Quick answer: A typical 2,512-mile move from Fresno to Columbia runs $1,807–$9,885 and takes seven to 21 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

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

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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

From California to South Carolina, your interstate move will have a lot of moving parts — starting with which company to hire. Fresno has 6 options for interstate moves, and each one comes with different strengths and specialties. Deciding which is right for you can be a challenge in itself.

After comparing service packages, pricing details, and real feedback from customer reviews, we were able to pinpoint the best long-distance movers in Fresno for every moving option.

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Professional
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Rental Truck
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Best professional movers from Fresno to Columbia

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

Availability varies a lot by market. Use this table to see how common each service is among movers in Fresno, compared to all of CA and nationwide, so you can spot what’s easy to book and what may take extra planning.

Service Fresno (Count) Fresno (%) California (Count) California (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 10 100% 351 99% 2831 98%
Unpacking 10 100% 346 98% 2796 97%
Fragile-only packing 4 40% 102 29% 715 25%
Packing materials 6 60% 239 68% 1682 58%
Storage
Storage 9 90% 305 86% 2499 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 10% 69 20% 973 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 3 30% 287 81% 1885 65%
Art 4 40% 226 64% 1397 48%
Antiques 3 30% 222 63% 1398 48%
Piano 8 80% 288 82% 2173 75%
Hot tub 2 20% 117 33% 668 23%
Pool table 2 20% 153 43% 941 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 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 top local movers servicing Fresno to Columbia moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Fresno that also handles long-distance moves to Columbia. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Fresno who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Fresno to Columbia.

  1. Meathead Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Colonial Van & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Economy Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Courtesy Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Master Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://x.com/MeatheadMovers
85% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—Meathead Movers stands out with high marks in professionalism and careful handling. This analysis covers 500 pieces of customer feedback, and more than 84% express satisfaction. Most note that staff are polite, diligent, and truly careful with belongings.
Many customers praise efficient service and rapid moving, while raving about clear and helpful communication. A few customers report concerns about damages to furniture or their homes, highlighting the need for better item protection. Several mention higher-than-expected final costs and, less often, late arrivals. Compared to other services, Meathead Movers receives more consistent praise for reliability and courteous movers, but some buyers find their rates steep or worry about occasional lapses in item care. Anyone searching for an efficient, dependable moving company with a professional attitude will find Meathead Movers excels where service and courtesy matter most, though they should pay close attention to pricing and confirm all details before moving day.
Show more
Get a Quote (559) 785-0316

Company Info

State license #: 0189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc., Princess Packers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/colonialvan/, https://x.com/colonialvan
60% of all reviews were positive
32% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers regularly call out Colonial Van & Storage's professionalism and attentive staff, highlighting clear communication, care in handling, fast service, and affordability. Many mention excellent experiences with organized crews and well-informed sales representatives. These strengths set Colonial ahead of other movers, earning praise for reliability and value.
On the other hand, a significant number of customers report damaged or missing items, late deliveries, and communication breakdowns, sometimes involving difficulties with claims or refunds. Around 60% of feedback is positive, while nearly a third points to serious problems with item condition and timeliness. In comparison to industry standards, Colonial's customer service stands out positively for politeness and responsiveness, but recurring damage and delays may be concerns for those prioritizing item safety above all.
Show more
Get a Quote (559) 549-3800

Company Info

State license #: 0099536

Years in Business: 54

DOT #: 2973


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/economymoversfresno/,
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy and affordable—most customers praise Economy Movers for their quick, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and professional staff. Out of 256 feedback entries, 89% are positive, with clients routinely mentioning reasonable rates and moves finished ahead of schedule. Friendly communication and help with heavy or specialty items stand out in the input, making Economy Movers a strong choice versus typical moving companies that often fall short on reliability or care.
Still, some customers highlight problems like item damage or delays, especially for long-distance moves, and occasional issues with communication before or after a job. A few mention belongings arriving late or unresolved claims, underscoring the importance of insurance and clear communication for complex moves. Most people find the company's value, speed, and careful approach hard to beat.
Show more
Get a Quote (559) 276-0835

Company Info

State license #: 0190355

Years in Business: 54

DOT #: 1011944

Alternate Names: United Van Lines AGT, Packaging Store


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/CourtesyMovingService/, https://twitter.com/courtesymoving
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Courtesy Moving and Storage receives praise in over three-quarters of feedback for professionalism, careful item handling, and efficiency. Clients often describe staff as courteous and helpful and outside reviews highlight affordable rates compared to other moving companies. Many customers report stress-free moving days, accurate or lower-than-estimated prices, and no damage to belongings.
Some negative input points to damaged or lost items, unanticipated charges, and trouble with claim or issue resolution. Speed and teamwork set this company apart, but unresolved problems and inconsistencies with pricing have led to dissatisfaction for some. Out of 93 reviews, 76% are favorable, making Courtesy Moving and Storage a strong contender but with a few notable drawbacks compared to competitors.
Show more
Get a Quote (559) 402-3800

Company Info

State license #: 191184

Years in Business: 51

DOT #: 3119841


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/MasterMoversFresnoMayflower/, https://twitter.com/themastermovers?lang=en
78% of all reviews were positive
19% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Master Movers draws strong praise for fast, organized moves and a team known for professionalism and courtesy. Customers describe a smooth booking process, competitive pricing, and careful handling of belongings, placing Master Movers ahead of many competitors in reliability. Feedback shows 78% gave positive input out of 37 total reviews.
Office staff and crews were often called polite and efficient. Many highlighted affordable rates, clear communication, and prompt arrivals. Some responses noted issues with item damage, lack of communication, and price discrepancies, especially in complex or long-distance moves. Complaints also included poor packing and delays in handling claims. While most moves were completed quickly without hidden charges, about 19% of reviews cited main concerns with care and follow-through on promises. Master Movers’ positive reputation stands firmly on consistency and value, though extra attention to claim handling and item protection on long hauls could set them even further apart.
Show more
Get a Quote (559) 276-2864

Company Info

State license #: 190355


Services Offered

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

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

Fresno movers charge $135 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 $1,553 - $6,348 $1,586 - $4,148 $1,722 - $3,332
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,419 - $9,885 $3,079 - $6,220 $1,807 - $4,129
4+ bedrooms $8,480 - $15,448 $4,037 - $7,875 $2,306 - $4,916
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,512 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

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,553 and $6,348. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,419 to $9,885 for the trip from CA to SC. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $8,480 and $15,448.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina

If you're moving from California to South Carolina, expect to pay between $1,586 and $4,148 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $3,079 up to $6,220. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $4,037 and $7,875. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to South Carolina

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,722 and $3,332 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,807 to $4,129. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,306 to $4,916.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors that influence moving costs from Fresno to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Fresno 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 Fresno to Columbia can be as low as $1,553 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,667.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Fresno 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 $1,722 to $4,305. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Fresno to Columbia

Budget-wise, Columbia tends to come out ahead — about 14% lower for singles and 20% lower for families than Fresno.

One person’s costs run $1,956 in Columbia vs. $2,277 in Fresno; for a family of four, think $4,274 vs. $5,358.

Scan the comparison below to see where you’ll save most:

Fresno Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,590 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,410 $2,220
Average home value $381,180 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $63,001 $64,683
Unemployment rate 7.09% 5.2%
Sales tax 7.98% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 12% lower than in Fresno, 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 42.1% lower than in Fresno.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Columbia, where incomes are, on average, 2.7% higher than in Fresno. 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 14.1% lower than in Fresno.
  • 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 20.2% less than what it costs in Fresno.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 26.66% lower than in Fresno.
  • Sales taxes are the same in Columbia and Fresno.
  • One perk of moving to Columbia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 47.37% lower than in Fresno.

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

Fresno Columbia
Basic utilities $317.73 $148.09
Cell phone plan $50.33 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.29 $3.46
Loaf of bread $2.66 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70 $60
Gym membership $73.33 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Fresno than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Fresno than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Fresno than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Fresno than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Fresno than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Fresno than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Fresno than in Columbia.

How life is different in Fresno vs. Columbia

Columbia Fresno
Population 136,632 542,107
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 35 47
Bike friendliness score 35 58
Crime Index 3.0 56.85
Safety Index 48.39 43.15
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbia might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 75% less than Fresno.
  • Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Columbia will be about the same as it currently is in Fresno. 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 Fresno. Based on its score of 35 out of 100, Columbia isn't as walkable as Fresno, which has a score of 47 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 Fresno. While Fresno has a bike-friendliness score of 58 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 Fresno based on scores of 3.0 and Fresno's 56.85, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Columbia than in Fresno, based on Columbia's safety index of 48.39 versus 43.15 for Fresno. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Columbia has better air quality than in Fresno. Columbia has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Fresno. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Fresno 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: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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 the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbia. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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
  • Irmo
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

Once you're settled into your new home in South Carolina, it's time to get out and discover what Columbia has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • 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 Fresno to Columbia?

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

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

Because spring and fall moves from Fresno 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 Fresno to Columbia take?

The 2,512-mile journey from Fresno, CA to Columbia, SC, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Fresno 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 movers in Fresno give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

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

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Fresno, 8 movers can handle pianos. 3 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 288 piano movers and 222 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2173 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