How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Columbia
Some factors you should consider when choosing a moving company include cost, services offered, customer reviews, and licensing.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Columbia is $54. A two-bedroom move in the area costs approximately $4,256 in total. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include the season, move distance, any additional tasks you need done, and your home size.
We recommend obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Get written estimates, which should break down your total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Hold onto your moving company's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Solid customer feedback is important for all moving companies. You can identify moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, social media, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Columbia must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover must be registered with the Tennessee Department of Revenue.
If you're moving across states, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assess whether the mover can provide the services you need during the quote process. Conduct an inventory of your belongings when getting quotes and document any basic or add-on services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Furthermore, tell your moving company representative about any extra services you may need to gauge the company's capability to deliver satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will provide these moving services in the base price for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Tell your moving company about any special services you need as you go through the quote process. Services that contribute to higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Moving a piano
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Columbia, TN
Here are some additional tips to consider for your Columbia move.
Schedule an Early Move
Columbia sometimes sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Getting stuck in traffic can lead to delays and impact your budget, as local movers charge by the hour. You can prevent this by scheduling your move a few hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season peaks between May and September. In Columbia, this time coincides with very hot summer weather, which can delay or worsen your move. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to secure the moving company you want. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only transport items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should have everything boxed up before their arrival. You should start packing about six weeks before you move. Spend some time packing each day to prevent last-minute scrambling on moving day.
How Much do Movers Cost in Columbia, TN
Movers in Columbia cost $2,645 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,259 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
---|---|---|---|
Less than 250 miles | $2,645 | $3,143 | $7,259 |
250-999 miles | $3,259 | $3,773 | $10,725 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,298 | $4,327 | $11,130 |
2,500+ miles | $3,220 | $5,395 | $13,274 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Columbia
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