The best local movers for Tampa to Columbia moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Tampa that also handles long-distance moves to Columbia. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 44 local movers in Tampa who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Tampa to Columbia.
- Big Man’s Moving Company, LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Brothers EZ Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Golden Movers LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Let’s Get Moving, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2951960
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2349033
Alternate Names: Brothers EZ Moving, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 1248113
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 1248113
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage of Dallas, LLC , All My Sons Moving & Storage, Inc , All My Sons Moving & Storage, Inc. , AMS Group Holdco, LLC , All My Sons Moving & Storage of Little Rock, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2270761
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 2270761
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Tampa to Columbia?
The average hourly rate for movers in Florida is $172. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $962 – $2,654 | $638 – $1,626 | $417 – $705 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,722 – $4,440 | $1,222 – $2,334 | $433 – $872 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,226 – $6,492 | $1,657 – $2,967 | $506 – $1,060 |
Cost to hire movers from Tampa to Columbia
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Tampa to Columbia will cost between $962 and $2,654. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Tampa to Tampa will range from $1,722 to $4,440, and a large move from Tampa to Columbia will cost from $3,226 to $6,492.
Cost of moving containers from Tampa to Columbia
If you’re moving from Tampa to Columbia, expect to pay between $638 and $1,626 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,222 up to $2,334. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,657 and $2,967. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Florida.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tampa to Columbia
Renting a moving truck from Tampa to Columbia 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 $417 and $705. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $433 and $872. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $506 up to $1,060 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Tampa to Columbia
The cost of Tampa movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,336, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $5,439.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Tampa, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($417–$908) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Tampa to Columbia
Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Tampa – roughly 39% less for singles and 47% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $3,232 in Tampa. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $8,108.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Tampa | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,967 | $1,300 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,616 | $2,220 |
| Average home value | $371,271 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,802 | $64,683 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,232 | $1,956 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $8,108 | $4,274 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.5% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 7.0% |
- If you’re heading to Columbia from Tampa, you’ll find that rent is roughly 25% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 41% less in Columbia than in Tampa.
- Fortunately, the average income in Columbia and Tampa is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
- 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 39% lower than in Tampa.
- Choosing to move to Columbia can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 47% less than in Tampa.
- The unemployment rates of Columbia and Tampa are very similar, with less than a 5% difference, thus maintaining a consistent employment landscape.
- Sales taxes rise by 23% in Columbia over Tampa, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
- South Carolina has a state income tax, while Florida does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Tampa and Columbia:
| Living Expense | Tampa | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $239.17 | $148.09 |
| Cell phone plan | $71.60 | $54.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.59 | $3.46 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.09 | $2.65 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $95.00 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $38.00 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tampa than in Columbia.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tampa than in Columbia.
- Eggs cost more in Tampa than in Columbia.
- Bread is more expensive in Tampa than in Columbia.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Tampa than in Columbia.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Tampa than in Columbia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tampa than in Columbia.
How life is different in Tampa vs. Columbia
| Tampa | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 403,364 | 136,632 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 51 | 35 |
| Crime index | 46.15 | 3.0 |
| Safety index | 53.85 | 48.39 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbia’s population is about 66% less than Tampa.
- Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Tampa’s score of 8.
- Columbia is less walkable than Tampa with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Tampa’s 51 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 Tampa, which has a score of 51.
- Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Tampa with a score of 3.0 compared to Tampa’s 46.15. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tampa neighborhoods are safer than 46.15%.
- Columbia is considered to be less safe than Tampa with a score of 48.39 vs Tampa’s 53.85.
- Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Tampa it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Tampa to Columbia move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: South Carolina doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Columbia. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
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
- 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
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: 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, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tampa to Columbia?
The best time to move from Tampa to Columbia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Tampa.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tampa to Columbia?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Tampa 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 Tampa to Columbia take?
Moving from Tampa, FL to Columbia, covers 486 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Tampa movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Columbia.
Which movers in Tampa give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers give special rates to military members. 1 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Tampa?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 32 movers in Tampa advertise piano moving expertise. 20 movers in Tampa provide antique moving services. State totals show 174 piano movers and 105 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Tampa moving services
Popular Florida routes
- Florida to South Carolina car shippers
- Florida to California movers
- Florida to Georgia movers
- Florida to Illinois movers
- Florida to Michigan movers
- Florida to New York movers
- Florida to North Carolina movers
- Florida to Ohio movers
- Florida to Pennsylvania movers
- Florida to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!