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($1,253) Cost to Move From McAllen, TX to Columbia, SC

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Estimated cost & time: For a 1,348 mile move from McAllen to Columbia, costs typically range from $845 to $6,735. Plan for the travel time to be around three–eight 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 McAllen 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 McAllen to Columbia

If you want to simplify your interstate move from McAllen to Columbia, 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 McAllen, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Columbia 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 McAllen to Columbia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,348-mile move from McAllen to Columbia 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 $2,133 – $4,690
  • Moving Container $1,353 – $2,522
  • Rental Truck $789 – $1,555
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,663 – $6,735
  • Moving Container $1,662 – $3,384
  • Rental Truck $845 – $1,868
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,660 – $9,188
  • Moving Container $2,210 – $4,677
  • Rental Truck $1,140 – $2,278
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.
North American Van Lines
Netos, TX Ridge Spring, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Amada Acres, TX West Columbia, SC
3 Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
United Van Lines
El Castillo, TX South Congaree, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 23, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Weslaco, TX Perry, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 25, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Longoria, TX North, SC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 24, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
La Homa, TX Livingston, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025
PODS
Pharr, TX Little Mountain, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Midway North, TX Forest Acres, SC
Studio apartment
Aug 08, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Donna, TX Springfield, SC
Studio apartment
Aug 07, 2025
American Van Lines
Edinburg, TX Eastover, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 03, 2025

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

The best local movers for McAllen to Columbia moves

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

  1. Rick’s Moving & Storage LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  2. Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc.: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  3. Groves Moving and Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
  4. Bellhop Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.26 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
70.0% of all reviews were positive
30.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word on the street is Rick’s Moving & Storage LLC gets high praise for efficiency, professionalism, and careful handling, with 70% of customer input leaving 5-star feedback. Most clients noticed a quick process, thoughtful movers, and recommended the team for hassle-free service. A handful of customers appreciated detailed organization and responsive communication, setting this business ahead of larger chains in terms of personal attention. On the downside, 30% of the reviews voice serious issues such as item loss, theft, mishandling, and storage complaints. These negative experiences often focus on damaged or missing property and problems with safe storage conditions. Aside from strong points, prospective customers should be aware of these reported risks before choosing this mover.
Get a Quote (956) 631-5764

Company Info

State license #: 009769916C

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1082164

Alternate Names: Rick’s Moving and Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.0% of all reviews were positive
19.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc. shines a spotlight on their standout professionalism and courteous staff. Out of 42 customer inputs, 81% express satisfaction, noting respectful employees, careful handling, open communication, efficiency, and affordable service. People often mention movers being prompt, effective, and polite, frequently exceeding expectations. On the flip side, a smaller portion describes interactions with unfriendly representatives, missed communication, and surprise costs. Most complaints center around rude behavior and lack of responsiveness. While most moving companies struggle with frequent damages or big delays, Jones Moving & Storage receives much more praise for their professional approach and careful handling than most in the industry.
Get a Quote (800) 684-3894

Company Info

State license #: 0000006770

Years in Business: 86

DOT #: 125563

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
69.0% of all reviews were positive
31.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Groves Moving and Storage earns consistent praise for its efficient service, punctual and polite staff, and a fast moving process. Many customers describe team members as helpful and knowledgeable, especially during appliance installations and deliveries. Positive feedback outnumbers negative, with 69% of reviews highlighting great communication, courteous crews, and quick turnaround. In contrast, dissatisfied customers report rude interactions, damaged items, and a lack of clear responses when issues arise. Compared to industry competitors, Groves excels at friendliness and promptness, while improvement is needed in handling complaints and ensuring damages are addressed professionally. A total of 29 reviews inform these patterns, with over two-thirds reflecting a positive customer experience.
Get a Quote (956) 423-1000

Company Info

State license #: 005443977C

Years in Business: 26

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving impresses with speedy, attentive service and a team of polite professionals. Most customer feedback highlights their efficiency, prompt communication, and the attentive care movers show with belongings. Over 81% of the 32 reviews express satisfaction, noting a stress-free process and careful handling of property. Many appreciate the staff’s professionalism and their ability to accommodate last-minute requests, setting Bellhop apart from typical moving companies. Nonetheless, about 16% of feedback mention frustration when crews arrive unprepared, lack proper equipment, or do not follow customer instructions, sometimes leading to damaged items. A few reviews also describe gaps in communication or unresolved complaints. In comparison to local competitors, Bellhop stands out for its consistently courteous staff but needs to address occasional lapses in preparedness and coordination to maintain a strong reputation.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 009668291C

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.4% of all reviews were positive
8.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Flex Moving & Storage for efficient service, professional and friendly movers, quick moving processes, careful handling, and helpful attitudes. Out of 70 reviews analyzed, a strong 91% reflected positive experiences. Many praised the respectful and skilled crews who made moving stress-free with their timeliness and attention to fragile items, outpacing competitors in reliability. Some feedback highlighted problems, with 6 reviewers (just under 9%) citing incidents such as property damage, unexpected and unauthorized charges, or poor communication around billing and security. Several customers experienced unresolved or challenging claims relating to damages or hidden fees. While the majority benefited from a smooth, trustworthy service, a handful of customers expressed disappointment due to mishandling of belongings or billing disputes. Flex Moving & Storage earns a higher-than-average satisfaction rate compared to many moving firms, yet potential clients should stay vigilant for possible extra charges and ensure clear communication about services and costs.
Get a Quote (786) 738-9516

Company Info

Years in Business: 2

DOT #: 3610638

Services Offered

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

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

The average hourly rate for movers in Texas is $131. 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 $1,253 – $4,857 $892 – $2,234 $854 – $1,555
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,663 – $6,735 $1,662 – $3,384 $845 – $1,868
4+ bedrooms $4,660 – $9,188 $2,210 – $4,677 $1,140 – $2,278
*Approximate cost ranges for a 1,348-mile move from McAllen to Columbia 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 McAllen to Columbia

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from McAllen to Columbia will cost between $1,253 and $4,857. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from McAllen to McAllen will range from $2,663 to $6,735, and a large move from McAllen to Columbia will cost from $4,660 to $9,188.

Cost of moving containers from McAllen to Columbia

If you’re moving from McAllen to Columbia, expect to pay between $892 and $2,234 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,662 up to $3,384. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,210 and $4,677. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from McAllen to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from McAllen to Columbia 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 $854 and $1,555. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $845 and $1,868. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,140 up to $2,278 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from McAllen to Columbia

The cost of McAllen movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,408, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $8,260.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in McAllen, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($854–$2,022) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from McAllen to Columbia

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbia runs about 34% higher for singles and 20% higher for families than McAllen.

Singles spend around $1,956 in McAllen versus $1,457 in McAllen; families pay $4,274 compared with $3,557.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

McAllen Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $813 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $1,360 $2,220
Average home value $221,244 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $57,439 $64,683
Cost of living (single) $1,457 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $3,557 $4,274
Unemployment rate 7.9% 5.2%
Sales tax 8.25% 8.0%
State income tax 0.0% 7.0%
  • Rent is estimated to be 7% higher in Columbia compared to McAllen; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Given that home prices are within a 5% margin between Columbia and McAllen, sticking to your current mortgage strategy is sensible unless you’re planning for a bigger home.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 13% higher in Columbia than in McAllen, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbia, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 34% higher than in McAllen. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Columbia, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 20% greater than in McAllen.
  • Columbia enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 34% lower compared to McAllen, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes show little difference between Columbia and McAllen (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
  • South Carolina has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

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

Living Expense McAllen Columbia
Basic utilities $169.85 $148.09
Cell phone plan $39.43 $54.77
Dozen eggs $3.23 $3.46
Loaf of bread $2.95 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $12.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $62.50 $60.00
Gym membership $45.00 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in McAllen than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in McAllen than in Columbia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in McAllen than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in McAllen than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in McAllen than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in McAllen than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in McAllen than in Columbia.

How life is different in McAllen vs. Columbia

McAllen Columbia
Population 142,210 136,632
Transportation score 3 5
Walkability score 41 35
Bike friendliness score 46 35
Crime index 36.26 3.0
Safety index 63.74 48.39
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Columbia’s population is within about 5% of McAllen, so they’re very similar in size.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than McAllen’s score of 3.
  • Columbia is less walkable than McAllen with a score of 35 out of 100 vs McAllen’s 41 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 McAllen, which has a score of 46.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than McAllen with a score of 3.0 compared to McAllen’s 36.26. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than McAllen with a score of 48.39 vs McAllen’s 63.74.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in McAllen it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your McAllen to Columbia 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: 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina 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 Columbia. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Soda City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbia, such as the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay 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 Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

Moving from McAllen, TX to Columbia, covers 1,348 miles and usually takes three to eight days. Need to move faster? Some McAllen movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Columbia.

Who can move pianos or antiques in McAllen?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 5 movers in McAllen advertise piano moving expertise. 2 movers in McAllen provide antique moving services. State totals show 180 piano movers and 125 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.

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