Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Arlington move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Arlington can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed seven top local movers in Columbia 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 Columbia to Arlington.
- Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
Company Info
State license #: 9890
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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 Arlington?
In South Carolina, moving services typically cost around $137 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 | $1,016 – $2,802 | $671 – $1,563 | $394 – $735 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,948 – $4,978 | $1,186 – $2,220 | $420 – $863 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,176 – $7,425 | $1,657 – $2,967 | $522 – $1,029 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Arlington
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Arlington from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,016 and $2,802. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,948 to $4,978 for the trip from Columbia to Arlington. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,176 and $7,425.
Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Arlington
Moving containers from Columbia to Arlington will cost you $671 to $1,563 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,186 to $2,220. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,657 to $2,967. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Arlington
Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Arlington typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $394 and $735 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $420 to $863. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $522 to $1,029.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Arlington move
The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,353 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,983 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Columbia.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $394 to $908, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbia to Arlington
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Arlington runs about 251% higher for singles and 180% higher for families than Columbia.
Singles spend around $6,867 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $11,970 compared with $4,274.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbia | Arlington | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,300 | $2,475 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,220 | $4,350 |
| Average home value | $220,612 | $810,670 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,683 | $128,145 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,956 | $6,867 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,274 | $11,970 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 5.75% |
- Planning a move to Arlington? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 88% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Arlington are about 267% higher than those in Columbia.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 98% higher in Arlington compared to Columbia, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Arlington, as living costs for a single person are 251% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Arlington, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Arlington is 180% higher than in Columbia.
- The unemployment rate in Arlington is about 23% lower than in Columbia. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 25% less in Arlington relative to Columbia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Virginia are 18% below those in South 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 Columbia and Arlington:
| Living Expense | Columbia | Arlington |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.09 | $208.70 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.77 | $59.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.46 | $4.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.65 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $24.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $77.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Arlington, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Arlington.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Arlington.
- Bread costs less in Columbia than in Arlington.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Arlington.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Arlington.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Arlington.
How life is different in Columbia vs. Arlington
| Columbia | Arlington | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 238,643 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 71 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 72 |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 15.67 |
| Safety index | 48.39 | 79.15 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Arlington’s population is about 75% greater than Columbia.
- Arlington’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
- Arlington is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 71 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Arlington 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.
- Arlington’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 15.67 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
- Arlington is considered to be safer than Columbia with a safety index of 79.15 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
- Air quality in Arlington is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbia to Arlington 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: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Virginia’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Virginia 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 Arlington. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Arlington
Planning your move to ? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Arlington.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Aurora Highlands
- Ballston-Virginia Square
- Bluemont
- Clarendon-Courthouse
- Radnor-Ft Myer Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Arlington Ridge
- Barcroft
- Chain Bridge Forest
- Cherrydale
- Dominion Hills
- Forest Glen
- Lyon Village
- Penrose
- Westover Village
Things to do in Arlington
After settling into your new Virginia home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Arlington has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Arlington features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the JW Tumbles, Ball-Sellers House Museum, David M. Brown Planetarium, and Arlington Historical Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gravelly Point Park, Long Bridge Park, Bon Air Park, and Upton Hill Regional 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 Arlington Youth Football Club game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbia to Arlington?
Planning your move from Columbia to Arlington? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Columbia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbia to Arlington?
Because most people are moving from Columbia to Arlington 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 Columbia to Arlington take?
The 475-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Arlington, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Columbia offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Arlington.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Columbia?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Columbia, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, South Carolina has 33 piano movers and 18 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.
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