Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($901) Cost to Move From Knoxville, TN to Columbia, SC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 263 miles from Knoxville to Columbia typically costs between $299 and $4,459. The trip is expected to last from one–four days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Knoxville to Columbia

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 Knoxville to Columbia

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Knoxville to Columbia 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 Knoxville, there are 8 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Columbia.

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 Knoxville to Columbia

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $981 – $3,675
  • Moving Container $805 – $1,491
  • Rental Truck $293 – $518
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,632 – $4,459
  • Moving Container $1,040 – $1,927
  • Rental Truck $299 – $626
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,162 – $5,753
  • Moving Container $1,413 – $2,409
  • Rental Truck $400 – $766
Recent Moving Price Estimates
1-800-Pack-Rat
Baneberry, TN Norway, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 11, 2025
United Van Lines
Friendsville, TN Gaston, SC
Studio apartment
Oct 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Maryville, TN Cordova, SC
Studio apartment
Oct 02, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Greenback, TN Ridge Spring, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 24, 2025
American Van Lines
La Follette, TN Monetta, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
BLVD Moving
Oakdale, TN Swansea, SC
Studio apartment
Sep 10, 2025
PODS
Gatlinburg, TN Jenkinsville, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
Roadway Moving
Caryville, TN Pomaria, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
North American Van Lines
Plainview, TN Orangeburg, SC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Sweetwater, TN St. Matthews, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025

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

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

Finding a trusted local moving company in Knoxville that offers long-distance services to Columbia can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed nine top local movers in Knoxville 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 Knoxville to Columbia.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Gouffon Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.1% of all reviews were positive
21.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving days made easy—Bellhop Moving stands out with 32 customer feedback submissions, where 78% praised their experiences. Repeated mentions include professional crews, careful handling, efficient progress, rapid service, and clear communication. Customers consistently note Bellhop’s friendly and polite teams who take extra precautions with belongings and keep clients informed throughout the process.
In contrast, about 22% reported issues such as damaged items, a lack of communication, or being surprised by extra charges. Most frustrations highlighted poor complaint handling and insufficient support when problems arose, with a few cases involving property damage. Bellhop’s positive scores reflect a stronger reliability and focus on customer service than typically found among moving companies, but a small fraction of customers report serious shortcomings regarding protection of items and responsiveness.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
7.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Gouffon Moving & Storage delivers a clear picture: 243 reviews analyzed, with an impressive 91.8% being positive. Customers frequently describe crews as professional, courteous, efficient, and careful with possessions. Many mention clear communication and stress-free experiences, while timely arrivals and fair pricing set Gouffon apart from typical movers.
Negative feedback concerns damage to items, claims of unprofessional behavior, and difficulties getting complaints resolved—issues that are rare but stand out in comparison to other highly rated companies. With overwhelmingly positive input, Gouffon stands out as one of the most respected moving companies in its region, though a handful of customers caution to watch for mishandled items and follow-up on post-move problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 584-8545

Company Info

Years in Business: 137

DOT #: 553340

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
83.7% of all reviews were positive
14.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, professional and courteous teams, and careful treatment of belongings. Most feedback praises how quickly and smoothly moves are completed, often much faster than expected. Movers consistently show friendliness and respect, making stressful days easier.
Experiences often describe great attention to detail, including wrapping and protecting items, arriving on time, and following customer instructions. Compared to other moving services, College Hunks often outpace competitors in attitude and work ethic. Some customers report costly damage to possessions or homes, inaccurate estimates resulting in much higher bills, and poor follow-up if problems arise. A few cite late arrivals or delays. In all, out of 270 reviews analyzed, 84% are positive, highlighting reliability and professionalism, while about 15% note damage, pricing surprises, or communication issues.
Show more
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving Knoxville

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.9% of all reviews were positive
16.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving can be a headache, but most feedback on TWO MEN AND A TRUCK describes reliable, polite, and energetic teams that take the stress out of relocation. Out of 238 customer submissions, 82% praised efficient service, respectful and professional movers, careful treatment of belongings, and clear communication. Customers valued fast moves and recommended the company to friends and family, often comparing them favorably to local competitors for speed and courtesy.
Over 16% of input, though, cited trouble with damaged items, surprisingly high bills, and slow or absent response on claims or complaints. Several reported that final costs far exceeded initial quotes or that the company fell short in resolving issues. Four reviewers felt experiences were mixed, mainly due to organization or communication glitches. For prompt, careful moves with attentive staff, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out, but confirming details on pricing, insurance, and claims remains important—especially compared to other movers with more consistent complaint resolution.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 225-6350

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

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
61.6% of all reviews were positive
36.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
All My Sons Moving & Storage earns high marks for courteous crews, professionalism, and cautious handling of customer belongings. Out of 328 pieces of feedback, 61.6% praised the staff’s positive attitude, efficient work, and thorough communication. Customers often note that movers protect furniture well and make the moving day stress-free.
On the flip side, 36.6% of input details recurring problems such as damaged items, costs that wind up higher than estimates, and unexpected extra charges. Some customers report that claims for damages are hard to resolve or compensation offered is inadequate. The company has more positive feedback than many movers, especially for friendly teams, but repeated complaints about damage and pricing transparency keep it from being a top-tier relocation provider in the region.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 276-7161

Company Info

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 Knoxville to Columbia?

In Tennessee, moving services typically cost around $123 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 $901 – $2,982 $590 – $1,449 $302 – $508
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,632 – $4,459 $1,040 – $1,927 $299 – $626
4+ bedrooms $2,162 – $5,753 $1,413 – $2,409 $400 – $766
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 263-mile move from Knoxville to Columbia, 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 Knoxville to Columbia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Knoxville, you can expect prices to land between $901 and $2,982. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,632 to $4,459 for the trip from Knoxville to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,162 and $5,753.

Cost of moving containers from Knoxville to Columbia

Moving containers from Knoxville to Columbia will cost you $590 to $1,449 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,040 to $1,927. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,413 to $2,409. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Tennessee.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Knoxville to Columbia

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

Expect to pay between $302 and $508 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $299 to $626. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $400 to $766.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Knoxville to Columbia move toggle

The cost of Knoxville movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,257 for a one-bedroom, or up to $4,862 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Knoxville.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $302 to $701, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Knoxville to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Knoxville – roughly 10% less for singles and 18% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $2,184 in Knoxville. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $5,200.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Knoxville Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,667 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $3,210 $2,220
Average home value $350,035 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $61,050 $64,683
Cost of living (single) $2,184 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $5,200 $4,274
Unemployment rate 4.7% 5.2%
Sales tax 9.25% 8.0%
State income tax 0.0% 7.0%
  • When relocating from Knoxville to Columbia, expect to find rent about 19% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 37% more affordable in Columbia compared to Knoxville.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 6% higher in Columbia compared to Knoxville, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbia, as the cost of living for a single person is 10% lower compared to Knoxville.
  • A move to Columbia can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 18% less than what it costs in Knoxville.
  • Columbia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Knoxville by around 11%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes are 14% less in Columbia relative to Knoxville. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • South Carolina has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

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

Living Expense Knoxville Columbia
Basic utilities $215.94 $148.09
Cell phone plan $54.00 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.06 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.64 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85.00 $60.00
Gym membership $34.67 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Knoxville than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Knoxville than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Knoxville than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Knoxville than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Knoxville than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Knoxville than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Knoxville than in Columbia.

How life is different in Knoxville vs. Columbia

Knoxville Columbia
Population 190,740 136,632
Transportation score 4 5
Walkability score 31 35
Bike friendliness score 30 35
Crime index 42.54 3.0
Safety index 57.46 48.39
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 28% less than Knoxville.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Knoxville’s score of 4.
  • Columbia is more walkable than Knoxville with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Knoxville’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 35 out of 100, Columbia is more bike-friendly than Knoxville, which has a score of 30 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Knoxville with a score of 3.0 compared to Knoxville’s 42.54. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than Knoxville with a score of 48.39 vs Knoxville’s 57.46.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Knoxville it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Knoxville to Columbia 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: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina 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 Columbia. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbia

Planning your move to Soda City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

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

  • Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay 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 Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Knoxville to Columbia?toggle

Planning your move from Knoxville to Columbia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Knoxville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Knoxville to Columbia?toggle

Because most people are moving from Knoxville to Columbia 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 Knoxville to Columbia take?toggle

The 263-mile journey from Knoxville, TN to Columbia, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Knoxville offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbia.

Are there special savings available from movers in Knoxville?toggle

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Knoxville?toggle

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Knoxville, 6 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Tennessee has 46 piano movers and 21 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

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle
SunMonTueWedThuFriSat
262728293031123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930123456