E.E. Ward Moving & Storage

Planning a long-distance move from Columbus, Ohio? Whether you're heading to the Carolinas, Florida, Texas, or across the country, you’re likely wondering: what’s the most affordable way to get there?

Moving out of state can come with a lot of moving parts—literally and figuratively. But the good news is, there are several cost-effective ways to make it happen without breaking your budget. In this article, we’ll break down the most affordable options for long-distance moves from Columbus and help you decide what works best for your situation.

1. DIY Moving (Truck Rental)

Pros:
Renting a moving truck from Columbus and driving it yourself can seem like the cheapest route. You’re in control of your timeline, and you only pay for the truck, fuel, and any tolls or overnight stays along the way.

Cons:
DIY moves come with hidden costs—like gas, lodging, food, and wear and tear on your body. You’ll also be responsible for all the packing, lifting, and driving (sometimes across multiple states), which can be exhausting—especially if you're moving from Ohio to somewhere like Texas or Florida.

2. Portable Moving Containers

Pros:
Portable containers like PODS or U-Pack are a popular choice in Central Ohio. You pack the container at your Columbus home, and the company handles the transport to your new location. It’s often cheaper than full-service movers, and it gives you flexibility with your schedule.

Cons:
While convenient, you still have to do the heavy lifting yourself, and your container may be in transit for a while, depending on demand and distance.

3. Ship Your Items

Pros:
If you’re moving from Columbus but don’t have a lot of belongings, shipping items via FedEx, UPS, or freight can be surprisingly affordable. This method works well for students, minimalists, or short-term relocations.

Cons:
Shipping large or fragile items can be risky and expensive, and you’ll want to insure anything valuable.

4. Purge Before You Pack

The less you take, the less you’ll pay. Before your move, take time to declutter your Columbus home. Sell furniture you don’t need, donate clothing, and recycle old electronics. Fewer boxes mean lower transportation costs—no matter how you move.

Pro tip: Host a garage sale in your neighborhood or use local Columbus Facebook Marketplace groups to lighten your load and make a few extra bucks.

5. Move During Off-Peak Times

If your schedule is flexible, consider moving during the fall or winter months when demand is lower. In Ohio, summer is the busiest (and often most expensive) time to move. Booking your move mid-week or mid-month can also help you secure better rates.

6. Hire a Reputable Moving Company

While it may not sound like the “cheapest” option upfront, hiring a trusted long-distance mover in Columbus can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run. Full-service movers like E.E. Ward Moving & Storage handle everything from packing and loading to transportation and unloading—so you don’t have to.

We’ve been serving the Columbus area for over 140 years, and we offer custom long-distance moving solutions that fit a variety of budgets. We’re proud to provide transparent pricing, experienced crews, and white-glove service that takes the guesswork out of your move.

Final Thoughts

The cheapest way to move long distance from Columbus depends on your budget, timeline, and how much you’re willing (or able) to handle yourself. Whether you go the DIY route, rent a container, or hire professionals, the key is to plan ahead and explore all your options.

Planning a Long-Distance Move from Columbus?
Let E.E. Ward Moving & Storage help make your move affordable and hassle-free. We’re your local, trusted Columbus movers with national reach—ready to take you wherever life leads next.

👉 Get a free quote today and see how we can make your long-distance move smoother, safer, and more affordable.

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