Quick answer: Expect to pay $581–$6,773 for a move from Mobile to Columbia, with most moves taking one to six days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 537 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Columbia to Mobile guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

When you’ve got 9 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Mobile, the search for the right one can quickly become overwhelming. And that’s after you decide whether to hand the job over to a full-service team or keep more control — and save a little money — with a DIY approach.

We’ve already done the hard work for you. Each Mobile mover was reviewed for services offered, pricing, and overall value, with customer experiences drawn from online reviews. From there, we narrowed the field to the best long-distance movers in Mobile, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Professional
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only

Best professional movers from Mobile to Columbia

For an interstate move from Mobile to Columbia, choosing a full-service mover means you won’t have to manage the packing, loading, or transport yourself. These companies handle the details so you can concentrate on your schedule and plans for settling in.

Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for full-service movers equipped to get you from Mobile to Columbia efficiently and with minimal stress.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Mobile?toggle

Service availability isn’t the same everywhere. This table highlights how often movers in Mobile offer each option, alongside figures for AL and nationwide, so you can quickly see what’s simple to book and what may require extra planning.

Service Mobile (Count) Mobile (%) Alabama (Count) Alabama (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 10 100% 43 100% 2830 98%
Unpacking 10 100% 42 98% 2795 97%
Fragile-only packing 1 10% 10 23% 714 25%
Packing materials 6 60% 26 60% 1681 58%
Storage
Storage 9 90% 38 88% 2498 87%
Climate-controlled storage 2 20% 15 35% 973 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 7 70% 28 65% 1884 65%
Art 2 20% 10 23% 1397 48%
Antiques 3 30% 14 33% 1398 48%
Piano 6 60% 33 77% 2172 75%
Hot tub 1 10% 10 23% 668 23%
Pool table 3 30% 13 30% 941 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 33 Alabama movers and listed the top 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Mobile to Columbia journey

Organizing a move from Mobile to Columbia can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Mobile known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Mobile to Columbia.

  1. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Griner Moving Services: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. RS Moving & Warehousing: 4.42 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/MotivatedMoversBirmingham, https://twitter.com/MMoversBham
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving is made easy with Motivated Movers, Inc., as 96% of the 25 customer feedback entries praise professional, efficient, and polite staff who work quickly and handle belongings carefully. Many users say communication is clear and timely, and moves are completed with thoughtful attention to property. Customers often mention recommending the company or being repeat clients, which suggests Motivated Movers stands out for reliability compared to similar services.
The main drawback comes from a single complaint about item damage with poor follow-up and communication after a mishap. Users searching for a hassle-free move will find Motivated Movers, Inc. consistently delivers careful, efficient, and respectful service, while only rare instances of unresolved damage stand out in feedback.
Show more
Get a Quote (251) 621-0063

Company Info

Years in Business: 18

Alternate Names: STACK Corp.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving experiences often define a new chapter, and feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK highlights strong points in customer care. Out of 240 reviews, 76% praise friendly, professional movers who work quickly and handle belongings with care. Customers frequently mention polite staff, efficient service, and helpful assistance that smooths the moving process.
Many note that the crews arrive on time, pack and move everything speedily, remain respectful of property, and communicate well. Yet, not every move is trouble-free: about 22% of feedback reports damaged items or property, surprise extra charges, or a lack of follow-up on problems. Complaints point to inconsistent post-move support and sometimes poor communication from management. Few companies in the moving industry receive as much consistent praise for crew attitude and efficiency. Still, cases of unresolved damages and billing issues show room for improvement, especially when compared to local competitors known for swift claims handling. Customers looking for reliable service and a courteous team are likely to be satisfied, but those prioritizing full transparency and guarantees against damages should ask detailed questions in advance.
Show more
Get a Quote (251) 202-7531

Company Info

State license #: 4053

Years in Business: 40

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: SWS Investments & Holdings LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/colemanallied, https://twitter.com/colemanallied
75% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day success stories fill Coleman Worldwide Moving's customer feedback, with a strong 75% of reviews sharing positive input. Customers often highlight the company's professional, polite staff, careful handling of belongings, fast service, excellent communication, and quick moving process. Many mention stress-free experiences, friendly crews, and seamless organization that sets Coleman apart from competitors.
Yet, about 22% report troubling issues, most frequently item damage, trouble reaching staff or getting updates, and missing or misplaced goods. Complaints also mention lack of communication and challenges resolving claims. Neutral comments sometimes note breakage of fragile items but mention overall efficiency. Compared to similar moving companies, Coleman receives notably high marks for staff professionalism and care shown toward customers, though item protection and communication after damage reports could be improved. Customers can expect dedicated crews, careful packing, and quick moves, but should remain vigilant for potential handling issues and confirm clear communication about their possessions.
Show more
Get a Quote (877) 693-7060

Company Info

State license #: C457

Years in Business: 111

DOT #: 2897746

Alternate Names: Covan World-Wide Moving, Inc., Coleman American Moving Services, Coleman World Group, LLC, Coleman Worldwide Moving, Covan Worldwide Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GrinerMovingMobile/,
100% of all reviews were positive
0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Flawless moves and exceptional service set Griner Moving Services apart based on the 55 pieces of customer feedback analyzed, all positive. Clients frequently mention careful handling, professional and polite staff, efficient moves, fast service, and bold recommendations. No critical issues or complaints appeared, a rarity compared with most moving companies.
Customers describe notably stress-free experiences, careful furniture packing, and helpful attitudes at every step. Feedback highlights their consistent reliability and attention to detail, suggesting Griner outperforms industry norms for customer satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (251) 451-9446

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3558541


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Richardsonllc/,
100% of all reviews were positive
0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with RS Moving & Warehousing is consistently described as smooth and stress-free, according to all 67 feedback entries analyzed. Every single review is positive, with customers highlighting the company's professional staff, efficient service, fast-moving crews, and careful handling of belongings. Clients frequently mention polite, helpful movers and report that their property remained damage-free.
Many express high satisfaction with how quickly their move was completed and recommend the business to others. No reports of major problems, delays, or hidden fees were found, setting this company apart from other movers in the region. The consistent praise for staff professionalism and responsive support makes RS Moving & Warehousing an excellent moving company choice.
Show more
Get a Quote (251) 895-2675

Company Info

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 3000204

Alternate Names: RS Moving & Warehousing


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Mobile to Columbia?

Mobile movers charge $150 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,545 - $4,338 $825 - $2,008 $517 - $952
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,717 - $6,773 $1,582 - $3,122 $581 - $1,187
4+ bedrooms $4,961 - $10,549 $2,128 - $3,638 $731 - $1,459
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 537 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Alabama to South Carolina

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Alabama to South Carolina, you can expect to spend between $1,545 and $4,338. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,717 to $6,773 on the same route (AL to SC). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Alabama to South Carolina typically runs between $4,961 and $10,549.

Cost of moving containers from Alabama to South Carolina

Moving from Alabama to South Carolina? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $825 and $2,008. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,582 to $3,122. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,128 up to $3,638. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to South Carolina

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you'll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $517 and $952. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $581 and $1,187. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $731 up to $1,459 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from Mobile to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Mobile movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Mobile to Columbia (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,545, while larger moves may reach $8,493 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Mobile,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $517 to $1,225), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Mobile to Columbia

Monthly costs run higher in Columbia than in Mobile — roughly 7% more for singles and 4% more for families.

Singles spend $1,956 vs. $1,825, and families $4,274 vs. $4,104.

Use the comparison below to plan your budget with confidence:

Mobile Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,083 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $1,833 $2,220
Average home value $186,159 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $61,962 $64,683
Unemployment rate 6.2% 5.2%
Sales tax 10.0% 8.0%
State income tax 5.0% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Columbia, since prices are typically 11% higher than in Mobile.
  • The home prices in Columbia are 18.5% higher than in Mobile, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Columbia, where incomes are, on average, 4.4% higher than in Mobile. Major employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbia, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 7.2% higher than in Mobile. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Columbia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 4.1% higher than in Mobile.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 16.13% lower than in Mobile.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city's sales taxes in Columbia are 20.00% lower than in Mobile.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 40.00% higher than in Mobile.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Mobile and Columbia, from monthly bills to routine purchases.

Mobile Columbia
Basic utilities $165.58 $148.09
Cell phone plan $68.33 $54.77
Dozen eggs $3.5 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.31 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60 $60
Gym membership $36.13 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Mobile than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Mobile than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Mobile than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Mobile than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Mobile than in Columbia.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Mobile than in Columbia.

How life is different in Mobile vs. Columbia

Columbia Mobile
Population 136,632 187,041
Transportation Score 5 3
Walkability score 35 32
Bike friendliness score 35 34
Crime Index 3.0 64.95
Safety Index 48.39 35.05
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbia's population is about 27% less than Mobile.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Mobile's lower score of 3.
  • Columbia and Mobile are similarily walkable.
  • Both Columbia and Mobile have the same bike-friendliness score of 34 out of 100, meaning Columbia is about as safe for cyclists as Mobile. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Mobile with a score of 3.0 compared to Mobile's 64.95. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Mobile neighborhoods are safer than 64.95%.
  • Columbia is considered to be safer than Mobile with a safety index of 48.39 vs Mobile's 35.05.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Mobile it's good.

Other things to consider for your Mobile vs. Columbia move

  • Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
  • 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Columbia. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you've chosen Soda City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbia to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it's time to see what Columbia is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • 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, EdVenture Children's Museum, and South Carolina Military Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Mobile to Columbia?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Mobile to Columbia. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Mobile.

When is the cheapest time to move from Mobile to Columbia?

Because spring and fall moves from Mobile to Columbia are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Mobile to Columbia take?

The 537-mile journey from Mobile, AL to Columbia, SC, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Mobile 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 Mobile?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

How many movers in Mobile can handle specialty items for my move to Columbia?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Mobile, 6 movers can handle pianos. 3 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of AL, there are 33 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2172 and 1398 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources