Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Knoxville move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Knoxville 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 Knoxville.
- 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 Knoxville?
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 | $824 – $2,809 | $567 – $1,408 | $287 – $523 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,450 – $3,912 | $1,103 – $2,007 | $293 – $644 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,900 – $5,423 | $1,468 – $2,637 | $366 – $722 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Knoxville
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Knoxville from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $824 and $2,809. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,450 to $3,912 for the trip from Columbia to Knoxville. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $1,900 and $5,423.
Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Knoxville
Moving containers from Columbia to Knoxville will cost you $567 to $1,408 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,103 to $2,007. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,468 to $2,637. 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 Knoxville
Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Knoxville typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $287 and $523 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $293 to $644. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $366 to $722.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Knoxville move
The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,061 for a one-bedroom, or up to $4,584 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 $287 to $634, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbia to Knoxville
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Knoxville runs about 12% higher for singles and 22% higher for families than Columbia.
Singles spend around $2,184 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $5,200 compared with $4,274.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbia | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,300 | $1,667 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,220 | $3,210 |
| Average home value | $220,612 | $350,035 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,683 | $61,050 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,956 | $2,184 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,274 | $5,200 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 4.7% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 9.25% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 0.0% |
- Planning a move to Knoxville? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 24% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Knoxville are about 59% higher than those in Columbia.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 6% lower in Knoxville compared to Columbia.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Knoxville, as living costs for a single person are 12% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Knoxville, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Knoxville is 22% higher than in Columbia.
- The unemployment rate in Knoxville is about 10% 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 in Knoxville are 16% more than in Columbia, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbia and Knoxville:
| Living Expense | Columbia | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.09 | $215.94 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.77 | $54.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.46 | $4.06 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.65 | $3.64 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $34.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Knoxville, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbia than in Knoxville.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Knoxville.
- Bread costs less in Columbia than in Knoxville.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Knoxville.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Knoxville.
- Gym memberships cost more in Columbia than in Knoxville.
How life is different in Columbia vs. Knoxville
| Columbia | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 190,740 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 31 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 30 |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 42.54 |
| Safety index | 48.39 | 57.46 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Knoxville’s population is about 40% greater than Columbia.
- Knoxville’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Columbia’s score of 5.
- Knoxville is less walkable than Columbia with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
- Knoxville has a bike-friendliness score of 30 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Columbia, which has a score of 35.
- Knoxville’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 42.54 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
- Knoxville is considered to be safer than Columbia with a safety index of 57.46 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
- Air quality in Knoxville is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbia to Knoxville 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: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Tennessee’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Tennessee 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 Knoxville. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Knoxville
Planning your move to Marble City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Knoxville.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Farragut
- Oak Ridge
- Alcoa
- Maryville
- Seymour
- Lenoir City
- Louisville
- Eagleton Village
- Loudon
Best neighborhoods for families
- Farragut
- Oak Ridge
- Maryville
- Alcoa
- Louisville
- Loudon
- Clinton
Things to do in Knoxville
After settling into your new Tennessee home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Knoxville has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Knoxville features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Knoxville Museum of Art, East Tennesse Historical Society, Muse Knoxville, and Old Smoky Railway Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Lakeshore Park, World’s Fair Park, Krutch Park, and Fort Dickerson 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 Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbia to Knoxville?
Planning your move from Columbia to Knoxville? 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 Knoxville?
Because most people are moving from Columbia to Knoxville 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 Knoxville take?
The 262-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Knoxville, , 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 Knoxville.
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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