Top-rated movers to make your Manchester to Columbia move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Manchester that offers long-distance services to Columbia can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 30 top local movers in Manchester 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 Manchester to Columbia.
- Ray the Mover: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Trend Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- College Bound Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- All Pro Moving & Storage: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Liberty Bell Moving & Storage, Inc: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 85
DOT #: 2724757
Alternate Names: Ray the Mover of Manchester, Inc. , MII Moving and Storage LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3092893
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3092893
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 650086
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 650086
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 1016693
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 1016693
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1846942
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1846942
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Manchester to Columbia?
In New Hampshire, moving services typically cost around $150 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 | $1,388 – $5,262 | $801 – $2,029 | $643 – $1,252 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,868 – $6,994 | $1,481 – $2,883 | $687 – $1,446 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,789 – $8,394 | $1,898 – $3,823 | $828 – $1,758 |
Cost to hire movers from Manchester to Columbia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Manchester, you can expect prices to land between $1,388 and $5,262. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,868 to $6,994 for the trip from Manchester to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,789 and $8,394.
Cost of moving containers from Manchester to Columbia
Moving containers from Manchester to Columbia will cost you $801 to $2,029 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,481 to $2,883. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,898 to $3,823. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New Hampshire.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Manchester to Columbia
Renting a moving truck from Manchester to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $643 and $1,252 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $687 to $1,446. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $828 to $1,758.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Manchester to Columbia move
The cost of Manchester movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,378 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,753 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Manchester.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $643 to $1,500, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Manchester to Columbia
Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Manchester – roughly 20% less for singles and 19% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $2,449 in Manchester. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $5,256.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Manchester | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,767 | $1,300 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,461 | $2,220 |
| Average home value | $410,329 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,132 | $64,683 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,449 | $1,956 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,256 | $4,274 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.8% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.0% | 7.0% |
- When relocating from Manchester to Columbia, expect to find rent about 28% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 46% more affordable in Columbia compared to Manchester.
- In terms of average income, Columbia and Manchester are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbia, as the cost of living for a single person is 20% lower compared to Manchester.
- A move to Columbia can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 19% less than what it costs in Manchester.
- Columbia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Manchester by around 37%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Columbia has a sales tax, while Manchester does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 75% above those in New Hampshire. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Manchester and Columbia:
| Living Expense | Manchester | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $218.54 | $148.09 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.38 | $54.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.53 | $3.46 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.01 | $2.65 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $27.50 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $85.00 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $81.25 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Manchester than in Columbia.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Manchester than in Columbia.
- Eggs cost more in Manchester than in Columbia.
- Bread is more expensive in Manchester than in Columbia.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Manchester than in Columbia.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Manchester than in Columbia.
- Gym memberships cost more in Manchester than in Columbia.
How life is different in Manchester vs. Columbia
| Manchester | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 115,644 | 136,632 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 42 | 35 |
| Crime index | 56.09 | 3.0 |
| Safety index | 43.91 | 48.39 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbia’s population is about 18% greater than Manchester.
- Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Manchester’s score of 3.
- Columbia is less walkable than Manchester with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Manchester’s 51 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 Manchester, which has a score of 42.
- Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Manchester with a score of 3.0 compared to Manchester’s 56.09. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Manchester neighborhoods are safer than 56.09%.
- Columbia is considered to be safer than Manchester with a safety index of 48.39 vs Manchester’s 43.91.
- Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Manchester it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Manchester to Columbia 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: South Carolina 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 Columbia. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Columbia
Planning your move to Soda City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — 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 Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Manchester to Columbia?
Planning your move from Manchester to Columbia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Manchester.
When is the cheapest time to move from Manchester to Columbia?
Because most people are moving from Manchester to Columbia 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 Manchester to Columbia take?
The 957-mile journey from Manchester, NH to Columbia, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Manchester offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbia.
Are there special savings available from movers in Manchester?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Manchester?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Manchester, 26 movers can manage piano relocations. 14 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, New Hampshire has 19 piano movers and 9 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
Manchester moving services
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