Quick answer: A move from Chula Vista to Columbia costs $1,548–$8,657 and takes seven to 18 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 2,353-mile move yourself.

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

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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

For a move from Chula Vista to Columbia, you’ll have no shortage of options. There are 22 interstate movers in your area, giving you plenty of choices… but also a big decision to make about whether to go full-service or take on more of the work yourself.

We reviewed every Chula Vista company against key criteria, including service variety, affordability, and what people are saying in online reviews. Only the best long-distance movers in Chula Vista made our final list.

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Best professional movers from Chula Vista to Columbia

If you’d rather let the professionals handle every part of your interstate move from Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista?toggle

Not all services are equally available. The table below contrasts what movers provide in Chula Vista with trends across CA and the country overall, pointing out which options are typically easy to secure and which may take more coordination.

Service Chula Vista (Count) Chula Vista (%) California (Count) California (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 26 100% 323 99% 2545 98%
Unpacking 26 100% 318 98% 2514 97%
Fragile-only packing 11 42% 96 30% 631 24%
Packing materials 22 85% 222 68% 1519 59%
Storage
Storage 26 100% 283 87% 2248 87%
Climate-controlled storage 9 35% 66 20% 823 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 21 81% 267 82% 1649 64%
Art 15 58% 214 66% 1271 49%
Antiques 16 62% 213 66% 1190 46%
Piano 20 77% 271 83% 1919 74%
Hot tub 12 46% 109 34% 585 23%
Pool table 13 50% 144 44% 845 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 259 California 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 Chula Vista to Columbia moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista to Columbia.

  1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. McCarthy Transfer & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Grizzly Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. One Stop Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/RepublicMovingStorageSanDiego/, https://twitter.com/sdmovingstorage
75% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs.
Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services


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
https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoMover/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCarthy Transfer & Storage’s professionalism and efficiency. Out of 221 feedback entries, over 91% praise the team’s politeness, careful handling, prompt communication, and quick moving process, reporting moves completed with speed and concern for personal property. Input frequently emphasizes courteous, skilled crews and services handled with respect for homes and belongings.
Some note that the company regularly exceeds experiences with other movers—especially for military relocations—earning more trust for reliability and staff friendliness. A small portion of feedback points out issues such as damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or unexpected extra charges, particularly during military moves. Despite these isolated problems, most customer feedback compares McCarthy Transfer favorably to other moving companies for dependability and quality service.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 596-2594

Company Info

State license #: 0154190

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 2059504

Alternate Names: McCarthy Transfer & Storage Incorporated


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/weliketomoveitsd, https://x.com/san_movers
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude.
Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/grizzlymovingsd,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies.
The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Show more
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/Onestopmoving, https://x.com/1StopMoving
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
One Stop Moving & Storage stands out for its efficient, professional service, with a remarkable 76% of customer feedback describing a positive experience. Out of 628 reviews, most customers report quick moves, careful handling of belongings, polite staff, and clear communication—qualities that set this company above many competitors. Many mention moving day being stress-free thanks to a hardworking team skilled at protecting furniture and executing moves seamlessly.
Pricing is usually transparent and estimates tend to be accurate compared to other movers. On the downside, about 23% of feedback details more serious problems: some moves resulted in furniture damage, missing items, or unexpected charges, and customers who experienced these issues struggled to get satisfactory help after the fact. A few reviews also describe poor claims handling and communication gaps. While most people recommend One Stop Moving & Storage for careful, professional relocations, anyone booking a move should confirm all terms and insurance coverage in writing to help avoid surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (858) 633-8600

Company Info

State license #: 0190616

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1956864

Alternate Names: One Stop Moving & Storage Inc, San Diego Expert Movers, Quick San Diego Movers, Coastal Movers, Manpower Movers


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
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Chula Vista to Columbia?

Chula Vista movers charge $140 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 $1,453 - $5,809 $1,497 - $3,468 $1,565 - $2,793
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,121 - $8,657 $2,455 - $5,197 $1,548 - $3,395
4+ bedrooms $7,360 - $12,725 $3,586 - $7,481 $2,058 - $4,461
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,353 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 California to South Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to South Carolina will cost between $1,453 and $5,809. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to SC will range from $4,121 to $8,657, and a large move from California to South Carolina will cost from $7,360 to $12,725.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina

Moving containers from California to South Carolina will cost you $1,497 to $3,468 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,455 to $5,197. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,586 to $7,481. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California 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 $1,565 and $2,793. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,548 and $3,395. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $2,058 up to $4,461 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Chula Vista to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Chula Vista movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Chula Vista to Columbia can be as low as $1,453 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $11,739.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chula Vista so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,565 to $3,723. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Chula Vista to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Chula Vista — roughly 73% less for singles and 65% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $7,167 in Chula Vista. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $12,120.

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

Chula Vista Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $2,500 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $4,500 $2,220
Average home value $844,142 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $92,913 $64,683
Unemployment rate 7.9% 5.2%
Sales tax 8.75% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 53% lower than in Chula Vista, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Columbia.
    Home prices in Columbia are 73.9% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • Income in Columbia is 30.4% lower than in Chula Vista, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbia — including Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina — may pay more.
  • 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 72.7% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • 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 64.7% less than what it costs in Chula Vista.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 34.18% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city's sales taxes in Columbia are 8.57% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • One perk of moving to Columbia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 47.37% lower than in Chula Vista.

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

Chula Vista Columbia
Basic utilities $277.33 $148.09
Cell phone plan $62.5 $54.77
Dozen eggs $5.83 $3.46
Loaf of bread $4.5 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100 $60
Gym membership $20 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chula Vista than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chula Vista than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Chula Vista than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Chula Vista than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Chula Vista than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chula Vista than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Chula Vista than in Columbia.

How life is different in Chula Vista vs. Columbia

Columbia Chula Vista
Population 136,632 275,487
Transportation Score 5 6
Walkability score 35 46
Bike friendliness score 35 41
Crime Index 3.0 56.3
Safety Index 48.39 43.7
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbia's population is about 50% less than Chula Vista.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Chula Vista's higher score of 6.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Chula Vista with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Chula Vista's 46 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chula Vista, which has a score of 41 out of 100.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Chula Vista with a score of 3.0 compared to Chula Vista's 56.3. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chula Vista neighborhoods are safer than 56.3%.
  • Columbia is considered to be safer than Chula Vista with a safety index of 48.39 vs Chula Vista's 43.7.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Chula Vista it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Chula Vista 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

With your sights set on Soda City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • Cayce

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 Chula Vista to Columbia?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Chula Vista to Columbia?

Because spring and fall moves from Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista to Columbia take?

The 2,353-mile journey from Chula Vista, CA to Columbia, SC, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Chula Vista 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.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Chula Vista?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Chula Vista, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

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

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chula Vista, 20 movers can handle pianos. 16 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 271 piano movers and 213 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 1919 and 1190 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources