The best local movers for Columbus to Knoxville moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Columbus that also handles long-distance moves to Knoxville. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 29 local movers in Columbus who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Columbus to Knoxville.
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.92 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Integrity Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Black Tie Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 156647
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1444491
Alternate Names: MVM Columbus , MVM Columbus Incorporated.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00136562
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Alternate Names: Leaders Moving , Leaders Moving & Storage Co. , L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co. , Leaders Moving And Storage Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00151315
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1343775
Alternate Names: Integrity Moving, LLC , Integrity Moving , Columbus Piano Moving , Integrity Moving & Mobile Storage LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 604141
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2407712
Alternate Names: Black Tie Moving Columbus LLC , Black Tie Moving
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 11470
Years in Business: 143
DOT #: 1222904
Alternate Names: E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC , E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Columbus to Knoxville?
The average hourly rate for movers in Ohio is $153. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $974 – $2,999 | $598 – $1,431 | $329 – $583 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,677 – $4,802 | $1,061 – $2,196 | $369 – $721 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,663 – $6,562 | $1,478 – $2,633 | $453 – $828 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Knoxville
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Columbus to Knoxville will cost between $974 and $2,999. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Columbus to Columbus will range from $1,677 to $4,802, and a large move from Columbus to Knoxville will cost from $2,663 to $6,562.
Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Knoxville
If you’re moving from Columbus to Knoxville, expect to pay between $598 and $1,431 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,061 up to $2,196. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,478 and $2,633. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Knoxville
Renting a moving truck from Columbus to Knoxville is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $329 and $583. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $369 and $721. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $453 up to $828 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Columbus to Knoxville
The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,310, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $5,578.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbus, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($329–$771) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Columbus to Knoxville
Many movers find Knoxville easier on the wallet than Columbus – roughly 22% less for singles and 28% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,184 for one person in Knoxville versus $2,784 in Columbus. For a family of four, it’s $5,200 compared with $7,249.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Columbus | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,567 | $1,667 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,957 | $3,210 |
| Average home value | $238,832 | $350,035 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,075 | $61,050 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,784 | $2,184 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,249 | $5,200 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 4.7% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 9.25% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 0.0% |
- Rent is estimated to be 25% higher in Knoxville compared to Columbus; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 47% greater in Knoxville than in Columbus.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 6% lower in Knoxville compared to Columbus.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Knoxville. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 22% lower than in Columbus.
- Choosing to move to Knoxville can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 28% less than in Columbus.
- Knoxville enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 18% lower compared to Columbus, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
- Sales taxes rise by 23% in Knoxville over Columbus, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
- Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Columbus and Knoxville:
| Living Expense | Columbus | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $263.89 | $215.94 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.77 | $54.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.21 | $4.06 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.98 | $3.64 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $46.25 | $34.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Knoxville.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbus than in Knoxville.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in Knoxville.
- Bread costs less in Columbus than in Knoxville.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Columbus than in Knoxville.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbus than in Knoxville.
- Gym memberships cost more in Columbus than in Knoxville.
How life is different in Columbus vs. Knoxville
| Columbus | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 905,748 | 190,740 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 31 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 30 |
| Crime index | 49.65 | 42.54 |
| Safety index | 50.35 | 57.46 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Knoxville’s population is about 79% less than Columbus.
- Knoxville’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Columbus’s score of 5.
- Knoxville is less walkable than Columbus with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Columbus’s 41 out of 100.
- Knoxville has a bike-friendliness score of 30 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Columbus, which has a score of 48.
- Knoxville’s crime rate is lower than Columbus with a score of 42.54 compared to Columbus’s 49.65. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
- Knoxville is considered to be safer than Columbus with a safety index of 57.46 vs Columbus’s 50.35.
- Air quality in Knoxville is Good, and in Columbus it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbus to Knoxville move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Tennessee doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Knoxville. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Knoxville
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Marble City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Knoxville.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Farragut
- Oak Ridge
- Alcoa
- Maryville
- Seymour
- Lenoir City
- Louisville
- Eagleton Village
- Loudon
Best neighborhoods for families
- Farragut
- Oak Ridge
- Maryville
- Alcoa
- Louisville
- Loudon
- Clinton
Things to do in Knoxville
Once you’re settled into your new home in Tennessee, it’s time to get out and discover what Knoxville has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Knoxville, such as the Knoxville Museum of Art, East Tennesse Historical Society, Muse Knoxville, and Old Smoky Railway Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Lakeshore Park, World’s Fair Park, Krutch Park, and Fort Dickerson Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbus to Knoxville?
The best time to move from Columbus to Knoxville is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Columbus.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to Knoxville?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Columbus to Knoxville, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Columbus to Knoxville take?
Moving from Columbus, OH to Knoxville, covers 357 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Columbus movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Knoxville.
Which movers in Columbus give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers here honor AAA discounts. 4 movers give special rates to military members. 6 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Columbus?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 16 movers in Columbus advertise piano moving expertise. 11 movers in Columbus provide antique moving services. State totals show 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Columbus moving services
Popular Ohio routes
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