Local moving companies in Pennsylvania
When making the move from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 89 Pennsylvania movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Columbia, SC.
- Gardner Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Don Farr Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- The Armstrong Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Town & Country Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 00108945
Years in Business: 103
DOT #: 947009
Gardner Moving, a trusted local moving company serving McDonald, PA, has been providing exceptional residential moving services since 1922. With over a century of experience, Gardner Moving stands out among nearby competitors by offering specialized services like packing, unpacking, and fragile item handling, ensuring a smooth relocation process. They boast an impressive consumer review profile with an average rating of 4.7 on both Yelp and Google, coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. For those in need of reliable and comprehensive local moving services, Gardner Moving is a reputable and highly recommended choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8925314
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2969363
Zip to Zip Moving Inc has been a trusted local residential moving company in and around Exton, PA since 2018. With an impressive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, safes, and antiques, they outshine many nearby competitors. Their stellar reputation is backed by numerous positive reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a perfect score of 5.0 on Google. Additionally, their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further cements their standing as a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 8922932
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 345157
Alternate Names: Exclusive Services, Inc.
Don Farr Moving & Storage, a trusted name in West Mifflin, PA since 1982, specializes in local residential moving services. While consumer reviews are mixed, with average ratings of 2.2 on Yelp and 3.6 on Google, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau stands out. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Compared to other nearby movers, Don Farr’s extensive experience and variety of services make them a solid choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 8917264
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage
Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00123180
Years in Business: 38
DOT #: 861241
Alternate Names: Genco Enterprises, LLC
Town & Country Moving & Storage, based in Chester Springs, PA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1987. Known for their comprehensive offerings, they also handle office relocations, packing and unpacking services, and specialize in moving delicate items such as pianos and antiques. While their Yelp reviews average a 2.9 rating, their Google profile boasts a stronger 4.5 rating, and they hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other local movers, their extensive experience and higher ratings on key platforms suggest they are a reputable choice for a range of moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,083 – $3,478 | $741 – $1,775 | $493 – $949 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,182 – $5,078 | $1,284 – $2,407 | $542 – $1,084 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,725 – $7,799 | $1,803 – $3,185 | $625 – $1,233 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 667-mile move from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC, you can expect prices to land between $1,083 and $3,478. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,182 to $5,078. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,725 and $7,799.
Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC
Moving containers from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC, will cost you $741 to $1,775 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,284 to $2,407. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,803 to $3,185. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC
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 $493 and $949 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $542 to $1,084. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $625 to $1,233.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gardner Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Zip to Zip Moving Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Don Farr Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| The Armstrong Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Town & Country Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Pennsylvania movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Pennsylvania | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 96% | 96% |
| Antiques | 52% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Columbia, SC stacks up against Pennsylvania. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs. Columbia, SC
| Pennsylvania | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,110 | $1,447 |
| Average home cost | $268,824 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,170 | $64,683 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 5.2% |
| State Income Tax | 3.07% | 7.0% |
Columbia sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 30% more expensive in Columbia than in Pennsylvania, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- Moving to Columbia means you’ll spend about 18% less on housing compared to Pennsylvania, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Columbia are typically about 12% lower than in Pennsylvania. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Columbia runs 53% above Pennsylvania, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 128% higher than in Pennsylvania, leaving you with less take-home pay to cover expenses or save.
How life is different in Columbia from Pennsylvania
| Columbia | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 12,961,683 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-49 | |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 35ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 38″ |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 17.62 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Columbia voted and Pennsylvania voted Republican.
- Summer temperatures in Columbia typically reach 94ºF, while in Pennsylvania, highs average around 83ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and hotter days.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Columbia generally drop to around 35ºF, while Pennsylvania can get as cold as 19ºF. Moving to Columbia means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- You can expect about 46 inches of rain each year in Columbia, almost the same as the 44 inches you’d encounter in Pennsylvania. Even though the annual rainfall is similar, different weather patterns and rainfall timing might still change up your daily routine.
- In Columbia, you’ll see just 1 inch of snow each year, compared to Pennsylvania, which gets 38 inches annually. Moving to Columbia means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Columbia is safer than Pennsylvania, with a crime index of 3.0 compared to 17.62. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Columbia
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Columbia can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Columbia
- South Carolina State Museum
- Columbia Museum of Art
- South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
- EdVenture Children’s Museum
- South Carolina Military Museum
Parks in Columbia
- Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
- Saluda Shoals Park
- Sesquicentennial State Park
- Finlay Park
- Memorial Park
Sports teams in Columbia
- Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)
- South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)
- Benedict Tigers (SIAC)
Universities in Columbia
- Virginia College Columbia
- University of Phoenix Columbia Campus
- Allen University
- Benedict College
- Columbia College
Other considerations when moving to Columbia, SC
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your South Carolina moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to South Carolina, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to South Carolina. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: 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: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Pennsylvania to Columbia take?
The time it takes to move from Pennsylvania to Columbia, SC varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Columbia from northern Pennsylvania, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Pennsylvania to Columbia typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Pennsylvania to Columbia?
Because of the 667-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Pennsylvania to Columbia as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Columbia, SC?
With summer temperatures reaching 94°F and winter nights dipping to 35°F, most people make the move from Pennsylvania to Columbia in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Pennsylvania moving services
Popular Pennsylvania routes
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