Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Gainesville move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Gainesville can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed seven top local movers in Columbia who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Columbia to Gainesville.
- 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
How much does it cost to move from Columbia to Gainesville?
In South Carolina, moving services typically cost around $137 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $900 – $2,686 | $617 – $1,460 | $323 – $590 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,647 – $4,524 | $1,061 – $2,132 | $362 – $743 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,435 – $6,000 | $1,419 – $2,768 | $426 – $845 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Gainesville
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Gainesville from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $900 and $2,686. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,647 to $4,524 for the trip from Columbia to Gainesville. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,435 and $6,000.
Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Gainesville
Moving containers from Columbia to Gainesville will cost you $617 to $1,460 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,061 to $2,132. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,419 to $2,768. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Gainesville
Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Gainesville typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $323 and $590 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $362 to $743. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $426 to $845.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Gainesville move
The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,273 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,206 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Columbia.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $323 to $779, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbia to Gainesville
Many movers find Gainesville easier on the wallet than Columbia – roughly 12% less for singles and 18% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,727 for one person in Gainesville versus $1,956 in Columbia. For a family of four, it’s $3,491 compared with $4,274.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Columbia | Gainesville | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,300 | $1,444 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,220 | $3,000 |
| Average home value | $220,612 | $288,002 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,683 | $59,013 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,956 | $1,727 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,274 | $3,491 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 4.4% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 0.0% |
- Planning a move to Gainesville? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 11% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Gainesville are about 31% higher than those in Columbia.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 9% lower in Gainesville compared to Columbia.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Gainesville, as the cost of living for a single person is 12% lower compared to Columbia.
- A move to Gainesville 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 18% less than what it costs in Columbia.
- The unemployment rate in Gainesville is about 15% lower than in Columbia. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 13% less in Gainesville relative to Columbia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Florida has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbia and Gainesville:
| Living Expense | Columbia | Gainesville |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.09 | $310.42 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.77 | $49.22 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.46 | $4.53 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.65 | $3.70 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $65.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $45.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Gainesville, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbia than in Gainesville.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Gainesville.
- Bread costs less in Columbia than in Gainesville.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Gainesville.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Gainesville.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Gainesville.
How life is different in Columbia vs. Gainesville
| Columbia | Gainesville | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 141,085 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 69 |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 8.0 |
| Safety index | 48.39 | 52.61 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Gainesville’s population is within about 5% of Columbia, so they’re very similar in size.
- Gainesville’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
- Gainesville is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
- With a score of 69 out of 100, Gainesville 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.
- Gainesville’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 8.0 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Gainesville neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
- Gainesville is considered to be safer than Columbia with a safety index of 52.61 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
- Air quality in Gainesville is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbia to Gainesville move
- 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Florida’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Florida 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Gainesville. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Gainesville
Planning your move to Gainesville? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Gainesville.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Duckpond
- Midtown
- Northwest Gainesville
- Sugarfoot
- Suburban Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Northwest Gainesville
- Duckpond
- Haile Plantation
- Eastside
Things to do in Gainesville
After settling into your new Florida home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Gainesville has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Gainesville features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Florida Museum of Natural History, Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention, and Matheson History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Depot Park, and Kanapaha Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Florida Gators (SEC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbia to Gainesville?
Planning your move from Columbia to Gainesville? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Columbia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbia to Gainesville?
Because most people are moving from Columbia to Gainesville in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Columbia to Gainesville take?
The 359-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Columbia offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Gainesville.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Columbia?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Columbia, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, South Carolina has 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Columbia moving services
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