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($1,144) Movers From Columbia, SC to Iowa

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 1,074 miles from Columbia, SC to Iowa averages $726 to $5,979. The process can take anywhere from two to eight days, depending on factors like the size, timing, and distance of your move, as well as whether you DIY your move or hire professionals.
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Best movers from Columbia, SC to Iowa

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 Iowa

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,074-mile move from Columbia, SC, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha compiles verified rates from moving companies across the U.S. and revises them monthly to reflect seasonal and market fluctuations. Your total may change based on load size, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel prices, and your moving date. Always collect several quotes to get a realistic price range.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $2,031 – $4,527
  • Moving container $1,137 – $2,096
  • Rental truck $645 – $1,225
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $2,268 – $5,979
  • Moving container $1,477 – $2,887
  • Rental truck $726 – $1,502
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $3,910 – $7,374
  • Moving container $2,016 – $4,123
  • Rental truck $958 – $1,791
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
Swansea, SC Long Grove, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 31, 2025
PODS
Monetta, SC Clarence, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 25, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Pinewood, SC Smithland, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Orangeburg, SC Millersburg, IA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 25, 2025
North American Van Lines
Columbia, SC Tipton, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
American Van Lines
Little Mountain, SC Williams, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 18, 2025
BLVD Moving
Summit, SC La Motte, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 05, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Irmo, SC Liscomb, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 09, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Oak Grove, SC Collins, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 03, 2025
Roadway Moving
St. Andrews, SC Boyden, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Iowa 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 Iowa.

  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

At a glance, the number of Columbia movers with specialty add-ons:

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 Iowa

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Columbia to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,144 – $4,419 $858 – $2,032 $686 – $1,276
2-3 bedrooms $2,268 – $5,979 $1,477 – $2,887 $726 – $1,502
4+ bedrooms $3,910 – $7,374 $2,016 – $4,123 $958 – $1,791

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,074-mile move from Columbia, SC, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Iowa

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Columbia to Iowa typically costs between $1,144 and $4,419. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,268 and $5,979. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,910 up to $7,374.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Columbia to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $858 and $2,032 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,477 up to $2,887. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,016 and $4,123. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Columbia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Iowa

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Columbia to Iowa, expect to pay between $686 and $1,276. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $726 to $1,502. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $958 and $1,791.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from Columbia to IA

The cost of a move in Columbia can change based on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Peak summer months in Columbia often come with higher moving rates.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.

What you should know before moving from Columbia to IA

When you move to Iowa from Columbia, SC, expect living costs to be largely equivalent. Your financial planning may not require significant changes, yet it’s advisable to analyze the expenses to pinpoint any minor discrepancies.

Compare cost of living: Columbia vs. Iowa

Columbia, SC Iowa
Average rent $1,447 $914
Average home cost $220,612 $220,277
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $70,571
Cost of living index 87 89
Unemployment rate 5.2% 3.0%
State income tax 7.0% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 37% lower in Iowa than in Columbia, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
  • The cost of homes in Iowa is similar to Columbia, so your monthly mortgage budget should remain steady.
  • Exciting news: the average income is about 9% higher in Iowa than in Columbia, so you’ll likely have more room to save or invest.
  • Since cost of living levels are so similar in Iowa and Columbia, you won’t see much financial change after relocating.
  • The unemployment rate in Iowa is around 42% lower than in Columbia, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
  • Iowa’s income tax rates are about 37% lower than South Carolina’s, so you’ll keep more of what you earn.

How life is different in Columbia, SC from Iowa

When planning a move from Columbia to Iowa, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Columbia behind for life in Iowa.

Columbia, SC Iowa
Population 136,632 3,207,004
Political leaning Republican 53-45
Summer high 94ºF 84ºF
Winter low 35ºF 10ºF
Annual rain 46″ 35″
Annual snow 1″ 30″
Crime index 3.0 16.18
  • In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Columbia supported .
  • Summers in Iowa average 84ºF, while Columbia hits highs of 94ºF. Opting for a cooler destination means less heat, lower energy bills, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, perfect if you prioritize comfort and enjoy spending time outside.
  • Colder winters await in Iowa, where lows average 10ºF, compared to Columbia at 35ºF. This shift means more heating costs and brisker weather, but also unique seasonal charm and activities.
  • In Iowa, rainfall totals about 35 inches a year, less than the 46 inches you’re used to in Columbia. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
  • Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, far more than the 1 inch you might be accustomed to in Columbia. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
  • Iowa posts a higher crime index of 16.18 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. It’s worth checking local data and preparing for a potentially more challenging safety environment.

Other considerations when moving to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Columbia to Iowa, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your 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 you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
  • State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can easily verify a Iowa moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
  • Moving permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Iowa without a hitch. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.

Things to do in Iowa

Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, Iowa has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.

Museums in Iowa

  • National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
  • Figge Art Museum
  • National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
  • The Putnam Museum & Science Center
  • Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Parks in Iowa

  • Vander Veer Botanical Park
  • Gray’s Lake Park
  • Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Eagle Point Park
  • Terry Trueblood Recreational Area

Sports teams in Iowa

  • Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
  • Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
  • Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
  • Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
  • Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)

Universities in Iowa

  • Iowa State University
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Northern Iowa
  • Maharishi International University
  • Grinnell College

FAQ

How long does a move from Columbia to Iowa take?

The time it takes to move from Columbia, SC, to Iowa ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take two to eight days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

Do movers in Columbia offer custom-built crate services?

Three movers in Columbia list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Columbia mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.

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

Need to ship your car from Columbia to Iowa? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from South Carolina to Iowa.

Why are people moving from Columbia to Iowa?

Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.

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

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.

Is cash an option to pay for a move from Columbia, SC?

THere are currently, one movers in Columbia that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.

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