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($468) Cost to Move From Charlotte, NC to Columbia, SC

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Estimated cost & time: For a 93 mile move from Charlotte to Columbia, costs typically range from $102 to $2,693. Plan for the travel time to be around one–two days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Charlotte to Columbia

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charlotte to Columbia

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Charlotte to Columbia, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 34 interstate moving companies located in Charlotte, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Columbia seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Charlotte to Columbia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 93-mile move from Charlotte to Columbia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $482 – $2,307
  • Moving Container $572 – $976
  • Rental Truck $88 – $132
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $945 – $2,693
  • Moving Container $806 – $1,411
  • Rental Truck $102 – $170
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,368 – $3,659
  • Moving Container $950 – $1,743
  • Rental Truck $116 – $171
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
United Van Lines
Maiden, NC Springfield, SC
Studio apartment
Nov 15, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Pineville, NC Red Bank, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 24, 2025
Roadway Moving
Troutman, NC Pinewood, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 08, 2025
North American Van Lines
Marshville, NC Lake Murray of Richland, SC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 06, 2025
BLVD Moving
Misenheimer, NC Little Mountain, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Red Cross, NC Blythewood, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Claremont, NC St. Matthews, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 22, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cherryville, NC Columbia, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 19, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Harrisburg, NC Forest Acres, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Patterson Springs, NC Camden, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbia, SC to Charlotte, NC guide.

The best local movers for Charlotte to Columbia moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Charlotte that also handles long-distance moves to Columbia. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 42 local movers in Charlotte who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

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

  1. You Move Me: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Hilldrup: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Easy Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.5% of all reviews were positive
11.5% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.1% of all reviews were positive
14.5% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.6% of all reviews were positive
4.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage stands out in customer feedback for its consistent professionalism and attention to detail. Among 140 reviews, 94% are positive, a rate higher than typical movers. Customers praise the knowledgeable, courteous staff, smooth communication, careful handling of belongings, and movers who go above and beyond. Many note efficient, stress-free moves, responsive team members, and reliable service at every stage. A small number of negative comments highlight issues with damaged or lost items and, in rare cases, unexpectedly high costs. Neutral feedback focuses on especially high pricing or incomplete moves. E.E. Ward earns a reputation for reliability and care far above industry averages, but some large-scale moves encountered costly errors or missing items that left lasting frustration.
Get a Quote (704) 774-4884

Company Info

State license #: 2774

Years in Business: 143

DOT #: 1222904

Alternate Names: E. E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. , EE Ward Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.1% of all reviews were positive
2.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Like clockwork, Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out for delivering quick, careful moves with polite, professional teams. Out of 277 feedback entries, 97% praised their efficient service, careful handling, strong communication, and respectful crews. Customers commonly noted how rapidly yet delicately their belongings were moved, and many compared Gentle Giant favorably to other companies for great teamwork and customer care. Pricing came in as expected or lower for most reviewers. A small number of customers, 2.5%, encountered issues with communication or abrupt customer service, generally during scheduling or initial contact, and some found pricing policies confusing. Only one neutral review appeared. Compared to other movers, Gentle Giant earns trust and recommendations for their reliable, efficient approach, but could improve by streamlining communication for all situations.
Get a Quote (704) 376-2338

Company Info

State license #: 2406

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

The average hourly rate for movers in North Carolina is $145. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $468 – $1,893 $380 – $996 $93 – $138
2 – 3 bedrooms $945 – $2,693 $806 – $1,411 $102 – $170
4+ bedrooms $1,368 – $3,659 $950 – $1,743 $116 – $171
*Approximate cost ranges for a 93-mile move from Charlotte to Columbia are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Charlotte to Columbia

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Charlotte to Columbia will cost between $468 and $1,893. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Charlotte to Charlotte will range from $945 to $2,693, and a large move from Charlotte to Columbia will cost from $1,368 to $3,659.

Cost of moving containers from Charlotte to Columbia

If you’re moving from Charlotte to Columbia, expect to pay between $380 and $996 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $806 up to $1,411. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $950 and $1,743. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charlotte to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Charlotte to Columbia is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $93 and $138. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $102 and $170. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $116 up to $171 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Charlotte to Columbia

The cost of Charlotte movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $664, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $3,025.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charlotte, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($93–$162) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Charlotte to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Charlotte – roughly 38% less for singles and 49% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $3,158 in Charlotte. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $8,325.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

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
Cost of living (single) $3,158 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $8,325 $4,274
Unemployment rate 3.3% 5.2%
Sales tax 7.25% 8.0%
State income tax 4.5% 7.0%
  • If you’re heading to Columbia from Charlotte, you’ll find that rent is roughly 19% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 44% less in Columbia than in Charlotte.
  • Fortunately, the average income in Columbia and Charlotte is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
  • 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% lower than in Charlotte.
  • Choosing to move to Columbia can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 49% less than in Charlotte.
  • In Columbia, the unemployment rate is approximately 58% higher than in Charlotte, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 10% in Columbia over Charlotte, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 56% higher in South Carolina than in North Carolina, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Charlotte and Columbia:

Living Expense 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) $18.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $60.00
Gym membership $51.90 $40.00
  • 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

Charlotte Columbia
Population 874,579 136,632
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 26 35
Bike friendliness score 31 35
Crime index 46.52 3.0
Safety index 53.48 48.39
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 84% less than Charlotte.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Charlotte, making them very similar.
  • 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 it is 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 to Columbia move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Columbia. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Soda City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

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, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Charlotte to Columbia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Charlotte.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charlotte to Columbia, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Charlotte to Columbia take?

Moving from Charlotte, NC to Columbia, 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.

Which movers in Charlotte give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers here honor AAA discounts. 2 movers give special rates to military members. 1 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Charlotte?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 28 movers in Charlotte advertise piano moving expertise. 11 movers in Charlotte provide antique moving services. State totals show 77 piano movers and 37 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,300 and 1,465.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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