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($1,005) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Washington DC, MD

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Estimated cost & time: For a 478 mile move from Columbia to Washington DC, costs typically range from $415 to $4,736. Plan for the travel time to be around one–four days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Columbia to Washington DC

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 Columbia to Washington DC

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Columbia to Washington DC, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 5 interstate moving companies located in Columbia, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Washington DC seamless and enjoyable.

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 Columbia to Washington DC

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 478-mile move from Columbia to Washington DC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,126 – $3,486
  • Moving Container $926 – $1,692
  • Rental Truck $402 – $713
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,855 – $4,736
  • Moving Container $1,245 – $2,197
  • Rental Truck $415 – $898
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,474 – $6,925
  • Moving Container $1,578 – $2,937
  • Rental Truck $528 – $1,039
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.
BLVD Moving
Arcadia Lakes, SC Sykesville, MD
3 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Pelion, SC Martin’s Additions, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Pinewood, SC Baltimore, MD
Studio apartment
Oct 06, 2025
United Van Lines
Woodford, SC Greenbelt, MD
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 01, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Cameron, SC Severna Park, MD
Studio apartment
Sep 07, 2025
Safeway Moving
Perry, SC Aspen Hill, MD
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 26, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Forest Acres, SC Forestville, MD
4 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
PODS
Ridgeway, SC National Harbor, MD
3 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Columbia, SC Parole, MD
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
American Van Lines
South Congaree, SC Highland Beach, MD
2 Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Washington DC, MD to Columbia, SC guide.

The best local movers for Columbia to Washington DC moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Columbia that also handles long-distance moves to Washington DC. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated seven local movers in Columbia 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 Columbia to Washington DC.

  1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
72.0% of all reviews were positive
27.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Gentlemen Movers Inc. earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, standing out with 72% positive feedback from 161 reviews. Customers consistently praise the team’s effective service, politeness, careful handling of belongings, speed, and affordable prices. Many appreciate how the staff alleviates the usual stress of moving. Still, nearly 28% of input highlights problems like damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and hard-to-reach management. Experiences with item protection and clear communication fall short for some, leading to frustration over unaddressed complaints. In comparison with other companies, Gentlemen Movers rates highly for staff professionalism and affordability but lags in reliability when damage claims or billing inaccuracies arise. Most people are happy with the company, but those considering more delicate moves or strict budgets should be attentive to potential risks.
Get a Quote (803) 782-0063

Company Info

State license #: 9756

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1442337

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.7% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dependable service and professionalism stand out in feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. After analyzing 256 reviews, a remarkable 86.7% of input praised efficient, careful movers who handle belongings thoughtfully and display a positive attitude. Fast service, courteous staff, and respect for customer property routinely put this company ahead of competitors. Clients often highlighted seamless communication and the crews’ on-time arrival, underscoring their reliability. Negative remarks, making up 11.7% of feedback, centered on property damage, additional unexpected fees, and rare breakdowns in communication. Some reviewers cited items arriving damaged or incomplete responses to damage claims. A very small number (1.6%) posted neutral feedback, usually noting mixed communication or unclear pricing. This company receives more enthusiastic recommendations and repeat business than many moving providers, thanks to organized, efficient service and respectful teams. The rare complaints about broken belongings and disputed charges align with frustrations customers have encountered with other movers, but appear far less often here, helping TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earn trust with those seeking a reliable moving partner.
Get a Quote (803) 310-7445

Company Info

State license #: 9494-C

Years in Business: 31

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
42.9% of all reviews were positive
57.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
JEGA Movers LLC receives enthusiastic praise from customers who appreciate professional staff, careful handling of belongings, transparent pricing, strong communication, and efficient service. Most positive feedback highlights respectful treatment of cherished items and hassle-free booking. Negative input focuses on unprofessional behavior, property damage, and the company not delivering all promised services, like furniture reassembly and reliability. 42.9% of reviews express satisfaction, but more than half of the feedback reveals significant issues, suggesting higher concerns than seen with typical local moving companies. Those considering JEGA Movers should weigh reported customer service quality against consistent complaints about professionalism and property care.
Get a Quote (803) 888-0917

Company Info

State license #: 2021239

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3583359

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.4% of all reviews were positive
5.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about the fast, friendly, and careful teams at College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. Out of 242 pieces of input, about 93% was favorable, showing impressive consistency. Most customer feedback mentions efficiency, helpful movers, respectfulness, and quick job completion—qualities that set College Hunks apart from other moving services. Professionalism and careful handling of items frequently impressed customers, even on large or complicated jobs. Some negative remarks point to damaged possessions, missing items, and bigger bills than expected—issues that matter when choosing a mover. Complaints about estimate accuracy or lost belongings remain far fewer than the positive notes about speed and politeness. Compared to many competitors, College Hunks earns trust for reliability and respectful teams, consistently outperforming others in both speed and care.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 9890

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves and friendly crews shine through the feedback on All My Sons Moving & Storage. Out of 64 reviews, half commend the company’s professional attitude, careful handling of items, efficient process, and supportive movers—qualities that keep their reputation solid against competitors. Many customers highlight swift service and the politeness of staff, with teams regularly described as helpful and highly professional. Yet a significant share (nearly 47%) report major frustrations about final pricing far exceeding initial estimates, damage to items, and unanticipated fees. Customers often mention unexpected charges and slow resolution for reported damages, which leads many to express regret or dissatisfaction. While the company frequently delivers the speed and care people expect from leading movers, the pattern of higher costs and inflexible billing contrasts sharply with the positive feedback. Those considering All My Sons can expect fast, polite service, but should clarify all pricing details up front and remain vigilant about item protection and final billing.
Get a Quote (803) 219-4957

Company Info

State license #: 9873

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Columbia to Washington DC?

The average hourly rate for movers in South Carolina is $137. 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 $1,005 – $2,860 $631 – $1,547 $417 – $742
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,855 – $4,736 $1,245 – $2,197 $415 – $898
4+ bedrooms $3,474 – $6,925 $1,578 – $2,937 $528 – $1,039
*Approximate cost ranges for a 478-mile move from Columbia to Washington DC are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Washington DC

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Columbia to Washington DC will cost between $1,005 and $2,860. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Columbia to Columbia will range from $1,855 to $4,736, and a large move from Columbia to Washington DC will cost from $3,474 to $6,925.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Washington DC

If you’re moving from Columbia to Washington DC, expect to pay between $631 and $1,547 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,245 up to $2,197. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,578 and $2,937. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Washington DC

Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Washington DC 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 $417 and $742. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $415 and $898. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $528 up to $1,039 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Columbia to Washington DC

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,382, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $5,922.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbia, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($417–$1,003) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Washington DC

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Washington DC runs about 103% higher for singles and 160% higher for families than Columbia.

Singles spend around $3,963 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $11,093 compared with $4,274.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbia Washington DC
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $2,568
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $5,417
Average home value $220,612 $594,337
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $101,722
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $3,963
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $11,093
Unemployment rate 5.2% 7.0%
Sales tax 8.0% 6.0%
State income tax 7.0% 5.75%
  • Rent is estimated to be 66% higher in Washington DC compared to Columbia; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 169% greater in Washington DC than in Columbia.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 57% higher in Washington DC than in Columbia, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Washington DC, since the cost of living for a single person in Washington DC is 103% higher than in Columbia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Washington DC, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 160% greater than in Columbia.
  • In Washington DC, the unemployment rate is approximately 35% higher than in Columbia, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes drop 25% in Washington DC compared to Columbia, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Income taxes are 18% less in Maryland than in South Carolina. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Columbia and Washington DC:

Living Expense Columbia Washington DC
Basic utilities $148.09 $191.62
Cell phone plan $54.77 $65.80
Dozen eggs $3.46 $4.67
Loaf of bread $2.65 $4.43
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $120.00
Gym membership $40.00 $103.76
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Washington DC, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Washington DC.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Washington DC.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Washington DC.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Washington DC.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Washington DC.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Washington DC.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Washington DC

Columbia Washington DC
Population 136,632 672,079
Transportation score 5 9
Walkability score 35 77
Bike friendliness score 35 70
Crime index 3.0 60.37
Safety index 48.39 39.63
Air quality Good Good
  • Washington DC’s population is about 392% greater than Columbia.
  • Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Washington DC is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than Columbia, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 60.37 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Washington DC is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 39.63 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Washington DC 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 Maryland, 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 Maryland moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Maryland 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 Washington DC. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Washington DC

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to DC, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Washington DC.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Adams Morgan
  • Capitol Hill
  • Cleveland Park
  • Foggy Bottom
  • Logan Circle

Best neighborhoods for families

  • AU-Tenleytown
  • Chevy Chase
  • Cleveland Park
  • Georgetown
  • The Palisades

Things to do in Washington DC

Once you’re settled into your new home in Maryland, it’s time to get out and discover what Washington DC has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Washington DC, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s National Mall, National Gallery of Art – Sculpture Garden, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island 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 Washington Wizards (NBA)Washington Capitals (NHL)Washington Mystics (WNBA)D.C. Untied (MLS)Washington Commanders (NFL)DC Defenders (XFL)Old Glory DC (MLR) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbia to Washington DC?

The best time to move from Columbia to Washington DC is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Columbia.

When is the cheapest time to move from Columbia to Washington DC?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Columbia to Washington DC, 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 Columbia to Washington DC take?

Moving from Columbia, SC to Washington DC, covers 478 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Columbia movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Washington DC.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Columbia?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 5 movers in Columbia advertise piano moving expertise. 2 movers in Columbia provide antique moving services. State totals show 33 piano movers and 18 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

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