Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to Philadelphia move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.
- 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 Philadelphia?
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 | $1,080 – $3,153 | $689 – $1,766 | $476 – $873 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,032 – $4,904 | $1,307 – $2,395 | $514 – $985 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,681 – $6,973 | $1,694 – $3,191 | $642 – $1,264 |
Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Philadelphia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Philadelphia from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,080 and $3,153. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,032 to $4,904 for the trip from Columbia to Philadelphia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,681 and $6,973.
Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Philadelphia
Moving containers from Columbia to Philadelphia will cost you $689 to $1,766 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,307 to $2,395. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,694 to $3,191. 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 Philadelphia
Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Philadelphia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $476 and $873 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $514 to $985. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $642 to $1,264.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to Philadelphia move
The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,681 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,218 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 $476 to $1,082, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Columbia to Philadelphia
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Philadelphia runs about 30% higher for singles and 45% higher for families than Columbia.
Singles spend around $2,541 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $6,190 compared with $4,274.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbia | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,300 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,220 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $220,612 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,683 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,956 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,274 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 3.07% |
- Planning a move to Philadelphia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 17% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Philadelphia and Columbia, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 9% higher in Philadelphia compared to Columbia, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Philadelphia, as living costs for a single person are 30% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Philadelphia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Philadelphia is 45% higher than in Columbia.
- Philadelphia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbia by around 104%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Philadelphia and Columbia (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 56% 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 Philadelphia:
| Living Expense | Columbia | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.09 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.77 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.46 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.65 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $48.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Philadelphia.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Philadelphia.
- Bread costs less in Columbia than in Philadelphia.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Philadelphia.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Philadelphia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Columbia vs. Philadelphia
| Columbia | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 1,603,797 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 67 |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 48.39 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Philadelphia’s population is about 1074% greater than Columbia.
- Philadelphia’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
- Philadelphia is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
- With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia 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.
- Philadelphia’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 66.09 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
- Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 33.91 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
- Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbia to Philadelphia 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: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Pennsylvania’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Philadelphia
Planning your move to Philly? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Philadelphia.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cedar Park
- Fishtown
- Manayunk
- Point Breeze
- Washington Square West
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bella Vista
- Bustleton
- Chestnut Hill
- Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
- Foxchase
- Roxborough
Things to do in Philadelphia
After settling into your new Pennsylvania home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Philadelphia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Philadelphia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, and Museum of the American Revolution.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love 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 Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)Philadelphia Union (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbia to Philadelphia?
Planning your move from Columbia to Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia?
Because most people are moving from Columbia to Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia take?
The 618-mile journey from Columbia, SC to Philadelphia, , 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 Philadelphia.
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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