Cheapest Movers in Columbia, PA (2025 Guide)

Quick answer: Out of 87 movers in Pennsylvania, we found 495 Movers, Inc to be the best option for local moves in Columbia, PA, based on key areas like pricing, services, and reviews. Our go-to choice for long-distance or out-of-state moves from Pennsylvania is Safeway Moving, since they consistently deliver quality service at a fair price.

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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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6 Cheapest movers when moving locally in Columbia, PA

Whether you're planning a move within Columbia or relocating to a nearby Pennsylvania city like Wrightsville or West Hempfield (both under 50 miles away), we’ve rounded up some of the best local movers that combine solid reputations with affordable pricing.

Preferred Partner
495 Movers, Inc: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/495movingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/495moversinc
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (23%)
  • Professional and polite staff (20%)
  • Good communication (19%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (19%)
  • Lack of communication (18%)
Review Analysis
Moving with a well-organized team can transform a stressful day into a smooth experience. Across 410 reviews for 495 Movers, 83.7% of feedback is positive, reflecting results that outpace many competitors. Most customers found efficient service, careful handling, and friendly, professional movers who kept fragile belongings safe and finished jobs on (or ahead of) schedule. Many appreciated clear estimates, honest pricing, and responsive communication before and during the move. Free packing supplies and flexibility made preparation easier, and follow-up calls reassured customers their move details were covered. A much smaller portion of feedback reports dissatisfaction. Some customers cite damage to their items, unexpected charges not matching estimates, or lost belongings—especially for long-distance or storage moves. A few also mentioned that claims for lost or broken possessions were hard to resolve, and communication could suffer after the move. Negative experiences frequently came with higher costs or struggles reaching resolution, leaving affected customers frustrated. Most feedback highlights efficiency, a courteous team, attention to detail, and billing transparency. Problems with damage or unexpected fees, though rare, are more common than with industry leaders renowned for flawless claims handling and rigid cost guarantees. On balance, 495 Movers is rated better than most moving companies for local or regional moves, especially for customers seeking cost clarity and respectful crews.
Get a Quote (855) 243-1717

Company Info

State license #: 1893270

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1893270


Services Offered

  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/zipmovingatlanta/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (28%)
  • Efficient service (25%)
  • Careful handling (22%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (15%)
  • Unexpected charges (12%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (10%)
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. stands out for efficient, professional service and careful attention to belongings. In an analysis of 372 customer reviews, 91% of the input praised the company's fast moving teams, careful handling of items, professionalism, prompt communication, and swift processes. Most feedback highlights that movers arrive on time, work efficiently, and treat possessions with respect, which is often hard to find among competitors. Many also note transparent pricing and flexibility when scheduling or dealing with last-minute changes. While positive feedback dominates, some customers report problems with damages to items, unexpected cost increases, or delays in delivery, especially for long-distance moves. Compared to other movers, Zip consistently delivers a reliable, courteous experience but could improve by minimizing damages and clarifying pricing for every customer.
Get a Quote (855) 947-6543

Company Info

State license #: 2586700

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3306591


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ZiptozipMoving/, https://twitter.com/ZiptoZipMoving1
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (34%)
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Good communication (29%)
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges (23%)
  • Lack of communication (19%)
  • Damage to items (18%)
Review Analysis
Customers describe Zip to Zip Moving Inc as fast, attentive, and exceptionally careful with belongings. Most feedback highlights efficient moves, respectful and friendly staff, and responsive communication at every step. Movers frequently go above expectations, helping with setup and accommodating last-minute changes. Transparent pricing and straightforward booking set them apart from many competitors, with positive input from more than 97% of reviewers. Some customers encountered much higher-than-expected charges, felt pressured into tipping or leaving positive reviews, and noticed final costs far outstripped initial quotes. A handful mentioned issues with communication or left items. The company's overwhelmingly positive reputation signals strong reliability, but a few outlier experiences suggest confirming pricing details and service expectations in writing is wise.
Get a Quote (484) 214-2143

Company Info

State license #: 8925314

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 2969363


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Good communication (27%)
Customer Complaints
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (35%)
  • Unexpected charges (31%)
  • Damage to items (29%)
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns strong marks for efficiency, professional and approachable crews, and quick, careful service. Customer feedback highlights that moves often proceed swiftly, with friendly staff showing respect for property and maintaining positive attitudes. Many users note their belongings remained intact thanks to careful handling, and movers frequently finished ahead of schedule. In contrast, several customers faced delays, unexpected scheduling issues, and items damaged during moves. Coordination problems between Bellhop’s office and actual movers led to missed appointments or late teams more often than with traditional moving companies. Compared to others in the industry, Bellhop stands out for affordable, rapid moves when everything goes as planned, but lacks consistent reliability during peak times or for complex moves.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

DOT #: 2878240


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/GoArmstrongLancaster/, https://twitter.com/Arm_Lancaster
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (36%)
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Careful handling (30%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Unexpected charges (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (20%)
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team's professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong's pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/people/Geo-W-Weaver-Son-Inc/100090270632783/?paipv=0&eav=AfamJb_pv9ffgPJWM7SohjCagQW6r-npdon84gTVF9MGbc0PAmBbKRIJ4W1rMs4KVR4&_rdr,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (45%)
  • Efficient service (40%)
  • Careful handling (38%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Lack of communication (20%)
  • Unexpected charges (18%)
Review Analysis
Moving with Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. means working with a team known for efficiency, professionalism, and careful service. Out of 259 reviews, 92.7% report positive experiences, making this company a standout in the moving industry. Customers consistently mention the staff’s courtesy, professionalism, and attention to detail. Moves are often completed quickly and without issue, and communication from the office to the moving crew earns praise for keeping customers informed and at ease. On the flip side, a few clients have faced issues like damaged items, inaccurate quotes, and communication breakdowns. Complaints about property damage and unexpected costs are more frequent than with similar services. Despite some negative feedback, the vast majority of input highlights reliability, speed, and a crew that takes extra care with belongings.
Get a Quote (717) 774-7838

Company Info

State license #: 702302

Years in Business: 127

DOT #: 10676

Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co., M.F. Rockey Moving Company, Penn Hershey Transfer, Harrisburg Transfer Company, George W. Weaver


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Other local PA moverstoggle

While these local Pennsylvania movers did not make our top list, they are still worth looking into:

Cheapest movers when moving out of Pennsylvania

Moving from Pennsylvania to another state involves more than just packing boxes. You’ll also need the support of an experienced moving team. These interstate moving companies have the know-how and manpower to make your move as easy as possible:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
  3. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

Cheapest DIY moving options in Columbia, PA

Choosing a full-service mover for your Columbia, Pennsylvania move is definitely the most convenient option, but it’s also usually the priciest. If you’re looking to cut costs, consider going with one of the top moving container companies. Or, check out moving truck rental companies in Columbia instead.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts

Top-rated movers in other nearby Pennsylvania cities

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How we chose the best movers in Columbia, PAtoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 87 Pennsylvania movers and listed the top five best movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of movers in Columbia, PA

Use the pricing table below to get a general sense of what local moving costs look like in and around Columbia. If you want more in-depth info, check out our full guide on moving costs in Pennsylvania.

Keep in mind that the moving quotes provided are just rough estimates. Your actual cost will depend on the specifics of your move. For a more accurate estimate, use our moving cost calculator.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $489 $141 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $613 $143 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $950 $202 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $2,059 $279 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $2,249 $279 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $3,540 $399 5 movers 10 hours

Compare the top Columbia, PA movers

Let’s compare how the top movers in Columbia, PA stack up in terms of their reputation.

Company moveBuddha rating BBB rating Yelp rating Google rating
Armstrong relocation 4.8/5 A+ 3.4/5 4.7/5
Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. 4.7/5 A+ 3.9/5 4.9/5
Maya's Movers LLC 4.6/5 A+ 4.7/5 4.9/5
Charles E. Groff & Sons, Inc. 4.5/5 A+ 2.3/5 4.5/5
Kinetic Movers LLC 4.5/5 A+ 5/5 5/5
Fairprice Movers 4.4/5 A+ 4.1/5 4.8/5
Movers & Co. 4.4/5 A+ 1/5 4.8/5
Jack Treier Moving Storage 4.2/5 3.6/5 4.7/5
Stephan's Moving 4.2/5 A+ 4.4/5 4.7/5
Mt. Everest Moving Company 4.1/5 A+ 5/5 5/5

FAQs

How can I verify if my mover is legally licensed?toggle

For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly.

Every mover featured in our guide is fully licensed. Check out our best movers in Pennsylvania page for top picks.

What’s the best way to find a trustworthy Columbia mover?toggle

Finding a dependable Columbia moving company can be a challenge, but there are a few key things that can help you identify a reputable mover:

  • Reputation: A strong reputation is important, whether the mover is a small local business or a well-established van lines company.
  • Dispute resolution: Steer clear of movers with a track record of unresolved complaints. While every Columbia mover may encounter customer issues, the best ones handle disputes quickly and professionally.
  • Experience with your type of move: Great reviews for short moves don’t guarantee success on a cross-country relocation. Make sure the mover has handled moves like yours before.

Can Columbia movers help with long-distance relocations?toggle

Some moving companies in Columbia offer long-distance services, while others stick to local moves only. If you're planning an out-of-state move, check out our list of the best long distance movers in Columbia.

When is the most affordable day to hire movers in Columbia, PA?toggle

Movers in Columbia, Pennsylvania, are usually cheapest on weekdays, as weekends tend to be busier and more expensive. Typically, the most affordable time to move falls between October and April. Moving costs spike between May and September due to high demand during peak season.

It’s best to book your Columbia move early. To save money, try to avoid weekends, holidays, and peak summer months. And remember, a low initial quote isn’t always a good sign. Some movers increase the price on moving day after low-balling up front.

How can I move out of state from Columbia, PA on a budget?toggle

If you're looking to save money, renting a moving truck is the most affordable way to move out of state or even locally within Columbia, Pennsylvania. It’s a DIY solution, though, so you’ll be responsible for packing, loading, unloading, and doing all the driving.

Is using a moving container a smart choice for my move from Columbia?toggle

Moving containers give you the flexibility to move on your schedule, but you’ll need to handle all the lifting and loading yourself. Once everything is packed, the container company will take care of transporting it to your new home, so you can skip the hassle of driving a moving truck.

Can I get help loading my moving container in Columbia?toggle

If you’re going the DIY route with a rental truck or container, labor-only moving companies are a great way to get some extra help. Hiring professionals to assist with loading and unloading can lighten the workload and speed up the process.

Can I get storage from Columbia moving companies?toggle

Many Columbia movers offer both short- and long-term storage options. Some companies may rely on third-party storage facilities, so be sure to ask how and where your belongings will be stored. It’s a good idea to confirm availability and costs when comparing movers.

Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

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