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.
- Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
Company Info
State license #: 9890
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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:
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% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- 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 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- 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.
Helpful moving resources
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