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How Much Do Movers Cost in Columbia, MO ?

Quick answer: Expect to pay $420 to $4,163 for a local move in Columbia, Missouri, or around $128 per hour. When moving out of state, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in Columbia will depend on your move size, mileage, and service needs.

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I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
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Average cost of local movers in Columbia, MO

Hiring a moving company in Columbia is definitely the most convenient way to move, but that convenience comes at a higher cost than a DIY approach.

Here’s how much professional movers cost in Columbia based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $420 $179 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $599 $179 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $992 $250 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $2,343 $350 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $2,693 $350 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $4,163 $490 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost details

  • Studio: For a studio apartment move, you’ll generally need the expertise of two movers, and the process can last around three hours. The duration varies based on the volume and nature of your possessions, with the service priced at an hourly rate of $179.
  • One bedroom: For your one-bedroom apartment or house, you should budget approximately $179 per hour. This estimate includes a dedicated crew of two movers working for four hours.
  • Two bedrooms: Anticipate spending about $250 per hour to move a two-bedroom place in Missouri. Typically, three movers are necessary for five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Expect movers in Missouri to ask for $350 per hour to relocate a three-bedroom house. This process is often completed in eight hours by a team of four.
  • Four bedrooms: Moving a four-bedroom house in Missouri will take four movers approximately nine hours, at a rate of $350 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: Engaging Missouri movers for a residence with five or more bedrooms costs $490 per hour. Typically, this type of move needs the assistance of five movers and takes around 10 hours.

Sneaky savings alert: Hourly mover rates near Columbia, MO, average $128, which beats the U.S. average of $139.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Columbia move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Columbia, MO

Our experienced team has diligently reviewed licensing details, insurance plans, customer reviews, and an array of other data points to determine the top moving professionals in Columbia.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  3. AmeriGO Moving: 4.26 out of 5 stars
  4. Bellhop Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
Moving satisfaction is what customers highlighted most for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Out of 236 pieces of feedback, 88% praised the company’s professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, and helpful movers. Clients consistently described the team as courteous, hardworking, and diligent in protecting belongings—often finishing jobs faster than expected and ensuring stress-free moves.
Friendly communication and flexible scheduling also set them apart from many moving services, while transparent or even unexpectedly low final costs compared favorably against competitors. A handful of complaints focused on damage to items, unexpected additional costs, or interactions with less accommodating staff, reminding prospective customers to review estimates closely and communicate expectations. Most clients found their experience smoother and more reliable here than with other moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (573) 234-4298

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
  • Careful handling
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving stands out with 148 reviews analyzed—95.9% positive, 4.1% negative, and none neutral. The majority highlight efficient service, professional and polite staff, quick moves, strong communication, and careful handling of belongings. Customers regularly mention that the team works quickly, protects property, provides updates, and manages challenging jobs with reliability and a positive attitude.
On the downside, a few customers point to items being damaged, crews missing scheduled appointments, or unexpected charges, particularly for moves involving extra fees or complicated claims. Direct comparisons often place College Hunks ahead of competing moving companies, especially for professionalism and speed. With nearly universal high praise and only a few reports of mishaps or communication lapses, feedback suggests College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving is a trustworthy option for efficient, courteous moving services with an emphasis on care and professionalism.
Show more
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2378173


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers rave about AmeriGO Moving’s attention to detail, friendly movers, and efficient handling of challenging tasks like moving grand pianos. Seventy percent of the 30 pieces of feedback highlight careful handling, professionalism, and prompt service as leading qualities. Positive feedback commonly mentions quick arrivals, expert team members, and great communication from leaders.
On the flip side, 27% of feedback cite issues such as damaged belongings, hidden costs, and delayed replies—complaints that tarnish their reputation. Reports of poorly handled claims, missed calls, and property damage stand out, especially when compared to top-rated moving firms who tend to resolve such issues smoothly. A handful of cases mention unexpected charges and lost items, showing inconsistency in service reliability. AmeriGO Moving impresses many with careful and courteous staff yet faces criticism for breakdowns in handling problems and added costs in the less favorable input.
Show more
Get a Quote (573) 636-7890

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 164554


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unreliable timing
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for professionalism, speed, and friendly movers, with 56% positive input from 45 customers. Clients frequently mention efficient service, affordability, and clear communication. Customers appreciate quick booking, polite staff, and that jobs are often completed faster than anticipated.
On the other hand, 40% report problems like property damage, delays, and movers arriving late or not at all. Feedback about broken items, missed appointments, and inexperienced crews stands out among the complaints. Bellhop’s value and reliability outpace some competitors, but inconsistencies in service delivery remain a risk for potential customers.
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Get a Quote (816) 656-3399

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Moving costs in other nearby Missouri citiestoggle

Average cost to hire interstate movers in Columbia, MO

Since the cost of moving out of Missouri depends largely on where you’re moving, we’ve provided some example costs below. To get the most accurate pricing based on your specific destination, find your moving route to Missouri or use our moving cost calculator.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from Columbia

The price of moving a one-bedroom home from Columbia to another state largely depends on how far you’re going, the size of your move, and the moving method you choose.

To help set expectations, here are a few example price ranges for long-distance moves leaving Missouri:

  • Columbia to Oklahoma City $1,248 – $2,856
  • Columbia to Albuquerque $1,955 – $4,204
  • Columbia to Boston $2,338 – $4,561

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of state from Columbia

Moving a two- or three-bedroom home out of Columbia comes with costs that vary depending on how much stuff you’re taking. A three-bedroom move with minimal furniture could actually cost less than a heavily decorated two-bedroom with more square footage.

Still, for reference, here are the typical cost ranges for two- to three-bedroom moves covering similar distances from Columbia:

  • Columbia to Oklahoma City $1,715 – $4,070
  • Columbia to Denver $2,123 – $4,719
  • Columbia to Boston $2,448 – $5,286

Cost to move a four-bedroom (or larger) home out of state from Columbia

Relocating a four-bedroom or larger home from Columbia involves a number of variables. The costs can vary significantly depending on distance, volume, and seasonality.

Here’s a general idea of what long-distance moves from Columbia with four or more bedrooms might cost:

  • Columbia to Indianapolis $2,506 – $5,207
  • Columbia to Denver $3,559 – $6,427
  • Columbia to Mesa $4,417 – $7,160

Best interstate moving companies in Columbia, MO

Now that you have an idea of what your move from Columbia should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best interstate moving companies. We vetted each one, examining their pricing, services, and our own real-life customer reviews to pick the best options for you.

Best overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most experienced mover
Licensedcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for contents coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
(866) 825-0554
At A Glance
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years’ experience
read our full review
(866) 825-0554
Best customer service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Average cost of moving containers in Columbia, MO

The average cost of moving containers in Columbia is approximately $500 for local relocations and as much as $3,000 for long-distance moves. Cross-country moves can reach as high as $7,000 or more. Costs are largely based on distance and the container size you choose.

Best moving containers in Columbia, MO

Need more options? Take a look at these highly-rated moving container companies before making your decision.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount

Average cost to rent a moving truck in Columbia, MO

The cheapest way to move from Columbia is usually by renting a truck. Expect a daily base rate of around $60, though it can run anywhere from $19 to $39, plus a per-mile charge between $1 and $1. While budget-friendly, this option means you’ll handle everything — from loading up to driving the truck to your new home.

Here are the typical costs of Columbia rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19 – $39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $1 – $1 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20-$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you’ll be driving
  • The length of time you keep the rental
  • Refueling expenses
  • Overnight stays and food
  • Cost of toll roads
  • Whether you need extra insurance
  • Equipment like dollies or pads
  • City parking fees or permits

Best moving truck rentals in Columbia, MO

A full DIY move with a rental truck is almost always the lowest-cost option. In Columbia, you’ll find lots of moving truck rental companies ready to help you get on the road. If you’re ready to do the heavy lifting — literally — these are some of the top companies to check out:

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Best labor-only moving companies in Columbia

If you’re looking for labor assistance in Columbia, you’ll want to find a company that offers fair and transparent pricing and a good reputation for quality service. A labor-only moving company that can handle packing or supply boxes and moving supplies may also be a plus.

Here are our favorite labor-only movers.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Hire moving labor
  • Online quotes
  • Nationwide
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Online booking
  • Move Concierge
  • Affordable

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Columbia, MO

The exact amount you’ll pay for your move depends on the specific details of your move. That said, here are some of the most common factors that can influence the price of your Columbia move:

  • Distance: Long-distance moves tend to cost more due to added mileage, fuel charges, and labor hours. Staying within the same city or region is typically more affordable.
  • Move size: More items = more money. Larger households usually need extra hands and a bigger truck, both of which increase the price.
  • When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May-September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
  • The type of mover you choose: In most cases, hiring a full-service mover to assist with loading, unloading, and transport of your belongings will cost more than DIY options like moving container companies, where you handle all the heavy lifting yourself.
  • The services you select: Extra services like packing, unpacking, or premium insurance will add to your total. Even if you’re going DIY, hiring help for loading and unloading will bump up your budget.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Invest in comprehensive coverage of your belongings. Movers are federally required to offer released value protection for free. While that sounds great, the coverage is minimal — just $0.60 per pound, regardless of the item’s actual value. This means you’d only receive $3 for a five-pound antique vase, even though the vase is valued at $300. Consider purchasing full-value coverage from your mover or home insurance provider to ensure better protection based on the item’s value.
  • Check your community’s moving rules. Many areas, especially those with HOAs, have moving restrictions on specific days or times. Be sure to review these rules and notify your building or HOA ahead of time.
  • Prepare your paperwork. Documentation such as proof of insurance or elevator reservation may be required when moving into or out of an apartment. These details are typically included in your moving contract, so be sure to collect them before moving day.

What discounts do Columbia movers offer?

Some movers in Columbia advertise discounts for specific groups. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available locally compared to state and national averages:

Type of discount Columbia Missouri National average
AAA members 0.0% 0.0% 1.13%
Seniors 0.0% 3.45% 4.31%
Students 0.0% 0.0% 1.17%
Teachers 0.0% 0.0% 0.35%
Law enforcement 0.0% 0.0% 0.72%
Military 0.0% 5.17% 3.97%

Ask upfront about discounts when calling Columbia movers — offers vary from one company to the next.

What is the cheapest way to move to Columbia?

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading, and they transport your belongings in Columbia for you, or you can rent a moving truck and handle it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from Columbia to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Atlanta $2,145 – $5,594 $1,259 – $2,488 $508 – $1,057
Minneapolis $1,932 – $4,833 $1,162 – $2,174 $445 – $872
Oklahoma City $1,939 – $4,901 $1,196 – $2,257 $402 – $801

How to pay for your Columbia move

Most movers take credit cards, but what if you want to pay by cash or money order? Take a look at how many of the 9 movers in Columbia accept each form of payment, as well as how those numbers compare to the 58 MO movers and 3,175 moving companies nationwide.

Payment method Columbia Missouri U.S.
Credit card 8 50 2863
Cash 2 18 824
Money order 0 6 272

Not all companies take every method — always confirm with your Columbia mover when you call for a quote.

Helpful Columbia resources

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