Top-rated movers to make your Raleigh to Columbus move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Raleigh that offers long-distance services to Columbus can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 28 top local movers in Raleigh who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Raleigh to Columbus.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2934
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2548
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 1931566
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2657
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3205320
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2311
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 076235
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1267633
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 3619230
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Raleigh to Columbus?
In North Carolina, moving services typically cost around $145 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,047 – $2,802 | $631 – $1,500 | $406 – $713 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,911 – $4,688 | $1,150 – $2,311 | $445 – $906 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,143 – $7,354 | $1,499 – $3,084 | $506 – $1,071 |
Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to Columbus
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbus from Raleigh, you can expect prices to land between $1,047 and $2,802. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,911 to $4,688 for the trip from Raleigh to Columbus. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,143 and $7,354.
Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to Columbus
Moving containers from Raleigh to Columbus will cost you $631 to $1,500 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,150 to $2,311. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,499 to $3,084. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of North Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Raleigh to Columbus
Renting a moving truck from Raleigh to Columbus typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $406 and $713 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $445 to $906. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $506 to $1,071.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Raleigh to Columbus move
The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,396 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,164 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Raleigh.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $406 to $965, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Raleigh to Columbus
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbus runs about -54% higher for singles and 19% higher for families than Raleigh.
Singles spend around $2,784 in Raleigh versus $6,077 in Raleigh; families pay $7,249 compared with $6,077.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Raleigh | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,820 | $1,567 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,000 | $2,957 |
| Average home value | $431,795 | $238,832 |
| Average income (per capita) | $2,572 | $65,075 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,077 | $2,784 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,077 | $7,249 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 5.7% |
| Sales tax | 7.25% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 3.5% |
- When relocating from Raleigh to Columbus, expect to find rent about 14% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 45% more affordable in Columbus compared to Raleigh.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 2430% higher in Columbus compared to Raleigh, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbus, as the cost of living for a single person is 54% lower compared to Raleigh.
- If you’re moving your family to Columbus, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 19% higher than in Raleigh.
- Columbus shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Raleigh by around 33%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Columbus and Raleigh (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in Ohio are 22% below those in North Carolina. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Raleigh and Columbus:
| Living Expense | Raleigh | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $190.88 | $263.89 |
| Cell phone plan | $64.40 | $60.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $3.21 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.12 | $2.98 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.50 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.18 | $46.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Raleigh than in Columbus, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Raleigh than in Columbus.
- Eggs cost more in Raleigh than in Columbus.
- Bread is more expensive in Raleigh than in Columbus.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Raleigh than in Columbus.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Raleigh than in Columbus.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Raleigh than in Columbus.
How life is different in Raleigh vs. Columbus
| Raleigh | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 467,665 | 905,748 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 31 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 48 |
| Crime index | 38.87 | 49.65 |
| Safety index | 60.13 | 50.35 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Columbus’s population is about 94% greater than Raleigh.
- Columbus’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Raleigh’s score of 4.
- Columbus is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Raleigh’s 31 out of 100.
- With a score of 48 out of 100, Columbus is more bike-friendly than Raleigh, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Columbus’s crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 49.65 compared to Raleigh’s 38.87. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
- Columbus is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 50.35 vs Raleigh’s 60.13.
- Air quality in Columbus is Good, and in Raleigh it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Raleigh to Columbus move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Ohio’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Ohio does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbus. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Columbus
Planning your move to The Arch City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Columbus.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Short North
- Victorian Village
- Clintonville
- Grandview Heights
- Ashville
- Dublin
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bexley
- Clintonville
- Gahanna
- Hilliard
- Upper Arlington
Things to do in Columbus
After settling into your new Ohio home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbus has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbus features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, and Columbus Historical Society.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbus Crew (MLS)Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Raleigh to Columbus?
Planning your move from Raleigh to Columbus? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Raleigh.
When is the cheapest time to move from Raleigh to Columbus?
Because most people are moving from Raleigh to Columbus in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Raleigh to Columbus take?
The 476-mile journey from Raleigh, NC to Columbus, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Raleigh offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbus.
Are there special savings available from movers in Raleigh?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Raleigh?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Raleigh, 20 movers can manage piano relocations. 8 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, North Carolina has 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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