Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,012) Cost to Move From Huntsville, AL to Columbia, SC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 393 miles from Huntsville to Columbia is generally between $382 and $5,135. The trip duration should be approximately one–four days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Huntsville to Columbia

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Huntsville to Columbia

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Huntsville to Columbia, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Huntsville, you have a choice of 8 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Columbia smoothly and with confidence.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Huntsville to Columbia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 393-mile move from Huntsville to Columbia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,159 – $3,961
  • Moving Container $866 – $1,617
  • Rental Truck $348 – $613
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,891 – $5,135
  • Moving Container $1,176 – $2,185
  • Rental Truck $382 – $772
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,882 – $7,182
  • Moving Container $1,453 – $2,759
  • Rental Truck $466 – $916
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Colonial Van Lines
Falkville, AL Pelion, SC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
PODS
Mooresville, AL Perry, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
American Van Lines
Gurley, AL Ridge Spring, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 08, 2025
BLVD Moving
Hillsboro, AL St. Andrews, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Safeway Moving
Trinity, AL Chapin, SC
Studio apartment
Aug 30, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Berlin, AL Irmo, SC
3 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
United Van Lines
Lester, AL Salley, SC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Hartselle, AL Newberry, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025
Roadway Moving
Pleasant Groves, AL Batesburg-Leesville, SC
3 Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Dutton, AL St. Matthews, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 04, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbia, SC to Huntsville, AL guide.

Top local movers for Huntsville to Columbia moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Huntsville that also provides long-distance services to Columbia can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed eight local movers in Huntsville who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Huntsville to Columbia.

  1. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Black Tie Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Applewhite Movers LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. This Side Up Moving & Storage : 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top marks for hustle: the vast majority of the 255 feedback entries for Motivated Movers, Inc. praise efficient moving, professional teams, and careful handling of customer belongings. Nearly 94% of customers shared a positive experience, highlighting staff courtesy, quick and organized service, and movers who routinely went the extra mile. Clients often compare Motivated Movers favorably to other companies, citing lower stress, reasonable prices, and reliable communication. On the rare occasion issues occurred (about 6% of input), most complaints centered on items damaged, unexpectedly high final bills, or unprofessional behavior by management during disputes. A single neutral review noted high costs and poorly protected appliances. Motivated Movers appears to perform far above industry averages in service quality, with especially strong marks for professionalism and efficiency, but future customers should clarify pricing and keep an eye on item care to avoid rare pitfalls.
Get a Quote (256) 858-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.4% of all reviews were positive
12.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck frequently means careful handling and a courteous, professional team. Analysis of 247 pieces of customer feedback reveals 85% positive experiences. Movers stand out for treating furniture and fragile items with care, working efficiently, and keeping customers informed. Packing is meticulous, and jobs are often finished quickly. Communication from the office and booking staff is reliable. Many customers returned to the company after trying competitors who didn’t measure up. On the downside, about 13% of feedback reports notable problems. Damaged belongings top complaints, followed by delays and trouble resolving issues with the claims department. A handful of families described slow moves or items arriving late, and several noted poor follow-up when filing claims for broken items. Compared to most moving services, Two Men and a Truck’s drivers and teams deliver stronger respect for property and quicker, friendlier service. Some customers did pay more than expected or faced communication lapses when there was a problem, but the majority received a seamless, damage-free move with attentive, helpful service.
Get a Quote (256) 392-9462

Company Info

State license #: 614

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.5% of all reviews were positive
3.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe Black Tie Moving as exceptionally professional, careful with belongings, fast, and reliable. Out of 226 feedback samples, 96.5% express positive experiences. Reviewers consistently highlight the team’s respectful approach, excellent communication, and swift, efficient moves with no damage to items or homes. Many say the staff showed up on time, handled furniture with protection, and followed through on commitments—qualities that often set Black Tie apart from typical moving firms. While most input is glowing, a handful of reviewers faced issues, mostly around poor packing, unexpected extra costs, and some instances of damage or mishandling. Compared with others, Black Tie earns high marks for its professionalism and care, though a few customers encountered significant lapses in packing detail or billing clarity.
Get a Quote (256) 755-4836

Company Info

State license #: 4111

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 2407712

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.1% of all reviews were positive
10.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—most customers describe Applewhite Movers LLC as prompt, polite, and highly efficient. Out of 140 reviews analyzed, 87% were positive. Clients often highlight the professionalism, careful handling of belongings, impressive speed, and helpful movers who communicate well. Many noted a stress-free experience and appreciated the team’s respectfulness and reliability, which set Applewhite apart from typical moving services in the region. Negative feedback mostly relates to property damage, delayed schedules, and unprofessional attitude during some moves, with a few reports of mishandling and poor claim resolution. Compared to other companies, Applewhite consistently delivers better communication and more diligent movers, though some improvements in damage claims and staff consistency could further strengthen their reputation.
Get a Quote (256) 430-1198

Company Info

State license #: 4119

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2172780

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.9% of all reviews were positive
5.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about This Side Up Moving & Storage for their professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, and strong communication, with 229 out of 244 reviews praising these traits. Movers regularly earn praise for their courtesy, quick moving process, and the care they show in protecting belongings and homes. Many mention seamless booking, reliable quote accuracy, and respectful treatment, even in physically demanding moves. Compared to other moving companies, This Side Up receives more consistent five-star input. Some negative feedback centers on property damage, poor complaint resolution, and lost items. Delays in claims handling and unaddressed damages frustrate the small minority of dissatisfied customers. One neutral review noted confusion and a truck mismatch, resulting in minor damages and unexpected charges. The company stands out for delivering a professional and respectful experience, but could improve by enhancing how it handles claims and follows up after reported issues.
Get a Quote (256) 653-7612

Company Info

State license #: 3959

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1874024

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Huntsville to Columbia?

Movers in Alabama generally charge an average of per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,012 – $3,236 $600 – $1,437 $351 – $664
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,891 – $5,135 $1,176 – $2,185 $382 – $772
4+ bedrooms $2,882 – $7,182 $1,453 – $2,759 $466 – $916
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 393-mile move from Huntsville to Columbia, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Huntsville to Columbia

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Huntsville to Columbia typically costs between $1,012 and $3,236. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,891 and $5,135 when moving from Huntsville to Columbia. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Huntsville to Columbia, you’re looking at costs ranging from $2,882 up to $7,182.

Cost of moving containers from Huntsville to Columbia

If you’re relocating from Huntsville to Columbia, you’ll typically spend between $600 and $1,437 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,176 up to $2,185. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,453 and $2,759. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Huntsville to Columbia

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Huntsville to Columbia move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $351 and $664. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $382 to $772. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $466 and $916.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Huntsville to Columbia

The cost of Huntsville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Huntsville to Columbia might be as low as $1,375, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,218.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Huntsville.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $351 to $851 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Huntsville to Columbia

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbia runs about -38% higher for singles and 3% higher for families than Huntsville.

Singles spend around $1,956 in Huntsville versus $3,133 in Huntsville; families pay $4,274 compared with $4,140.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Huntsville Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,358 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,400 $2,220
Average home value $266,736 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $60,959 $64,683
Cost of living (single) $3,133 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $4,140 $4,274
Unemployment rate 3.1% 5.2%
Sales tax 9.0% 8.0%
State income tax 5.0% 7.0%
  • Switching from Huntsville to Columbia won’t strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
  • With home prices being nearly 17% cheaper in Columbia, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 6% higher in Columbia than in Huntsville, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person is 38% less compared to Huntsville.
  • The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Columbia and Huntsville, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won’t notice a significant change in expenses.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia exceeds that of Huntsville by about 68%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes are 11% lower in Columbia than Huntsville, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 40% higher in South Carolina than in Alabama. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Huntsville and Columbia, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Huntsville Columbia
Basic utilities $180.00 $148.09
Cell phone plan $50.56 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.26 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.33 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $62.50 $60.00
Gym membership $44.00 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Huntsville than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Huntsville than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Huntsville than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Huntsville than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Huntsville than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Huntsville than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Huntsville than in Columbia.

How life is different in Huntsville vs. Columbia

Huntsville Columbia
Population 241,114 136,632
Transportation score 2 5
Walkability score 24 35
Bike friendliness score 40 35
Crime index 42.55 3.0
Safety index 57.45 48.39
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 43% less than Huntsville.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Huntsville’s score of 2.
  • Columbia is more walkable than Huntsville with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Huntsville’s 24 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Huntsville, which has a score of 40.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Huntsville with a score of 3.0 compared to Huntsville’s 42.55. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Huntsville neighborhoods are safer than 42.55%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than Huntsville with a score of 48.39 vs Huntsville’s 57.45.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Huntsville it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Huntsville to Columbia move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Columbia

Ready to relocate to Soda City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

Now that you’ve made the move to South Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore Columbia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbia include museums and art centers like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Huntsville to Columbia?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Huntsville to Columbia. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Huntsville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Huntsville to Columbia?

With many people choosing to move from Huntsville to Columbia in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Huntsville to Columbia take?

Covering 393 miles, the move from Huntsville, AL to Columbia, typically takes one to four days. Some Huntsville movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Columbia can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Huntsville offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Huntsville can handle specialty items for my move to Columbia?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Huntsville, 7 movers can handle pianos. 3 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of AL, there are 35 piano movers and 16 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle