Local moving companies in Michigan
When making the move from Michigan to Columbia, SC, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 57 Michigan movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Columbia, SC.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Powell Relocation Group: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Handle With Care Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 29737
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: KoHo, LLC
Two Men and a Truck has been a staple in the Kalamazoo, MI local moving scene since 2003, offering reliable residential moving services. Unlike some nearby companies, they boast an impressive portfolio with 621 reviews on Google averaging a stellar 4.9, demonstrating high customer satisfaction. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they don’t require a deposit, making the process hassle-free. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and generally favorable consumer reviews, Two Men and a Truck stand out as a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 261884
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 261884
Alternate Names: Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.
Powell Relocation Group, serving the Grand Rapids, MI area since 1963, stands out as a reputable local moving company. With an impressive array of services, including packing, crating, and moving valuable items like pianos and antiques, they cater to diverse moving needs. Customers consistently praise Powell Relocation Group, as evidenced by their 5.0 average rating on Yelp and a strong 4.7 on Google, coupled with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Unlike many competitors, they also offer full valuation insurance coverage and accept credit cards, making them a reliable and customer-focused choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
White Star Movers, Inc., a trusted name in Sterling Heights, MI since 1987, excels in local residential moving services. They stand out with an impressive Google rating of 4.5 from 343 reviews and hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their strong reputation. Unlike many competitors, White Star Movers also offers specialized services such as fragile-only packing and senior moving, ensuring a tailored experience. Notably, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and require no deposit, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 359936
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 808976
Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Michigan to Columbia, SC
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Michigan to Columbia, SC, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,179 – $4,582 | $770 – $1,890 | $575 – $1,179 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,393 – $6,121 | $1,453 – $2,849 | $641 – $1,333 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,328 – $8,220 | $1,821 – $3,659 | $836 – $1,570 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 904-mile move from Michigan to Columbia, SC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Michigan to Columbia, SC
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Columbia, SC, you can expect prices to land between $1,179 and $4,582. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,393 to $6,121. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,328 and $8,220.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Columbia, SC
Moving containers from Michigan to Columbia, SC, will cost you $770 to $1,890 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,453 to $2,849. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,821 to $3,659. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Columbia, SC
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $575 and $1,179 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Michigan to Columbia, SC with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $641 to $1,333. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $836 to $1,570.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Michigan to Columbia, SC
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Powell Relocation Group | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| White Star Movers, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Handle With Care Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Michigan movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Michigan | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 22% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 6% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 7% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Michigan to Columbia, SC
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Columbia, SC stacks up against Michigan. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Columbia, SC
| Michigan | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,037 | $1,447 |
| Average home cost | $245,716 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,505 | $64,683 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.2% |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 7.0% |
Columbia sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 40% more expensive in Columbia than in Michigan, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- Moving to Columbia means you’ll spend about 10% less on housing compared to Michigan, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Columbia are typically about 6% lower than in Michigan. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Columbia runs 11% above Michigan, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 65% higher than in Michigan, leaving you with less take-home pay to cover expenses or save.
How life is different in Columbia from Michigan
| Columbia | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49.7-48.3 | |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 35ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 19.98 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Columbia voted and Michigan voted Republican.
- Summer temperatures in Columbia typically reach 94ºF, while in Michigan, highs average around 81ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and hotter days.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Columbia generally drop to around 35ºF, while Michigan can get as cold as 14ºF. Moving to Columbia means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- 46 inches of rain each year in Columbia, considerably more than the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- In Columbia, you’ll see just 1 inch of snow each year, compared to Michigan, which gets 64 inches annually. Moving to Columbia means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Columbia is safer than Michigan, with a crime index of 3.0 compared to 19.98. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Columbia
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Columbia can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Columbia
Parks in Columbia
Sports teams in Columbia
Universities in Columbia
Other considerations when moving to Columbia, SC
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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 your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your South Carolina moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to South Carolina, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to South Carolina. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Michigan to Columbia take?
The time it takes to move from Michigan to Columbia, SC varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Columbia from northern Michigan, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Michigan to Columbia typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Michigan to Columbia?
Because of the 904-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Michigan to Columbia as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Columbia, SC?
With summer temperatures reaching 94°F and winter nights dipping to 35°F, most people make the move from Michigan to Columbia in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Michigan moving services
Popular Michigan routes
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