Top-rated movers to make your Lansing to Columbia move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Lansing that offers long-distance services to Columbia can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 11 top local movers in Lansing 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 Lansing to Columbia.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- M & M Moving and Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars
- Helper Moving LLC: 4.22 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: Hunky Monkey LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 34172
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 1890987
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2194234
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2475734
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Fragile-only packing
How much does it cost to move from Lansing to Columbia?
In Michigan, moving services typically cost around 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 | $1,192 – $4,273 | $774 – $1,786 | $532 – $980 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,393 – $5,705 | $1,273 – $2,580 | $602 – $1,200 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,115 – $8,365 | $1,743 – $3,496 | $704 – $1,483 |
Cost to hire movers from Lansing to Columbia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Lansing, you can expect prices to land between $1,192 and $4,273. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,393 to $5,705 for the trip from Lansing to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,115 and $8,365.
Cost of moving containers from Lansing to Columbia
Moving containers from Lansing to Columbia will cost you $774 to $1,786 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,273 to $2,580. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,743 to $3,496. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Lansing to Columbia
Renting a moving truck from Lansing to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $532 and $980 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $602 to $1,200. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $704 to $1,483.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Lansing to Columbia move
The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,979 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,173 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Lansing.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $532 to $1,346, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Lansing to Columbia
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbia runs about 23% higher for singles and 2% higher for families than Lansing.
Singles spend around $1,956 in Lansing versus $1,595 in Lansing; families pay $4,274 compared with $4,199.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Lansing | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $901 | $1,300 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,775 | $2,220 |
| Average home value | $148,542 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,729 | $64,683 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,595 | $1,956 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,199 | $4,274 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Columbia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 28% higher than in Lansing, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Columbia are about 49% higher than those in Lansing.
- In terms of average income, Columbia and Lansing are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Columbia, as living costs for a single person are 23% higher than in Lansing. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- The cost of living for a family is within about 5% of the same in Columbia and Lansing, so you probably won’t see a major difference in expenses.
- The unemployment rate in Columbia is about 30% lower than in Lansing. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Columbia are 33% more than in Lansing, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 65% above those in Michigan. 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 Lansing and Columbia:
| Living Expense | Lansing | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $172.97 | $148.09 |
| Cell phone plan | $46.00 | $54.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.52 | $3.46 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.91 | $2.65 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $68.50 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $31.67 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lansing than in Columbia.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lansing than in Columbia.
- Eggs cost more in Lansing than in Columbia.
- Bread is more expensive in Lansing than in Columbia.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Lansing than in Columbia.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Lansing than in Columbia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Lansing than in Columbia.
How life is different in Lansing vs. Columbia
| Lansing | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 112,644 | 136,632 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 46 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 55 | 35 |
| Crime index | 48.66 | 3.0 |
| Safety index | 51.34 | 48.39 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbia’s population is about 21% greater than Lansing.
- Columbia’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Lansing, making them very similar.
- Columbia is less walkable than Lansing with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Lansing’s 46 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 Lansing, which has a score of 55.
- Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Lansing with a score of 3.0 compared to Lansing’s 48.66. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66%.
- Columbia is considered to be less safe than Lansing with a score of 48.39 vs Lansing’s 51.34.
- Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Lansing it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Lansing to Columbia 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 Columbia. 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 Columbia
Planning your move to Soda City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- 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, and EdVenture Children’s 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: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering 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 Lansing to Columbia?
Planning your move from Lansing to Columbia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Lansing.
When is the cheapest time to move from Lansing to Columbia?
Because most people are moving from Lansing to Columbia 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 Lansing to Columbia take?
The 768-mile journey from Lansing, MI to Columbia, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Lansing 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.
Are there special savings available from movers in Lansing?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Lansing?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Lansing, 7 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 51 piano movers and 19 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.
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