Movers in Columbia, SC

Local listings, alphabetical, with a guide to hiring.

Local movers handle moves within the Midlands; interstate moves are federally regulated. Columbia also sees heavy moving seasons around the University of South Carolina and Fort Jackson.

Listed businesses (A–Z)

Listings are alphabetical and are not endorsements. Details were checked against each business's website on September 26, 2026. Listing policy.

About movers in Columbia, SC

A move within South Carolina is regulated by the state. The Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees licensing, insurance and rates for carriers of household goods moved within the state. Its transportation FAQs give a checklist. Ask the mover for its PSC/ORS certificate number, which should also be on both sides of its trucks, and call to verify it. Expect a walk-through and inventory before the quote. Ask for a copy of the approved tariff to check the rates.

Before loading starts, read the bill of lading, including the insurance valuation block you sign, and ask about coverage limits and extra cargo coverage. Unpack and inspect promptly, and file any damage claim with the carrier straight away. ORS Consumer Services, (803) 737-5230 in the Columbia area, can tell you a mover's complaint history. Interstate moves are handled by federal regulators instead. Our moving to Columbia guide, neighborhood guide and school guide help with the rest, and storage covers the gap between leases.

How to choose

  • For a move across state lines, the mover must have a USDOT number — look it up on FMCSA's SAFER system.
  • Get an in-home or video estimate and ask whether it is binding or non-binding.
  • Ask about valuation coverage; basic coverage is usually paid by weight, not by the item's value.

Official lookups: FMCSA SAFER company lookup · FMCSA: Protect Your Move · SC ORS transportation FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How do I check that a moving company in Columbia, SC is legitimate?

For a move within South Carolina, ask for the mover's PSC/ORS certificate number, which should also be on both sides of its vehicles, and verify it with the SC Office of Regulatory Staff. ORS Consumer Services, (803) 737-5230 in the Columbia area, can tell you its complaint history.

How much do movers cost in Columbia, SC?

Costs depend on how much you move and how far. Get an in-person or video walk-through and inventory before the quote, compare at least two quotes, and ask for the mover's approved tariff so you can check the rates and charges.

What should I check on the bill of lading?

ORS requires the mover to issue a completed bill of lading. Before the move starts, look at the insurance valuation block you sign, which sets your cargo coverage, and ask about buying more if you need it.

What if my furniture is damaged in the move?

Unpack and inspect as soon as possible, ask the carrier for a claim form and file it immediately. If you are not satisfied with the response, you can file a complaint with ORS Consumer Services.

Columbia guides for this category