Quick answer: A typical 620-mile move from Columbia to Indianapolis runs $620–$6,462 and takes one to six days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Indianapolis to Columbia guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best Movers By Type

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Labor Only

Best Professional Movers from Columbia to Indianapolis

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Columbia to Indianapolis isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to IN movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 32 South Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies in Columbia

  1. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Smooth Move: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Reign Moving Solutions: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
, https://x.com/BBMoving1
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Ballantyne & Beyond lands at the top for professionalism and attentive staff. In 185 feedback sources, 83.8% of customer input is positive. Polite team members, efficient timelines, and careful handling stand out, with many customers mentioning prompt response, accurate estimates, and extra help from movers.
Many highlight stress-free moving days and furniture treated with care, which sets them above most competitors. On the other hand, some customers faced damaged items, issues with how belongings were packed, or communication lapses, especially during complex moves. Compared to other movers, Ballantyne & Beyond delivers higher-than-average professionalism and careful service, but some moves have resulted in costly item mishaps and unmet service expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (803) 547-1800

Company Info

State license #: 9784-A

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 2557751


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/twomenandatruckcolumbiasc/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenColumbia/
87% of all reviews were positive
12% 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.
Show more
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/Smooth-Move-1555136268059713/, https://twitter.com/SmoothMoveRH
97% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews set Smooth Move apart. Of 255 pieces of customer feedback, 97% rated their experience positively, a rare feat in the moving industry. Customers consistently highlight Smooth Move’s efficient service, polite and professional staff, careful handling of items, speedy relocations, and helpful movers.
Many praise the crews for going out of their way to protect belongings and make the process stress-free, even in complex or emotional situations. Negative feedback centers on isolated complaints about damage to items, communication delays, or inaccurate estimates. When compared to other companies, Smooth Move stands out for reliability, responsiveness, and respect for property. Their reputation for thorough care and pleasant experiences makes them a top pick for those seeking movers who value client trust and seamless service.
Show more
Get a Quote (803) 366-6683

Company Info

State license #: 9823

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2823802

Alternate Names: Go Smooth Move, LLC, Carolina Movers, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GentlemenMoversSC/, https://twitter.com/gentlemenmover3?lang=en
72% of all reviews were positive
27% 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.
Show more
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

How much does it cost to move from Columbia to Indianapolis?

Columbia movers charge $256 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 $1,380 - $4,235 $907 - $2,002 $597 - $1,040
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,546 - $6,462 $1,559 - $2,910 $620 - $1,273
4+ bedrooms $4,435 - $9,473 $2,123 - $3,999 $735 - $1,614
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 620 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to Indiana

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Indiana, you can expect to spend between $1,380 and $4,235. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,546 to $6,462 on the same route (SC to IN). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from South Carolina to Indiana typically runs between $4,435 and $9,473.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Indiana

Moving containers from South Carolina to Indiana will cost you $907 to $2,002 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,559 to $2,910. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,123 to $3,999. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Indiana

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $597 to $1,040. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $620 to $1,273, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from South Carolina to Indiana costs around $735 to $1,614.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Indianapolis movetoggle

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Columbia to Indianapolis (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,380, while larger moves may reach $7,714 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Columbia,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $597 to $1,328), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Indianapolis

Moving from Columbia to Indianapolis comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Indianapolis is generally more expensive than Columbia, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Columbia Indianapolis
Average rent cost $1,447 $1,399
Average home value $220,612 $220,467
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $59,110
Cost of living (single person) $1,956 $2,804
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,274 $6,667
Unemployment rate 5.2% 5.6%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.0%
State income tax 7.0% 3.15%
  • Rent prices in Indianapolis are 3% lower than in Columbia, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • Home prices are the same in Indianapolis and Columbia.
  • Income in Indianapolis is 8.6% lower than in Columbia, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Indianapolis — including Anthem, Eli Lilly and Company, and Steak 'n Shake — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Indianapolis, since the cost of living for a single person in Indianapolis is 43.4% higher than in Columbia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Indianapolis, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Indianapolis is 56.0% higher than in Columbia.
  • The unemployment rate in Indianapolis is 7.69% higher than in Columbia.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Indianapolis, since the city's sales taxes in Indianapolis are 12.50% lower than in Columbia.
  • One perk of moving to Indianapolis is paying less in state income taxes, which are 55.00% lower than in Columbia.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,300.61 in Indianapolis to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Columbia.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Indianapolis

Indianapolis Columbia
Population 887,642 136,632
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 5
Walkability score 31 35
Bike friendliness score 43 35
Crime Index 60.71 3.0
Safety Index 39.29 48.39
Air Quality Good Good
  • Indianapolis's population is about 550% greater than Columbia.
  • Indianapolis's public transportation has a similar score to Columbia.
  • Indianapolis is less walkable than Columbia with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Columbia's 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 43 out of 100, Indianapolis is more bike-friendly than Columbia, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Indianapolis's crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 60.71 compared to Columbia's 3.0. This means that Indianapolis neighborhoods are safer than 60.71% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Indianapolis is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 39.29 vs Columbia's 48.39.
  • Air quality in Indianapolis is good, and in Columbia it's good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia vs. Indianapolis move

  • Weather: Indianapolis summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. The rainiest months occur in the spring and summer, with slightly higher averages during May, June, and July. May is typically the wettest.
  • 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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: The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) regulate movers operating within Indiana and issue moving companies Indiana Households Goods Carriers Numbers. Check to make sure prospective movers have one and that it’s up to date. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Indiana moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Indiana 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Indianapolis. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers, though coverage is limited to 60 cents per pound. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, reimbursement is just $15. To ensure coverage for your items' full value, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Indianapolis

With your sights set on Amateur Sports Capital of the World, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Indianapolis.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Broad Ripple Village
  • Fountain Square
  • Mile Square
  • Meridian-Kessler
  • Old Northside

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Avon
  • Brownsburg
  • Carmel
  • Fishers
  • Westfield

Things to do in Indianapolis

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Indianapolis include museums and art centers like the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Eiteljorg Museum, and Indiana War Memorial.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Eagle Creek Park, White River State Park, Broad Ripple Park, and Krannert Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Indianapolis Colts (NFL), Indianapolis Pacers (NBA), or Indianapolis Fever (WNBA) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Columbia to Indianapolis is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Columbia.

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

With many people choosing to move from Columbia to Indianapolis in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Columbia to Indianapolis take?

The 620-mile move from Columbia, SC, to Indianapolis, IN, takes one to six days. Some Columbia movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Indianapolis.

Helpful moving resources