Hire Movers in Columbia, MD

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Top-Rated Movers Ready to Help, In Your Local Area

Worried about overpaying, getting spammed with calls, or hiring movers you can’t trust?

18 years ago, we built HireAHelper to solve exactly that.

Unlike lead aggregators, our platform lets you compare real-time prices and book trusted, local movers—no hidden fees, no follow-up spam. Because it's a marketplace, real movers compete for your business, so you get fair, affordable rates without the hassle.

Book only the help you need, whether it’s loading a truck or handling your entire move—from start to finish.

Table of Contents

Local Full-Service vs. Labor-Only: Which Is Right for You?

The Cost of Moving in Columbia, MD

Moving Services in Columbia, MD

HireAHelper's Moving Guide for Columbia, MD

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Columbia

Resources for Your Move

An illustration of movers loading a moving truck in front of a stylized depiction of major landmarks in Columbia, MD.

The HireAHelper Advantage

The Traditional Move

Waste hours calling around and filling out forms — just to compare prices.
Navigate unreliable customer service and unclear expectations on your own.
Endure spam calls and endless follow-ups from vendors.
Expect to pay out of your own pocket if something goes wrong.
vs

Moving With HireAHelper

Compare confidently. See prices upfront and read verified reviews — no surprises, no games.
Book instantly. Book movers directly online, with no middlemen or unwanted spam.
Get real support. Friendly, helpful humans available 7 days a week.
Backed by our guarantee. Our $1,000 Service Guarantee means peace of mind if things don't go as planned.

Compare the Top 38 Columbia, MD Movers

For over 18 years, HireAHelper has built trusted partnerships with top moving professionals, helping customers complete thousands of successful moves. Read verified reviews to see how each mover has performed, then book confidently with upfront pricing and no hidden fees.

$85/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

Samuel Services

4.9 2,213 verified reviews

Germantown, MD

8,517 moves with HireAHelper

Samuel Services Profile Image
Can assist with loading and unloading, we are professional and speedy, check out our reviews and book us today
 read more

$175/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

MBK Moving &Hauling

4.9 718 verified reviews

Middle River, MD

2,088 moves with HireAHelper

MBK Moving &Hauling Profile Image
MBK stands for My Brother's Keeper. We are a locally, black owned business, in the Baltimore, MD area. We offe
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$104/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

DMV Discount Moving & Cleaning

4.7 476 verified reviews

Washington, DC

1,709 moves with HireAHelper

DMV Discount Moving & Cleaning Profile Image
Our team of dedicated professionals promises you 100% satisfaction and guarantee you a stress free true red ca
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$125/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

All Aboard Moverz

4.9 401 verified reviews

Washington, DC

1,973 moves with HireAHelper

All Aboard Moverz Profile Image
At AllAboard we are always active. We won’t stop until the job is done. It’s our pleasure to make your move st
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$100/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

Prestige Laborers

4.9 181 verified reviews

Springfield, VA

563 moves with HireAHelper

Prestige Laborers Profile Image
Prestige laborers offers the finest household moving services to both corporate transferees and private indivi
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$80/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

MD Expert Movers

4.8 1,060 verified reviews

Takoma Park, MD

3,558 moves with HireAHelper

MD Expert Movers Profile Image
No hidden prices. Free shrink wrap. Serving FL,MD, DC, VA.PODS Experts! PackRat, ABF trailers/containers, and 
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$140/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

On Go Moving And Hauling

4.9 477 verified reviews

Essex, MD

1,246 moves with HireAHelper

On Go Moving And Hauling Profile Image
On Go Moving And Hauling offers customizable moving services to meet your needs. With 5 years of experience, w
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$125/hr

After 2 movers 2 hr min

I & O moving

4.9 526 verified reviews

Elkridge, MD

1,755 moves with HireAHelper

I & O moving Profile Image
Since our founding, I&O MOVING has been known for quality services, exceptional efficiency and the highest lev
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Local Full-Service vs. Labor-Only: Which Is Right for You?

Wondering which moving service is best for you? We've broken it down so you can find what works for your needs and budget.

Full-Service MovingLabor-Only Moving
Price$$$$
Moving Truck Included✅❌
Loading✅✅
Unloading✅✅
PackingAdd-onAdd-on
UnpackingAdd-onAdd-on

Read more about HireAHelper's Moving Services

The Cost of Moving Services in Columbia, MD

When it comes to moving services, you typically have two options: labor-only moving or full-service moving.

Labor-only movers can load or unload your truck or storage container for a lower overall cost, but you have to handle the driving and other arrangements yourself. Full-service teams will bring a truck, do the driving, and load/unload your belongings. You don’t have to lift a single box yourself, but this convenience does come at a higher cost.

See our comparison tables for details on both types of local moving services.

Average Moving Costs in Columbia, MD

Labor-Only Moving Help

Local Full-Service Moving Companies 

$324.80

$776.04

See Your Price

The Cost of Labor-Only Movers in Columbia

Did you know? More than 1 out of 3 HireAHelper customers who select our labor-only moving service use the help to load or unload their PODS container.

Labor-only movers bill hourly, and the final price depends on factors like crew size, number of floors, and the size of your home. In Columbia, the average hourly rate starts around $75.23. Expect a higher moving quote if you schedule during a busy weekend or in peak summer. For a better deal, consider booking on a Wednesday or moving during April, when demand is lower.

The table below shows typical hourly labor costs so you can estimate how much help you'll need.

# of Movers

Move Duration

Average Cost

Studio Apartment

2

2.2

$297

1 Bedroom Apartment

2

2.2

$301

2 Bedroom Apartment

2

2.3

$346

3 Bedroom Apartment

2

2.7

$404

2 Bedroom House

2

2.5

$379

3 Bedroom House

2

2.7

$441

4 Bedroom House

3

3.2

$529

5 Bedroom House

3

3.8

$626

The Cost of a Local Full-Service Move in Columbia

A full-service moving company in Columbia handles loading, transporting, and unloading for an effortless move. It costs a bit more, but you can’t beat the convenience. On average, it costs around $776.04 for this type of move.

But timing matters! Try booking on a Wednesday or in April when demand is lower for better availability and rates.

The table below lays out the average costs of full-service based on the size of your move.

# of Movers

Move Duration

Average Cost

Studio Apartment

2

3.7

$617

1 Bedroom Apartment

2

4.1

$737

2 Bedroom Apartment

2

4.7

$929

3 Bedroom Apartment

3

5.3

$1,044

2 Bedroom House

2

4.8

$957

3 Bedroom House

3

5.6

$1,249

4 Bedroom House

3

5.9

$1,580

5 Bedroom House

3

6.4

$1,685

13,047 Columbia Mover Reviews

On average, movers on HireAHelper earn 4.8 stars out of 5.0 after 308,692 verified customer reviews
Alicia J from Odenton, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
MBK Moving &Hauling Profile Image

MBK Moving is top notch! Anthony & Jay were prompt, professional, expert problem solvers & friendly. They worked harmoniously & efficiently. I highly recommend that anyone needing movers enlist their services.

Reviewed on: 5/5/2025
Michelle C from Derwood, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
Samuel Services Profile Image

Wonderful experience! Quick, careful and quiet. They came, did the job they were paid to do and with courtesy and respect. In general, it was a great experience performed expediently with grace and integrity! Will definitely utilize again!

Reviewed on: 5/6/2025
John R from Alexandria, VA
(5 out of 5 rating)
Moving With Pride LLC Profile Image

The movers were prompt (even came a little earlier per my request) and took care of our property. It was a hot day but they continued to get the job done without needing additional time.

Reviewed on: 6/30/2025
Aeon F from Alexandria, VA
(5 out of 5 rating)
DMV Discount Moving & Cleaning Profile Image

Great service that really saved our butts. This move would not have been possible with their quick response to set up a move after our other movers canceled a week before our move. The guys were nice, helpful, followed directions well, and got the job done quicker than we expected!

Reviewed on: 6/2/2025
Dewayne C from Burke, VA
(5 out of 5 rating)
DMV Discount Moving & Cleaning Profile Image

Our scheduled move forecasted rain all day and it did. That didn’t stop the two men that assisted us with our move. They were on time never complained and worked very hard until we were done. They made our move so much easier. I would definitely recommend DMV moving and cleaning to anyone that needs moving assistance.

Reviewed on: 5/30/2025
Jennifer B from Alexandria, VA
(5 out of 5 rating)
Moving With Pride LLC Profile Image

Bill and Yak were absolutely AMAZING! They had their work cut out for them and worked their magic. They are true hard workers with awesome personalities!

Reviewed on: 6/28/2025
Teresa T from Dayton, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
Vicky Lu's Moving & Hauling LLc Profile Image

They did an excellent job getting the PODS door open and were very willing to work on it for a while until it finally opened. They were very efficient emptying the POD and stacking everything where advised.

Reviewed on: 7/14/2025
Larry D D from Ellicott City, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
All Aboard Moverz Profile Image

The labor was on time, dove right into the job and were careful with the furniture. Used cushioning and straps to secure the load for transport. Everyone was very pleasant.

Reviewed on: 5/20/2025
Kristen W from Brandywine, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
Prestige Laborers Profile Image

They were absolutely fantastic, seasoned professionals that worked fast and efficiently. We are using pods to move and the packing job Kendall did in the pod was perfect. Tight fit and no wasted space. Kind and courteous, they should be at the top of anyones list to help move and were truly awesome!! Nate

Reviewed on: 5/24/2025
Robert B from Bethesda, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
Moving With Pride LLC Profile Image

Great people. Only there two hours. Did all the heavy lifting and followed instructions well. They like water ice cold when they are done working. Wouldn’t even take a break.

Reviewed on: 6/25/2025
Tomas J from Herndon, VA
(5 out of 5 rating)
Prince Asong Moving Profile Image

Devine and his team were incredible! The crew was polite, competent, and able to complete a difficult move in a short amount of time. We will definitely work with Prince Asong should we need to move again in the future, and will be recommending them to our friends!

Reviewed on: 5/25/2025
Miwa W from Baltimore, MD
(5 out of 5 rating)
MBK Moving &Hauling Profile Image

We had a bit of a miscommunication (my fault) but they were able to adjust and reschedule quickly. Anthony & Jay arrived on time & were extremely courteous, professional & efficient. Everything got loaded & unloaded with great care. I highly recommend MBK!

Reviewed on: 4/28/2025

Moving Services in Columbia

How Full-Service Moving With HireAHelper Works

After booking online with HireAHelper, your movers will handle every aspect of moving day so you don’t have to lift a finger. Your moving company will take care of loading, transportation, and unloading at your destination. Want even more support? Many full-service movers offer optional packing and unpacking services to help you settle in faster.

Full-Service Advantages:

  • Less Planning: Skip the headache of coordinating truck rentals, parking permits, and loading help—your movers handle everything.
  • Less Moving-Day Stress: No need to worry about driving or parking a bulky moving truck—professionals take care of it.
  • Peace of Mind: Trust experienced movers to handle your belongings safely from start to finish. Plus, when you book with HireAHelper, you get our $1,000 service guarantee.

How HireAHelper’s Labor-Only Option Works

HireAHelper’s labor-only service gives you complete control of your move while providing the muscle you need to make moving day a breeze. Moving down the road? Your movers can help you load up the rental truck. Moving across the country? Get help loading your PODS in Columbia and help unloading in your new time zone.

Labor-Only Advantages:

  • Big Savings: Pay only for the labor—perfect if you're renting a truck or using a moving container.
  • Flexible & Customizable: You decide what help you need, whether it’s loading, unloading, or both.
  • Easy & Transparent: Compare prices, read verified reviews, and book online in minutes—no hidden fees or sales calls.

Other Ways to Use Moving Labor Help

HireAHelper isn't just for moving day! You can also use our platform to find movers who can help with:

  • Moving Furniture: Need to rearrange your home or set up a new space? Movers can lift and position heavy items exactly where you want them.
  • Loading Heavy Items for Disposal: Whether you're clearing out old furniture, appliances, or other bulky items, movers can handle the heavy lifting into a trailer, dumpster, or curbside.
  • Load or Unload a Storage Unit: If you’re moving items into or out of storage, extra hands can help pack, stack, and organize everything efficiently.
Did you know? More than 1 out of 3 HireAHelper customers who select our labor-only moving service use the help to load or unload their PODS container.

HireAHelper's Moving Guide for Columbia

On average, most people in Columbia need:

2 Movers

Read more about hiring the right number of movers.

The most popular truck size is a:

17' Truck

Read our guide to choosing the right rental truck for your move.

On average, movers in Columbia are booked:

12 days in advance

Pro tip: Book ahead as far as possible to get the best rates!

Tip 1: Handle Utility Transfers Before Move Day

Don't leave utility transfers to the last minute! Get in touch with BGE for electricity and gas, and contact Howard County to switch your water bill. You should also follow these tips to make sure all your utility transfers go smoothly:

  • Start the transfer at least a week before your move date to avoid service gaps.
  • Update any home security or cable providers well in advance so everything's ready.
Bonus tip: Ask about outage alerts or text notifications from each utility. These are handy if storms roll through on moving day.

Tip 2: Pet Rules: Licenses and Leash Laws

In Columbia, pet rules aren't just for newcomers. Howard County requires cats and dogs to be licensed annually, which is easy to forget if you're only moving a few blocks away. You should renew existing licenses with Howard County Animals & Pets whenever your address changes.

Also, be sure to keep pets safely secured during the move. With so many people coming in and out of the home, they might try to bolt out.

Bonus tip: Columbia has plenty of dog-friendly trails, but be courteous—always clean up after your pet to keep the streets clean and safe for everyone.

Tip 3: Avoid Busy School Zones or Rush Hour Routes

Bustling traffic around school zones and commuter routes in Columbia can add hours to your moving day. Howard High, Wilde Lake High, and major highways like the US-29 see peak congestion from 7:30 am-8:30 am and 2:30 pm-3:30 pm. Here are some tips to avoid the worst of the congestion:

  • Use back roads, like Oakland Mills Road, to avoid bottlenecks near The Mall in Columbia.
  • Check the Maryland live traffic cameras for real-time updates.
Bonus Tip: Check the Howard County Public School System calendar to avoid midday bus traffic and school events.
Image of a woman smiling on the phone with boxes next to herImage of a woman smiling on the phone with boxes next to her

Why Book Your Columbia Move with HireAHelper?

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Frequently Asked Moving Questions in Columbia

You've got moving questions — we’ve got answers. Learn what to expect when moving in Columbia.

The cost of moving in Columbia is influenced by factors such as the size and distance of your move, seasonal demand, and additional services like packing, handling stairs, or managing fragile items. On average, a labor-only move costs $516 for a three-hour job with two movers.

Handling the whole move yourself is the cheapest way to do it. But if you don’t want to do all the heavy lifting, consider hiring labor-only movers and renting a truck or portable storage unit to handle transportation yourself. Scheduling your move for a Wednesday and/or in April can help you take advantage of the lowest rates and maximize your savings.

It’s best to book movers at least 13 days in advance to secure your preferred date and time. For peak moving seasons, such as summer or weekends, consider scheduling a few weeks earlier to ensure availability and lock in lower rates.

Yes, you can find movers in Columbia on HireAHelper’s platform who are experienced in handling fragile and valuable items like pianos, artwork, and antiques. These professionals use specialized packing materials and techniques to ensure your belongings are transported safely.

The best times to move in Columbia are early mornings or weekends to avoid rush-hour congestion on major roads like Route 29 and I-95. Planning your move during non-commuting hours helps make the process a lot faster.


Resources for Your Move

Whether you are just starting to plan for your move, or you are dreaming about packing boxes in your sleep, we are here to help. We have loads of advice from professional movers to make your move as smooth as possible.

A woman happily carries a cardboard moving box. There are several more behind her in the room she's in.
How to Organize Your Move: A Complete Guide
Moving is a notoriously stressful undertaking, with seemingly endless logistics, to-dos, and boxes, but a little organization can go a long way and turn the chaos into calm productivity. In the following guide, we’ll walk you through both the big-picture strategies and small-but-mighty tips for every stage of your move so you can keep everything [
]
Read more May 03, 2025
Moving boxes stacked in front of a white couch
Is Buying Moving Boxes Worth It?
The short answer is yes — buying new moving boxes can help protect your belongings better. They don’t have the wear and tear of used boxes, and it may be worth it to ensure your items are safeguarded during the move, especially your most fragile belongings. This guide can help you decide if buying new [
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Read more May 02, 2025
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Help Your Pet Adjust to a New Home: Moving Tips for Dog and Cat Parents
If you’ve ever moved your pet long-distance (or even down the block!), you know that it can be a stressful time for both of you. All the rushing around, packing and planning can make your pet feel uneasy. With their routines changing, dogs and cats can feel unsure about their situation. When you move with [
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Read more September 23, 2024