Quick answer: For a 93-mile move from Charlotte to Columbia, expect to spend around $117–$3,126 and one to two 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 Columbia to Charlotte 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

When you’ve got 33 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Charlotte, the search for the right one can quickly become overwhelming. And that’s after you decide whether to hand the job over to a full-service team or keep more control — and save a little money — with a DIY approach.

We’ve already done the hard work for you. Each Charlotte mover was reviewed for services offered, pricing, and overall value, with customer experiences drawn from online reviews. From there, we narrowed the field to the best long-distance movers in Charlotte, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Best professional movers from Charlotte to Columbia

If you’d rather let the professionals handle every part of your interstate move from Charlotte to Columbia, a full-service mover is the way to go. These companies can manage everything, so you can focus on the big picture instead of the heavy lifting.

Here are our top picks for full-service movers that can get you from Charlotte to Columbia with less stress and more peace of mind.

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 Charlotte?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Charlotte to all of NC and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Charlotte (Count) Charlotte (%) North Carolina (Count) North Carolina (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 40 98% 111 97% 2836 98%
Unpacking 39 95% 110 96% 2801 97%
Fragile-only packing 16 39% 29 25% 718 25%
Packing materials 28 68% 80 70% 1684 58%
Storage
Storage 29 71% 88 77% 2502 87%
Climate-controlled storage 15 37% 34 30% 977 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 27 66% 62 54% 1887 65%
Art 13 32% 41 36% 1401 48%
Antiques 11 27% 38 33% 1401 48%
Piano 28 68% 78 68% 2176 75%
Hot tub 6 15% 20 17% 670 23%
Pool table 10 24% 36 31% 944 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 85 North Carolina 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 movers servicing Charlotte to Columbia moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Charlotte that also provides long-distance services to Columbia can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in Charlotte who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Charlotte to Columbia.

  1. You Move Me: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Easy Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Hilldrup: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Road Haugs Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Hornet Moving : 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/YouMoveMeCo/, https://twitter.com/youmovemeco?lang=en
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about You Move Me for their consistently professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient moving process, prompt communication, and quick service. Out of 296 reviews, 94% are positive—a strong record compared to most moving services, where praise often centers on reliability and friendliness. Many clients highlight how polite, organized, and attentive the crews are, with moves usually completed faster than expected and within the quoted price.
Negative feedback makes up just over 5% and focuses on reports of damaged or missing items and unexpected cost increases. A few customers mention property scratches or items left unpacked. Some describe communication issues after a problem occurred, mainly involving follow-up on claims for damaged or missing possessions. Neutral input, though rare, points to scheduling hiccups and occasional assembly mistakes. Compared with similar companies, You Move Me stands out for delivering smooth moves but should address isolated complaints about item care and billing accuracy.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 926-3900

Company Info

State license #: 2572

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2518689

Alternate Names: TEC Ventures LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/easymoverscharlotte, https://twitter.com/easymover
84% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Easy Movers stands out for making moving day simple. Analyzing 290 pieces of customer feedback, 84% reported positive experiences, highlighting the staff's professionalism, fast service, careful handling of belongings, prompt communication, and efficient moving process. Customers praise the teams for their attention to detail, respect toward property, and clear estimates.
Many reviewers point out that Easy Movers meets or beats budget expectations and finishes jobs within or ahead of schedule. On the downside, about 15% experienced issues such as significant delays, damaged items, or lapses in communication. Some shared stories of missed appointments and unexpected fees, which set Easy Movers apart from more consistent competitors. Despite these negative reports, positive feedback far outnumbers complaints, suggesting that Easy Movers excels at delivering quality, cost-effective service for most customers.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 588-6868

Company Info

State license #: 2225

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 648055

Alternate Names: EasyMovers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/Hilldrup, https://twitter.com/hilldrup
86% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Hilldrup receives outstanding customer input, with 85.5% positive feedback from 234 reviews. Customers highlight the professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, and good communication. Many describe their moves as stress-free, efficient, and handled by considerate crews, contrasting their experiences favorably to other moving companies.
A smaller portion points out issues like damage to items, delivery delays, and unexpected charges. Negative reviews often focus on items arriving broken, billing disputes, or unfulfilled service promises. Compared to competitors, Hilldrup builds trust through reliability and courtesy, but some reports of higher costs and claims concerns persist.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 486-8429

Company Info

State license #: 2210

Years in Business: 121

DOT #: 22302

Alternate Names: Hilldrup Companies, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/roadhaugs/, https://twitter.com/roadhaugs?lang=en
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input highlights Road Haugs Moving & Storage as a standout in the moving business. After reviewing 254 reviews, about 95% praised their professional, polite staff, careful handling of items, efficiency, quick communication, and swift moving process. Customers emphasize that movers arrive as scheduled, wrap and protect furniture, and take extra care with delicate items.
Many point out straightforward estimates and transparent pricing, setting Road Haugs apart from less reliable competitors. While the majority describe stress-free moves and meticulous attention to furniture and homes, a few raised issues. The most common complaints relate to occasional damage to items, lapses in communication, or rare instances of staff being unfriendly. Some dissatisfied customers mention delivery delays, inadequate notice, or disappointment with claims handling when damage occurs. In contrast to other moving companies, Road Haugs is recognized for combining skilled service with trustworthiness, though prospective clients should be aware of limited insurance coverage on basic moves. Overall, Road Haugs earns high marks from those seeking a careful, courteous, and efficient moving experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 209-4085

Company Info

State license #: 2570

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2535952

Alternate Names: Road Haugs, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/HornetMovingNC/,
91% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Hornet Moving draws attention for its speedy, careful service and professionalism, winning praise from 353 out of 389 sampled reviews—over 90% positive feedback. Customers say move-in day is efficient, belongings arrive in great shape, and crews are friendly as well as responsive. Input frequently spotlights their fast pace, courteous movers, and transparent communication, which set Hornet apart from other Charlotte-area moving companies.
Pricing tends to be more straightforward than competitors, and many repeat clients comment favorably on their consistent results, flexibility, and hassle-free booking. There are negative experiences, though: some report significant damage to furniture or homes, with frustration focused on unresolved claims, low-value compensation for losses, or mishandling of items. The few neutral comments cluster around billing surprises and minor communication gaps. Hornet’s overwhelmingly strong client input makes it a local standout, with more reliability and care noted than many peers—but their claims handling and diligence with fragile pieces represent areas to watch for future customers or those with valuables.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 620-2154

Company Info

State license #: 2615

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2841083

Alternate Names: Hornet Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos

How much does it cost to move from Charlotte to Columbia?

Charlotte movers charge $80 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 $543 - $2,361 $455 - $1,145 $101 - $163
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,163 - $3,126 $864 - $1,655 $117 - $182
4+ bedrooms $1,619 - $3,964 $1,220 - $2,064 $137 - $210
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 93 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 North Carolina to South Carolina

Planning a move from North Carolina to South Carolina? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $543 and $2,361. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,163 and $3,126 for the same journey (NC to SC). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $1,619 to $3,964.

Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to South Carolina

When you're heading from North Carolina to South Carolina, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $455 and $1,145. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $864 and $1,655. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,220 to $2,064. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from North Carolina easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to South Carolina

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $101 to $163. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $117 to $182, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from North Carolina to South Carolina costs around $137 to $210.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that influence moving costs from Charlotte to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Charlotte movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Charlotte to Columbia might cost just $543 for a one-bedroom, but up to $3,512 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Charlotte, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $101 and $198, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Charlotte to Columbia

For many households, Columbia means lower monthly costs than Charlotte — roughly 38% for singles and 49% for families.

That’s about $1,956 per month for singles and $4,274 for families in Columbia, compared with $3,158 and $8,325 in Charlotte.

See the side-by-side details below:

Charlotte Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,913 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $3,790 $2,220
Average home value $391,658 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $64,814 $64,683
Unemployment rate 3.3% 5.2%
Sales tax 7.25% 8.0%
State income tax 4.5% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 19% lower than in Charlotte, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Columbia.
    Home prices in Columbia are 43.7% lower than in Charlotte.
  • Income is the same in Columbia and Charlotte.
  • 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 38.1% lower than in Charlotte.
  • A move to Columbia can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 48.7% less than what it costs in Charlotte.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 57.58% higher than in Charlotte.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Columbia, since its sales taxes are 10.34% higher than what you are paying in Charlotte.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 55.56% higher than in Charlotte.

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

Charlotte Columbia
Basic utilities $156.99 $148.09
Cell phone plan $54.78 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.55 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.82 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $60
Gym membership $51.9 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Charlotte than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charlotte than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Charlotte than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Charlotte than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Charlotte than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Charlotte than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Charlotte than in Columbia.

How life is different in Charlotte vs. Columbia

Columbia Charlotte
Population 136,632 874,579
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 35 26
Bike friendliness score 35 31
Crime Index 3.0 46.52
Safety Index 48.39 53.48
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbia's population is about 84% less than Charlotte.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a similar score to Charlotte.
  • Columbia is more walkable than Charlotte with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Charlotte's 26 out of 100.
  • With a score of 35 out of 100, Columbia is more bike-friendly than Charlotte, which has a score of 31 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Charlotte with a score of 3.0 compared to Charlotte's 46.52. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charlotte neighborhoods are safer than 46.52%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than Charlotte with a score of 48.39 vs Charlotte's 53.48.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Charlotte it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Charlotte vs. Columbia move

  • Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license 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: 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: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you've chosen Soda City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbia to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin

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, EdVenture Children's Museum, and South Carolina Military 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: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charlotte to Columbia?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Charlotte to Columbia are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Charlotte. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charlotte to Columbia?

Because most people are moving from Charlotte 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 Charlotte to Columbia take?

Moving from Charlotte, NC to Columbia, SC covers 93 miles and usually takes one to two days Need to move faster? Some Charlotte movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Columbia.

Are there special savings available from movers in Charlotte?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 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 Charlotte?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Charlotte, 28 movers can manage piano relocations. 11 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, North Carolina has 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2176 and 1401 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources