Quick answer: A typical 569-mile move from Akron to Columbia runs $552–$6,552 and takes one to six days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Columbia to Akron guide.

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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 32 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Akron, 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 Akron 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 Akron, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Best professional movers from Akron to Columbia

If you’d rather let the professionals handle every part of your interstate move from Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron?toggle

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

Service Akron (Count) Akron (%) Ohio (Count) Ohio (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 33 100% 98 99% 2835 98%
Unpacking 32 97% 96 97% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 4 12% 23 23% 717 25%
Packing materials 13 39% 38 38% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 33 100% 88 89% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 19 58% 49 49% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 17 52% 58 59% 1886 65%
Art 14 42% 37 37% 1400 48%
Antiques 15 45% 37 37% 1400 48%
Piano 22 67% 59 60% 2175 75%
Hot tub 4 12% 17 17% 669 23%
Pool table 9 27% 26 26% 943 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your OH to SC 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.

Local moving companies servicing Akron to Columbia moves

When planning a move from Akron to Columbia, 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 Akron who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Akron to Columbia.

  1. Summit Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Move It Now: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. The Armstrong Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/SummitMovingLtd/,
86% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Summit Moving & Storage earns praise for rapid, careful moves and a courteous team, backed by responsive communication and easy scheduling. Most input rates them highly for efficient service, attention to detail, and fair, upfront pricing—benefits that stand out compared to competitors. While nearly 86% of the 269 feedback submissions are positive, about 15% note serious issues.
The main problems include damaged or lost items, an unresponsive claims process, and slow insurance handling when things go wrong. Some who faced problems describe delays, inadequate resolution of damage, or poor follow-up. Summit's track record shows they outperform many rivals in speed, professionalism, and care but need to improve their claims and problem resolution system for a risk-free experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (330) 576-8642

Company Info

State license #: 0603438-HG

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 2987151

Alternate Names: Summit Moving LTD


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/MoveItNowAkron/,
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Move It Now for their speedy work, careful handling, polite staff, and fair prices. Feedback from 236 reviews reveals 93.6% are positive, making satisfaction levels much higher than most moving companies. Users regularly highlight the efficient crews who finish moves rapidly without damage and the respect shown for property and belongings.
Affordability is frequently noted, along with transparent billing. Although most input is glowing, some clients mention problems like damaged items, late arrivals with no notification, and misplaced possessions. These issues, though rare, can cause stress during a move. Compared to similar companies, Move It Now stands out for reliable service and consistency, with negative experiences significantly less common.
Show more
Get a Quote (330) 929-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00504589

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 2048293

Alternate Names: Move It Now of Akron


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/twomenandatruckakron/, https://twitter.com/tmtakron
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day shines when handled by Two Men and a Truck. Out of 246 customer reviews, 84% praised their reliable, efficient service and especially highlighted the professionalism and courtesy of the moving teams. Customers frequently noted prompt communication, efficiency, and careful handling of belongings—qualities that set the company apart from many competitors.
Helpful, polite crews and speedy moves made the transition less stressful for households, which is why many recommend the company without reservation. Negative feedback was rare but focused mainly on reports of damaged items, higher-than-expected charges, and poor follow-up after problems. A small group also mentioned frustration over lack of responsiveness or extra fees. While most clients rate their experience as excellent, the few complaints underline the importance of clear communication and accurate billing. Two Men and a Truck consistently delivers a dependable, professional moving experience that stands out in the moving industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (330) 331-4075

Company Info

State license #: 00136576

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Two Men And A Truck/Akron, E & V Ventures, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GoArmstrongAkron/, https://twitter.com/Arm_Akron
87% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seamless moves and outstanding service stand out in recent Armstrong Relocation feedback. After analyzing 30 reviews, 87% praised the company, with customers frequently highlighting the movers’ efficiency, professionalism, and careful handling. Staff communication and flexibility in scheduling received consistent applause, showing Armstrong adapts well to clients’ needs and uncertainties.
While positive comments focused on quick, friendly crews and well-coordinated logistics, a few noted dissatisfaction solely with unsolicited marketing outreach, not with moving services. Armstrong Relocation’s feedback places it among the top choices for reliability and courtesy in the moving industry, especially compared to peers with more service complaints. Minimal negative comments suggest most customers can expect smooth processes and dedicated teams.
Show more
Get a Quote (330) 497-0077

Company Info

State license #: 00146275

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 1170867


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LeadersMoving,
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Leaders Moving & Storage Co.'s fast, efficient, and careful service. Of 246 reviews analyzed, 95% report positive experiences, with many highlighting staff professionalism, careful handling of belongings, friendly manners, and affordable, upfront pricing. Movements are completed swiftly and with great care for property.
The company also stands out for its ability to beat competing rates. A small portion of feedback details negative issues including property damage, late arrivals or delivery delays, and instances of unprofessional conduct. Compared to similar businesses, Leaders consistently ranks higher for speed and value but must address occasional lapses in quality control and communication. Most clients would recommend them for both local and long-distance moves, making them a top pick for moving services in the region.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 885-6683

Company Info

State license #: 136562

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

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


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Akron 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 $1,306 - $3,795 $779 - $1,971 $517 - $970
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,365 - $6,552 $1,350 - $2,863 $552 - $1,140
4+ bedrooms $4,251 - $8,724 $1,931 - $3,515 $661 - $1,296
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 569 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 South Carolina

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Ohio to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,306 and $3,795. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,365 to $6,552 for the trip from OH to SC. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $4,251 and $8,724.

Cost of moving containers from Ohio to South Carolina

Moving containers from Ohio to South Carolina will cost you $779 to $1,971 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,350 to $2,863. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,931 to $3,515. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ohio.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio to South Carolina

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $517 and $970 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $552 to $1,140. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $661 to $1,296.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors that influence moving costs from Akron to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Akron movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Akron to Columbia (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,306, while larger moves may reach $7,462 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Akron,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $517 to $1,252), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Akron to Columbia

Moving to Columbia typically means higher monthly totals — roughly 27% more for singles and 4% more for families compared with Akron.

Singles spend around $1,956 in Columbia vs. $1,543 in Akron, and families see $4,274 vs. $4,120.

Use the breakdown below to plan your budget:

Akron Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $983 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $1,300 $2,220
Average home value $121,327 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $61,971 $64,683
Unemployment rate 6.9% 5.2%
Sales tax 6.75% 8.0%
State income tax 3.5% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Columbia, since prices are typically 52% higher than in Akron.
  • The home prices in Columbia are 81.8% higher than in Akron, 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 Columbia, where incomes are, on average, 4.4% higher than in Akron. Major employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbia, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 26.8% higher than in Akron. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Columbia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 3.7% higher than in Akron.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 24.64% lower than in Akron.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Columbia, since its sales taxes are 18.52% higher than what you are paying in Akron.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 100.00% higher than in Akron.

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

Akron Columbia
Basic utilities $287.77 $148.09
Cell phone plan $41.2 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.8 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.1 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60 $60
Gym membership $43.33 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Akron than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Akron than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Akron than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Akron than in Columbia.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Akron than in Columbia.

How life is different in Akron vs. Columbia

Columbia Akron
Population 136,632 190,469
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 35 48
Bike friendliness score 35 43
Crime Index 3.0 5.0
Safety Index 48.39 50.39
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Columbia might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 28% less than Akron.
  • Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Columbia will be about the same as it currently is in Akron. The cities share a similar public transportation score, which means their transit systems are comparable in terms of how connected they are, how often they provide service, and how close they are to jobs, housing, retail and food stores, and other important locations.
  • Columbia neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Akron. Based on its score of 35 out of 100, Columbia isn't as walkable as Akron, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Columbia, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Akron. While Akron has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, Columbia earned a 35. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • You can anticipate the same crime rate in Columbia as Akron. 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.
  • Columbia is generally as safe as Akron, 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.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Columbia has better air quality than in Akron. Columbia has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Akron. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Akron 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

Ready to relocate to Soda City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • 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, 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 Akron to Columbia?

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

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

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

Moving from Akron, OH to Columbia, SC covers 569 miles and usually takes one to six days Need to move faster? Some Akron movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Columbia.

What kinds of discounts do Akron movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In Akron, 3 movers provide AAA member discounts. 1 movers offer special pricing for military members. 1 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Akron?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Akron, 22 movers can manage piano relocations. 15 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Ohio has 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2175 and 1400 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources