Quick answer: A typical 2,362-mile move from Riverside to Columbia runs $1,548–$8,485 and takes seven to 18 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 Riverside guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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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

From California to South Carolina, your interstate move will have a lot of moving parts — starting with which company to hire. Riverside has 49 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 Riverside for every moving option.

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Professional
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Best professional movers from Riverside to Columbia

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Riverside to all of CA and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Riverside (Count) Riverside (%) California (Count) California (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 54 100% 351 99% 2835 98%
Unpacking 54 100% 346 98% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 19 35% 102 29% 717 25%
Packing materials 34 63% 239 68% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 45 83% 305 86% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 6 11% 69 20% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 42 78% 287 81% 1886 65%
Art 34 63% 226 64% 1400 48%
Antiques 33 61% 222 63% 1400 48%
Piano 41 76% 288 82% 2175 75%
Hot tub 14 26% 117 33% 669 23%
Pool table 22 41% 153 43% 943 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.

Local movers servicing Riverside to Columbia moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside to Columbia.

  1. Golden Eagle Moving, LLC: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Trek Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. JFK Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.86 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/goldeneaglemovingunited/,
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stories don’t get much better—customers share that Golden Eagle Moving stands out for having polite, professional staff, fast and careful service, and exceptionally helpful crews. Out of 160 customer reviews, 81% reported positive experiences, often noting excellent communication and attention to detail. Most people found their items well handled and teams easy to work with, which sets this mover apart from competitors.
A small but important segment of the feedback points to damaged or missing items, as well as occasions where delivery arrived late. Some also mentioned challenges with compensation for lost or broken belongings. Compared to other movers, Golden Eagle earns high marks for reliability and service, but there are a few cautionary stories about handling precious items and delays.
Show more
Get a Quote (909) 946-7655

Company Info

State license #: 0191570

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Golden Eagle Moving Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100043509861933,
88% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Golden West Moving Systems shows a strong record of professional, efficient, and helpful service, with 88% of reviews sharing positive experiences. Many customers praise the movers' care with belongings, quick process, and respectful demeanor. Clients appreciate both smooth long-distance and complex moves, and several note accurate estimates and clear communication throughout the process.
Negative feedback makes up about 13% of input and centers chiefly on employee conduct, accidental property damage, and limited service availability. Rare incidents of unprofessional behavior and lack of area coverage contrast with the many endorsements for the company’s reliability and thoroughness. Golden West appears to deliver a higher standard of moving service compared to many competitors, earning frequent recommendations for both residential and business moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 548-2400

Company Info

State license #: 0190351

Years in Business: 61

DOT #: 70719


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/TrekMovers/, https://twitter.com/trek_movers
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves, stress-free results—Trek Movers impresses with fast, careful, and courteous crews. From nearly 1,400 customer reviews, 95.6% highlight efficient service, professionalism, gentle handling, and excellent communication. Customers praise how movers wrap, pack, and transport even precious or bulky items, finishing jobs ahead of or within timeframes.
Friendly teams minimize moving-day anxiety and adapt to special requests. Compared to other companies, Trek's pricing is transparent and often seen as good value for reliable, polite moving teams. Clients book and reschedule with ease. For many repeat customers, Trek raises the industry bar for care and punctuality. On the other hand, a small share—about 4%—voice frustrations about higher-than-expected costs, rare item damage, or delays. Some cite big bills after slow moves, or unresolved compensation for property harm. A few mention late arrivals. Neutral comments typically mention slower service or difference of opinion on pricing, while still noting jobs get done. For most, Trek Movers delivers trustworthy, efficient, and careful moves unmatched by most other providers.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 298-0044

Company Info

State license #: 0191956

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3256910

Alternate Names: Trek Solutions LLC, Trek Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/JFKMovingCompany/, https://twitter.com/co_jfk
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers that aim to impress—feedback for JFK Moving Company was collected from 467 customers, with 92% of responses highlighting positive experiences. Most customers rave about the team’s efficient service, meticulous care with items, professional attitude, reliable communication, and speed in getting jobs done. Compared to others in the industry, JFK stands out for its prompt arrivals and diligent packing, leaving customers stress-free and satisfied.
The negative feedback points to issues around property damage, delays, and occasional unprofessional conduct, including rare reports of careless handling or missed arrival windows. These reports are less common than industry norms, but underscore areas where the company could improve, especially consistency between crews. Neutral input mostly notes minor slip-ups or variances in crew performance without major complaints. For anyone seeking a trustworthy, quick, and careful moving service—JFK Moving consistently wins strong customer input and stands out for dependability and professionalism, though vigilance is suggested for high-value or delicate items.
Show more
Get a Quote (877) 671-3535

Company Info

State license #: 0191935

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3079794

Alternate Names: JFK Moving LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful.
Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
Show more
Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

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

Riverside movers charge $75 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 $1,423 - $5,987 $1,497 - $3,575 $1,520 - $2,968
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,040 - $8,485 $2,532 - $5,038 $1,548 - $3,291
4+ bedrooms $7,283 - $12,725 $3,586 - $7,409 $1,975 - $4,248
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,362 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 $1,423 and $5,987. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,040 to $8,485 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 $7,283 and $12,725.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina

When you're heading from California to South Carolina, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,497 and $3,575. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,532 and $5,038. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,586 to $7,409. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

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 $1,520 and $2,968. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,548 and $3,291. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $1,975 up to $4,248 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Riverside to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Riverside movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Riverside to Columbia might cost just $1,423 for a one-bedroom, but up to $11,862 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Riverside, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,520 and $3,646, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Riverside to Columbia

Columbia often delivers a lighter monthly spend than Riverside — around 24% less for singles and 24% less for families.

Expect about $1,956 per month for singles and $4,274 for families in Columbia, versus $2,573 and $5,604 in Riverside.

Check the categories below to see where costs diverge:

Riverside Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $2,163 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $3,270 $2,220
Average home value $642,297 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $76,755 $64,683
Unemployment rate 7.1% 5.2%
Sales tax 8.75% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 37% lower than in Riverside, 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 65.7% lower than in Riverside.
  • Income in Columbia is 15.7% lower than in Riverside, 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 24.0% lower than in Riverside.
  • 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 23.7% less than what it costs in Riverside.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 26.76% lower than in Riverside.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city's sales taxes in Columbia are 8.57% lower than in Riverside.
  • One perk of moving to Columbia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 47.37% lower than in Riverside.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Riverside and Columbia:

Riverside Columbia
Basic utilities $226.85 $148.09
Cell phone plan $46.5 $54.77
Dozen eggs $5.45 $3.46
Loaf of bread $4.02 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85 $60
Gym membership $35 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Riverside than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Riverside than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Riverside than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Riverside than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Riverside than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Riverside than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Riverside than in Columbia.

How life is different in Riverside vs. Columbia

Columbia Riverside
Population 136,632 317,261
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 35 43
Bike friendliness score 35 49
Crime Index 3.0 40.24
Safety Index 48.39 59.76
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbia's population is about 57% less than Riverside.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a similar score to Riverside.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Riverside with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Riverside's 43 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 Riverside, which has a score of 49 out of 100.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Riverside with a score of 3.0 compared to Riverside's 40.24. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than Riverside with a score of 48.39 vs Riverside's 59.76.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Riverside it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Riverside 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
  • Forest Acres
  • Irmo
  • St. Andrews

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Chapin
  • 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 Riverside to Columbia?

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

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

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

The 2,362-mile journey from Riverside, CA to Columbia, SC, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Riverside 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.

Do movers in Riverside offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

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

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Riverside, 41 movers can handle pianos. 33 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 288 piano movers and 222 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2175 and 1400 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources