Columbus continues to experience steady population growth in 2025, attracting new residents for employment opportunities, affordability, and a vibrant urban lifestyle. According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, 8.2 million Americans moved in 2022. Franklin County has seen a measurable increase in inbound moves over the past year, reflecting the city’s expanding housing market and dynamic workforce.
Relocating, whether across town or out of state, can be stressful, especially in a city with Columbus’s mix of historic neighborhoods, busy streets, and modern apartment complexes. Selecting a reliable and affordable moving company is crucial to ensure your belongings are handled carefully, timelines are met, and unexpected costs are avoided. This guide reviews six reputable Columbus movers, each evaluated for professionalism, transparency, service variety, and customer satisfaction, giving you the insights needed to make a confident decision.
For a detailed moving preparation plan, visit our Step-by-Step Moving Checklist.
Why Columbus Movers Need to Be Reliable & Cost-Effective
Source: Consumer Affairs
Columbus’s urban layout and seasonal weather make planning essential for a smooth move. Homeowners and renters alike benefit from movers who are efficient, trustworthy, and cost-conscious. Key considerations include:
- Weather swings: Ohio’s unpredictable weather-rain, snow, or heat-can impact loading and unloading times, making flexible and experienced movers a must.
- Tight urban neighborhoods: Areas such as German Village, Victorian Village, and Short North have narrow streets and limited parking zones, requiring skilled crews who can maneuver safely.
- Efficiency reduces cost: Competent movers work quickly without sacrificing care, cutting down labor hours and potential damage.
- Stress reduction: Transparent communication, reliable crews, and fair pricing significantly reduce moving-related anxiety.
For tips on safely storing items during your move, see Self Storage Tips.
What to Look for in a Columbus Mover
When hiring a mover in Columbus, consider the following factors to ensure a safe, affordable, and professional relocation:
- Licensing & insurance: Verify that the company meets Ohio moving regulations and holds USDOT credentials for long-distance moves. Proper insurance protects your belongings in case of damage.
- Transparent pricing: Look for binding estimates and clearly explained fees with no hidden charges.
- Service variety: The best movers offer local and long-distance moves, packing services, labor-only options, and storage solutions.
- Customer reviews: Ratings of ~3.8+ on platforms like MoveBuddha, Google, or BBB indicate consistent service quality.
- Quote comparison: Request multiple estimates, confirm timelines, and understand cancellation or refund policies.
To make your quotes more effective, check out Getting a Moving Quote.
The 6 Moving Companies in Columbus to Consider
1. Krupp Moving and Storage Columbus
Krupp Moving and Storage Columbus is a locally owned and highly trusted provider, boasting an A+ BBB rating and 95% positive reviews for professionalism, care, and efficiency. Serving both residential and commercial clients, Krupp offers local and long-distance moves, packing services, senior relocations, and storage solutions. Customers consistently praise Krupp crews for their courteous, fast, and attentive handling of furniture and delicate belongings, ensuring a smooth, stress-free moving experience. With free quotes and transparent pricing, Krupp is recognized for providing excellent value without compromising service quality, making it a top choice for Columbus residents in 2025.
2. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage is the oldest African-American-owned moving company in the United States, with over 140 years of experience delivering reliable relocation services. Their extensive expertise covers residential, commercial, corporate, international, and specialty moves such as lab or library relocations. E.E. Ward also offers secure storage options and handles large or sensitive items with care. Transparent pricing is provided through an easy-to-use quick-estimate tool, giving clients confidence in the cost upfront. Known for their professional approach and decades of trusted service, E.E. Ward combines historic legacy with modern moving solutions.
3. Bellhop Movers – Columbus
Bellhop Movers brings a modern, tech-enabled approach to moving, backed by a national brand reputation. With background-checked movers and a high average rating (~4.8), Bellhop is celebrated for reliability, transparent pricing, and user-friendly online booking. They offer local and long-distance moves, labor-only services, and packing assistance, making them a versatile choice for diverse needs. Customers consistently highlight the convenience of guaranteed online quotes, eliminating surprises and enabling efficient planning. Bellhop’s combination of professionalism, flexibility, and friendly service has earned them a loyal client base in Columbus.
4. Leaders Moving & Storage Co
Leaders Moving & Storage Co is a long-standing Columbus-based mover known for hometown service and a reputation for transparency and reliability. Their services include local and long-distance moves, residential packing, and storage solutions. Pricing is guaranteed with no hidden fees, giving customers peace of mind and a clear understanding of costs. Leaders is praised for its experienced crews, community trust, and dedication to delivering personalized moving experiences. With decades of service and strong customer ratings (~4.6), Leaders Moving & Storage provides a dependable, professional solution for Columbus residents.
5. Outside the Box Moving
Outside the Box Moving is a family-owned Columbus mover that emphasizes reliability, flexibility, and fair pricing. They provide residential, commercial, and junk-removal services, as well as secure storage options. Clients consistently praise the company for responsive communication, attention to detail, and adherence to schedules. With free estimates and transparent pricing, Outside the Box makes the moving process accessible and affordable for a wide range of customers. Their strong local reputation and customer-focused approach make them a trustworthy choice for Columbus moves of all sizes.
6. Mr. Mover of Ohio
Mr. Mover of Ohio has been serving Columbus and the surrounding areas for over 35 years, specializing in residential and commercial moves, packing, and temperature-controlled storage. They offer full-service moving, along with senior and military discounts, making them a value-focused option for many clients. Transparent billing and replacement-cost protection provide added peace of mind. Customers note the company’s insured crews, attention to detail, and commitment to handling items carefully and efficiently. With decades of experience and a reputation for trustworthiness, Mr. Mover of Ohio delivers reliable moving services across the region.
Tips for Moving in Columbus
- Book early: Secure movers 4–6 weeks in advance, particularly during spring and summer peak seasons.
- Traffic & parking: Consider logistics in neighborhoods like German Village, Victorian Village, or Short North, where street access can be tight.
- Building access: Confirm elevator availability, loading dock reservations, and any HOA requirements ahead of time.
- Weather protection: Account for rain, snow, or extreme heat to protect furniture and avoid delays.
- Plan your inventory: Declutter ahead of time and label boxes clearly to make unpacking faster and more organized.
FAQs About Hiring Movers in Columbus
What are the typical costs for local vs. long-distance moves?
Local moves in Columbus usually cost between $100 and $150 per hour for a team of 2–3 movers with a truck, though final rates depend on factors such as the size of your home, the amount of furniture, accessibility (stairs, narrow hallways), and additional services like packing or temporary storage. Long-distance moves are calculated differently, often based on mileage, weight of items, and any extra services such as professional packing, climate-controlled storage, or specialty item handling. It’s a good idea to request detailed quotes from multiple movers so you can compare costs and understand exactly what’s included.
What’s included in a full-service move?
A full-service move generally covers everything from start to finish, including packing your belongings, loading them onto the truck, transporting them to the new location, unloading, and unpacking. Many companies also offer optional services such as furniture assembly/disassembly, storage solutions, and specialty handling for delicate or high-value items. Some Columbus movers provide discounts or specialized services for seniors, military families, or those moving off-peak, adding additional value to a full-service package.
When is the best time to book movers in Columbus?
For optimal availability and pricing, it’s recommended to book your movers 4–6 weeks in advance, especially if you’re moving during spring or summer, when demand is highest. Avoid weekends and end-of-month dates if possible, as movers are typically busiest and rates may be higher. Booking early ensures you can secure your preferred moving date and gives you ample time to coordinate logistics such as parking permits, elevator reservations, or temporary storage needs.
What about licensing and discount policies?
Always confirm that your mover is licensed and insured under Ohio regulations, and that they carry USDOT coverage for long-distance moves if applicable. This protects your belongings and gives you recourse in case of damage. Additionally, inquire about any discounts-many movers offer reduced rates for seniors, military personnel, or off-peak moves, which can help you save money while still receiving high-quality service.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right mover in Columbus requires careful comparison of pricing, services, experience, and reviews. This list highlights six trusted, value-oriented moving companies capable of handling local and long-distance moves in 2025.
Plan your move early, request multiple quotes, and consider neighborhood constraints like narrow streets or elevator availability. For a reliable and professional moving experience, Krupp Moving and Storage Columbus is a standout option, combining efficiency, transparent pricing, and attentive service. For more resources and moving tips, visit the Easy Storage Search homepage.