Top-rated movers to make your Columbus to Milwaukee move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbus that offers long-distance services to Milwaukee can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 29 top local movers in Columbus who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Columbus to Milwaukee.
- 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 Milwaukee?
In Ohio, moving services typically cost around $153 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,084 – $3,172 | $623 – $1,605 | $374 – $725 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,897 – $5,302 | $1,149 – $2,212 | $427 – $860 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,278 – $7,903 | $1,636 – $3,008 | $542 – $1,024 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Milwaukee
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Milwaukee from Columbus, you can expect prices to land between $1,084 and $3,172. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,897 to $5,302 for the trip from Columbus to Milwaukee. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,278 and $7,903.
Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Milwaukee
Moving containers from Columbus to Milwaukee will cost you $623 to $1,605 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,149 to $2,212. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,636 to $3,008. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Milwaukee
Renting a moving truck from Columbus to Milwaukee typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $374 and $725 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $427 to $860. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $542 to $1,024.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbus to Milwaukee move
The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,565 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,631 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Columbus.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $374 to $969, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbus to Milwaukee
Many movers find Milwaukee easier on the wallet than Columbus – roughly 27% less for singles and 32% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,022 for one person in Milwaukee versus $2,784 in Columbus. For a family of four, it’s $4,963 compared with $7,249.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Columbus | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,567 | $1,612 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,957 | $2,880 |
| Average home value | $238,832 | $200,685 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,075 | $49,733 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,784 | $2,022 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,249 | $4,963 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 7.4% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 4.9% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 7.65% |
- When relocating from Columbus to Milwaukee, expect to find rent about 13% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 16% more affordable in Milwaukee compared to Columbus.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 24% lower in Milwaukee compared to Columbus.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Milwaukee, as the cost of living for a single person is 27% lower compared to Columbus.
- A move to Milwaukee 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 32% less than what it costs in Columbus.
- Milwaukee shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbus by around 30%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes are 35% less in Milwaukee relative to Columbus. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Wisconsin are 119% above those in Ohio. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbus and Milwaukee:
| Living Expense | Columbus | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $263.89 | $167.94 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.77 | $43.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.21 | $4.23 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.98 | $3.40 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $46.25 | $53.38 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
- Bread costs less in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbus than in Milwaukee.
How life is different in Columbus vs. Milwaukee
| Columbus | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 905,748 | 577,222 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 58 |
| Crime index | 49.65 | 66.76 |
| Safety index | 50.35 | 33.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Milwaukee’s population is about 36% less than Columbus.
- Milwaukee’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Columbus’s score of 5.
- Milwaukee is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Columbus’s 41 out of 100.
- With a score of 58 out of 100, Milwaukee 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.
- Milwaukee’s crime rate is higher than Columbus with a score of 66.76 compared to Columbus’s 49.65. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
- Milwaukee is considered to be less safe than Columbus with a score of 33.24 vs Columbus’s 50.35.
- Air quality in Milwaukee is Good, and in Columbus it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbus to Milwaukee move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Wisconsin’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Wisconsin does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- 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 Milwaukee. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Milwaukee
Planning your move to Cream City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Milwaukee.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Bay View
- Brewer’s Hill
- Historic Third Ward
- Lower East Side
- Riverwest
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bay View
- Historic Third Ward
- Juneau Town
- Lower East Side
- Northpoint
Things to do in Milwaukee
After settling into your new Wisconsin home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Milwaukee has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Milwaukee features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Discovery World.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Henry Maier Festival Park, Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes), Veteran’s Park, and Lake Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA)Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbus to Milwaukee?
Planning your move from Columbus to Milwaukee? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Columbus.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to Milwaukee?
Because most people are moving from Columbus to Milwaukee 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 Columbus to Milwaukee take?
The 451-mile journey from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, , typically takes one to four 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 Milwaukee.
Are there special savings available from movers in Columbus?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 provide savings for AAA members. 4 have discounts for military personnel. 6 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 Columbus?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Columbus, 16 movers can manage piano relocations. 11 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Ohio has 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Columbus moving services
Popular Ohio routes
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