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($1,120) Cost to Move From Wilmington, DE to Columbia, SC

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Quick answer: The cost to move from Wilmington to Columbia ranges from $535 – $5,214, with a timeframe of one to six days. Factors affecting the estimate include volume, timing, and whether you handle the 591-mile move yourself or use professionals.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our guide to moving from Columbia to Wilmington.

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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
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best movers by type

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Labor Only

Best professional movers from Wilmington to Columbia

If you’d rather let the professionals handle every part of your interstate move from Wilmington 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.

There are 57 interstate moving companies in Wilmington, here are our top picks that can get you to Columbia with less stress and more peace of mind.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

What moving services are available in Wilmington?toggle

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

Service Wilmington (Count) Wilmington (%) DE (Count) DE (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 60 96% 9 90% 2,833 98%
Unpacking 59 95% 9 90% 2,798 96%
Fragile-only packing 12 19% 2 20% 718 24%
Packing materials 38 61% 8 80% 1,684 58%
Storage
Long-term 55 88% 9 90% 2,499 86%
Climate-controlled 16 25% 1 10% 977 33%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 44 70% 6 60% 1,884 65%
Art 35 56% 4 40% 1,398 48%
Antiques 39 62% 4 40% 1,401 48%
Piano 49 79% 8 80% 2,173 75%
Hot tub 14 22% 1 10% 670 23%
Pool table 24 38% 3 30% 941 32%

How we chose the best movers DE→SC moverstoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 10 Delaware movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
  • 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.

Top local movers for Wilmington to Columbia moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Wilmington that also provides long-distance services to Columbia can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed local movers in Wilmington who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Wilmington to Columbia.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Bayshore Transportation System, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Forward Moving LLC: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Move Crew LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.9% of all reviews were positive
4.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with a smile is what customers report when hiring College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. From 276 customer reviews, 95% express satisfaction, often mentioning fast, efficient service and movers who are both professional and genuinely friendly. People highlight careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and stress-free experiences.
The movers work quickly without sacrificing attention to detail or politeness, and many say the teams go out of their way to help. In contrast, a small percentage of feedback points to arrival delays, inconsistent estimates, or unprofessional conduct, such as rudeness or poor communication—issues not commonly seen with highly rated moving companies. Neutral feedback remarks on unexpected charges or isolated damage, though many such issues are resolved. College Hunks stands out for dependable, courteous, and effective service, more reliable and personable than most in their industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: Northern Volunteer Enterprises, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.7% of all reviews were positive
20.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moves made easy, but some bumps in the road—Bayshore Transportation System, Inc. stands out for professional and polite staff, quick and efficient service, careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and helpful movers, according to 211 customer inputs. Nearly 79% of feedback is positive, with many locals and cross-country customers praising attentive crews, timely delivery, and stress-free experiences. Customers highlight organized moves and friendly support that make Bayshore more reliable than many moving companies.
Yet, about one in five customers reported damages to items, lost boxes, or communication gaps, sometimes leading to delays or unresolved claims. While most moves go smoothly and get high marks for care and professionalism, some clients felt let down by damaged possessions or a lack of timely updates, demonstrating Bayshore’s performance can be excellent but is not immune to serious mistakes. Bayshore’s satisfaction level appears notably higher than average for the moving industry, though the risk of loss or damage remains a concern for a minority of clients.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 523-3319

Company Info

Years in Business: 52

DOT #: 540129

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.4% of all reviews were positive
2.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Exceptional service sets Forward Moving LLC apart in the moving industry. Of 231 reviews examined, a remarkable 97% reflect positive experiences, with clients consistently noting careful handling of their belongings, courteous and professional staff, efficiency, clear communication, and swift moving processes. Many customers highlight stress-free relocations, precise estimates, and crews who take the time to ensure each item arrives safely, resulting in high levels of trust and recommendations.
The company also receives praise for transparent pricing with few surprise charges, and for being responsive from booking to delivery. In contrast, a small portion of feedback points to issues such as strict non-refundable deposits when moves are canceled, isolated incidents of unprofessional behavior, and occasional damage to property or items. Compared to typical moving companies, Forward Moving LLC stands out for its high customer satisfaction and reliability, while negative feedback remains rare and specific. This strong track record positions Forward Moving above most competitors for those seeking dependable, professional, and friendly movers.
Show more
Get a Quote (484) 473-4605

Company Info

State license #: 8920700

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3078473

Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
15.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers cite Move Crew LLC’s friendly, professional crews and affordable, efficient service as key reasons for high satisfaction. Staff handle belongings carefully, maintain strong communication, and consistently stick to transparent, flat-rate pricing. Many reviewers praise their punctuality and willingness to accommodate last-minute requests, making them more reliable than many competitors.
Feedback highlights careful handling, quick moves, and helpful attitudes. A smaller group of customers experienced significant issues: property damage, lost items, unprofessional behavior, and unresolved complaints. Some noted crews at times arrived unprepared or failed to follow up on commitments, compared to other companies that are more consistent with quality and accountability. Reviewing 168 pieces of feedback, 84.5% reported positive experiences while 15.5% expressed dissatisfaction, mostly due to mishandling and disappointing resolution of issues.
Show more
Get a Quote (302) 290-4684

Company Info

Years in Business: 0

DOT #: 2899919

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
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
47.3% of all reviews were positive
52.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
All My Sons Moving & Storage earns credit for sending hard-working, courteous movers who efficiently handle belongings and clearly know how to make a moving day run smoothly. Customers often describe careful wrapping, efficient service, and polite teams who reduce stress and work quickly to finish the job. Many note the benefit of helpful, detail-oriented movers taking care of heavy lifting with minimal damage.
On the downside, over half of the feedback references steep unexpected charges, frequent damage to items or property, and persistent delays or late arrivals. Many customers express frustration over price hikes not matching quotes and little accountability when something goes wrong. Compared to other moving companies, this branch stands out positively for employees’ teamwork and professionalism but falls short in transparency and reliability. With 410 reviews analyzed, about 47% describe a positive experience while negative comments reach 52%. Moving with All My Sons can be seamless with the right crew, but many risk extra costs, waiting, or mishandled items.
Show more
Get a Quote (856) 878-2369

Company Info

State license #: 39PM00121400

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: All My Sons of New Jersey LLC

Services Offered

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

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

Movers in Delaware generally charge an average of $120 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,120 – $3,262 $767 – $1,743 $477 – $890
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,964 – $5,214 $1,383 – $2,558 $535 – $994
4+ bedrooms $3,804 – $7,468 $1,810 – $3,370 $630 – $1,301
These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 591 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Wilmington to Columbia

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Wilmington to Columbia typically costs between $1,120 and $3,262. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,964 and $5,214 when moving from Wilmington to Columbia. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Wilmington to Columbia, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,804 up to $7,468.

Cost of moving containers from Wilmington to Columbia

If you’re relocating from Wilmington to Columbia, you’ll typically spend between $767 and $1,743 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,383 up to $2,558. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,810 and $3,370. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Delaware.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Wilmington to Columbia

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Wilmington to Columbia move, 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 $477 and $890. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $535 to $994. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $630 and $1,301.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Wilmington to Columbia toggle

The cost of Wilmington movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Wilmington to Columbia might be as low as $1,643, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,258.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Wilmington.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $477 to $1,091 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Wilmington to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Wilmington – roughly 45% less for singles and 2% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $3,533 in Wilmington. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $4,350.

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

Wilmington Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,933 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $3,200 $2,220
Average home value $307,799 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $49,354 $64,683
Unemployment rate 10.3% 5.2%
Sales tax 0.0% 8.0%
State income tax 6.6% 7.0%
  • Good news! When moving to Columbia from Wilmington, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 20% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 28% cheaper in Columbia, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 31% higher in Columbia than in Wilmington, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person is 45% less compared to Wilmington.
  • The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Columbia and Wilmington, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won’t notice a significant change in expenses.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 50% lower than Wilmington, Columbia boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Columbia has a sales tax, while Wilmington does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
  • Income taxes are 6% higher in South Carolina than in Delaware. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

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

Living Expense Wilmington Columbia
Basic utilities $126.92 $148.09
Cell phone plan $44.10 $54.77
Dozen eggs $3.05 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.56 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $72.50 $60.00
Gym membership $33.50 $40.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Wilmington than in Columbia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Wilmington than in Columbia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Wilmington than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Wilmington than in Columbia.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Wilmington than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Wilmington than in Columbia.

How life is different in Wilmington vs. Columbia

Wilmington Columbia
Population 70,898 136,632
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 74 35
Bike friendliness score 52 35
Crime index 67.32 3.0
Safety index 32.68 48.39
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 93% greater than Wilmington.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Wilmington’s score of 6.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Wilmington with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Wilmington’s 74 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Wilmington, which has a score of 52.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Wilmington with a score of 3.0 compared to Wilmington’s 67.32. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Wilmington neighborhoods are safer than 67.32%.
  • Columbia is considered to be safer than Wilmington with a safety index of 48.39 vs Wilmington’s 32.68.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Wilmington it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Wilmington to Columbia move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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 check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • 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: State laws differ on mover 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
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

Now that you’ve made the move to South Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore Columbia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbia include museums and art centers like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Wilmington to Columbia?toggle

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Wilmington to Columbia?toggle

With many people choosing to move from Wilmington 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 Wilmington to Columbia take?toggle

Covering 591 miles, the move from Wilmington, DE to Columbia, typically takes one to six days. Some Wilmington movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Columbia can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Wilmington offer any discounts?toggle

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in Wilmington offer AAA member savings. 2 movers provide military discounts. 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 Wilmington can handle specialty items for my move to Columbia?toggle

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Wilmington, 49 movers can handle pianos. 39 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of DE, there are 8 piano movers and 4 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,173 and 1,401 respectively.

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

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