Quick answer: Expect to pay $1,741–$8,811 for a move from Columbus to San Jose, with most moves taking seven to 18 days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 2,464 miles.

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

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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

There are 24 interstate moving companies in Columbus, so figuring out which one is best for your move from Columbus, OH, to San Jose, CA, can feel overwhelming. You’ll also need to decide whether to hire professional full-service movers or take a more DIY approach.

Not to worry — we’ve made the process easier for you. We compared each mover by key factors like service options and cost, and analyzed customer feedback in online reviews. Using our research, we have narrowed the list of Columbus companies to only the best long-distance movers in Columbus, no matter what type of move you’re planning.

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Best professional movers from Columbus to San Jose

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from Columbus to San Jose 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 Columbus?toggle

Availability varies a lot by market. Use this table to see how common each service is among movers in Columbus, compared to all of OH and nationwide, so you can spot what’s easy to book and what may take extra planning.

Service Columbus (Count) Columbus (%) Ohio (Count) Ohio (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 30 100% 98 99% 2835 98%
Unpacking 29 97% 96 97% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 10 33% 23 23% 717 25%
Packing materials 12 40% 38 38% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 25 83% 88 89% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 18 60% 49 49% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 22 73% 58 59% 1886 65%
Art 12 40% 37 37% 1400 48%
Antiques 12 40% 37 37% 1400 48%
Piano 17 57% 59 60% 2175 75%
Hot tub 8 27% 17 17% 669 23%
Pool table 8 27% 26 26% 943 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 68 Ohio 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.

The top local movers servicing Columbus to San Jose moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Columbus that also handles long-distance moves to San Jose. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Columbus who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Columbus to San Jose.

  1. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. MVM Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. All American Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Herlihy Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/LeadersMoving/, https://twitter.com/LeadersMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers who hustle for you—customer feedback on Leaders Moving & Storage Co. shows why many choose them over the competition. Out of 369 reviews, 84% are positive, highlighting outstanding efficiency, professional and polite crews, careful handling, quick move times, and strong communication. Customers repeatedly mention pleasant, energetic staff who deliver moves faster than expected and care for items and property.
Pricing transparency, flexible options, and true-to-estimate billing set Leaders apart from many other movers. Negative input, making up 14%, focuses on damaged items, slow or unhelpful claims handling, and occasional late arrivals. Customers reporting issues describe damaged or mishandled items, and say resolution for complaints or claims can be frustratingly slow or inadequate compared to what industry leaders deliver. A small number of customers also mention unprofessional or unreliable crews, and a lack of follow-up from management. Still, positive feedback vastly outnumbers complaints, with most reviewers highly recommending Leaders for an easy, stress-free moving experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 885-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00136562

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

Alternate Names: Leaders Moving, Leaders Moving & Storage Co., L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co., Leaders Moving And Storage Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/mvmcolumbus/, https://twitter.com/mvmcolumbus?lang=en
97% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple — that’s what customers consistently report after hiring MVM Moving & Storage. Out of 257 customer reviews, an impressive 96.9% express satisfaction. MVM’s team stands out for being efficient, professional, and attentive, with many mentioning careful treatment of their belongings and quick, well-organized moves.
Communication is seamless at every step, from booking to delivery. Feedback sharply contrasts these strengths with a handful of dissatisfied customers. The most significant complaints center around damaged items, inaccurate estimates, and rare instances of unprofessional or rude staff. Despite isolated issues, MVM earns more praise for speed, staff demeanor, and the care taken with property than nearly any competitor in the industry. Their approach creates a noticeably smooth and stress-free moving experience that sets a high bar for local moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 230-0667

Company Info

State license #: 156647

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1444491

Alternate Names: MVM Columbus, MVM Columbus Incorporated.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/EEwardMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/eewardmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage stands out for its remarkable record with customers, earning 92% positive feedback from 256 reviews. Many praised the professional and polite staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient service, excellent communication, and the speed of the moving process.
Customers also highlighted how team members accommodated last-minute changes and consistently treated property with respect. In contrast, some highlighted concerns mainly about damage to items, misplacement or loss during moves, and difficulties with after-move communication or claims resolution. Issues like denied insurance claims or delayed responses were the chief negatives, though these were comparatively rare. In terms of reliability, professionalism, and customer care, E.E. Ward ranks among the best in the industry, with significantly fewer negative experiences than typical moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 401-6796

Company Info

State license #: 11470

Years in Business: 143

DOT #: 1222904

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


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/AllAmericanMovingStorageandDelivery, https://twitter.com/AllAmericanMvg?ref_src=twsrctfw&ref_url=httpwww.all-americanmoving.com
90% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Choosing the right moving company matters, and customers say All American Moving and Storage rises above most. Analysis of 251 pieces of feedback shows that 90% of customers praised courteous, professional movers, efficient service, careful handling, and good communication. Many highlighted how quickly and safely their belongings were moved, often noting better experiences compared to other moving companies in the area.
Customers especially valued staff professionalism and the care shown to fragile or valuable items. About 9% voiced major concerns, pointing to damage to items during moves, final costs far higher than original quotes, and infrequent complaints about delays or missed appointments. Only two neutral reviews were found, indicating rare middle-ground input and suggesting most customers felt strongly about their experiences. Positive feedback outpaces negative by a significant margin, placing All American well ahead of many competitors in satisfaction, but those considering their services should pay close attention to estimate details and clarify expectations to avoid the main downsides experienced by some.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 224-0077

Company Info

State license #: 147426

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1239401

Alternate Names: American Moving & Storage, Ltd., All American Moving & Storage of Columbus, All American Moving and Storage, All American Delivery, Daniel R Dragin All American Moving, Storage and Delivery Prime Agent for Arpin Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Herlihymoving/, https://twitter.com/herlihymovers/
88% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback about Herlihy Moving & Storage highlights standout professionalism, skilled teams, and fast, careful moving experiences. Customers often describe the staff as friendly and polite, with efficient service and strong communication throughout the process. Many note that moves finished faster than expected, and belongings arrived undamaged.
Staff flexibility—accommodating complex moves and providing updates—sets Herlihy apart from competitors. On the downside, some customers shared serious complaints about mishandled items, communication issues, and delivery delays, especially with long-distance or large-scale moves. Negative input points to occasional property damage and inconsistent follow-through. With 120 reviews analyzed, 87.5% were positive, reflecting high satisfaction, yet the main drawbacks relate to item damage and communication shortfalls, areas where other leading movers may provide more reliability.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 871-4040

Company Info

Years in Business: 104

DOT #: 183389

Alternate Names: Mayflower Containers, pods portable storage, Herlihy Moving & Storage, Inc, Herlihy Moving & Storage Inc., SAM Store and Move, Mayflower Transit


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Columbus to San Jose?

Columbus 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 $1,427 - $6,492 $1,549 - $3,631 $1,592 - $3,081
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,460 - $8,811 $2,621 - $5,391 $1,741 - $3,669
4+ bedrooms $8,301 - $13,909 $3,571 - $7,620 $2,049 - $4,455
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,464 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 Ohio to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ohio to California typically costs between $1,427 and $6,492. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,460 and $8,811 when moving from OH to CA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Ohio to California, you're looking at costs ranging from $8,301 up to $13,909.

Cost of moving containers from Ohio to California

Moving from Ohio to California? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,549 and $3,631. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,621 to $5,391. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,571 up to $7,620. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Ohio.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio to California

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you'll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,592 and $3,081. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,741 to $3,669. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,049 and $4,455.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from Columbus to San Josetoggle

The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Columbus to San Jose might cost as little as $1,427, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,324.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Columbus, 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 $1,592 to $3,944 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Columbus to San Jose

Moving to San Jose typically means higher monthly totals — roughly 32% more for singles and 15% more for families compared with Columbus.

Singles spend around $3,674 in San Jose vs. $2,784 in Columbus, and families see $8,354 vs. $7,249.

Use the breakdown below to plan your budget:

Columbus San Jose
Average 1 BR rent $1,567 $3,027
Average 3 BR rent $2,957 $5,240
Average home value $238,832 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $65,075 $83,421
Unemployment rate 5.7% 6.6%
Sales tax 7.5% 9.38%
State income tax 3.5% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Jose, since prices are typically 115% higher than in Columbus.
  • The home prices in San Jose are 508.7% higher than in Columbus, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in San Jose, where incomes are, on average, 28.2% higher than in Columbus. Major employers in San Jose include Cisco Systems, Western Digital, and Infineon Technologies.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Jose, since the cost of living for a single person in San Jose is 32.0% higher than in Columbus. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to San Jose, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 15.2% higher than in Columbus.
  • The unemployment rate in San Jose is 15.79% higher than in Columbus.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in San Jose, since its sales taxes are 25.07% higher than what you are paying in Columbus.
  • State income taxes in San Jose are 280.00% higher than in Columbus.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Columbus and San Jose:

Columbus San Jose
Basic utilities $263.89 $293.08
Cell phone plan $60.77 $48.44
Dozen eggs $3.21 $4.8
Loaf of bread $2.98 $4.93
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20 $20.5
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $100
Gym membership $46.25 $123.75
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbus than in San Jose, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbus than in San Jose.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in San Jose.
  • Bread costs less in Columbus than in San Jose.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbus than in San Jose.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbus than in San Jose.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbus than in San Jose.

How life is different in Columbus vs. San Jose

San Jose Columbus
Population 971,233 905,748
Transportation Score 7 5
Walkability score 51 41
Bike friendliness score 62 48
Crime Index 47.73 49.65
Safety Index 52.27 50.35
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • The population of San Jose is about 7% greater than Columbus, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • San Jose offers better access to buses and trains than Columbus, based on public transportation ratings. San Jose has a transit score of 7 out of 10 compared to 5 in Columbus. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in San Jose means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Columbus. San Jose is considered more walkable than Columbus, with a score of 51 out of 100 versus 41 out of 100 in Columbus. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, San Jose is considered more bike-friendly than Columbus in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. San Jose has a bike-friendliness score of 62 out of 100, while Columbus is rated as 48 out of 100.
  • You can anticipate the same crime rate in San Jose as Columbus. With the crime index, lower scores are better because they indicate less crime. Cities with scores of 20 or below, for example, have much fewer instances of crime than those with scores of 80–100.
  • San Jose is generally as safe as Columbus, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • The air quality in San Jose isn't as good as it is in Columbus, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. San Jose has an air quality rating of Moderate, and Columbus is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.

Other things to consider for your Columbus vs. San Jose move

  • Weather: San Jose, like most of the Bay Area, has warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. The city is somewhat more sheltered from rain, giving it a semi-arid feel
  • 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California 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 San Jose. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in San Jose

With your sights set on Man Jose, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in San Jose.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it's time to see what San Jose is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in San Jose include museums and art centers like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children's Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, and New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an San Jose Barracuda (AHL), San Jose Earthquakes (MLS), San Jose Giants (California League), or San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbus to San Jose?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to San Jose?

Because spring and fall moves from Columbus to San Jose 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 Columbus to San Jose take?

The 2,464-mile journey from Columbus, OH to San Jose, CA, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Columbus offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in San Jose.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Columbus?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Columbus, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts. 4 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 6 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

How many movers in Columbus can handle specialty items for my move to San Jose?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Columbus, 17 movers can handle pianos. 12 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of OH, there are 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2175 and 1400 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources