Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,020) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Mobile, AL

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 537 mile move from Columbia to Mobile, costs typically range from $478 to $4,998. Plan for the travel time to be around one–six days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Columbia to Mobile

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 Columbia to Mobile

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Columbia to Mobile, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 5 interstate moving companies located in Columbia, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Mobile seamless and enjoyable.

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 Columbia to Mobile

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 537-mile move from Columbia to Mobile using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,217 – $3,587
  • Moving Container $967 – $1,787
  • Rental Truck $405 – $807
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,022 – $4,998
  • Moving Container $1,154 – $2,304
  • Rental Truck $478 – $929
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,412 – $7,112
  • Moving Container $1,699 – $2,906
  • Rental Truck $584 – $1,097
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.
Allied Van Lines
Forest Acres, SC Summerdale, AL
3 Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Pelion, SC Bay Minette, AL
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 22, 2025
Safeway Moving
Oak Grove, SC Loxley, AL
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 19, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
St. Andrews, SC Perdido Beach, AL
Studio apartment
Sep 18, 2025
American Van Lines
Cayce, SC Satsuma, AL
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 04, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Eastover, SC Saraland, AL
Studio apartment
Aug 31, 2025
BLVD Moving
Gaston, SC Gulf Shores, AL
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 28, 2025
North American Van Lines
Springfield, SC Belle Fontaine, AL
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Summit, SC Prichard, AL
4 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
United Van Lines
Prosperity, SC Creola, AL
3 Bedrooms
Aug 09, 2025

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

The best local movers for Columbia to Mobile moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Columbia that also handles long-distance moves to Mobile. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated seven local movers in Columbia who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Columbia to Mobile.

  1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
72.0% of all reviews were positive
27.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Gentlemen Movers Inc. earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, standing out with 72% positive feedback from 161 reviews. Customers consistently praise the team’s effective service, politeness, careful handling of belongings, speed, and affordable prices. Many appreciate how the staff alleviates the usual stress of moving. Still, nearly 28% of input highlights problems like damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and hard-to-reach management. Experiences with item protection and clear communication fall short for some, leading to frustration over unaddressed complaints. In comparison with other companies, Gentlemen Movers rates highly for staff professionalism and affordability but lags in reliability when damage claims or billing inaccuracies arise. Most people are happy with the company, but those considering more delicate moves or strict budgets should be attentive to potential risks.
Get a Quote (803) 782-0063

Company Info

State license #: 9756

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1442337

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.7% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dependable service and professionalism stand out in feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. After analyzing 256 reviews, a remarkable 86.7% of input praised efficient, careful movers who handle belongings thoughtfully and display a positive attitude. Fast service, courteous staff, and respect for customer property routinely put this company ahead of competitors. Clients often highlighted seamless communication and the crews’ on-time arrival, underscoring their reliability. Negative remarks, making up 11.7% of feedback, centered on property damage, additional unexpected fees, and rare breakdowns in communication. Some reviewers cited items arriving damaged or incomplete responses to damage claims. A very small number (1.6%) posted neutral feedback, usually noting mixed communication or unclear pricing. This company receives more enthusiastic recommendations and repeat business than many moving providers, thanks to organized, efficient service and respectful teams. The rare complaints about broken belongings and disputed charges align with frustrations customers have encountered with other movers, but appear far less often here, helping TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earn trust with those seeking a reliable moving partner.
Get a Quote (803) 310-7445

Company Info

State license #: 9494-C

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
57.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
JEGA Movers LLC receives enthusiastic praise from customers who appreciate professional staff, careful handling of belongings, transparent pricing, strong communication, and efficient service. Most positive feedback highlights respectful treatment of cherished items and hassle-free booking. Negative input focuses on unprofessional behavior, property damage, and the company not delivering all promised services, like furniture reassembly and reliability. 42.9% of reviews express satisfaction, but more than half of the feedback reveals significant issues, suggesting higher concerns than seen with typical local moving companies. Those considering JEGA Movers should weigh reported customer service quality against consistent complaints about professionalism and property care.
Get a Quote (803) 888-0917

Company Info

State license #: 2021239

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3583359

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
93.4% of all reviews were positive
5.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about the fast, friendly, and careful teams at College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. Out of 242 pieces of input, about 93% was favorable, showing impressive consistency. Most customer feedback mentions efficiency, helpful movers, respectfulness, and quick job completion—qualities that set College Hunks apart from other moving services. Professionalism and careful handling of items frequently impressed customers, even on large or complicated jobs. Some negative remarks point to damaged possessions, missing items, and bigger bills than expected—issues that matter when choosing a mover. Complaints about estimate accuracy or lost belongings remain far fewer than the positive notes about speed and politeness. Compared to many competitors, College Hunks earns trust for reliability and respectful teams, consistently outperforming others in both speed and care.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 9890

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves and friendly crews shine through the feedback on All My Sons Moving & Storage. Out of 64 reviews, half commend the company’s professional attitude, careful handling of items, efficient process, and supportive movers—qualities that keep their reputation solid against competitors. Many customers highlight swift service and the politeness of staff, with teams regularly described as helpful and highly professional. Yet a significant share (nearly 47%) report major frustrations about final pricing far exceeding initial estimates, damage to items, and unanticipated fees. Customers often mention unexpected charges and slow resolution for reported damages, which leads many to express regret or dissatisfaction. While the company frequently delivers the speed and care people expect from leading movers, the pattern of higher costs and inflexible billing contrasts sharply with the positive feedback. Those considering All My Sons can expect fast, polite service, but should clarify all pricing details up front and remain vigilant about item protection and final billing.
Get a Quote (803) 219-4957

Company Info

State license #: 9873

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

The average hourly rate for movers in South Carolina is $137. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,020 – $3,166 $706 – $1,619 $426 – $776
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,022 – $4,998 $1,154 – $2,304 $478 – $929
4+ bedrooms $3,412 – $7,112 $1,699 – $2,906 $584 – $1,097
*Approximate cost ranges for a 537-mile move from Columbia to Mobile are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Mobile

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Columbia to Mobile will cost between $1,020 and $3,166. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Columbia to Columbia will range from $2,022 to $4,998, and a large move from Columbia to Mobile will cost from $3,412 to $7,112.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Mobile

If you’re moving from Columbia to Mobile, expect to pay between $706 and $1,619 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,154 up to $2,304. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,699 and $2,906. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Mobile

Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Mobile 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 $426 and $776. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $478 and $929. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $584 up to $1,097 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Columbia to Mobile

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,436, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,204.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbia, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($426–$1,060) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Mobile

Many movers find Mobile easier on the wallet than Columbia – roughly 7% less for singles and 4% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,825 for one person in Mobile versus $1,956 in Columbia. For a family of four, it’s $4,104 compared with $4,274.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Columbia Mobile
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $1,083
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $1,833
Average home value $220,612 $186,159
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $61,962
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $1,825
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $4,104
Unemployment rate 5.2% 6.2%
Sales tax 8.0% 10.0%
State income tax 7.0% 5.0%
  • If you’re heading to Mobile from Columbia, you’ll find that rent is roughly 10% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 16% less in Mobile than in Columbia.
  • Fortunately, the average income in Mobile and Columbia is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Mobile. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 7% lower than in Columbia.
  • The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Mobile and Columbia, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
  • In Mobile, the unemployment rate is approximately 19% higher than in Columbia, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 25% in Mobile over Columbia, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 29% less in Alabama than in South Carolina. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Columbia and Mobile:

Living Expense Columbia Mobile
Basic utilities $148.09 $165.58
Cell phone plan $54.77 $68.33
Dozen eggs $3.46 $3.50
Loaf of bread $2.65 $3.31
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $60.00
Gym membership $40.00 $36.13
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Mobile, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Mobile.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Mobile.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Mobile.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Mobile.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Columbia than in Mobile.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Mobile

Columbia Mobile
Population 136,632 187,041
Transportation score 5 3
Walkability score 35 32
Bike friendliness score 35 34
Crime index 3.0 64.95
Safety index 48.39 35.05
Air quality Good Good
  • Mobile’s population is about 37% greater than Columbia.
  • Mobile’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Mobile is less walkable than Columbia with a score of 32 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • Both Mobile and Columbia have similar bike-friendliness scores (35 vs 34), meaning Mobile is about as safe for cyclists as Columbia. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Mobile’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 64.95 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Mobile neighborhoods are safer than 64.95% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Mobile is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 35.05 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in Mobile is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Mobile move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Alabama moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Alabama 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Mobile. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Mobile

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Port City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Mobile.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Spanish Fort
  • Point Clear
  • Tillmans Corner
  • Theodore
  • Chickasaw

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Point Clear
  • Saraland
  • Loxley
  • Satsuma
  • Semmes

Things to do in Mobile

Once you’re settled into your new home in Alabama, it’s time to get out and discover what Mobile has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Mobile, such as the GulfQuest – National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, Battleship USS ALABAMA, Mobile Carnival Museum, and History Museum of Mobile.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Mobile Bay, Mobile Botanical Gardens, Bienville Square, and Medal of Honor Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an South Alabama Jaguars (Sun Belt)Spring Hill Badgers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Columbia to Mobile is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Columbia.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Columbia to Mobile, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Columbia to Mobile take?

Moving from Columbia, SC to Mobile, covers 537 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Columbia movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Mobile.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Columbia?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 5 movers in Columbia advertise piano moving expertise. 2 movers in Columbia provide antique moving services. State totals show 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle