Top-rated movers to make your Columbus to Charleston move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbus that offers long-distance services to Charleston can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed nine top local movers in Columbus who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Columbus to Charleston.
- Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Apple Moving : 4.42 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- American International Movers Inc.: 4.14 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 110
DOT #: 2897746
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 500159
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Trad Holdings, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9128
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 1934458
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 3754018
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 270715
Alternate Names: IHS Technologies, Inc. , Trading Post Moving & Storage , American International Movers, Inc. , Covenant Storage, Inc. , Southern Choice Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Columbus to Charleston?
In Georgia, moving services typically cost around $139 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $986 – $2,891 | $627 – $1,426 | $330 – $590 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,612 – $4,530 | $1,114 – $2,206 | $355 – $685 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,451 – $6,690 | $1,502 – $2,777 | $427 – $870 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Charleston
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Charleston from Columbus, you can expect prices to land between $986 and $2,891. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,612 to $4,530 for the trip from Columbus to Charleston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,451 and $6,690.
Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Charleston
Moving containers from Columbus to Charleston will cost you $627 to $1,426 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,114 to $2,206. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,502 to $2,777. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Georgia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Charleston
Renting a moving truck from Columbus to Charleston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $330 and $590 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $355 to $685. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $427 to $870.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbus to Charleston move
The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,287 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,250 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Columbus.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $330 to $786, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbus to Charleston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 160% higher for singles and 106% higher for families than Columbus.
Singles spend around $5,300 in Columbus versus $2,041 in Columbus; families pay $7,890 compared with $3,834.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbus | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,250 | $2,529 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,400 | $4,487 |
| Average home value | $157,861 | $559,231 |
| Average income (per capita) | $50,542 | $62,294 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,041 | $5,300 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,834 | $7,890 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 9.0% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Charleston? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 127% higher than in Columbus, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Charleston are about 254% higher than those in Columbus.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 23% higher in Charleston compared to Columbus, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Charleston, as living costs for a single person are 160% higher than in Columbus. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Charleston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 106% higher than in Columbus.
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is about 25% lower than in Columbus. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Charleston and Columbus (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 28% above those in Georgia. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbus and Charleston:
| Living Expense | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.40 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $40.33 | $54.78 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.24 | $4.55 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.52 | $3.82 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $50.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $10.00 | $29.17 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Charleston.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbus than in Charleston.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in Charleston.
- Bread costs less in Columbus than in Charleston.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbus than in Charleston.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbus than in Charleston.
How life is different in Columbus vs. Charleston
| Columbus | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 206,922 | 150,277 |
| Transportation score | 2 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 25 | 40 |
| Bike friendliness score | 31 | 50 |
| Crime index | 72.18 | 44.97 |
| Safety index | 27.82 | 55.03 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Charleston’s population is about 27% less than Columbus.
- Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is higher than Columbus’s score of 2.
- Charleston is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Columbus’s 25 out of 100.
- With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Columbus, which has a score of 31 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Charleston’s crime rate is lower than Columbus with a score of 44.97 compared to Columbus’s 72.18. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 72.18%.
- Charleston is considered to be safer than Columbus with a safety index of 55.03 vs Columbus’s 27.82.
- Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Columbus it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbus to Charleston move
- 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Charleston. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 Charleston
Planning your move to The Holy City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Charleston.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Harleston Village
- James Island
- North Charleston
- South of Broad West Ashley
Best neighborhoods for families
- Mount Pleasant
- Park Circle
- Stiles Point
- Summerville
- Wagener Terrace
Things to do in Charleston
After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Charleston has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Charleston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, and The Charleston Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbus to Charleston?
Planning your move from Columbus to Charleston? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Columbus.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to Charleston?
Because most people are moving from Columbus to Charleston in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Columbus to Charleston take?
The 346-mile journey from Columbus, GA to Charleston, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Columbus offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Charleston.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Columbus?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Columbus, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Georgia has 54 piano movers and 39 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Columbus moving services
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