Top local movers for Columbus to Tampa moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Columbus that also provides long-distance services to Tampa can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 29 local movers in Columbus who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Columbus to Tampa.
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.92 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Integrity Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Black Tie Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
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
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
Company Info
State license #: 00151315
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1343775
Alternate Names: Integrity Moving, LLC , Integrity Moving , Columbus Piano Moving , Integrity Moving & Mobile Storage LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 604141
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2407712
Alternate Names: Black Tie Moving Columbus LLC , Black Tie Moving
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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
How much does it cost to move from Columbus to Tampa?
Movers in Ohio generally charge an average of $153 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,174 – $4,682 | $842 – $1,931 | $661 – $1,204 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,438 – $6,469 | $1,480 – $2,945 | $692 – $1,445 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,206 – $7,750 | $1,936 – $3,874 | $843 – $1,849 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Tampa
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Columbus to Tampa typically costs between $1,174 and $4,682. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,438 and $6,469 when moving from Columbus to Tampa. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Columbus to Tampa, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,206 up to $7,750.
Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Tampa
If you’re relocating from Columbus to Tampa, you’ll typically spend between $842 and $1,931 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,480 up to $2,945. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,936 and $3,874. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Tampa
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Columbus to Tampa move, 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 $661 and $1,204. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $692 to $1,445. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $843 and $1,849.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Columbus to Tampa
The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Columbus to Tampa might be as low as $2,434, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,814.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Columbus.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $661 to $1,643 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Columbus to Tampa
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tampa runs about 16% higher for singles and 12% higher for families than Columbus.
Singles spend around $3,232 in Columbus versus $2,784 in Columbus; families pay $8,108 compared with $7,249.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbus | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,567 | $1,967 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,957 | $3,616 |
| Average home value | $238,832 | $371,271 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,075 | $66,802 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,784 | $3,232 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,249 | $8,108 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 5.0% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 6.5% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 0.0% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 34% higher in Tampa than in Columbus, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 55% higher in Tampa than in Columbus.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Tampa and Columbus, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Tampa, as the cost of living for a single person in Tampa is 16% greater than in Columbus. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Tampa, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 12% more than it is in Columbus.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 12% lower than Columbus, Tampa boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 13% lower in Tampa than Columbus, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Florida has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Columbus and Tampa, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Columbus | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $263.89 | $239.17 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.77 | $71.60 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.21 | $4.59 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.98 | $4.09 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $95.00 |
| Gym membership | $46.25 | $38.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Tampa.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbus than in Tampa.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in Tampa.
- Bread costs less in Columbus than in Tampa.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbus than in Tampa.
- Gym memberships cost more in Columbus than in Tampa.
How life is different in Columbus vs. Tampa
| Columbus | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 905,748 | 403,364 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 51 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 51 |
| Crime index | 49.65 | 46.15 |
| Safety index | 50.35 | 53.85 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tampa’s population is about 55% less than Columbus.
- Tampa’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Columbus’s score of 5.
- Tampa is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Columbus’s 41 out of 100.
- With a score of 51 out of 100, Tampa is more bike-friendly than Columbus, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Tampa’s crime rate is lower than Columbus with a score of 46.15 compared to Columbus’s 49.65. This means that Tampa neighborhoods are safer than 46.15% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
- Tampa is considered to be safer than Columbus with a safety index of 53.85 vs Columbus’s 50.35.
- Air quality in Tampa is Good, and in Columbus it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbus to Tampa move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Florida moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Florida, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- 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 Tampa without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Tampa
Ready to relocate to The Big Guava? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Tampa.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Channel District
- Courier City-Oscawana
- Downtown
- Historic Ybor
- North Hyde Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bayshore Beautiful
- Bayshore Gardens
- Beach Park
- Oakford Park
- Sunset Park
Things to do in Tampa
Now that you’ve made the move to Florida, it’s the perfect time to explore Tampa. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Tampa include museums and art centers like the Glazer Children’s Museum, Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa Bay History Center, and Museum of Science and Industry.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Lettuce Lake Regional Park, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Sparkman Wharf, and Ballast Point Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)Tampa Bay Vipers (XFL)Tampa Bay Titans (TBL)Tampa Bay Rowdies (XFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbus to Tampa?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Columbus to Tampa. 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 Tampa?
With many people choosing to move from Columbus to Tampa in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Columbus to Tampa take?
Covering 1,022 miles, the move from Columbus, OH to Tampa, typically takes two to eight days. Some Columbus movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Tampa can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Columbus offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in Columbus offer AAA member savings. 4 movers provide military discounts. 6 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 Columbus can handle specialty items for my move to Tampa?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Columbus, 16 movers can handle pianos. 11 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of OH, there are 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
Columbus moving services
Popular Ohio routes
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