best moving companies in Columbus
Updated: July 10, 2025
5 min read
Quick Answer: For dependable local moves in Columbus, we suggest checking out Reliable Movers Co. and Express Relocation Services, known for their professionalism and clear, upfront pricing. If you’re planning an interstate move from Columbus, Trusted Nationwide Movers and Horizon Van Lines stand out for offering a great mix of affordability and quality customer care.
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How Much Does Moving in Columbus Cost?
Moving Tip: o steer clear of unexpected charges, consider requesting a flat fee based on the size of the moving truck rather than paying per item. This approach lets you pay for the actual space your belongings take up helping you avoid surprise costs on moving day.
Factors that affect moving costs in Columbus
Distance
The time and fuel can affect local moves, but if you’re moving out of Columbus you may see additional fees
Size
Larger homes with more belongings require more labor and larger trucks, resulting in higher costs
Time of year
Peak moving seasons in Columbus, like summer or around holidays, often come with higher rates
Additional services
Services like packing, unpacking, or assembly/disassembly of furniture will add to the total cost
1. What’s the Price to Hire Professional Movers?
Hiring full-service movers is often the easiest and most stress-free choice, especially if you have a larger household or valuable possessions. These movers handle everything—from packing and loading to transporting and unloading—making your move much smoother.
For long-distance moves, costs usually depend on factors like how far you’re going, the amount of stuff you have, and the labor involved.
| Home Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom | $2,500 - $4,000 |
| 2-3 Bedroom | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $7,000 - $10,000 |
Professional movers save you a lot of time and effort, which is especially helpful if you’re relocating across state lines. Plus, many offer packing services that can protect your belongings from damage during transit. Some companies even provide insurance options for extra peace of mind.
2. What Does Renting Moving Containers Like PODS Cost?
If you’re looking for more control over your moving schedule, renting a portable container like PODS can be a great option. These containers are delivered right to your home, giving you the freedom to pack everything at your own pace. Once you’re done, the company picks up the container and delivers it to your new address.
| Container Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 12 ft. Container | $2,000 - $3,500 |
| 16 ft. Container | $2,500 - $4,500 |
Moving containers are ideal if you want to avoid the stress of moving everything in a single day. They often come at a lower price compared to hiring full-service movers. Plus, if your new place isn’t quite ready, you can usually keep the container stored for a little longer—giving you extra flexibility during your move.
3. What Are the Costs to Rent a Moving Truck?
If you’re planning a DIY move, renting a truck from companies like U-Haul, Budget, or Penske is often the most budget-friendly option. While it means more work for you, it can save a lot of money compared to full-service movers.
| Truck Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 10-12 ft. Truck | $1,200 - $1,800 |
| 15-17 ft. Truck | $1,800 - $2,400 |
| 20-26 ft. Truck | $2,500 - $3,500 |
Keep in mind, you’ll also need to budget for extra expenses like fuel, lodging if your trip spans multiple days, and tolls along the route. Additionally, rental companies might charge extra fees for late returns or if you need special equipment like dollies or moving pads.
USMPO Recommended moving companies in Columbus
International Van Lines
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 2293832
- MC number: 729978
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: International Van Lines
- Physical Address: 3957 NW 126TH AVE CORAL SPRINGS, FL 33065
International Van Lines Reviews
4.9/5
Average of 1239 Customer Reviews
International Van Lines Google Reviews
Review From: Google
Rating:4.9/5
International Van Lines has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on International Van Lines Profile.
Allied Van Lines
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 076235
- MC number: 15735
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: Allied Van Lines
- Physical Address: 7051 SW 21st Place Ste 100 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317
Allied Van Lines Reviews
4.7/5
Average of 198 Customer Reviews
allied van lines google reviews
Review From: Google
Rating: 4.7/5
Allied Van Lines has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on Allied Van Lines Profile.
Safeway Moving
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 3756000
- MC number: 1335229
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: Safeway Moving Inc
- Physical Address: 5217 NW 33rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA
Safeway Moving Reviews
4.3/5
Average of 239 Customer Reviews
Safeway Moving Inc Google Review
Review From: Google
Rating: 4.3/5
Safeway Moving Inc has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on Safeway Moving Inc Profile.
American Van Lines
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 614506
- MC number: 294798
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: American Van Lines
- Physical Address: 1351 NW 22nd St, Pompano Beach, FL 33069, U. S.
American Van Lines Reviews
4.3/5
Average of 1,513 Customer Reviews
American Van Lines Google Review
Review From: Google
Rating: 4.3/5
American Van Lines has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on American Van Lines Profile.
Register Your Move With U.S. Moving Protection
Why shippers register their move with USMPO?
A registered move is a safer move. Registered moves will have access to resources, including a USMPO move coordinator, and receive reminders throughout their move process, minimizing discrepancies that lead to delays and price hikes.
The initiative is an added layer of protection and quality assurance for their relocation. Shippers with registered moves have access to resources that will verify the accuracy of their inventory, pricing, and quotes. Additionally, registered moves have the added benefit of conflict resolution and claims assistance.
How does USMPO ensure secure moves?
USMPO ensures consumer safety in the moving industry by tracking carrier performance. This allows for improved accountability and transparency in the moving process, as well as the implementation of safety measures such as further audits background checks on carriers.
What Makes USMPO Different?
Choosing a mover from the open market often means taking a leap of faith. But when you choose a USMPO-verified mover, you’re relying on an industry-standard safeguard designed to protect your move and your money.
Here’s what you get with USMPO:
- Access to a list of verified, trustworthy, and compliant moving companies.
- Peace of mind through oversight, support, and consumer education.
- Protection from rogue operators and misleading pricing tactics.
- Free tools like our Moving Cost Calculator.
- Ongoing advocacy and dispute resolution—because your move deserves protection.
Why Choose U.S. Moving Protection for Your Columbus Move?
1. What Is a USMPO Verified Carrier?
The U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) was created to make the moving process safer and more trustworthy for consumers. Their verification program holds movers accountable to the prices they quote, keeps an eye on their performance, and helps prevent issues like lost belongings or delayed deliveries.
Why Verification Matters
Movers verified by USMPO go through a thorough review to confirm they’re legitimate and committed to honest, ethical business practices. These companies promise to provide:
- Accurate, transparent estimates
- Fair and honest pricing
- High-quality service
2. Why Choose a USMPO Verified Carrier?
Avoid Pricing Surprises
Many customers fall victim to rogue movers by choosing companies based on attractive low quotes or misleading online reviews. Unfortunately, these initial “deals” often come with hidden costs. Rogue movers may use bait-and-switch estimates, incomplete itemized inventories, or vague terms that allow them to dramatically inflate prices on moving day.
Even when presented with a so-called “binding estimate”, customers are often blindsided by inflated final charges due to overlooked items or “required additional services.” These shady tactics erode trust and can leave customers stranded with skyrocketing costs.
By contrast, USMPO Verified Carriers undergo rigorous auditing to ensure they honor their original quotes. Through a system of random audits comparing estimates with final charges, the USMPO holds its carriers accountable. Movers who fail to meet these high standards are promptly removed from the network, ensuring that only ethical and transparent operators remain.
3. Why Choose a USMPO Verified Carrier?
When you pick a mover verified by the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO), you’re not just hiring any company—you’re choosing a mover backed by a trusted organization dedicated to protecting your interests. Here’s what that means for you:
- Transparent Pricing: You won’t face hidden fees or surprise costs—just clear, honest quotes and fair adjustments if anything changes.
- High-Quality Service: USMPO thoroughly vets its carriers to ensure they meet top industry standards for professionalism and reliability.
- Customer Protection: If any issues come up, USMPO stands behind you, holding movers accountable to provide a smooth and trustworthy moving experience.
- Safety From Scams: Being USMPO verified helps you avoid rogue movers or dishonest brokers who take advantage of unsuspecting customers.
4. How Can You Tell if a Moving Company Is Legit?
Finding a reliable moving company can feel overwhelming, especially with so many scams and dishonest operators out there. At the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO), we’re here to help you make smart, confident choices when selecting your mover.
Every year, thousands of people get caught in moving scams—whether it’s hidden fees, hostage loads where your belongings are held until you pay more, or companies that disappear after pickup. To protect you, USMPO has created clear standards and tools to help spot trustworthy movers.
USMPO’s 5-Point Checklist to Spot a Legit Moving Company:
Verified Licensing (USDOT/FMCSA Compliance):
A reputable moving company must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid USDOT number if they handle interstate moves. We double-check all movers in our network to ensure they meet these legal requirements—so you don’t have to worry about whether they’re properly licensed.Proof of Insurance:
Responsible movers carry cargo insurance, general liability coverage, and workers’ compensation for their staff. Every USMPO-verified mover must provide proof of these insurance policies, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are protected in case of accidents.Transparent, Accurate Estimates:
Many fraudulent movers give low quotes over the phone that skyrocket on moving day. To avoid surprises, USMPO requires movers to conduct video or in-person surveys of your belongings and provide clear, written, binding estimates upfront.Real Business Presence and Reputation:
We verify that movers have a physical business location (no P.O. boxes), solid branding, and a proven track record of good customer service. Our system also checks feedback and complaints from trusted sources like FMCSA, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google reviews.Ongoing Accountability with USMPO:
Unlike many directories, USMPO doesn’t just list movers—we actively monitor their behavior. Movers who don’t maintain high standards of safety, fairness, and customer care are removed from our registry. Plus, if disputes arise, we offer a formal resolution process to protect your rights.
5. How to Avoid Moving Scams in Columbus
It might seem easy to just search online for movers, but this approach can lead to some serious risks. Unfortunately, dishonest movers often buy fake reviews, game search rankings, and create the illusion of being trustworthy. That’s where the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) comes in — we take the guesswork out by carefully screening movers for proper licensing, legitimacy, and honest business practices.
To protect yourself from falling victim to scams, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Do Your Homework
- Get Multiple Quotes
- Check Credentials
- Avoid Large Upfront Deposits
- Insist on a Written Contract
- Watch for Red Flags
- Verify Contact Details
6. USMPO Tip: Look for these red flags
- The mover gives you a quote without inspecting your belongings.
- The mover tells you they’ll give you the cost after they load the truck.
- The mover wants a big deposit before the move.
- The mover wants you to sign forms that aren’t filled in.
- The mover doesn’t give you a copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” and “Ready to Move,” which are brochures that federal laws require movers to supply to customers.
- The mover’s website doesn’t have a local address, registration information or insurance information.
- The movers tell you their insurance covers your stuff (“full value protection” is not insurance).
- The movers don’t answer the phone with the name of the company you hired.
- The movers don’t have an office.
- The movers show up with a rented truck instead of one with the company logo on it.
- The movers claim you have more stuff than what they put in the estimate.
Your Moving Questions, Our Expert Answers
We’re here to address your concerns and provide non-biased guidance.
How do I find the best moving companies in Columbus that are trustworthy?
To find the best moving companies in Columbus, start by looking for movers that are verified by the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO). USMPO verifies licensing, insurance, and performance history, ensuring that you're choosing a mover with a proven track record of honest, professional service. Avoid companies that lack a USDOT number or offer vague quotes—USMPO’s registry helps you steer clear of scams.
What makes a USMPO-verified mover better than others in Columbus?
USMPO-verified movers stand out because they undergo a thorough vetting process that includes background checks, license verification, customer service reviews, and insurance proof. When choosing among the best moving companies in Columbus, opting for one with USMPO verification gives you added peace of mind that your belongings are in responsible hands.
Can I get a fair price from the best moving companies in Columbus?
Yes, and USMPO helps make that easier. Movers listed through USMPO are committed to providing transparent, binding estimates—meaning no last-minute surprise charges. If you're comparing prices among the best moving companies in Columbus, always request a written estimate and consider whether the company follows USMPO’s pricing ethics.
How can I report issues with a moving company in Columbus?
If you have a problem with a mover, especially one that claimed to be among the best moving companies in Columbus, and they’re USMPO-verified, you can file a complaint directly through USMPO. The organization offers a resolution process to mediate disputes and hold movers accountable to ethical business practices.