Quick answer: Expect to pay $547–$6,071 for a move from Pittsburgh to Columbia, with most moves taking one to six days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 538 miles.

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

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

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Best professional movers from Pittsburgh to Columbia

Making the trip from Pittsburgh to Columbia is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

We’ve put together a list of the best full-service movers for this route to help you make the move with ease.

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 Pittsburgh?toggle

Not all services are equally available. The table below contrasts what movers provide in Pittsburgh with trends across PA and the country overall, pointing out which options are typically easy to secure and which may take more coordination.

Service Pittsburgh (Count) Pittsburgh (%) Pennsylvania (Count) Pennsylvania (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 10 91% 97 98% 2831 98%
Unpacking 10 91% 95 96% 2796 97%
Fragile-only packing 3 27% 26 26% 715 25%
Packing materials 8 73% 58 59% 1682 58%
Storage
Storage 8 73% 87 88% 2499 87%
Climate-controlled storage 3 27% 27 27% 973 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 6 55% 66 67% 1885 65%
Art 5 45% 52 53% 1397 48%
Antiques 6 55% 55 56% 1398 48%
Piano 8 73% 76 77% 2173 75%
Hot tub 2 18% 22 22% 668 23%
Pool table 3 27% 29 29% 941 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your PA to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 87 Pennsylvania 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Pittsburgh to Columbia journey

Organizing a move from Pittsburgh to Columbia can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Pittsburgh known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Pittsburgh to Columbia.

  1. South Hills Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Don Farr Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Gardner Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Miracle Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/SouthHillsMovers/, https://twitter.com/southhillsmover
74% of all reviews were positive
24% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Real experiences tell the story at South Hills Movers: Out of 180 customer inputs, nearly three-quarters gave glowing reviews. Customers praise the professional, polite teams, reliable communication, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Fast service and responsiveness set South Hills Movers apart from many competitors, making moving smoother for homes and businesses alike.
Despite standout professionalism, some feedback highlighted damages to property or items, slow or difficult complaint resolution, and problems with on-time arrival. These issues appeared less often, but claims processes and damage handling need attention. Compared to other moving companies, South Hills Movers earns stronger marks for staff demeanor, service quality, and efficient processes, but consistent follow-through on problems would improve the experience even more.
Show more
Get a Quote (412) 835-8600

Company Info

Years in Business: 94

DOT #: 98045


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/donfarrmoving, https://twitter.com/DonFarrMoving
51% of all reviews were positive
47% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback on Don Farr Moving & Storage makes one thing clear: performance at the curb doesn’t always match the service on the sales call. Out of 415 reviews, just over half (50.8%) praised their efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite crews. Many highlighted reliable, friendly staff, quick moving processes, and helpful movers who eased the stress of relocation.
On the downside, 46.5% of reviewers recounted damage to items, delays, and frustrating complaint processes, especially with broken or lost belongings and claims that left customers dissatisfied. Poor follow-up and slow, incomplete responses dominated the negative feedback. In comparison to other moving companies, Don Farr’s staff impresses with politeness and care during the move, but post-move support and damage resolution fall short. If efficient, capable teams matter most, customers might be satisfied, but those seeking assurance on item safety and resolution for damages should proceed with caution.
Show more
Get a Quote (412) 469-9700

Company Info

State license #: 8922932

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 345157

Alternate Names: Exclusive Services, Inc.


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
https://www.facebook.com/twomenandatruckPittsburgh/, https://twitter.com/PittsburghTMT
90% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, friendly moves lead the way—customer feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for consistent praise of efficient, professional crews who move quickly and carefully while keeping valuables safe. Out of 269 reviews, 90% reported positive experiences. People repeatedly note excellent service, polite staff, good communication, and respectful handling of property.
On the downside, some customers raised issues about item damage, higher final costs than estimates, and unsatisfactory packing quality. While negative feedback is far less common, it consistently relates to goods being broken and unexpected charges. Compared to other movers, customer responses show this company outperforms competitors for speed and professionalism but will need to keep addressing careful packing and transparent pricing to stay ahead.
Show more
Get a Quote (412) 357-2690

Company Info

State license #: 00121505

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/gardnermoving/,
90% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving experiences shine brightest with Gardner Moving, as 90% of customer feedback describes fast, organized teams that are professional, courteous, and efficient. Many clients appreciate careful handling of their belongings, transparent and affordable rates, and skilled staff who work diligently to make the process less stressful. Customers routinely mention helpful communication, punctuality, and a willingness to accommodate changes—even in difficult conditions.
While the vast majority describe a smooth move, some negative input centers on damaged items, a perceived lack of professionalism from crew members, or communication difficulties when resolving problems. Compared to typical moving companies, Gardner stands out for reliable delivery and trustworthy service, while still facing some rare issues with property care. Out of 145 reviews, an impressive 90.3% are positive, with less than 10% reporting dissatisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (412) 257-4443

Company Info

State license #: 00108945

Years in Business: 103

DOT #: 947009


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
https://www.facebook.com/miraclemoverspitt/,
80% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call Miracle Movers a go-to for reliable, polite, and hardworking movers who finish the job quickly and handle belongings with care. Most feedback highlights their professional crews, fast work, and fair pricing. Many mention smooth moves, even on tight schedules and with complex needs.
Affordable rates are frequently praised, and the crews are often noted for their efficiency and positive attitudes. Despite the positive input, roughly one out of five reviews report disappointment. The most common issues are damage to furniture, late arrival or delivery, and trouble reaching the company when problems arise. Some report items lost or broken, and several mention higher costs or poor follow-up after damage claims. While Miracle Movers receives far more glowing feedback than some competitors, those seeking zero risk of damage or delays may want another option.
Show more
Get a Quote (412) 775-2882

Company Info

State license #: 8922412

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 2461529


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices

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

Pittsburgh movers charge $75 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 $1,373 - $3,972 $851 - $2,110 $555 - $961
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,363 - $6,071 $1,613 - $3,093 $547 - $1,151
4+ bedrooms $4,497 - $9,469 $2,128 - $3,714 $731 - $1,388
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 538 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 Pennsylvania to South Carolina

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Pennsylvania to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,373 and $3,972. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,363 to $6,071 for the trip from PA to SC. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $4,497 and $9,469.

Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to South Carolina

Moving containers from Pennsylvania to South Carolina will cost you $851 to $2,110 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,613 to $3,093. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,128 to $3,714. 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 South Carolina

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you'll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $555 and $961. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $547 and $1,151. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $731 up to $1,388 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Pittsburgh to Columbia movetoggle

The cost of Pittsburgh movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Pittsburgh to Columbia might cost as little as $1,373, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,932.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Pittsburgh, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $555 to $1,341 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Pittsburgh to Columbia

For many households, Columbia means lower monthly costs than Pittsburgh — roughly 8% for singles and 15% for families.

That’s about $1,956 per month for singles and $4,274 for families in Columbia, compared with $2,129 and $5,011 in Pittsburgh.

See the side-by-side details below:

Pittsburgh Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,710 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,917 $2,220
Average home value $222,451 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $54,306 $64,683
Unemployment rate 7.1% 5.2%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.0%
State income tax 3.07% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 4% lower than in Pittsburgh, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • Home prices are the same in Columbia and Pittsburgh.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Columbia, where incomes are, on average, 19.1% higher than in Pittsburgh. Major employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Columbia. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 8.1% lower than in Pittsburgh.
  • A move to Columbia 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 14.7% less than what it costs in Pittsburgh.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 26.76% lower than in Pittsburgh.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Columbia, since its sales taxes are 14.29% higher than what you are paying in Pittsburgh.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 128.01% higher than in Pittsburgh.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Pittsburgh with Columbia.

Pittsburgh Columbia
Basic utilities $263.34 $148.09
Cell phone plan $53.44 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.62 $3.46
Loaf of bread $4.03 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60 $60
Gym membership $43.33 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Pittsburgh than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Pittsburgh than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Pittsburgh than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Pittsburgh than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Pittsburgh than in Columbia.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Pittsburgh than in Columbia.

How life is different in Pittsburgh vs. Columbia

Columbia Pittsburgh
Population 136,632 303,255
Transportation Score 5 8
Walkability score 35 62
Bike friendliness score 35 55
Crime Index 3.0 37.74
Safety Index 48.39 62.26
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbia might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 55% less than Pittsburgh.
  • Getting around Columbia without a car might be more difficult than in Pittsburgh. Columbia has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, whereas Pittsburgh is ranked 8. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Columbia neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Pittsburgh. Based on its score of 35 out of 100, Columbia isn't as walkable as Pittsburgh, which has a score of 62 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 Pittsburgh. While Pittsburgh has a bike-friendliness score of 55 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.
  • Columbia has a lower crime rate than Pittsburgh based on scores of 3.0 and Pittsburgh's 37.74, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Columbia. With a crime index of 48.39, Columbia ranks lower in overall safety than Pittsburgh, whose index is 62.26. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Columbia and Pittsburgh is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Pittsburgh 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Columbia. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

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
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Seven Oaks
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it's time to see what Columbia is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • 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 Pittsburgh to Columbia?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Pittsburgh to Columbia. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Pittsburgh.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Pittsburgh to Columbia are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Pittsburgh to Columbia take?

The 538-mile journey from Pittsburgh, PA to Columbia, SC, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Pittsburgh 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.

Do movers in Pittsburgh offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Pittsburgh can handle specialty items for my move to Columbia?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Pittsburgh, 8 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of PA, there are 76 piano movers and 55 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2173 and 1398 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources