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($1,154) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Providence, RI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 884 miles from Columbia to Providence typically costs between $640 and $5,562. The trip is expected to last from two–seven days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Columbia to Providence

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 Providence

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Columbia to Providence much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Columbia, there are 5 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Providence.

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 Providence

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 884-mile move from Columbia to Providence using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,771 – $4,264
  • Moving Container $1,118 – $2,089
  • Rental Truck $599 – $1,064
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,191 – $5,562
  • Moving Container $1,354 – $2,789
  • Rental Truck $640 – $1,398
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,787 – $7,515
  • Moving Container $1,916 – $3,651
  • Rental Truck $819 – $1,634
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
Summit, SC Pawtucket, RI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Oak Grove, SC Newport, RI
Studio apartment
Oct 19, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Livingston, SC Providence, RI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 14, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Pinewood, SC Melville, RI
Studio apartment
Oct 04, 2025
Safeway Moving
Peak, SC East Greenwich, RI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Gilbert, SC Westerly, RI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
PODS
South Congaree, SC Burrillville, RI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lexington, SC Coventry, RI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 09, 2025
North American Van Lines
Cameron, SC Lincoln, RI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025
Roadway Moving
Newberry, SC Smithfield, RI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Providence move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Providence 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 Providence.

  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 Providence?

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 $1,154 – $3,990 $801 – $1,984 $570 – $1,154
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,191 – $5,562 $1,354 – $2,789 $640 – $1,398
4+ bedrooms $3,787 – $7,515 $1,916 – $3,651 $819 – $1,634
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 884-mile move from Columbia to Providence, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Providence

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Providence from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,154 and $3,990. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,191 to $5,562 for the trip from Columbia to Providence. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,787 and $7,515.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Providence

Moving containers from Columbia to Providence will cost you $801 to $1,984 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,354 to $2,789. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,916 to $3,651. 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 Providence

Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Providence typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $570 and $1,154 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $640 to $1,398. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $819 to $1,634.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Providence move

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,084 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,144 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 $570 to $1,437, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Providence

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Providence runs about 27% higher for singles and 26% higher for families than Columbia.

Singles spend around $2,493 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $5,406 compared with $4,274.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbia Providence
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $2,103
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $2,714
Average home value $220,612 $398,785
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $69,956
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $2,493
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $5,406
Unemployment rate 5.2% 8.6%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.0%
State income tax 7.0% 5.99%
  • Planning a move to Providence? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 52% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Providence are about 81% higher than those in Columbia.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 8% higher in Providence compared to Columbia, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Providence, as living costs for a single person are 27% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Providence, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Providence is 26% higher than in Columbia.
  • Providence shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbia by around 65%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes are 13% less in Providence relative to Columbia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Rhode Island are 14% 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 Providence:

Living Expense Columbia Providence
Basic utilities $148.09 $293.60
Cell phone plan $54.77 $41.88
Dozen eggs $3.46 $5.19
Loaf of bread $2.65 $3.36
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $19.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $100.00
Gym membership $40.00 $63.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Providence, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbia than in Providence.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Providence.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Providence.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Providence.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Providence.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Providence.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Providence

Columbia Providence
Population 136,632 190,934
Transportation score 5 7
Walkability score 35 76
Bike friendliness score 35 61
Crime index 3.0 49.84
Safety index 48.39 50.16
Air quality Good Good
  • Providence’s population is about 40% greater than Columbia.
  • Providence’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Providence is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 76 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 61 out of 100, Providence 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.
  • Providence’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 49.84 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Providence neighborhoods are safer than 49.84% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Providence and Columbia have a similar safety level, with scores of 50.16 and 48.39.
  • Air quality in Providence is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Providence 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 Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Rhode Island’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Rhode Island 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 Providence. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Providence

Planning your move to The Creative Capital? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Providence.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Elmhurst
  • Federal Hill
  • Fox Point
  • Mount Hope

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Blackstone
  • Wayland
  • College Hill
  • Hope
  • Mount Hope
  • Fox Point

Things to do in Providence

After settling into your new Rhode Island home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Providence has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Providence features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art, Providence Children’s Museum, John Brown House Museum, and Providence Art Club.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Water Place Park, Roger Williams Park, India Point Park, and Roger Williams National Memorial — 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 Providence Bruins (AHL)Brown Bears (Ivy League)Providence Friars (Big East) game.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from Columbia to Providence? 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 Providence?

Because most people are moving from Columbia to Providence 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 Providence take?

The 884-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Providence, , typically takes two to seven 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 Providence.

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.

Helpful moving resources

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