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($1,098) Cost to Move From Harrisburg, PA to Columbia, SC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 572 miles from Harrisburg to Columbia typically costs between $449 and $5,292. The trip is expected to last from one–six days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg to Columbia

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Harrisburg to Columbia much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Harrisburg, there are 13 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Columbia.

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 Harrisburg to Columbia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 572-mile move from Harrisburg to Columbia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,200 – $3,600
  • Moving Container $1,006 – $1,810
  • Rental Truck $438 – $783
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,067 – $5,292
  • Moving Container $1,290 – $2,454
  • Rental Truck $449 – $967
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,430 – $7,788
  • Moving Container $1,621 – $3,163
  • Rental Truck $578 – $1,155
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.
Mayzlin Relocation
Freeburg, PA Wagener, SC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
Roadway Moving
Jonestown, PA Pelion, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 17, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Abbottstown, PA Columbia, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 13, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Weigelstown, PA St. Matthews, SC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 12, 2025
Safeway Moving
Dover, PA Cameron, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
PODS
Yoe, PA Gaston, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 27, 2025
North American Van Lines
Duncannon, PA Livingston, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Newville, PA South Congaree, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Mechanicsburg, PA Ridge Spring, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 05, 2025
United Van Lines
Bonneauville, PA Dentsville, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 13, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Harrisburg to Columbia move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Harrisburg that offers long-distance services to Columbia can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 18 top local movers in Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg to Columbia.

  1. Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Spirit Moving Company LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. The Armstrong Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Keystone Moving and Junk Removal: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Maya’s Movers LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. means working with a team known for efficiency, professionalism, and careful service. Out of 259 reviews, 92.7% report positive experiences, making this company a standout in the moving industry. Customers consistently mention the staff’s courtesy, professionalism, and attention to detail. Moves are often completed quickly and without issue, and communication from the office to the moving crew earns praise for keeping customers informed and at ease. On the flip side, a few clients have faced issues like damaged items, inaccurate quotes, and communication breakdowns. Complaints about property damage and unexpected costs are more frequent than with similar services. Despite some negative feedback, the vast majority of input highlights reliability, speed, and a crew that takes extra care with belongings.
Get a Quote (717) 774-7838

Company Info

State license #: 702302

Years in Business: 127

DOT #: 10676

Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co. , M.F. Rockey Moving Company , Penn Hershey Transfer , Harrisburg Transfer Company , George W. Weaver

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Spirit Moving Company stands out for its professionalism, attentive handling, and courteous team, according to 98 customer feedback reports. Approximately 92% of customers delivered glowing input, often praising the movers’ professionalism, careful approach, efficiency, and timely completion of moves. Many also describe the staff as friendly and the booking process as seamless. Repeat customers and strong word-of-mouth recommendations highlight a reputation many local companies do not achieve. On the negative side, about 8% experienced issues such as damage to property or belongings, missed appointments, and unresolved incidents like missing items. These negative experiences mostly relate to claims of careless handling, lack of reliability, and problems reaching or receiving response from management. Compared to the moving industry norm, Spirit Moving Company receives a notably higher share of positive mentions for professionalism and genuine care. While instances of poor outcomes exist, the majority found Spirit Moving Company dependable and highly recommend their service.
Get a Quote (717) 978-3050

Company Info

State license #: 8921736

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3214709

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.7% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team’s professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong’s pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage

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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.9% of all reviews were positive
1.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Five-star service shines through in nearly every piece of customer feedback for Keystone Moving and Junk Removal. Out of 190 reviews, 98.9% express satisfaction, with the team earning praise for professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, friendly attitudes, quick moving times, and fair pricing. Customers frequently describe Keystone’s staff as courteous and respectful, with movers arriving promptly and communicating clearly throughout the process. Input emphasizes both speed and careful attention to belongings, with repeated reports of moves completed ahead of schedule and without damage. Many note the affordability compared to competitors. A few isolated complaints highlight issues with deposit refunds and pricing estimates, contrasting sharply with the consistent satisfaction elsewhere. Compared to typical moving companies—which often struggle to maintain reliability and care—Keystone stands out for delivering a pleasant, seamless moving experience nearly every time.
Get a Quote (717) 712-5094

Company Info

State license #: 8920233

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3011826

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.1% of all reviews were positive
2.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Maya’s Movers LLC stands out for its consistently high customer satisfaction, with feedback from 103 reviews showing 97% positivity. Customers frequently mention the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, the speed and efficiency of the moving process, careful handling of items, and a friendly team, all contributing to straightforward and stress-free experiences. Numerous people mention efficient service and a quick moving process that handles even challenging logistics with ease. Negative feedback is minimal, with isolated complaints focused on a lack of communication, particularly during the estimate process, and infrequent issues with responsiveness. Compared to most moving companies, Maya’s Movers is noted for outstanding staff demeanor and consistent, careful work, while retaining room for improvement in initial communication with prospective customers.
Get a Quote (717) 825-4738

Company Info

State license #: 8921045

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3128183

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

In Pennsylvania, moving services typically cost around $143 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 $1,098 – $3,221 $715 – $1,673 $434 – $774
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,067 – $5,292 $1,290 – $2,454 $449 – $967
4+ bedrooms $3,430 – $7,788 $1,621 – $3,163 $578 – $1,155
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 572-mile move from Harrisburg to Columbia, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Harrisburg to Columbia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Harrisburg, you can expect prices to land between $1,098 and $3,221. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,067 to $5,292 for the trip from Harrisburg to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,430 and $7,788.

Cost of moving containers from Harrisburg to Columbia

Moving containers from Harrisburg to Columbia will cost you $715 to $1,673 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,290 to $2,454. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,621 to $3,163. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Harrisburg to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Harrisburg to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $434 and $774 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $449 to $967. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $578 to $1,155.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Harrisburg to Columbia move

The cost of Harrisburg movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,563 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,655 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Harrisburg.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $434 to $999, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Harrisburg to Columbia

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbia runs about 6% higher for singles and 18% higher for families than Harrisburg.

Singles spend around $1,956 in Harrisburg versus $1,849 in Harrisburg; families pay $4,274 compared with $3,612.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Harrisburg Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,550 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $1,946 $2,220
Average home value $230,038 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $73,256 $64,683
Cost of living (single) $1,849 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $3,612 $4,274
Unemployment rate 13.4% 5.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.0%
State income tax 3.07% 7.0%
  • Planning a move to Columbia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 21% higher than in Harrisburg, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Columbia and Harrisburg, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 12% lower in Columbia compared to Harrisburg.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Columbia, as living costs for a single person are 6% higher than in Harrisburg. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • 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 18% higher than in Harrisburg.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is about 61% lower than in Harrisburg. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes in Columbia are 33% more than in Harrisburg, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes in South Carolina are 128% above those in Pennsylvania. 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 Harrisburg and Columbia:

Living Expense Harrisburg Columbia
Basic utilities $160.00 $148.09
Cell phone plan $59.67 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.26 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.72 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $65.00 $60.00
Gym membership $27.50 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Harrisburg than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Harrisburg than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Harrisburg than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Harrisburg than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Harrisburg than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Harrisburg than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Harrisburg than in Columbia.

How life is different in Harrisburg vs. Columbia

Harrisburg Columbia
Population 50,099 136,632
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 68 35
Bike friendliness score 57 35
Crime index 64.18 3.0
Safety index 35.82 48.39
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 173% greater than Harrisburg.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Harrisburg’s score of 6.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Harrisburg with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Harrisburg’s 68 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Harrisburg, which has a score of 57.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Harrisburg with a score of 3.0 compared to Harrisburg’s 64.18. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Harrisburg neighborhoods are safer than 64.18%.
  • Columbia is considered to be safer than Harrisburg with a safety index of 48.39 vs Harrisburg’s 35.82.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Harrisburg it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Harrisburg to Columbia 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina 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 Columbia. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbia

Planning your move to Soda City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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

After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — 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 Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from Harrisburg to Columbia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Harrisburg.

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

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

The 572-mile journey from Harrisburg, PA to Columbia, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Harrisburg offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbia.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Harrisburg?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Harrisburg, 14 movers can manage piano relocations. 9 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Pennsylvania has 77 piano movers and 55 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

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