Moving from Columbus, GA to Florida: Top Movers & Costs
If you're moving from Columbus to Florida, you're joining a steady stream of people heading south for better weather, lower taxes, and new opportunities. But before you load the truck, you'll want to know which movers can actually handle the job, what you'll pay, and how life changes when you cross that state line.
I've pulled together the five most reliable moving companies in Columbus for interstate relocations to Florida, plus the real numbers on cost, timing, and what adjusting to Florida life actually looks like.
Best Moving Companies from Columbus, GA to Florida
Out of 9 Columbus movers capable of handling state-to-state moves, here are the five that consistently deliver for the Florida route:
- Two Men and a Truck — 4.38 / 5
- Coleman Worldwide Moving — 4.38 / 5
- Apple Moving — 4.34 / 5
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.26 / 5
- Phelps Moving & Storage — 4.16 / 5
Two Men and a Truck
Address: 1421 Belfast Ave, Columbus, GA 31904
Phone: (706) 352-9518
Rating: 4.3 / 5 stars
License #: 500159 | DOT #: 2527384 | Years in business: 18
Review snapshot: Out of 235 reviews analyzed, 69% praise efficient, courteous crews who work fast and treat belongings with care. Customers regularly mention quick turnarounds and professional service that lives up to expectations.
The flip side: nearly one in three customers reported damaged items, difficulty resolving complaints, or charges that exceeded their estimates. Damage complaints and aggressive follow-up required on your part are consistent pain points.
What they offer:
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Piano moving
- Storage and safes
- Credit card payments accepted
Bottom line: Two Men and a Truck earns solid marks for speed and professionalism, but don't skip the contract details. If something gets damaged, document it immediately and follow up hard—they don't always resolve claims smoothly on their own.
Coleman Worldwide Moving
Address: 4520 Cargo Dr, Columbus, GA 31907
Phone: (877) 693-7060
Rating: 4.3 / 5 stars
DOT #: 2897746 | Years in business: 110
Review snapshot: 84% of 232 reviews were positive. Customers consistently mention on-time arrivals, quick work, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews show up ready to move and often finish ahead of schedule.
The negatives: Some customers reported property damage, missed or late arrivals, and inconsistent courtesy from certain crew members. Military PCS moves sometimes had timing issues.
What they offer:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Packing, unpacking, and crating
- Office relocations
- Storage and safe moving
- Credit card payments
Bottom line: Coleman has a 110-year track record and genuinely strong marks for professionalism and speed. Just keep an eye on your valuables and fragile items—a few customers wish they'd been more careful.
Apple Moving
Address: 4949 Schatulga Road, Columbus, GA 31907
Phone: (706) 561-1981
Rating: 4.3 / 5 stars
License #: 9128 | DOT #: 1934458 | Years in business: 24
Review snapshot: 60% of 45 reviews highlighted positive experiences. Customers praise professional staff, efficient work, careful handling, and movers who go the extra mile—especially with tricky or fragile items.
The concerns: 38% of feedback centered on item damage, lost or misplaced belongings, and delivery delays. A few customers reported lost valuables and poorly packed boxes.
What they offer:
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Office relocations
- Piano and hot tub moving
- Specialty items (pool tables, artwork)
- Crating and storage
Bottom line: Apple Moving has strong individual crew performance and specializes in hard-to-move items, but damage and delay complaints suggest inconsistent quality control. If you have specialty items, they're worth it—otherwise, compare carefully.
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
Address: 506 Manchester Expressway Suite B21, Columbus, GA 31904
Phone: (336) 810-1801
Rating: 4.2 / 5 stars
License #: 3754018 | DOT #: 2378173
Review snapshot: 97% of 249 reviews were glowing. Customers rave about fast service, courteous staff, careful handling, and crews that often finish ahead of schedule. "Stress-free" appears constantly in positive feedback.
The rare misses: A small handful reported higher-than-expected costs, damaged items, or unprofessional behavior—but these are genuine outliers.
What they offer:
- Local moves and packing
- Unpacking and office relocations
- Storage
- Credit card payments
Bottom line: College Hunks has the highest positive review rate on this list and consistently exceeds customer expectations. They lean toward local and short-distance moves, so confirm they handle your specific Columbus-to-Florida distance before booking.
Phelps Moving & Storage
Address: 1636 Cusseta Rd, Columbus, GA 31901
Phone: (706) 323-3662
Rating: 4.1 / 5 stars
License #: 46401 | DOT #: 1166324 | Years in business: 46
Review snapshot: 85% of 13 customer reviews highlighted professionalism, speed, and helpful, organized crews. Feedback emphasizes efficient service and friendly movers with no major complaints about damage or delays.
What they offer:
- Local, interstate, and international moves
- Packing, unpacking, and specialized crating
- Piano and pool table moving
- Art and antique handling
- Storage options
- Payment by money order or credit card
Bottom line: Phelps has 46 years in the business and a clean track record for reliability. With only 13 reviews on file, there's less data than the others, but what's there is consistently strong.
Specialty Services Available in Columbus
If you need something beyond a basic move, here's what Columbus movers can handle:
| Service | % of Movers |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 89% |
| Small moves | 33% |
| Antique handling | 33% |
| Artwork | 44% |
| Piano moving | 56% |
| Fragile-only packing | 22% |
Cost to Move from Columbus, GA to Florida
Here's what you'll actually pay for a 443-mile move to Florida, broken down by home size and service type:
| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,050 – $3,009 | $599 – $1,497 | $359 – $655 |
| 2–3 bed | $1,873 – $5,076 | $1,094 – $2,124 | $395 – $785 |
| 4+ bed | $3,132 – $6,704 | $1,482 – $2,608 | $477 – $953 |
Costs are approximate and based on verified pricing data as of January 2026. Your actual quote may vary depending on move size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel surcharges, and timing. Always get multiple quotes for an accurate estimate.
Cost for Full-Service Movers
Hiring professionals for a studio or one-bedroom from Columbus to Florida runs $1,050 to $3,009. A two- to three-bedroom move costs $1,873 to $5,076. Larger homes (4+ bedrooms) range from $3,132 to $6,704.
Full-service includes packing, loading, transport, unloading, and often unpacking—you're paying for labor and expertise, not just distance.
Cost for Moving Containers
If you prefer to pack at your own pace and have the container transported, expect $599 to $1,497 for a small load. Two- to three-bedroom homes typically run $1,094 to $2,124. Larger relocations cost $1,482 to $2,608.
Check out our guide to moving container costs for more detail on companies and pricing.
Cost for Rental Trucks
Renting a truck is the cheapest option—$359 to $655 for a studio or one-bedroom, $395 to $785 for 2–3 bedrooms, and $477 to $953 for 4+ bedrooms. But you're handling all loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs for the 443-mile route.
What Drives Your Moving Cost
Several factors determine your final bill:
- Move size: More belongings = higher cost. A four-bedroom home costs significantly more than a studio.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbus and across the country. Expect 20–30% higher quotes June through August.
- Service level: Full-service movers cost more but do all the work. DIY truck rentals are cheaper but demand your labor.
- Distance within Florida: Moving to Miami costs more than moving to Pensacola due to mileage.
- Optional services: Piano moving, crating, or storage add to the bill.
Cost of Living: Columbus vs. Florida
Before you book, understand what your monthly and annual expenses will shift to. Florida is significantly more expensive than Columbus in several key areas.
| Category | Columbus, GA | Florida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,100 | $1,444 | +31% |
| Average home cost | $157,861 | $392,176 | +148% |
| Per capita income | $50,542 | $67,917 | +34% |
| Cost of living index | 78 | 102 | +31% |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 2.9% | -45% |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 0.0% | -100% |
Breaking Down the Numbers
Rent: Prepare for a 31% jump in monthly rent. If you're paying $1,100 in Columbus, expect $1,444 in Florida. That's an extra $4,080 per year just on housing.
Home prices: Buying in Florida costs roughly 148% more—nearly two and a half times the price of Columbus homes. If you're upgrading or downsizing, factor this into your budget.
Incomes: Florida's average per capita income is 34% higher, suggesting better job prospects and salary potential. But cost of living rises faster than wages in many areas.
Taxes: Florida has no state income tax, so you'll keep more of every paycheck compared to Georgia's 5.49% rate. For a $50,000 income, that's roughly $2,750 in your pocket annually.
Jobs: Florida's unemployment rate is 2.9%, nearly half Columbus's 5.3%. Easier to find work, but increased competition for jobs also drives up salaries.
Life Changes: Columbus, GA vs. Florida
Moving south comes with real lifestyle shifts. Here's how the two stack up:
| Factor | Columbus, GA | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 206,922 | 22,610,726 |
| Political lean | Democratic (49.8–48.3%) | Republican (51–48%) |
| Summer high | 92°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 35°F | 49°F |
| Annual rainfall | 49" | 55" |
| Annual snowfall | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 72.18 | 21.39 |
Climate
Summer temperatures are nearly identical (92°F vs. 91°F), so you won't notice much difference during the heat. But winters are dramatically milder in Florida—49°F lows versus Columbus's 35°F mean fewer cold snaps, no ice storms, and lower heating bills.
Rainfall increases from 49 to 55 inches annually. It's not a huge jump, but Florida's afternoon thunderstorms are more intense and frequent. Pack a good rain jacket and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
No snow in either location, so you're done with shoveling either way.
Population & Politics
Florida's 22.6 million residents dwarf Columbus's 207,000. You're moving from a mid-sized Georgia city to a major population hub. Columbus leans slightly Democratic; Florida is slightly Republican. If politics matter to your community fit, keep this in mind.
Safety
Florida's crime index (21.39) is significantly lower than Columbus's (72.18)—roughly 70% safer by this metric. Safer neighborhoods, especially in suburban and planned communities, are a real draw for many relocators.
Before You Move: Key Legal & Logistical Points
Don't just hire movers and show up. Handle these details beforehand:
HOA and building rules: If your new Florida home has an HOA, review their moving restrictions. Some require 48-hour notice or limit move times. Confirm elevator reservation procedures if applicable.
Truck parking permits: Some Florida municipalities require permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check your specific city's regulations—you may need to reserve street parking or a permit from the city.
State licensing: All movers operating for profit in Florida must register annually with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Verify your mover's license before hiring.
Moving permits: Florida doesn't require moving permits, but always confirm local parking rules with your city or county.
Change of address: Submit your USPS change-of-address form at least one week before your move. Go to USPS.com and set your official move date. All mail automatically forwards to your Florida address.
Moving insurance: Released Value Protection (often called "basic liability") is the cheapest option and typically included at no extra charge. It caps the mover's liability at 60 cents per pound per item—essentially a pittance for valuable belongings. For full-value coverage matching your actual possessions, ask your mover about additional insurance options or purchase third-party coverage beforehand.
Use a moving checklist: Stay organized with a comprehensive moving checklist so nothing falls through the cracks.
Things to Do in Florida
Florida isn't just beaches and retirees. There's plenty to explore once you land.
Museums:
- Wynwood Walls (street art district in Miami)
- The Ringling (Sarasota's Gilded Age mansion and art museum)
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates (Fort Myers)
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (Key West)
- The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg)
Parks & nature:
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
Sports:
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
Universities:
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
FAQ
How long does a move from Columbus, GA to Florida take?
Typically one to four days, depending on the service you choose. A full-service mover usually takes 2–3 days. DIY rental trucks depend on your packing speed and driving endurance. Summer moves may take longer due to higher demand and scheduling backups. Confirm delivery timelines with your mover at least a week beforehand.
How many Columbus movers offer custom crating for art and antiques?
Six movers in Columbus offer custom crating for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antiques, and electronics. If you have specialty pieces, confirm the mover you select has experience and capacity before booking.
What's the best way to ship a car from Columbus to Florida?
Choose a car shipping company with strong reviews and clear insurance coverage. Look for operators experienced on this route who offer both open and enclosed transport. Get quotes from at least two carriers and verify their DOT numbers before signing.
Why are people moving from Columbus to Florida?
The big draws: year-round warm weather, no state income tax, abundant water recreation (beaches, boating, fishing), lower unemployment, and a lower crime rate. The trade-off is higher housing costs and cost of living overall.
Where can I find long-distance movers in Columbus?
Check out our list of the best long-distance movers in Columbus for detailed reviews and ratings.
Do Columbus movers accept cash?
One mover in the area accepts cash, but it's rare. The moving industry strongly prefers traceable payment methods. You'll typically deposit a percentage upfront to secure your booking, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment methods with your specific mover when you get quotes.
More Moving Resources
Georgia movers:
Popular routes from Georgia:
- Georgia to California
- Georgia to New York
- Georgia to North Carolina
- Georgia to Texas
Moving guides:
- Moving cost calculator
- Moving checklist
- Best cheap movers
- Moving containers vs. trucks
- Car shipping companies
Ready to Move?
Get real quotes from Columbus movers today. Use our calculator to estimate your move cost in under two minutes, then compare options side by side. Know what you're paying for before you commit.