Quick answer: The cost to move from Lancaster to Columbia ranges from $1,678 to $8,314 and the journey will take approximately seven to 18 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 2,370-mile move on your own.

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

Our track recordtoggle

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

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

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

Best movers by type

When you’ve got 18 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Lancaster, 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster, so you can move forward with confidence.

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor only

Best professional movers from Lancaster to Columbia

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Lancaster to Columbia, full-service movers are the answer. They manage every step so you can keep your attention on the big decisions and the excitement of the move.

Here are our picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to take you from Lancaster to Columbia without the headaches.

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 Lancaster?toggle

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

Service Lancaster (Count) Lancaster (%) California (Count) California (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 19 100% 318 99% 2523 98%
Unpacking 19 100% 313 98% 2491 97%
Fragile-only packing 5 26% 91 28% 620 24%
Packing materials 13 68% 217 68% 1502 58%
Storage
Storage 19 100% 278 87% 2225 87%
Climate-controlled storage 8 42% 66 21% 817 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 18 95% 262 82% 1628 63%
Art 13 68% 209 65% 1256 49%
Antiques 15 79% 208 65% 1176 46%
Piano 19 100% 266 83% 1901 74%
Hot tub 9 47% 104 33% 575 22%
Pool table 15 79% 139 43% 834 32%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 258 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.

Local movers servicing Lancaster to Columbia moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Lancaster that also provides long-distance services to Columbia can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in Lancaster who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Lancaster to Columbia.

  1. Antelope Valley Van & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. Camelot Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Speedwell Transportation Inc.: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Rigo's Moving Company Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/Antelope-Valley-Van-Storage-763148173759139/,
85% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Antelope Valley Van & Storage means working with friendly, professional teams who treat belongings with care. Out of 52 feedback entries, more than 84% spoke highly of professional and polite movers, careful handling, and efficient work. Customers often highlighted clear communication and the willingness to recommend the business to others.
On the other hand, a few shared negative experiences involving unexpected charges, missing items, and difficulty resolving claims, issues that can harm trust, especially compared to other moving companies with more transparent billing. Most feedback shows quick moving, helpful attitudes, and reliable handling, making this company stand out for service quality.
Show more
Get a Quote (661) 947-4121

Company Info

State license #: 0061148

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 34380


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/air1moving,
71% of all reviews were positive
27% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Night-and-day experiences define Air 1 Moving & Storage’s reputation, based on 545 customer reviews. About 71% of the feedback highlights professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient and fast moves, and affordable prices. Many people praise the company for managing stressful relocations with skill, moving items without damage or delays, and maintaining courteous communication throughout.
Customers frequently mention the team’s reliability and trustworthiness, setting Air 1 apart from other movers. On the other hand, nearly 27% of the input focuses on negative incidents—most notably, unexpected charges, damaged or lost items, and delivery delays. Some report being billed far above initial quotes or experiencing broken or missing property without adequate resolution. Issues with last-minute fees and withheld communication stand out as significant frustrations. Compared to industry competitors, Air 1 garners above-average praise for its staff’s professionalism but struggles with cost transparency and consistency on long-distance moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Company Info

State license #: 0189688

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 1095485

Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/CamelotMovingandStorage/,
90% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Camelot comes with efficiency, professionalism, and care that stands out from typical moving companies. Analyzing 197 customer inputs, 90% praised their punctual, polite staff, careful handling, and prompt, well-communicated service. Clients noted quick moves, affordable rates, and transparency, with minimal damages even on large or long-distance jobs.
Feedback highlighted movers consistently going the extra mile, from providing detailed quotes to following up to ensure satisfaction. In contrast, a small portion of clients reported significant issues, including property damages, unsatisfactory claim resolutions, and unexpected charges. Damage to items and frustrating insurance claim processes appeared far less than the industry norm, but when they occurred, caused notable dissatisfaction. Rare complaints about cost discrepancies and inflexible insurance policies show areas where Camelot aligns with but occasionally falls short of industry standards. Customers seeking reliability, fast moving, and respectful crews overwhelmingly recommend Camelot, making it a top choice in the region. Those requiring absolute guarantees on item protection or clearer claims may wish for more assurance, yet Camelot’s performance remains exceptionally strong compared to typical movers.
Show more
Get a Quote (661) 255-3112

Company Info

State license #: 0150296

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 501984

Alternate Names: Camelot Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/speedwellmovers/,
81% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers praise Speedwell Transportation Inc. for delivering fast, professional moving services with efficient communication and careful handling of items. Staff members consistently earn positive remarks for politeness and reliability. Many share that their belongings arrived undamaged, with several highlighting a quick, organized process—even for large-scale or long-distance moves.
Calls and questions are answered promptly, and flexible scheduling stands out when compared to other moving companies. The most common concerns relate to boxes going missing, reports of staff being rude, and delays, especially with longer-distance moves or communication breakdowns. Of 36 feedback entries, 80.6% were favorable—making Speedwell one of the more reputable options for dependable movers.
Show more
Get a Quote (661) 338-5998

Company Info

State license #: 159158

Years in Business: 37

DOT #: 1861478

Alternate Names: Speedwell Transportation


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/RigosMovingAndStorage/,
80% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo's Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items.
Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo's stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo's would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110


Services Offered

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

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

Lancaster movers charge $100 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 $1,511 - $5,809 $1,511 - $3,539 $1,580 - $2,939
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,876 - $8,314 $2,532 - $5,356 $1,678 - $3,638
4+ bedrooms $7,973 - $13,255 $3,551 - $6,906 $1,996 - $4,418
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,370 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 moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to South Carolina, you can expect to spend between $1,511 and $5,809. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,876 to $8,314 on the same route (CA to SC). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to South Carolina typically runs between $7,973 and $13,255.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina

Moving from California to South Carolina? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,511 and $3,539. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,532 to $5,356. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,551 up to $6,906. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to South Carolina

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, expect to pay between $1,580 and $2,939. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,678 to $3,638. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,996 and $4,418.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors that influence moving costs from Lancaster to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Lancaster movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Lancaster to Columbia might cost just $1,511 for a one-bedroom, but up to $11,986 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Lancaster, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,580 and $3,876, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Lancaster to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Lancaster — roughly 23% less for singles and 23% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $2,540 in Lancaster. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $5,562.

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

Lancaster Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $2,305 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,500 $2,220
Average home value $473,053 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $74,723 $64,683
Unemployment rate 15.6% 5.2%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 44% lower than in Lancaster, 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 53.4% lower than in Lancaster.
  • Income in Columbia is 13.4% lower than in Lancaster, 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 23.0% lower than in Lancaster.
  • 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 23.2% less than what it costs in Lancaster.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 66.67% lower than in Lancaster.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city's sales taxes in Columbia are 21.95% lower than in Lancaster.
  • One perk of moving to Columbia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 47.37% lower than in Lancaster.

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

Lancaster Columbia
Basic utilities $225 $148.09
Cell phone plan $43 $54.77
Dozen eggs $2.67 $3.46
Loaf of bread $5.51 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $60
Gym membership $40 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lancaster than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lancaster than in Columbia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lancaster than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Lancaster than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Lancaster than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Lancaster than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are similarly priced in both cities.

How life is different in Lancaster vs. Columbia

Columbia Lancaster
Population 136,632 173,516
Transportation Score 5 0
Walkability score 35 29
Bike friendliness score 35 40
Crime Index 3.0 45.5
Safety Index 48.39 54.5
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbia's population is about 21% less than Lancaster.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Lancaster's lower score of 0.
  • Columbia is more walkable than Lancaster with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Lancaster's 29 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 Lancaster, which has a score of 40 out of 100.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Lancaster with a score of 3.0 compared to Lancaster's 45.5. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than Lancaster with a score of 48.39 vs Lancaster's 54.5.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Lancaster it's good.

Other things to consider for your Lancaster 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

Ready to relocate to Soda City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Seven Oaks
  • Cayce

Things to do in Columbia

After settling into your new South Carolina home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • 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 Lancaster to Columbia?

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

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

With many people choosing to move from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Columbia take?

The 2,370-mile move from Lancaster, CA, to Columbia, SC, takes seven to 18 days. Some Lancaster movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbia.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Lancaster?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Lancaster, 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.

Which movers in Lancaster offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 19 movers in Lancaster have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 15 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across CA, there are 266 piano movers and 208 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 1901 and 1176.

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

Helpful moving resources