Local moving companies in Minnesota
When making the move from Minnesota to Columbia, SC, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 42 Minnesota movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Columbia, SC.
- Matt’s Moving Company : 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- AAA Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 374236
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1704106
Matt’s Moving Company has been serving the St. Paul, MN area since 2009, specializing in local residential moves. Demonstrating a strong reputation, they hold a BBB rating of A+ and boast an impressive average Google rating of 4.6 from 227 reviews. Unlike many competitors, Matt’s Moving Company also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services and accepts credit cards without requiring a deposit. With a 3.9 average rating from 25 Yelp reviews, they stand out in the local moving market, making them a reliable choice for your moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 286311
Years in Business: 73
DOT #: 286311
Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company
Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Eagan, MN, since 1951. Unlike many nearby movers, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos and antiques. With an impressive Google rating of 4.8 based on 208 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they boast a strong reputation compared to competitors. Additionally, they provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a seamless moving experience. Though their Yelp rating is a modest 3.1 from 24 reviews, the overall sentiment leans positive, making them a reliable choice for your local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 36
DOT #: 1140502
Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota
AAA Movers, a trusted local moving company serving Minnesota residents since 1989, offers comprehensive residential moving services. Unlike some competitors, they provide a broad range of additional services such as office moving, packing and unpacking, and even piano moving. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and a strong average rating of 4.2 from over 700 reviews on Google, their reputation is solid despite mixed feedback on Yelp. AAA Movers stands out for their no-deposit policy and flexibility in payment methods, making them a reliable choice for your next local move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 309905
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck, serving Burnsville, MN since 2000, specializes in local residential moving, making them a reliable choice for nearby relocations. While their Yelp reviews are mixed, indicating room for improvement, their Google profile boasts a strong average rating of 4.3 from 270 reviews, and they hold an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other local movers, they stand out by offering comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they handle items like pianos and safes with care. Additionally, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, adding convenience for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 125550
Ace Moving & Warehousing, established in 2009, offers top-tier local residential moving services in and around Coon Rapids, MN. Setting them apart from many nearby movers, Ace Moving also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services, catering to a variety of specialty items such as pianos and antiques. Their impressive Google My Business profile, boasting an average rating of 4.8 from 283 reviews, underscores their reliability and quality, while their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further attests to their reputable standing. Although their Yelp rating is lower, the overall sentiment from a majority of customers indicates they are a dependable choice for your local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Cost to move from Minnesota to Columbia, SC
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Minnesota to Columbia, SC, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,203 – $4,899 | $937 – $2,368 | $801 – $1,579 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,906 – $6,700 | $1,642 – $3,248 | $848 – $1,896 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,303 – $9,723 | $2,366 – $4,274 | $1,145 – $2,269 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,371-mile move from Minnesota to Columbia, SC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Minnesota to Columbia, SC
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Minnesota to Columbia, SC, you can expect prices to land between $1,203 and $4,899. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,906 to $6,700. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,303 and $9,723.
Cost of moving containers from Minnesota to Columbia, SC
Moving containers from Minnesota to Columbia, SC, will cost you $937 to $2,368 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,642 to $3,248. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,366 to $4,274. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Minnesota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Minnesota to Columbia, SC
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $801 and $1,579 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Minnesota to Columbia, SC with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $848 to $1,896. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,145 to $2,269.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Minnesota to Columbia, SC
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matt’s Moving Company | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| AAA Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Ace Moving & Warehousing | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Minnesota movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Minnesota | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 97% | 96% |
| Antiques | 34% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Minnesota to Columbia, SC
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Columbia, SC stacks up against Minnesota. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Minnesota vs. Columbia, SC
| Minnesota | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,178 | $1,447 |
| Average home cost | $334,119 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $84,313 | $64,683 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 5.2% |
| State Income Tax | 9.85% | 7.0% |
Columbia sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 23% more expensive in Columbia than in Minnesota, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- Moving to Columbia means you’ll spend about 34% less on housing compared to Minnesota, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Columbia are typically about 23% lower than in Minnesota. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Columbia runs 53% above Minnesota, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes are 29% lower in South Carolina than in Minnesota, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Columbia from Minnesota
| Columbia | Minnesota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 5,737,915 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51.1-46.9 | |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 35ºF | 2ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 29″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 22.47 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Columbia voted and Minnesota voted Democratic.
- Summer temperatures in Columbia typically reach 94ºF, while in Minnesota, highs average around 81ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and hotter days.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Columbia generally drop to around 35ºF, while Minnesota can get as cold as 2ºF. Moving to Columbia means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- 46 inches of rain each year in Columbia, considerably more than the 29 inches you’re used to in Minnesota. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- In Columbia, you’ll see just 1 inch of snow each year, compared to Minnesota, which gets 47 inches annually. Moving to Columbia means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Columbia is safer than Minnesota, with a crime index of 3.0 compared to 22.47. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Columbia
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Columbia can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Columbia
- South Carolina State Museum
- Columbia Museum of Art
- South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
- EdVenture Children’s Museum
- South Carolina Military Museum
Parks in Columbia
- Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
- Saluda Shoals Park
- Sesquicentennial State Park
- Finlay Park
- Memorial Park
Sports teams in Columbia
- Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)
- South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)
- Benedict Tigers (SIAC)
Universities in Columbia
- Virginia College Columbia
- University of Phoenix Columbia Campus
- Allen University
- Benedict College
- Columbia College
Other considerations when moving to Columbia, SC
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your South Carolina moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to South Carolina, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to South Carolina. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Minnesota to Columbia take?
The time it takes to move from Minnesota to Columbia, SC varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Columbia from northern Minnesota, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Minnesota to Columbia typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Minnesota to Columbia?
Because of the 1,371-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Minnesota to Columbia as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Columbia, SC?
With summer temperatures reaching 94°F and winter nights dipping to 35°F, most people make the move from Minnesota to Columbia in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Minnesota moving services
Popular Minnesota routes
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