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($1,251) Movers From Columbia, SC to California

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 2,520 miles from Columbia, SC to California averages $1,504 to $6,926. Your move could take anywhere from seven to 21 days. It all depends on the size of your move, the distance, your moving date, and whether you hire pros or go DIY.
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Best movers from Columbia, SC to California

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
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
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
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
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, SC to California

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,520-mile move from Columbia, SC, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted moving price points sourced nationwide to account for seasonality and market trends. Final pricing can vary with the size of your move, extra services, access or parking constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Comparing multiple mover quotes is the best way to nail down an accurate estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $2,358 – $5,176
  • Moving container $1,789 – $3,533
  • Rental truck $1,375 – $2,580
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $3,426 – $6,926
  • Moving container $2,295 – $5,013
  • Rental truck $1,504 – $3,200
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $6,699 – $11,493
  • Moving container $3,319 – $6,749
  • Rental truck $1,880 – $3,729
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.
PODS
Gaston, SC Morro Bay, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Forest Acres, SC Fort Jones, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Swansea, SC King City, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 20, 2025
North American Van Lines
Lake Murray of Richland, SC West Goshen, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Pelion, SC Rolling Hills Estates, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 13, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
West Columbia, SC Hesperia, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 11, 2025
BLVD Moving
Cayce, SC La Puente, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 31, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Dentsville, SC West Carson, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 26, 2025
Roadway Moving
Irmo, SC Patterson Tract, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
St. Matthews, SC Calimesa, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 11, 2025

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

Local moving companies in Columbia

Out of 7 Columbia movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.

  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

Local moving services in Columbia, SC

Quick breakdown of Columbia movers that offer specialty add-on services:

Interstate
5 71.43%
Small moves
4 57.14%
Antiques
2 28.57%
Art
1 14.29%
Pianos
5 71.43%
Fragile-only packing
1 14.29%

Cost to move from Columbia, SC to California

The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Columbia to California, varying by home size and service option.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,251 – $5,021 $1,279 – $3,214 $1,375 – $2,634
2-3 bedrooms $3,426 – $6,926 $2,295 – $5,013 $1,504 – $3,200
4+ bedrooms $6,699 – $11,493 $3,319 – $6,749 $1,880 – $3,729

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,520-mile move from Columbia, SC, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Columbia to California will cost between $1,251 and $5,021. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $3,426 to $6,926, and a large move will cost from $6,699 to $11,493.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to California

If you’re moving from Columbia to California, expect to pay between $1,279 and $3,214 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,295 up to $5,013. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,319 and $6,749. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to California

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 from Columbia to California, expect to spend between $1,375 and $2,634. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,504 and $3,200. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,880 up to $3,729 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Columbia to CA

When calculating the price of Columbia movers, consider:

  • Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbia, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.

What you should know before moving from Columbia to CA

Transitioning from Columbia to California offers fresh opportunities, but also a rise in expenses. Given that California’s living costs are generally steeper than in Columbia, creating a solid budget will help ease the adjustment.

Find out how Columbia contrasts with California so you can head into your move with confidence:

Compare cost of living: Columbia vs. California

Columbia, SC California
Average rent $1,447 $1,856
Average home cost $220,612 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $91,905
Cost of living index 87 134
Unemployment rate 5.2% 5.4%
State income tax 7.0% 13.3%
  • With rent about 28% higher in California than Columbia, prepare for steeper monthly costs.
  • Homes in California cost about 250% more than in Columbia, so expect a higher mortgage payment.
  • Expect incomes in California to be about 42% higher than in Columbia, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
  • Moving to California means the cost of living runs about 54% higher than in Columbia, so you’ll want a clear financial plan.
  • Job availability and competition should be about the same in California and Columbia, as the unemployment rate doesn’t differ much between them.
  • Income taxes run about 90% higher in California than in South Carolina, which means less spending money.

How life is different in Columbia, SC from California

When relocating from Columbia to California, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in California stacks up against life in the Columbia.

Columbia, SC California
Population 136,632 39,029,342
Political leaning Democratic 59-41
Summer high 94ºF 87ºF
Winter low 35ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 46″ 22″
Annual snow 1″ 7″
Crime index 3.0 28.43
  • In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Columbia supported .
  • Cooler summer days in California reach typical highs around 87ºF, whereas Columbia sees warmer peaks approaching 94ºF. By selecting a cooler spot, you’ll enjoy less heat, decreased energy costs, and lots of fresh-air activities, which is ideal if comfort and time spent outside are your priorities.
  • Winter lows in California are milder, around 59ºF, compared to the colder 35ºF in Columbia. This means easier winters, fewer icy days, and potentially lower heating bills.
  • You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of annual rain in California, which is less than the 46 inches you’re used to in Columbia. That means brighter skies, extra outdoor time, and fewer rainy-day interruptions.
  • Every year, California gets around 7 inches of snow, much more than the 1 inch that Columbia typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
  • California has a higher crime rate than Columbia, with indexes at 28.43 vs 3.0. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods and consider how it might affect your daily routine.

Other considerations when moving to California

If you’re moving from Columbia to California, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.

  • HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one for your move.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
  • 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.

Things to do in California

No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—California is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park

Sports teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego

FAQ

How long does a move from Columbia to California take?

Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Columbia, SC to California? Typically, the process takes about seven to 21 days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.

Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.

How many Columbia movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?

There are three movers in Columbia that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Columbia moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.

What is the best way to get a car from Columbia to California?

Looking to move your car from Columbia to California? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from South Carolina to California.

Why are people moving from Columbia to California?

Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Columbia?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Columbia.

Do movers in Columbia, SC, accept cash?

Yes, one movers in Columbia accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.

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