consider it a red flag. Referrals are usually a sign that a moving company follows through on its promises and provides competent service, and some moving companies post these referrals on their official websites. Nonetheless, you should always double-check any references you are given by contacting them and receiving a first-hand account of their moving experience.

When it comes to offering exceptional customer service, you can tell if a moving company is open to referrals and suggestions. Customer service is what sets a mover apart from the competition in the moving industry. Also, a company that actively searches out reviews, encourages social sharing, engages influencers, and trains employees for referral purposes is dedicated to ensuring future clients of its reliability.

How to File a Complaint Against a Bad Moving Company in Phoenix

Moving scams commonly occur in the following ways: the disappearance of personal items, unjustified increases in moving expenses, and missed delivery deadlines. Knowing your rights and being able to spot the red flags as they appear is essential because it is easier to get scammed when you are unaware. You can lessen your chances of being victimized during your move by following the guidelines below:

  • Verify your mover's license or registration: Use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration search application to confirm that a mover is federally licensed to move goods outside Arizona. You can check with the Arizona Corporation Commission to see if a mover is registered for in-state moves.
  • Begin your investigation as soon as possible: You will be able to choose a trustworthy moving company if you take the time to investigate your options thoroughly. Use sites like the Better Business Bureau to check a company's complaint history and reputation. Friends, neighbors, and family might also be able to help.
  • Get written estimates and on-site inspections. Duplicitous movers will frequently give you a low offer over the phone or by email, only to demand much more once your belongings have been placed onto their truck or removed. On the other hand, reliable moving firms will offer you a more exact quotation, in writing and after they inspect the items to be moved.
  • Avoid brokers at all costs: Inquire whether a moving company functions as a mover or a broker. A broker may have a website or a salesperson, but they will employ a third-party moving firm to transport your belongings, and you have no say in who the broker hires.
  • Move some objects separately: Move valuables, vital medical items, and confidential objects yourself if possible.
  • Inquire about fees: Moving firms may charge you unexpected costs, so ask about all expenses before choosing a mover and find out how they will compute your payment. Although in-state movers can charge hourly charges, you have no control over how long the moving firm takes to transport your possessions. Ensure that your written estimate contains all fees so that you have something to fall back on if the mover tries to change the terms later.
  • Ensure to read all paperwork before signing: Dishonest movers have been known to change estimates and add hidden fees on moving days. Therefore, before signing any paperwork, read it thoroughly and do not sign anything you do not understand or agree to.
  • Check your things before signing an inventory list: Moving firms offer an inventory list of the objects that have been delivered. In most circumstances, signing that list confirms that the things were delivered and were in good condition. Check to ensure you have all your items and inspect them for damage before signing the inventory list.

If you feel you have been a victim of moving fraud or witnessed an attempted scam, please contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety's moving hotline at (602) 223-5000 or visit the Department at:

Arizona Department of Public Safety
2222 West Encanto Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85009

You can file a report with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration online or by contacting their Arizona office at:

FMCSA Arizona Division
230 North 1st Avenue
Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85003-1725
Phone:
(888) 368-7238

You can also direct your complaints to the Arizona Attorney General by filing a complaint online or contacting the office at:

Office of the Arizona Attorney General
2005 North Central Avenue,
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: (602) 542-5025