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($1,044) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Milwaukee, WI

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 896 miles from Columbia to Milwaukee has an average cost ranging from $627 to $5,343. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–seven days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Columbia to Milwaukee

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 Milwaukee

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Columbia to Milwaukee. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 5 interstate moving companies in Columbia. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Milwaukee.

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 Milwaukee

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 896-mile move from Columbia to Milwaukee using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,684 – $4,222
  • Moving Container $1,053 – $1,968
  • Rental Truck $564 – $1,064
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,213 – $5,343
  • Moving Container $1,410 – $2,872
  • Rental Truck $627 – $1,278
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,750 – $7,736
  • Moving Container $1,991 – $3,578
  • Rental Truck $811 – $1,699
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
St. Andrews, SC Oak Creek, WI
2 Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
BLVD Moving
Cameron, SC Saukville, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Perry, SC Glendale, WI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
American Van Lines
Prosperity, SC Franklin, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 12, 2025
North American Van Lines
Springfield, SC Elmwood Park, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Springdale, SC Germantown, WI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025
Safeway Moving
Eastover, SC Racine, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 06, 2025
Roadway Moving
Summit, SC North Bay, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 05, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Blythewood, SC Waukesha, WI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025
PODS
Neeses, SC Hartland, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 01, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Columbia to Milwaukee moves

Organizing a move from Columbia to Milwaukee can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating seven local movers in Columbia known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Columbia to Milwaukee.

  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 Milwaukee?

On average, moving companies in South Carolina charge about $137 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,044 – $3,949 $762 – $1,965 $617 – $1,087
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,213 – $5,343 $1,410 – $2,872 $627 – $1,278
4+ bedrooms $3,750 – $7,736 $1,991 – $3,578 $811 – $1,699
*Estimated cost ranges for a 896-mile move from Columbia to Milwaukee are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Milwaukee

When planning a move to Milwaukee from Columbia, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,044 and $3,949. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,213 and $5,343 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,750 to $7,736.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Milwaukee

When you’re heading from Columbia to Milwaukee, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $762 and $1,965. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,410 and $2,872. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,991 to $3,578. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from South Carolina easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Milwaukee

A moving rental truck from Columbia to Milwaukee 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 $617 to $1,087. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $627 to $1,278, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Columbia to Milwaukee costs around $811 to $1,699.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Columbia to Milwaukee

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Columbia to Milwaukee may only cost $2,064, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,332.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Columbia.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($617–$1,481), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Milwaukee

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Milwaukee runs about 3% higher for singles and 16% higher for families than Columbia.

Singles spend around $2,022 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $4,963 compared with $4,274.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbia Milwaukee
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $1,612
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $2,880
Average home value $220,612 $200,685
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $49,733
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $2,022
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $4,963
Unemployment rate 5.2% 7.4%
Sales tax 8.0% 4.9%
State income tax 7.0% 7.65%
  • Rent is about 14% less expensive in Milwaukee than in Columbia, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 9% cheaper in Milwaukee than in Columbia.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 23% less in Milwaukee than in Columbia.
  • As the cost of living for a single person differs by around 5% between Milwaukee and Columbia, you likely won’t feel a significant change.
  • When considering a family move to Milwaukee, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 16% higher than in Columbia.
  • Milwaukee has a higher unemployment rate than Columbia by about 42%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes are 39% cheaper in Milwaukee compared to Columbia. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 9% more in Wisconsin than in South Carolina. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

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

Living Expense Columbia Milwaukee
Basic utilities $148.09 $167.94
Cell phone plan $54.77 $43.50
Dozen eggs $3.46 $4.23
Loaf of bread $2.65 $3.40
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $70.00
Gym membership $40.00 $53.38
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Milwaukee, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbia than in Milwaukee.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Milwaukee.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in Milwaukee.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in Milwaukee.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Milwaukee.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Milwaukee

Columbia Milwaukee
Population 136,632 577,222
Transportation score 5 8
Walkability score 35 62
Bike friendliness score 35 58
Crime index 3.0 66.76
Safety index 48.39 33.24
Air quality Good Good
  • Milwaukee’s population is about 322% greater than Columbia.
  • Milwaukee’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Milwaukee is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 58 out of 100, Milwaukee 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.
  • Milwaukee’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 66.76 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Milwaukee is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 33.24 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in Milwaukee is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Milwaukee move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Columbia and Milwaukee are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the 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: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Wisconsin, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Wisconsin, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • 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 Milwaukee. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Milwaukee

With your sights set on Cream City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Milwaukee.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Bay View
  • Brewer’s Hill
  • Historic Third Ward
  • Lower East Side
  • Riverwest

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bay View
  • Historic Third Ward
  • Juneau Town
  • Lower East Side
  • Northpoint

Things to do in Milwaukee

With your move to Wisconsin complete, you can dive right into experiencing Milwaukee. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Milwaukee is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Discovery World.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Henry Maier Festival Park, Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes), Veteran’s Park, and Lake Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA)Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) game.

FAQ

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

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Columbia to Milwaukee. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Columbia.

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

Want to save on your move from Columbia to Milwaukee? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Columbia to Milwaukee take?

The 896-mile move from Columbia, SC, to Milwaukee, , takes two to seven 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 Milwaukee.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Columbia?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 5 movers in Columbia provide piano moving services. 2 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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