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($1,212) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Tempe, AZ

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,019 miles from Columbia to Tempe, expect to pay between $1,263 and $7,082. The journey should take about six–17 days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Columbia to Tempe

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 Tempe

For a stress-free interstate move from Columbia to Tempe, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 5 interstate moving companies in Columbia, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Tempe.

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 Tempe

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,019-mile move from Columbia to Tempe using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,335 – $5,037
  • Moving Container $1,592 – $2,963
  • Rental Truck $1,189 – $2,205
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,067 – $7,082
  • Moving Container $1,998 – $4,405
  • Rental Truck $1,263 – $2,730
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,805 – $10,562
  • Moving Container $2,793 – $5,490
  • Rental Truck $1,640 – $3,215
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Eastover, SC Chandler, AZ
3 Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Monetta, SC Gilbert, AZ
2 Bedrooms
Oct 04, 2025
Roadway Moving
Perry, SC Casa Grande, AZ
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 25, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Summit, SC New River, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Sep 19, 2025
American Van Lines
Ridge Spring, SC Peoria, AZ
Studio apartment
Sep 17, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Prosperity, SC Sun City, AZ
Studio apartment
Sep 13, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Swansea, SC Scottsdale, AZ
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 30, 2025
United Van Lines
Salley, SC Avondale, AZ
2 Bedrooms
Aug 28, 2025
PODS
Peak, SC Tempe, AZ
Studio apartment
Aug 18, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Wagener, SC Sun Lakes, AZ
Studio apartment
Aug 02, 2025

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

Top-rated local movers that handle Columbia to Tempe moves

When planning a move from Columbia to Tempe, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing seven local movers in Columbia who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

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

  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 Tempe?

Movers in South Carolina charge $137 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 $1,212 – $4,477 $1,100 – $2,919 $1,109 – $2,139
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,067 – $7,082 $1,998 – $4,405 $1,263 – $2,730
4+ bedrooms $5,805 – $10,562 $2,793 – $5,490 $1,640 – $3,215
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,019-mile relocation from Columbia to Tempe, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Tempe

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Columbia to Tempe, you can expect to spend between $1,212 and $4,477. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,067 to $7,082 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Columbia to Tempe typically runs between $5,805 and $10,562.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Tempe

When moving from Columbia to Tempe, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,100 and $2,919. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,998 to $4,405. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,793 up to $5,490. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Tempe

Renting a moving truck in Columbia is usually your cheapest option to get to Tempe. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,109 and $2,139. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,263 and $2,730. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,640 and $3,215.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Columbia to Tempe

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,424, but larger homes can run up to $9,614.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Columbia.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,109–$2,790) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Tempe

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tempe runs about 178% higher for singles and 59% higher for families than Columbia.

Singles spend around $5,433 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $6,810 compared with $4,274.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbia Tempe
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $1,900
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $2,450
Average home value $220,612 $471,494
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $64,080
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $5,433
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $6,810
Unemployment rate 5.2% 5.4%
Sales tax 8.0% 8.1%
State income tax 7.0% 2.5%
  • As you consider relocating to Tempe, note that rent can be roughly 27% more expensive than it is in Columbia; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 114% higher in Tempe than in Columbia.
  • The average income in Tempe and Columbia is quite similar, within about 5%, so your finances should remain fairly stable.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Tempe, since the cost of living for a single person is 178% more than in Columbia. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Tempe, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Tempe is 59% more than it is in Columbia.
  • Both Tempe and Columbia present nearly identical unemployment rates, within a 5% range, signifying stability in employment conditions.
  • Sales taxes are similar in Tempe and Columbia (within about 5%), meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
  • Income taxes are 64% lower in Arizona compared to South Carolina. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

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

Living Expense Columbia Tempe
Basic utilities $148.09 $256.54
Cell phone plan $54.77 $70.53
Dozen eggs $3.46 $4.75
Loaf of bread $2.65 $4.18
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $19.17
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $80.00
Gym membership $40.00 $30.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Tempe, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Tempe.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Tempe.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Tempe.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Tempe.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Tempe.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Columbia than in Tempe.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Tempe

Columbia Tempe
Population 136,632 180,587
Transportation score 5 8
Walkability score 35 54
Bike friendliness score 35 75
Crime index 3.0 42.36
Safety index 48.39 57.64
Air quality Good Good
  • Tempe’s population is about 32% greater than Columbia.
  • Tempe’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Tempe is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 75 out of 100, Tempe is more bike-friendly than Columbia, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Tempe’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 42.36 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Tempe is considered to be safer than Columbia with a safety index of 57.64 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in Tempe is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Tempe move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving 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: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Arizona doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Tempe smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Tempe

Now that you’ve chosen Tempe as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Tempe to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cyprus Southwest
  • Daley Park
  • Kyrene-Superstition
  • Mitchell Park West
  • University Heights

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Alta Mira
  • Dava-Lakeshore
  • Meyer Park
  • Sandahl
  • Tempe Gardens

Things to do in Tempe

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

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Tempe offers cultural landmarks like the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park, Tempe History Museum, Arizona State University Art Museum, and ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tempe Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, and Papago Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Columbia to Tempe are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Columbia are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Columbia to Tempe 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 Columbia to Tempe take?

A move of 2,019 miles from Columbia, SC to Tempe, generally takes six to 17 days. Movers in Columbia sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Tempe is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Columbia offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 5 movers in Columbia have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 2 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across SC, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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