Quick answer: For a 416-mile move from St. Louis to Columbus, expect to spend around $462–$5,204 and one to four days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Columbus to St. Louis guide.

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
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
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

Choosing an interstate mover from St. Louis, MO, to Columbus, OH, isn’t as simple as picking the first name you find. In St. Louis, there are 9 companies that can handle that route, each with their own approach, pricing, and service style.

Our team took a close look at every interstate mover in St. Louis, examining service options, costs, and what customers are actually saying in reviews. The result is a carefully curated list of the best long-distance movers in St. Louis you can trust with your St. Louis to Columbus relocation.

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Professional
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Container
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Rental truck
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Best professional movers from St. Louis to Columbus

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from St. Louis to Columbus far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in St. Louis?toggle

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

Service St. Louis (Count) St. Louis (%) Missouri (Count) Missouri (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 11 100% 38 100% 2836 98%
Unpacking 11 100% 37 97% 2801 97%
Fragile-only packing 5 45% 15 39% 718 25%
Packing materials 10 91% 35 92% 1684 58%
Storage
Storage 10 91% 29 76% 2502 87%
Climate-controlled storage 5 45% 11 29% 977 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 8 73% 23 61% 1887 65%
Art 6 55% 18 47% 1401 48%
Antiques 5 45% 18 47% 1401 48%
Piano 9 82% 30 79% 2176 75%
Hot tub 2 18% 9 24% 670 23%
Pool table 3 27% 11 29% 944 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your MO to OH movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 29 Missouri movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies servicing St. Louis to Columbus moves

When planning a move from St. Louis to Columbus, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in St. Louis who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from St. Louis to Columbus.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Arch Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. McGuire Moving and Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. ABC Quality Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/twomenstlouis/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenstlouis
76% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple: feedback from 361 reviewers shows two out of three customers raved about Two Men and a Truck’s speed, careful handling, and positive, professional attitude. Three out of four reviews praised efficient service, noting teams that work quickly while respecting belongings and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful staff making moves less stressful.
On the downside, about 22% flagged issues, with damaged items as the top concern. Some reported belongings arrived scratched or broken, while others found their final bills exceeded estimates by hundreds of dollars. Delays or late arrivals also frustrated a portion of customers. Compared to many movers, Two Men and a Truck earns higher marks for courtesy and efficiency, but shoppers sensitive to cost or worried about valuables should stay vigilant and clarify terms before moving day.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 270-5758

Company Info

State license #: 714664

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/ArchMovingSt.Louis, https://twitter.com/archmoving?lang=en
58% of all reviews were positive
33% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input reveals Arch Moving stands out for efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling—traits that rank it higher than many competitors. Out of 76 reviews analyzed, 58% were positive. Customers highlight quick moving, helpful movers, and care for belongings as main strengths.
On the other hand, 33% of input cited problems, mainly damage to items, inexperienced movers, and lack of communication. Multiple customers experienced property or item damage, with some reports of lost items and unsatisfactory claims processes. Others found crews lacking experience or communication lacking, particularly from office staff. While many noted friendly, hardworking movers and fast, well-organized moves, negative feedback points to greater risk of damage or mishandling than top-rated moving companies. Those seeking value and efficiency often found the service met or exceeded expectations, yet those who value reliability and item safety should proceed with caution and discuss coverage and experience with the company before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 964-5557

Company Info

State license #: 2969512

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2969512


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/McGuireMoving/,
82% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints McGuire Moving and Storage as a leader for professionalism and skilled handling. Of 130 reviews, 82% were favorable, with clients praising the courteous staff, careful approach, efficiency, and effective communication. The company’s teams consistently earn recommendations, with multiple customers reporting stress-free and damage-free moves.
Negative feedback, making up about 17%, centers on item damage, lost belongings, and select instances of unprofessionalism or poor service recovery. Despite a few cases of unresolved issues, customers more often highlight reliability and a hands-on approach not easily found with competitors. McGuire sets itself apart by maintaining a highly praised team and strong follow-up, though, on rare occasions, resolution on damage or loss lags behind client expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 241-0600

Company Info

State license #: 2256609

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 2256609

Alternate Names: McGuire Moving Co.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySons/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
53% of all reviews were positive
47% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say All My Sons Moving & Storage often delivers fast, polite, and efficient service. Over half of feedback highlights teams that work quickly, handle belongings carefully, and keep a positive attitude during moves. Movers are commonly described as professional, respectful, and diligent.
Many customers recommend the company for their reliability and approachability. At the same time, nearly half of input reveals major issues with unexpected charges, higher-than-quoted bills, damaged items, and late arrivals. Several customers report being surprised by additional fees, or receiving items with new damage. On-time moves and accurate pricing stand out as frequent pain points. Compared to many competitors, these movers achieve high marks for care and speed but recurring cost and communication problems hold them back.
Show more
Get a Quote (636) 328-0545

Company Info

State license #: 1803212

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ABCQualityMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/ABC_Quality
84% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call ABC Quality Moving & Storage a top pick for efficient moves, friendly crews, and professional handling, with 263 reviews showing 83.7% positive feedback. People highlight how quickly movers work, their politeness, and care with belongings. Many say teams go above and beyond—packing thoroughly and sharing a helpful attitude.
Customers also praise how approachable the staff is and report competitive, transparent pricing compared to other movers. On the other hand, negative input makes it clear damage to items happens more often than expected, and reports of unprofessional behavior and missed deadlines appear in several reviews. Some say response to complaints or claims lags, or that movers lacked care when handling furniture and property. Service reliability and professionalism seem above average for the local market, but unresolved damage and communication problems place ABC behind standout companies. Clients looking for fast, careful service will likely enjoy a smooth experience; those who value guarantee against mishaps or perfect support post-move should review terms closely before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 772-1887

Company Info

State license #: 987335

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 987335

Alternate Names: ABC Quality Moving


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 money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from St. Louis to Columbus?

St. Louis movers charge $145 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,157 - $3,346 $746 - $1,770 $409 - $759
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,060 - $5,204 $1,259 - $2,612 $462 - $909
4+ bedrooms $3,256 - $7,438 $1,685 - $3,336 $557 - $1,036
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 416 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Missouri to Ohio

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Missouri to Ohio, you can expect to spend between $1,157 and $3,346. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,060 to $5,204 on the same route (MO to OH). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Missouri to Ohio typically runs between $3,256 and $7,438.

Cost of moving containers from Missouri to Ohio

If you're relocating from Missouri to Ohio, you'll typically spend between $746 and $1,770 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,259 up to $2,612. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,685 and $3,336. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Missouri to Ohio

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you'll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you're moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $409 and $759. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $462 and $909. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $557 and $1,036.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from St. Louis to Columbustoggle

The cost of St. Louis movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from St. Louis to Columbus might cost as little as $1,157, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $6,378.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in St. Louis, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $409 to $964 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from St. Louis to Columbus

Moving to Columbus typically means higher monthly totals — roughly 8% more for singles and 10% more for families compared with St. Louis.

Singles spend around $2,784 in Columbus vs. $2,589 in St. Louis, and families see $7,249 vs. $6,573.

Use the breakdown below to plan your budget:

St. Louis Columbus
Average 1 BR rent $0 $1,567
Average 3 BR rent $0 $2,957
Average home value $171,463 $238,832
Average income (per capita) $66,090 $65,075
Unemployment rate 6.3% 5.7%
Sales tax 9.68% 7.5%
State income tax 4.8% 3.5%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Columbus, since prices are typically 15% higher than in St. Louis.
  • The home prices in Columbus are 39.3% higher than in St. Louis, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Columbus is 1.5% lower than in St. Louis, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbus — including Ohio State University, The State of Ohio, and JPMorgan Chase — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbus, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 7.5% higher than in St. Louis. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Columbus, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 10.3% higher than in St. Louis.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbus is 9.52% lower than in St. Louis.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbus, since the city's sales taxes in Columbus are 22.52% lower than in St. Louis.
  • One perk of moving to Columbus is paying less in state income taxes, which are 27.08% lower than in St. Louis.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between St. Louis and Columbus, from monthly bills to routine purchases.

St. Louis Columbus
Basic utilities $ $263.89
Cell phone plan $ $60.77
Dozen eggs $ $3.21
Loaf of bread $ $2.98
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $ $20
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $ $80
Gym membership $ $46.25

How life is different in St. Louis vs. Columbus

Columbus St. Louis
Population 905,748 293,310
Transportation Score 5 8
Walkability score 41 66
Bike friendliness score 48 58
Crime Index 49.65 69.65
Safety Index 50.35 30.35
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbus's population is about 209% greater than St. Louis.
  • Columbus's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus St. Louis's higher score of 8.
  • Columbus is less walkable than St. Louis with a score of 41 out of 100 vs St. Louis's 66 out of 100.
  • Columbus has a bike-friendliness score 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as St. Louis, which has a score of 58 out of 100.
  • Columbus's crime rate is lower than St. Louis with a score of 49.65 compared to St. Louis's 69.65. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and St. Louis neighborhoods are safer than 69.65%.
  • Columbus is considered to be safer than St. Louis with a safety index of 50.35 vs St. Louis's 30.35.
  • Air quality in Columbus is good, and in St. Louis it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your St. Louis vs. Columbus move

  • Weather: Columbus doesn't get the snowfall that more northern Ohio gets but it does have some of the severe weather that's common in the midwest such as strong lightning storms and hail. In general, you can expect all 4 seasons in Columbus so take that into account when choosing the time of the year that you move.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Ohio, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Ohio doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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 Columbus without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbus

Ready to relocate to Arch City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbus.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Short North
  • Clintonville
  • Grandview Heights
  • Dublin

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bexley
  • Clintonville
  • Gahanna
  • Hilliard
  • Upper Arlington

Things to do in Columbus

Once you're settled into your new home in Ohio, it's time to get out and discover what Columbus has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbus, such as the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, Columbus Historical Society, and Columbus Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Columbus Crew (MLS), Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA), Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL), or Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from St. Louis to Columbus?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from St. Louis to Columbus. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in St. Louis.

When is the cheapest time to move from St. Louis to Columbus?

Because spring and fall moves from St. Louis to Columbus are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from St. Louis to Columbus take?

The 416-mile journey from St. Louis, MO to Columbus, OH, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in St. Louis offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbus.

Do movers in St. Louis offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 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 St. Louis can handle specialty items for my move to Columbus?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In St. Louis, 9 movers can handle pianos. 5 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MO, there are 30 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2176 and 1401 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources