Quick answer: The cost to move from Tucson to Columbia ranges from $1,330 to $8,496 and the journey will take approximately five to 16 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 1,949-mile move on your own.

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

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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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 13 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Tucson, 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 Tucson 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 Tucson, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Best professional movers from Tucson to Columbia

If you’d rather let the professionals handle every part of your interstate move from Tucson to Columbia, a full-service mover is the way to go. These companies can manage everything, so you can focus on the big picture instead of the heavy lifting.

Here are our top picks for full-service movers that can get you from Tucson to Columbia with less stress and more peace of mind.

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 Tucson?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Tucson to all of AZ and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Tucson (Count) Tucson (%) Arizona (Count) Arizona (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 13 100% 83 97% 2835 98%
Unpacking 13 100% 82 95% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 3 23% 29 34% 717 25%
Packing materials 10 77% 52 60% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 12 92% 68 79% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 2 15% 38 44% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 11 85% 55 64% 1886 65%
Art 9 69% 44 51% 1400 48%
Antiques 9 69% 45 52% 1400 48%
Piano 11 85% 65 76% 2175 75%
Hot tub 5 38% 25 29% 669 23%
Pool table 6 46% 25 29% 943 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 75 Arizona 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.

The best local movers servicing Tucson to Columbia moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Tucson that offers long-distance services to Columbia can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Tucson who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Tucson to Columbia.

  1. Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. E-Z Move: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Abba & Sons Moving LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Daniel's Moving and Storage, Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/nicolosimovers, https://twitter.com/Nicolosi_Movers
86% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave feedback makes Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc. a standout in Tucson. After reviewing 202 feedback entries, 86% were positive. Customers frequently praised their efficient service, careful handling of items, professional staff, strong communication, and noted frequent personal recommendations.
Repeat business and referrals are common thanks to their promptness and reliably skilled movers—traits not always found in the industry. Negative feedback focused mainly on lost or missing items, property damage, and lack of follow-up, issues which are flagged more often than with similar local companies. Some complaints related to communication lapses or delayed issue resolutions. Neutral feedback highlighted procedural missteps, unexpected extra costs, and areas where more transparent communication could improve the experience. While most customers found Nicolosi easy to work with and trustworthy, those concerned about accountability for property and resolution of complaints should be attentive during their move. Compared to other movers, Nicolosi wins high marks for service quality but should strengthen handling of problematic claims to match their service reputation.
Show more
Get a Quote (520) 722-0456

Company Info

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 667348


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/EZMOVE, https://twitter.com/ezmovetucson
68% of all reviews were positive
31% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moves go smoother with E-Z Move according to most customer input—197 out of 290 reviews reflect a positive experience, amounting to nearly 68%. Customers consistently highlight efficient service, polite teams, careful handling, speedy moves, and a positive attitude. Many point out how the crews go above and beyond, making complex relocations simple.
On the down side, about 31% of customers report major problems with surprise costs, inaccurate quotes, and unprofessional conduct from management or movers. Neutral feedback, though rare, tends to echo concerns over shifting prices mid-process. The combination of quick, reliable movers and attentive care puts E-Z Move ahead of many local competitors, but frequent issues with transparency and billing undermine trust. Businesses with clearer, consistent communication and upfront pricing regularly score higher satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (520) 808-0347

Company Info

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 1966983

Alternate Names: Tucson Moving Systems, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/abbaandsonsmoving, https://twitter.com/AbbaAndSons
90% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers that show up, work hard, and minimize stress—that's what customer input shows about Abba & Sons Moving LLC. From 295 reviews, nearly 90% rated their experience highly, highlighting prompt, efficient service, polite teams, excellent communication, and real care for belongings. Pricing stays honest, and customers appreciate smooth bookings, especially on short notice.
Damage to items appears most frequently in complaints, with a few citing surprise charges or late arrivals. The rare neutral feedback usually comes from scheduling glitches or minor mishaps. Abba & Sons outpaces many competitors in reliability, flexibility, and respectful movers, but customers should clarify charges and packing details up front to prevent issues. Most describe the company as a dependable partner—one that stands out for both speed and courtesy, making moves easier than with typical moving services.
Show more
Get a Quote (520) 444-3133

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1921793

Alternate Names: Abba and Sons Moving, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/danielsmovingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/danielsmoving?lang=en
83% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easier—most input raves about Daniel's Moving and Storage, Inc. Out of 174 reviews, 82.8% praise the company for professional conduct, careful handling, top-notch communication, efficiency, and genuinely helpful teams. Customers describe staff as courteous and attentive, often highlighting seamless transitions during stressful moves.
The crews take pride in protecting property and belongings, making the company stand out above standard industry service. In contrast, 15.5% report issues mostly involving damaged or missing items, along with some cases of unprofessional conduct or stolen goods. Communication breakdowns and lost items drive the bulk of negative feedback. When things go right, Daniel's earns high recommendations and repeat customers, but loss or damage can seriously sour the experience. Their volume of positive feedback and focus on professionalism often places them ahead of competitors, but claims about property damage and missing pieces should be carefully considered when choosing a mover.
Show more
Get a Quote (520) 314-3686

Company Info

Years in Business: 47

DOT #: 1293335

Alternate Names: Atlas Van Lines, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/twomentucson, https://twitter.com/TwoMenTucson
81% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews highlight Two Men and a Truck’s quick, efficient service, with 81% of customers praising the movers’ professionalism, respectful care, and strong communication—all reasons customers recommend them again and again. Customers report that movers arrive on time, work efficiently, handle items with care, and communicate thoroughly before and during the move. Many cite the team’s helpful attitude, politeness, and prompt problem-solving, often contrasting positively against experiences with other movers.
A few customers mentioned final bills ending below estimates and stress-free moving days, rare compared to industry averages. Some feedback notes significant drawbacks. About 16% of responses mention damaged items as the primary complaint—ranging from broken furniture to mishandled valuables and disputes over refunds or claims. Other frustrations include surprise charges above quoted amounts and poor communication from office staff or management. Neutral feedback occasionally points to inconsistent handling of fragile items and variable mover attitudes on challenging jobs. Compared to most moving companies, Two Men and a Truck earns stronger praise for professionalism and efficiency, though customers should clarify cost details in advance and inspect belongings upon delivery to minimize issues.
Show more
Get a Quote (520) 277-5825

Company Info

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Black Wolf Moving Arizona, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

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

Tucson movers charge $85 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 $1,466 - $5,272 $1,321 - $3,141 $1,229 - $2,564
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,883 - $8,496 $2,377 - $4,600 $1,330 - $2,819
4+ bedrooms $7,014 - $12,087 $3,129 - $6,134 $1,765 - $3,593
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,949 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 Arizona to South Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Arizona to South Carolina will cost between $1,466 and $5,272. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AZ to SC will range from $3,883 to $8,496, and a large move from Arizona to South Carolina will cost from $7,014 to $12,087.

Cost of moving containers from Arizona to South Carolina

If you're relocating from Arizona to South Carolina, you'll typically spend between $1,321 and $3,141 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,377 up to $4,600. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,129 and $6,134. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Arizona.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Arizona 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 $1,229 and $2,564. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,330 and $2,819. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $1,765 up to $3,593 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Tucson to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Tucson movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Tucson to Columbia might cost just $1,466 for a one-bedroom, but up to $11,038 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Tucson, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,229 and $3,377, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Tucson to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Tucson — roughly 18% less for singles and 29% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $2,390 in Tucson. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $6,043.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Tucson Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,265 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,177 $2,220
Average home value $327,203 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $61,749 $64,683
Unemployment rate 7.4% 5.2%
Sales tax 8.7% 8.0%
State income tax 2.5% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Columbia, since prices are typically 12% higher than in Tucson.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Columbia.
    Home prices in Columbia are 32.6% lower than in Tucson.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Columbia, where incomes are, on average, 4.8% higher than in Tucson. Major employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Columbia. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 18.2% lower than in Tucson.
  • 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 29.3% less than what it costs in Tucson.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 29.73% lower than in Tucson.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city's sales taxes in Columbia are 8.05% lower than in Tucson.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 180.00% higher than in Tucson.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Tucson versus Columbia.

Tucson Columbia
Basic utilities $271.98 $148.09
Cell phone plan $70.53 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.22 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.33 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75 $60
Gym membership $35.28 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tucson than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tucson than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Tucson than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Tucson than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Tucson than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Tucson than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Tucson than in Columbia.

How life is different in Tucson vs. Columbia

Columbia Tucson
Population 136,632 542,629
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 35 43
Bike friendliness score 35 66
Crime Index 3.0 54.43
Safety Index 48.39 45.57
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbia might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 75% less than Tucson.
  • Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Columbia will be about the same as it currently is in Tucson. The cities share a similar public transportation score, which means their transit systems are comparable in terms of how connected they are, how often they provide service, and how close they are to jobs, housing, retail and food stores, and other important locations.
  • Columbia neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Tucson. Based on its score of 35 out of 100, Columbia isn't as walkable as Tucson, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Columbia, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Tucson. While Tucson has a bike-friendliness score of 66 out of 100, Columbia earned a 35. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Columbia has a lower crime rate than Tucson based on scores of 3.0 and Tucson's 54.43, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • Columbia is generally as safe as Tucson, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • The air quality in Columbia and Tucson is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Tucson 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 decided to make the move to Soda City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Irmo
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Blythewood
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

Now that you've made the move to South Carolina it's the perfect time to explore Columbia From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Columbia is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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 sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Tucson to Columbia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Tucson.

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

With many people choosing to move from Tucson to Columbia in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Tucson to Columbia take?

The 1,949-mile move from Tucson, AZ, to Columbia, SC, takes five to 16 days. Some Tucson movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbia.

Which movers in Tucson offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 11 movers in Tucson have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 9 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across AZ, there are 65 piano movers and 45 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2175 and 1400.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources