Local moving companies in Arlington

  1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Straightline Movers Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. My Pro Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars

Olympia Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 70719

Years in Business: 32

4814 Frolich Ln, Hyattsville, MD 20781 US

Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storageโ€™s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry. On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.

Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 70719
  • State license #: 70719
  • DOD certified
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Gentle Giant Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 373544

Years in Business: 45

5782 2nd Street NE, Washington, MD 20011 US

Glowing feedback cements Gentle Giant Moving Company as a leader in their field. Out of 311 reviews, 95% of customers offer high praise, citing efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams as standout qualities. Many describe the moving process as quick, with thorough communication from booking to delivery, creating a smooth and stress-free experience. Hundreds of customers report their belongings arrived safelyโ€”even during challenging or long-distance moves. On the downside, a handful of users express dissatisfaction with final costs exceeding estimates, a few unmet expectations around communication, and occasional scheduling or arrival delays. Compared to many moving companies, reports of damaged goods or loss are remarkably rare. For those weighing reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind, Gentle Giant is a top-tier choice, though budget-focused clients may encounter higher-than-expected pricing.

Get a Quote (202) 758-0213

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Gentle Giant Moving Company
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Straightline Movers Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 3183719

Years in Business: 5

1356 Okie Street NE, Washington , MD 20002 US

Moving with peace of mind is the norm at Straightline Movers Inc., where 188 out of 194 feedback entriesโ€”an impressive 96.9%โ€”are positive. Customers value the team's efficient service, professionalism, clear communication, careful handling, and speed. Many describe staff as polite and attentive, making tasks like disassembling furniture and navigating tight spaces appear effortless. Customers report transparent pricing and flexible scheduling, noting that bookings and adjustments are managed with ease. In rare cases, customers cited damage to belongings and disappointing staff behavior, including issues with handling insurance claims. These concerns are infrequent and usually resolved, standing apart from the much higher level of satisfaction. Compared to standard moving experiences, clients consistently describe Straightline as surpassing expectations, earning strong referrals and repeat business. The concrete track record of careful, fast, and communicative service sets Straightline Movers above most competitors.

Get a Quote (888) 536-0301

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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My Pro Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 3116640

Years in Business: 7

8370 Greensboro Dr, Apt 817, McLean, VA 22102 US

Rave reviews spotlight My Pro Movers' reputation for speed, careful handling, and professionalism. Out of 353 pieces of customer input, 93% reflect positive experiences, with users frequently highlighting efficient crews, polite staff, and responsive helpers who protect belongings and make moving smoother than expected. Many describe high-quality service at a fair price, often outpacing competitors on speed, communication, and attention to detail. Negative input makes up just over 5% and flags issues with inaccurate estimates, higher-than-expected charges, and damaged items. Customers most often complained about large discrepancies between quoted and final costs, with some also noting occasional mishandling of property. Neutral feedback centers on incomplete follow-up and delays but acknowledges hard-working movers. The overall trend shows My Pro Movers exceeds the industry norm on efficiency and care, though clients should confirm pricing details to avoid surprises.

Get a Quote (703) 310-7333

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • MyProMovers LLC
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Bookstore Movers, LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 2005212

Years in Business: 19

5200 46th Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781 US

Moving has never sounded easierโ€”Bookstore Movers, LLC receives rave feedback from 96% of customers out of 230 reviews. Customers consistently praise efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, and clear communication. Most mention speedy, smooth moves and crews who protect property and approach each job with courtesy. Scheduling is simple and estimates align closely with costs, setting this company apart from less reliable movers. Only a few customers report problems: a small portion cite damaged items, rushed jobs, or unexpected extra charges. One neutral review points to delays, missing crew members, and difficult management contact during the move. Compared to most moving companies, Bookstore Movers earns superior marks for consistent reliability, making them a top choice for stress-free relocations.

Get a Quote (202) 570-4697

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Factors influencing moving costs from Arlington to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Arlington movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Arlington to Columbia can be as low as $1,338 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 7,203.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Arlington, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $464 to $1,162. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Arlington to Columbia

Moving from Arlington to Columbia means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Arlington than in Columbia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Arlington compares to Columbia so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Arlington Columbia
Average rent cost $2,718 $1,447
Average home value $810,670 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $128,145 $64,683
Cost of living (single person) $6,867 $1,956
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,970 $4,274
Unemployment rate 4.0% 5.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.0%
State income tax 5.75% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Columbia are 47% lower than in Arlington, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Columbia.
    Home prices in Columbia are 72.8% lower than in Arlington.
  • Income in Columbia is 49.5% lower than in Arlington, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 71.5% lower than in Arlington. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 64.3% lower than in Arlington.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 30.00% higher than in Arlington.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Columbia are 33.33% higher than in Arlington.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 21.74% higher than in Arlington.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $854.52 in Columbia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Arlington.

How life is different in Arlington vs. Columbia

Columbia Arlington
Population 136,632 238,643
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 9
Walkability score 35 71
Bike friendliness score 35 72
Crime Index 3.0 15.67
Safety Index 48.39 79.15
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbia's population is about 43% less than Arlington.
  • Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Arlington's higher score of 9.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Arlington with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Arlington's 71 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Arlington, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • Columbia's crime rate is lower than Arlington with a score of 3.0 compared to Arlington's 15.67. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
  • Columbia is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 48.39 vs Arlington's 79.15.
  • Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Arlington it's good.

Other things to consider for your Arlington vs. Columbia move

  • Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
  • HOA rules: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in South Carolina, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While South Carolina doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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

With your sights set on "Soda City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • Irmo
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Chapin
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

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

  • Arts and culture: Columbia is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, EdVenture Children's Museum, and South Carolina Military Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Arlington to Columbia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Arlington.

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

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

The 475-mile move from Arlington, VA, to Columbia, SC, takes one to four days. Some Arlington movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbia.

Helpful moving resources