Local moving companies in California
When you’re moving from California to Columbia, SC, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Golden State to the vibrant Soda City.
Out of 309 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Columbia, SC.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
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 money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0192497
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
Seka Moving, serving Los Angeles, CA, since 2019, has quickly built a stellar reputation for local residential moving services. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 137 Google reviews and 4.5 from 17 Yelp reviews, this A+ BBB rated company stands out among local competitors. Seka Moving offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized handling for fragile items, pianos, art, and antiques. Clients can also opt for labor-only services, with the convenience of paying via cash, credit cards, or money orders. For those looking for a reliable and highly rated moving partner in Los Angeles, Seka Moving is a top choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Cost to move from California to Columbia, SC
This table details typical cost ranges to move from California to Columbia, SC, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,342 – $5,335 | $1,293 – $3,246 | $1,458 – $2,661 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,787 – $7,435 | $2,249 – $5,013 | $1,444 – $3,104 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,049 – $11,272 | $3,223 – $6,684 | $1,918 – $4,004 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,512-mile move from California to Columbia, SC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Columbia, SC
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Columbia, SC, typically costs between $1,342 and $5,335. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,787 and $7,435. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Columbia, SC, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,049 up to $11,272.
Cost of moving containers from California to Columbia, SC
When relocating from California to Columbia, SC, you’ll typically spend between $1,293 and $3,246 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,249 up to $5,013. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,223 and $6,684. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Columbia, SC
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from California to Columbia, SC, expect to pay between $1,458 and $2,661. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,444 to $3,104. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,918 and $4,004.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from California to Columbia, SC
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republic Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Seka Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
After evaluating 2,976 movers, here’s how California movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 47% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Columbia, SC
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Columbia, SC differs from what you’re used to in California. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: California vs. Columbia, SC
| California | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,447 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $64,683 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 5.2% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 7.0% |
Columbia sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Columbia is about 22% cheaper than in California, giving you more flexibility in your budget.
- Buying a home in Columbia could be more affordable, with prices averaging 71% less than in California.
- Expect salaries in Columbia to be approximately 30% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making your move.
- Unemployment in Columbia (5.2%) and California (5.4%) are about the same, so expect a comparable job market.
- Income tax rates in South Carolina are about 47% lower than in California, which means a lighter tax burden and more take-home pay.
How life is different in Columbia from California
| Columbia | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 35ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Columbia leaned , while California went Democratic.
- Get ready for summer highs of around 94ºF in Columbia, warmer than the average 87ºF in California. With more sunshine, you’ll have extra chances for outdoor fun, but expect higher cooling costs and a hotter daily routine.
- Winter in Columbia brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 35ºF. That’s noticeably chillier than the 59ºF winters back in California. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Columbia treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
- You can expect about 46 inches of annual rainfall in Columbia vs only 22 inches in California. More rainfall equates to lusher landscapes and rainier days, so you’ll want to make a few tweaks to your routine. Grab some waterproof gear before you move.
- In Columbia, you’ll get about 1 inch of snow each year, far less than California. That means moving to Columbia will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- Heading to Columbia means you’ll be moving to a safer place, with a crime index of 3.0, lower than California’s 28.43. A drop in crime usually means tighter communities, safer neighborhoods, and less daily stress. While safety isn’t everything, the peace of mind can be well worth the move.
Things to do in Columbia
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Columbia.
Museums in Columbia
Parks in Columbia
Sports teams in Columbia
Universities in Columbia
Other considerations when moving to Columbia, SC
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in South Carolina, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to South Carolina on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Columbia take?
The time it takes to move from California to Columbia, SC depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in California, the longer the drive time to Columbia will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from California to Columbia can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Columbia?
If you’re planning a 2,512-mile move from California to Columbia, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Columbia, SC?
Summer temperatures in Columbia can soar to 94°F, while winters can get as chilly as 35°F. That’s why most people making the move from California to Columbia prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
Helpful moving resources
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Popular California routes
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