Quick answer: Expect to pay $561–$5,671 for a move from Columbia to Memphis, with most moves taking one to six days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 605 miles.

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

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

When you’ve got 4 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Columbia, the search for the right one can quickly become overwhelming. And that’s after you decide whether to hand the job over to a full-service team or keep more control — and save a little money — with a DIY approach.

We’ve already done the hard work for you. Each Columbia mover was reviewed for services offered, pricing, and overall value, with customer experiences drawn from online reviews. From there, we narrowed the field to the best long-distance movers in Columbia, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Best professional movers from Columbia to Memphis

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from Columbia to Memphis far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

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

What moving services are available in Columbia?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Columbia to all of SC and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Columbia (Count) Columbia (%) South Carolina (Count) South Carolina (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 6 100% 43 96% 2545 98%
Unpacking 6 100% 43 96% 2514 97%
Fragile-only packing 1 17% 7 16% 631 24%
Packing materials 5 83% 40 89% 1519 59%
Storage
Storage 5 83% 36 80% 2248 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 17% 13 29% 823 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 2 33% 23 51% 1649 64%
Art 1 17% 15 33% 1271 49%
Antiques 1 17% 12 27% 1190 46%
Piano 4 67% 27 60% 1919 74%
Hot tub 1 17% 6 13% 585 23%
Pool table 2 33% 8 18% 845 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 30 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Columbia to Memphis journey

Organizing a move from Columbia to Memphis can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Columbia known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Columbia to Memphis.

  1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Smooth Move: 4.62 out of 5 stars
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
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/JEGAMover/,
43% of all reviews were positive
57% 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.
Show more
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://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/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

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

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 $1,211 - $3,720 $829 - $1,848 $519 - $999
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,166 - $5,671 $1,424 - $2,910 $561 - $1,140
4+ bedrooms $4,254 - $8,737 $1,843 - $3,436 $707 - $1,334
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 605 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 Tennessee

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Tennessee will cost between $1,211 and $3,720. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SC to TN will range from $2,166 to $5,671, and a large move from South Carolina to Tennessee will cost from $4,254 to $8,737.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Tennessee

If you're moving from South Carolina to Tennessee, expect to pay between $829 and $1,848 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,424 up to $2,910. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,843 and $3,436. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Tennessee

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $519 and $999 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $561 to $1,140. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $707 to $1,334.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Columbia to Memphistoggle

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Columbia to Memphis might cost just $1,211 for a one-bedroom, but up to $7,046 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Columbia, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $519 and $1,226, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Memphis

Moving to Memphis typically means higher monthly totals — roughly 6% more for singles and 3% more for families compared with Columbia.

Singles spend around $1,842 in Memphis vs. $1,956 in Columbia, and families see $4,402 vs. $4,274.

Use the breakdown below to plan your budget:

Columbia Memphis
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $1,187
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $1,571
Average home value $220,612 $143,715
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $48,090
Unemployment rate 5.2% 8.0%
Sales tax 8.0% 9.75%
State income tax 7.0% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Memphis are 10% lower than in Columbia, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Memphis.
    Home prices in Memphis are 34.9% lower than in Columbia.
  • Income in Memphis is 25.7% lower than in Columbia, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Memphis — including FedEx, AutoZone, and International Paper — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Memphis. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 5.8% lower than in Columbia.
  • If you're moving your family to Memphis, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Memphis is 3.0% higher than in Columbia.
  • The unemployment rate in Memphis is 53.85% higher than in Columbia.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Memphis, since its sales taxes are 21.88% higher than what you are paying in Columbia.
  • One perk of moving to Memphis is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Columbia.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Columbia versus Memphis.

Columbia Memphis
Basic utilities $148.09 $213.78
Cell phone plan $54.77 $58.88
Dozen eggs $3.46 $4.12
Loaf of bread $2.65 $2.83
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16 $19.5
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60 $75
Gym membership $40 $37.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Memphis, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Memphis.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Memphis.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Memphis.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in Memphis.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Memphis.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Columbia than in Memphis.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Memphis

Memphis Columbia
Population 633,104 136,632
Transportation Score 4 5
Walkability score 35 35
Bike friendliness score 41 35
Crime Index 77.49 3.0
Safety Index 22.51 48.39
Air Quality Good Good
  • Memphis's population is about 363% greater than Columbia.
  • Memphis's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Columbia's higher score of 5.
  • Memphis and Columbia are similarily walkable.
  • With a score of 41 out of 100, Memphis 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.
  • Memphis's crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 77.49 compared to Columbia's 3.0. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Memphis is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 22.51 vs Columbia's 48.39.
  • Air quality in Memphis is good, and in Columbia it's good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia vs. Memphis move

  • Weather: Winter weather comes alternately from the upper Great Plains and the Gulf of Mexico, which can lead to drastic swings in temperature. Summer weather may come from Texas (very hot and humid) or the Gulf (hot and very humid). Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year though mainly during the spring months. Large hail, strong winds, flooding and frequent lightning can accompany these storms. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Tennessee, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Memphis Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Memphis

Ready to relocate to Bluff City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Memphis.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Binghampton
  • Cooper-Young
  • Crosstown
  • Downtown
  • Midtown

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bartlett
  • Cordova
  • East Memphis
  • Germantown
  • River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral

Things to do in Memphis

Once you're settled into your new home in Tennessee, it's time to get out and discover what Memphis has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Memphis is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, and Slave Haven / Burkle Estate Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Shelby Farms Park, Mud Island River Park, Tom Lee Park, and Levitt Shell — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) and Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Columbia to Memphis 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 Memphis?

With many people choosing to move from Columbia to Memphis 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 Memphis take?

The 605-mile move from Columbia, SC, to Memphis, TN, 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 Memphis.

Which movers in Columbia offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 4 movers in Columbia have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 1 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across SC, there are 27 piano movers and 12 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 1919 and 1190.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources