Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Phoenix move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Phoenix 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 Phoenix.
- 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 Phoenix?
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 | $1,141 – $4,570 | $1,103 – $2,933 | $1,215 – $2,344 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,091 – $6,897 | $2,149 – $4,129 | $1,315 – $2,602 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,974 – $9,949 | $2,974 – $5,979 | $1,564 – $3,155 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Phoenix
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Phoenix from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,141 and $4,570. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,091 to $6,897 for the trip from Columbia to Phoenix. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,974 and $9,949.
Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Phoenix
Moving containers from Columbia to Phoenix will cost you $1,103 to $2,933 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,149 to $4,129. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,974 to $5,979. 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 Phoenix
Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Phoenix typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,215 and $2,344 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,315 to $2,602. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,564 to $3,155.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Phoenix move
The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,321 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,688 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 $1,215 to $3,059, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbia to Phoenix
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Phoenix runs about 21% higher for singles and 22% higher for families than Columbia.
Singles spend around $2,369 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $5,226 compared with $4,274.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbia | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,300 | $1,664 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,220 | $2,634 |
| Average home value | $220,612 | $411,139 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,683 | $64,552 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,956 | $2,369 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,274 | $5,226 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 6.6% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.6% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 2.5% |
- Planning a move to Phoenix? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 17% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Phoenix are about 86% higher than those in Columbia.
- In terms of average income, Phoenix and Columbia are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Phoenix, as living costs for a single person are 21% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Phoenix, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Phoenix is 22% higher than in Columbia.
- Phoenix shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbia by around 27%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Phoenix are 7% more than in Columbia, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Arizona are 64% 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 Phoenix:
| Living Expense | Columbia | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.09 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.77 | $75.22 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.46 | $4.75 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.65 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $34.08 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Phoenix, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Phoenix.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Phoenix.
- Bread costs less in Columbia than in Phoenix.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Phoenix.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Phoenix.
- Gym memberships cost more in Columbia than in Phoenix.
How life is different in Columbia vs. Phoenix
| Columbia | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 1,608,139 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 56 |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 53.06 |
| Safety index | 48.39 | 46.94 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Phoenix’s population is about 1077% greater than Columbia.
- Phoenix’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
- Phoenix is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
- With a score of 56 out of 100, Phoenix 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.
- Phoenix’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 53.06 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Phoenix neighborhoods are safer than 53.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
- Phoenix and Columbia have a similar safety level, with scores of 46.94 and 48.39.
- Air quality in Phoenix is Moderate, and in Columbia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbia to Phoenix 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: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Arizona’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Arizona 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 Phoenix. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Phoenix
Planning your move to Arizona’s Urban Heart? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Phoenix.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Camelback East
- Encanto
- Estrella Village
- North Gateway
- South Mountain
Best neighborhoods for families
- Arcadia/Biltmore
- Ahwatukee
- Coronado
- Gilbert
- Paradise Valley
- Scottsdale
Things to do in Phoenix
After settling into your new Arizona home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Phoenix has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Phoenix features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Musical Instrument Museum, Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, and Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Encanto Park, Freestone Park, Tempe Beach Park, and Desert Breeze 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 Arizona Cardinals (NFL)Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)Phoenix Suns (NBA)Arizona Coyotes (NHL)Phoenix Mercury (WNBA)Arizona Rattlers (IFL)Phoenix Rising FC (USLC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbia to Phoenix?
Planning your move from Columbia to Phoenix? 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 Phoenix?
Because most people are moving from Columbia to Phoenix 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 Phoenix take?
The 2,060-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Phoenix, , typically takes six to 17 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 Phoenix.
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
Columbia moving services
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