Quick answer: A move from Los Angeles to Columbia costs $1,801–$9,216 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 2,387-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Columbia to Los Angeles 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

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best Professional Movers from Los Angeles to Columbia

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Los Angeles to go to Columbia can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

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

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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Los Angeles to Columbia journey

Organizing a move from Los Angeles to Columbia can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Los Angeles known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Los Angeles to Columbia.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo's Moving Company Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Move Central Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Prof Moving Company: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Pure Moving Company: 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/sekamoving, https://twitter.com/SekaMoving/
88% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend.
Clients appreciate Seka's responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation


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
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
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064228921165,
67% of all reviews were positive
28% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A reputation built on hustle, but not without headaches—Move Central Moving & Storage analyzed 1,279 reviews with 67% praising their services. People call out efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, quick-moving crews, and reliable communication as top strengths. Customers often highlight how movers protect fragile items and show respect throughout the process.
Yet, difficult stories are all too common and focus on high final costs, surprise charges, and damage to belongings. Negative feedback consistently reports being billed far over initial quotes, with some mentioning extra fees that weren’t clear at booking. Damage during moves and lackluster resolution of claims are also hot topics. While the company stands out for working quickly and having courteous staff, the challenges around price accuracy and risk of breakage make the experience less predictable compared to competitors. Most choose them for their fast, friendly approach, but buyers should watch for cost details and pay attention to documentation before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 827-8950

Company Info

State license #: 0191020

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2365576

Alternate Names: Move Central Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/profmovingco, https://twitter.com/ProfMoveCo2012
95% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is what customers describe when working with Prof Moving Company. After analyzing 378 feedback entries, 95% of users gave positive input, citing speedy, careful, and professional movers. Most praised the efficiency of the teams, how items were treated with care, polite behavior, responsive communication, and cost-effective rates.
A few reviewers experienced item damage, unexpected higher fees, or items misplaced, making up less than 3% of complaints. Roughly 2% felt costs were higher than anticipated compared to initial quotes or competitors. The company’s reputation for prompt, protective handling and friendly service stands out more than most moving businesses, yet as with any mover, vigilance about pricing details and monitoring belongings can guard against rare mishaps. Few companies receive this level of consistent, strong recommendations from customers for both quality and value.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 499-9324

Company Info

State license #: 0191695

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3052150


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/PureMoving/,
97% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving just got easier—Pure Moving Company is a customer favorite, with 2,219 customer reviews analyzed and almost 97% giving positive feedback. Customers repeatedly highlight the team’s efficient service, careful handling of belongings, professional staff, and fast process. Many praise their good communication, both from the office and moving crews.
While most customer input points to reliability and peace of mind, several reviews note minor damages, some delays, or final bills higher than expected, especially on complex or large jobs. Still, most issues are addressed promptly and with follow-up. Compared to other movers, Pure Moving’s attention to detail, politeness, and speed stand out, making them a top pick for those looking for a stress-free moving experience. Customers who value their property’s safety and clear communication overwhelmingly recommend Pure Moving Company.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 816-5121

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Pros Movers, Pure Movers


Services Offered

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

How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles to Columbia?

Los Angeles 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 $1,640 - $6,837 $1,523 - $3,860 $1,663 - $3,185
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,356 - $9,216 $2,958 - $5,727 $1,801 - $4,021
4+ bedrooms $8,100 - $15,272 $3,835 - $7,851 $2,252 - $4,742
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,387 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 $1,640 and $6,837. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,356 to $9,216 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 $8,100 and $15,272.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina

Moving from California to South Carolina? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,523 and $3,860. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,958 to $5,727. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,835 up to $7,851. 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 typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,663 and $3,185 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,801 to $4,021. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,252 to $4,742.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Los Angeles to Columbia movetoggle

The cost of Los Angeles movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Los Angeles to Columbia (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,640, while larger moves may reach $13,552 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Los Angeles,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $1,663 to $4,029), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Columbia

Moving from Los Angeles to Columbia means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Los Angeles than in Columbia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Los Angeles compares to Columbia so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Los Angeles Columbia
Average rent cost $2,960 $1,447
Average home value $2,368,088 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $64,683
Cost of living (single person) $3,922 $1,956
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,213 $4,274
Unemployment rate 10.6% 5.2%
Sales tax 9.5% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 51% lower than in Los Angeles, 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 90.7% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • Income in Columbia is 13.7% lower than in Los Angeles, 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 50.1% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • 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 53.6% less than what it costs in Los Angeles.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 50.94% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city's sales taxes in Columbia are 15.79% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • One perk of moving to Columbia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 47.37% lower than in Los Angeles.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,496.18 in Columbia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Los Angeles.

How life is different in Los Angeles vs. Columbia

Columbia Los Angeles
Population 136,632 3,820,914
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 8
Walkability score 35 69
Bike friendliness score 35 59
Crime Index 3.0 53.81
Safety Index 48.39 46.19
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbia's population is about 96% less than Los Angeles.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Los Angeles's higher score of 8.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Los Angeles with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Los Angeles's 69 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 Los Angeles, which has a score of 59 out of 100.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Los Angeles with a score of 3.0 compared to Los Angeles's 53.81. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81%.
  • Columbia and Los Angeles are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Los Angeles it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Los Angeles 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: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in South Carolina, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While South Carolina doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you've decided to make the move to Soda City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

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

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Chapin
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it's time to see what Columbia is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbia, such as 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 — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Los Angeles to Columbia?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Los Angeles to Columbia. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Los Angeles.

When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Columbia?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Los Angeles to Columbia moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Los Angeles to Columbia take?

Covering 2,387 miles, the move from Los Angeles, CA to Columbia, SC typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Los Angeles movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Columbia can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources