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($1,087) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Detroit, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 720 miles from Columbia to Detroit typically costs between $563 and $5,461. The trip is expected to last from one–six days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Columbia to Detroit

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
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
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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Columbia to Detroit

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Columbia to Detroit much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Columbia, there are 5 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Detroit.

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 to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 720-mile move from Columbia to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,448 – $3,730
  • Moving Container $1,022 – $1,929
  • Rental Truck $527 – $962
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,184 – $5,461
  • Moving Container $1,312 – $2,442
  • Rental Truck $563 – $1,187
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,507 – $7,644
  • Moving Container $1,704 – $3,439
  • Rental Truck $671 – $1,370
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
Perry, SC Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 20, 2025
American Van Lines
Peak, SC Oxford, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
Roadway Moving
Forest Acres, SC Ferndale, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Safeway Moving
Oak Grove, SC Riverview, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Camden, SC Bloomfield Hills, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 07, 2025
PODS
Orangeburg, SC Melvindale, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
United Van Lines
Springdale, SC Sylvan Lake, MI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 30, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
St. Andrews, SC Hamtramck, MI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Woodford, SC Warren, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Pomaria, SC Lake Orion, MI
Studio apartment
Aug 16, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Detroit move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Detroit 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 Detroit.

  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

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

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 $1,087 – $3,422 $736 – $1,747 $512 – $1,000
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,184 – $5,461 $1,312 – $2,442 $563 – $1,187
4+ bedrooms $3,507 – $7,644 $1,704 – $3,439 $671 – $1,370
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 720-mile move from Columbia to Detroit, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Detroit

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Detroit from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,087 and $3,422. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,184 to $5,461 for the trip from Columbia to Detroit. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,507 and $7,644.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Detroit

Moving containers from Columbia to Detroit will cost you $736 to $1,747 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,312 to $2,442. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,704 to $3,439. 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 Detroit

Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Detroit typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $512 and $1,000 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $563 to $1,187. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $671 to $1,370.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Detroit move

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,758 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,486 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 $512 to $1,306, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Detroit

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Detroit runs about 28% higher for singles and 56% higher for families than Columbia.

Singles spend around $2,500 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $6,687 compared with $4,274.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbia Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $2,542
Average home value $220,612 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $6,687
Unemployment rate 5.2% 9.06%
Sales tax 8.0% 6.0%
State income tax 7.0% 4.25%
  • When relocating from Columbia to Detroit, expect to find rent about 14% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 67% more affordable in Detroit compared to Columbia.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 42% lower in Detroit compared to Columbia.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Detroit, as living costs for a single person are 28% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Detroit, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Detroit is 56% higher than in Columbia.
  • Detroit shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbia by around 74%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes are 25% less in Detroit relative to Columbia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Michigan are 39% below those in South Carolina. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbia and Detroit:

Living Expense Columbia Detroit
Basic utilities $148.09 $251.12
Cell phone plan $54.77 $55.77
Dozen eggs $3.46 $3.52
Loaf of bread $2.65 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $68.50
Gym membership $40.00 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Detroit.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Detroit.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Detroit.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Detroit

Columbia Detroit
Population 136,632 639,111
Transportation score 5 7
Walkability score 35 51
Bike friendliness score 35 52
Crime index 3.0 72.92
Safety index 48.39 27.08
Air quality Good Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 368% greater than Columbia.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Detroit is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 52 out of 100, Detroit 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.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 72.92 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 27.08 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Detroit 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: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Michigan’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan 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 Detroit. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Detroit

Planning your move to America’s Comeback City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Detroit.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

After settling into your new Michigan home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Detroit has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Detroit features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck 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 Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from Columbia to Detroit? 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 Detroit?

Because most people are moving from Columbia to Detroit 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 Detroit take?

The 720-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Detroit, , typically takes one to six 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 Detroit.

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

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