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($1,529) Cost to Move From Tacoma, WA to Columbia, SC

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Quick answer: A move from Tacoma to Columbia costs $1,830 – $9,734 and usually takes seven to 21 days. Key factors include your move size, date, and whether you hire pros or do the 2,841-mile drive yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our guide to moving from Columbia to Tacoma.

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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
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Best movers by type

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Best professional movers from Tacoma to Columbia

Making the long-distnace move from Tacoma to Columbia is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

With 47 interstate moving companies in Tacoma, we’ve put together a list of the top full-service movers to help you make the move to Columbia with ease.

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

What moving services are available in Tacoma?toggle

Service availability isn’t the same everywhere. This table highlights how often movers in Tacoma offer each option, alongside figures for WA and nationwide, so you can quickly see what’s simple to book and what may require extra planning.

Service Tacoma (Count) Tacoma (%) WA (Count) WA (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 60 96% 90 97% 2,833 98%
Unpacking 60 96% 90 97% 2,798 96%
Fragile-only packing 6 9% 13 14% 718 24%
Packing materials 22 35% 33 35% 1,684 58%
Storage
Long-term 61 98% 87 94% 2,499 86%
Climate-controlled 21 33% 29 31% 977 33%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 48 77% 70 76% 1,884 65%
Art 37 59% 51 55% 1,398 48%
Antiques 37 59% 45 48% 1,401 48%
Piano 47 75% 70 76% 2,173 75%
Hot tub 18 29% 27 29% 670 23%
Pool table 25 40% 37 40% 941 32%

How we chose the best movers WA→SC moverstoggle

moveBuddha’s dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 92 Washington moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
  • Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Highly rated local moving companies for Tacoma to Columbia moves

Organizing a move from Tacoma to Columbia can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Tacoma 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 Tacoma to Columbia.

  1. Mountain Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. A2B Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. All Ready Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Atlantic Relocation Systems: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Move for Less LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.4% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Mountain Moving & Storage feels like working with pros who get the job done efficiently, with lots of respectful and skilled movers. Feedback from 179 customers shows that 84% found the process quick and their possessions handled carefully by helpful crews. Customers trusted the teams for professionalism, fast service, and attention to detail—factors rarely matched by other moving companies.
On the downside, a few experienced issues with item damage or felt the company lacked proper communication, especially when resolving problems. A small number pointed to unprofessional behavior and found claims tough to resolve. Most noted the staff was courteous and efficient, with only a handful encountering serious problems. Overall, Mountain’s track record puts them ahead of many regional movers, but they could further stand out by sharpening their communication and quality controls.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 249-2414

Company Info

State license #: 885643

Years in Business: 62

DOT #: 885643

Alternate Names: Mountain Trucking Co Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.7% of all reviews were positive
15.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, friendly service stands out at A2B Moving & Storage, LLC, with 433 pieces of feedback analyzed and over 80% expressing satisfaction. Customers often highlight prompt, efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, professionalism, and top-tier communication. Friendly, courteous staff and fair, transparent prices appear repeatedly in feedback, outshining many competitors on both cost and customer care.
Repeat customers are common, with many noting stress-free moves and recommending the company to others. On the downside, some users report damage to items, difficulties resolving claims for those damages, and unexpected costs—often due to underestimated move sizes or final bills higher than anticipated. A handful mention slow complaint handling or lacking follow-up, especially around damage claims. Despite these issues, most customers experience clear communication, professional teams, and efficient moves that come in under time or budget, helping distinguish A2B as a reliable and reputable mover in the region.
Show more
Get a Quote (206) 419-5748

Company Info

State license #: 1941425

Years in Business: 15

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
All Ready Moving & Storage customers rave about the movers’ professionalism, efficient service, careful handling, and positive attitudes. Across 95 reviews, 91.6% provided positive input, citing staff as friendly, polite, and highly helpful. Quick moves and support through stressful transitions stand out, with many noting items were well cared for and the teams stayed communicative throughout.
Most feedback highlights a seamless experience rare among moving companies. A few clients voiced concerns regarding unexpectedly high costs, disorganized or careless packing, and occasionally unprofessional conduct, especially on more complex relocations. Only a small fraction experienced billing issues or unsatisfactory handling. Compared to other movers, All Ready delivers more consistent service with exceptional staff dedication, but clarity on pricing and consistent quality remains an area for competitors to match.
Show more
Get a Quote (360) 507-2447

Company Info

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 2083124

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
77.7% of all reviews were positive
15.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise Atlantic Relocation Systems for its professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, good communication, and swift moving process. Over three-quarters of feedback is positive, out of 139 reviews analyzed. Movers often receive high marks for friendliness, organization, and attention to detail, setting the company apart from many competitors.
Customers appreciate how teams listen, adapt to needs, and provide strong follow-through, making relocation significantly less stressful. Negative input highlights damage to items, rude staff interactions, and delays with delivery or arrival. Issues include careless packing, property mishandling, and unsatisfactory resolution of claims, though such complaints appear less frequently than positive remarks. The overall impression is that Atlantic Relocation performs above industry standards in moving professionalism and customer care but shows room for better consistency in item protection and customer response during less-than-ideal situations.
Show more
Get a Quote (509) 258-5050

Company Info

State license #: 2385545

Years in Business: 100

DOT #: 2730619

Alternate Names: Effort Enterprises of Tacoma Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
14.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When it comes to moving day, clients highlight Move for Less LLC for its speed, professionalism, careful handling, fair pricing, and efficiency. Out of 107 reviews, 85% reflect a positive experience, with movers frequently praised for being polite and attentive, finishing jobs quickly, and offering competitive rates. Many customers report stress-free moves, organized packing, and flexible scheduling, which helps set this company apart from the average mover.
In customer input, affordable pricing and consistent performance stood out as strong points, often exceeding expectations even during complex or last-minute moves. Customers frequently highlight positive attitudes and the ability to handle belongings with care. On the downside, 14% of feedback raises serious concerns. Damage to items, such as broken valuables or scratched furniture, proves the top complaint. Some reviewers experienced delayed arrivals and frustrating rescheduling issues. Others mention unexpected charges or final bills exceeding initial quotes. While a small number of clients received after-the-fact compensation for problems, unresolved claims and communication lapses contributed to lasting disappointment. In comparison to similar moving companies, Move for Less LLC’s consistent efficiency and cordial staff make it a standout for most, but potential customers should remain attentive regarding item protection and billing details. The majority of experiences were positive, but those reporting issues did so emphatically and in detail.
Show more
Get a Quote (425) 256-2181

Company Info

State license #: 067981

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3073774

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

On average, moving companies in Washington charge about $143 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 $1,529 – $6,984 $1,434 – $3,762 $1,673 – $3,245
2 – 3 bedrooms $4,753 – $9,734 $2,624 – $5,265 $1,830 – $3,864
4+ bedrooms $8,675 – $14,196 $3,475 – $7,941 $2,292 – $4,511
Estimated costs are based on 2,841 miles and historical data. Final pricing can shift due to move size, extra services, parking logistics, demand in the market, and timing.

Cost to hire movers from Tacoma to Columbia

When planning a move to Columbia from Tacoma, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,529 and $6,984. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,753 and $9,734 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,675 to $14,196.

Cost of moving containers from Tacoma to Columbia

When you’re heading from Tacoma to Columbia, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,434 and $3,762. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,624 and $5,265. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,475 to $7,941. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Tacoma to Columbia

A moving rental truck from Tacoma to Columbia 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 $1,673 to $3,245. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,830 to $3,864, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Tacoma to Columbia costs around $2,292 to $4,511.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Tacoma to Columbia toggle

The cost of Tacoma movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Tacoma to Columbia may only cost $3,181, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $12,992.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Tacoma.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,673–$3,989), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Tacoma to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Tacoma – roughly 53% less for singles and 41% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $4,133 in Tacoma. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $7,260.

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

Tacoma Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,935 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $3,389 $2,220
Average home value $477,289 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $73,341 $64,683
Unemployment rate 7.3% 5.2%
Sales tax 10.3% 8.0%
State income tax 0.0% 7.0%
  • Rent is about 12% less expensive in Columbia than in Tacoma, 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 54% cheaper in Columbia than in Tacoma.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 12% less in Columbia than in Tacoma.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person there is 53% below that of Tacoma.
  • A move to Columbia can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 41% lower compared to Tacoma.
  • Columbia has a lower unemployment rate than Tacoma by about 29%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 22% cheaper in Columbia compared to Tacoma. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • South Carolina has a state income tax, while Washington 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.

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

Living Expense Tacoma Columbia
Basic utilities $229.80 $148.09
Cell phone plan $71.50 $54.77
Dozen eggs $4.84 $3.46
Loaf of bread $4.21 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $72.50 $60.00
Gym membership $51.67 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tacoma than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tacoma than in Columbia.
  • Eggs cost more in Tacoma than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Tacoma than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Tacoma than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Tacoma than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Tacoma than in Columbia.

How life is different in Tacoma vs. Columbia

Tacoma Columbia
Population 223,968 136,632
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 54 35
Bike friendliness score 48 35
Crime index 55.55 3.0
Safety index 44.45 48.39
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 39% less than Tacoma.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Tacoma’s score of 6.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Tacoma with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Tacoma’s 54 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Tacoma, which has a score of 48.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Tacoma with a score of 3.0 compared to Tacoma’s 55.55. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55%.
  • Columbia is considered to be safer than Tacoma with a safety index of 48.39 vs Tacoma’s 44.45.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Tacoma it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Tacoma to Columbia move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Tacoma and Columbia 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: 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in South Carolina, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in South Carolina, 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 Columbia. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

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
  • 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

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

  • 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, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay 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 Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Want to save on your move from Tacoma to Columbia? 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 Tacoma to Columbia take?toggle

The 2,841-mile move from Tacoma, WA, to Columbia, , takes seven to 21 days. Some Tacoma movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbia.

What kinds of discounts do Tacoma movers offer?toggle

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 2 movers offer special pricing for military members. 3 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Tacoma?toggle

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 47 movers in Tacoma provide piano moving services. 37 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 70 piano movers and 45 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,173 and 1,401.

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

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