|
|
|
 rating
4.8 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
South Carolina to Alabama Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- The cost to move from South Carolina to Alabama with professional movers will cost between $1,600 and $3,700.*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and one–four day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from South Carolina to Alabama is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights
Who are the best movers to move from South Carolina to Alabama?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from South Carolina to Alabama is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from South Carolina to Alabama below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from South Carolina to Alabama
We recommend that you use a professional, long-distance mover for your South Carolina to Alabama move. A professional mover is better equipped to handle the complex logistics that can arise during the 399 mile journey. After assessing 3,180 movers, moveBuddha concluded that 2,642 (83%) provide interstate moving. Applying our thorough rating methodology, our experts narrowed the list to the best companies equipped to manage your move from South Carolina to Alabama. Our top recommendation is Safeway Moving.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to Alabama?
It costs between $1,600–$5,800 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from South Carolina to Alabama. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 399-mile move from SC to
AL using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 30, 2026.
moveBuddha aggregates thousands of vetted price points from movers across the U.S., updating monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your end price may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel fluctuations, and your chosen dates. Always request estimates from several companies to gauge true costs.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
PODS
Carolina Forest, SC
›
Beaverton, AL
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 02, 2026
$1,797
Safeway Moving
Pelzer, SC
›
Gordon, AL
2 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
$2,457
BLVD Moving
Denmark, SC
›
Elba, AL
4 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
$3,836
1-800-Pack-Rat
Bonneau, SC
›
Vernon, AL
2 Bedrooms
Dec 02, 2025
$1,250
American Van Lines
Central, SC
›
Babbie, AL
3 Bedrooms
Nov 23, 2025
$3,066
Budget Truck Rental
Gray Court, SC
›
Lowndesboro, AL
2 Bedrooms
Nov 03, 2025
$430
Roadway Moving
Campobello, SC
›
Ozark, AL
2 Bedrooms
Nov 03, 2025
$2,764
United Van Lines
Clio, SC
›
Steele, AL
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 01, 2025
$2,946
Mayzlin Relocation
Columbia, SC
›
Loxley, AL
Studio apartment
Oct 23, 2025
$1,670
Allied Van Lines
Gaffney, SC
›
Reece City, AL
3 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
$3,589
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to Alabama?
Moving from South Carolina to Alabama can cost anywhere from $874–$5,219, but most people pay around $1,555–$3,702 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $874 – $2,605 | $590 – $1,486 | $335 – $597 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,555 – $4,526 | $1,046 – $2,064 | $343 – $759 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,464 – $5,839 | $1,401 – $2,606 | $426 – $874 |
These are approximate estimates for a 399-mile move from SC to AL using moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 30, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $1,555 – $4,526 to hire a moving company to move you from South Carolina to Alabama. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $874 – $2,605
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,555 – $4,526
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,464 – $5,839
How much do moving containers cost from South Carolina to Alabama?
Using a moving container from South Carolina to Alabama costs, on average, $1,046 – $2,064. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $590 – $1,486
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,046 – $2,064
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,401 – $2,606
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from South Carolina to Alabama will costs you between $343 – $759, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $335 – $597
- 2–3 bedrooms: $343 – $759
- 4+ bedrooms: $426 – $874
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from South Carolina to Alabama, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from SC to AL?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Alabama — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,065 in South Carolina to $925 in Alabama, and average home values go from $295,769 to $227,508.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (96 vs. 88), unemployment (4.7% vs. 2.9%), and taxes — including average sales tax (7.46% vs. 9.22%) and state income tax (7.0% vs. 5.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| South Carolina | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,065 | $925 |
| Average home cost | $295,769 | $227,508 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $59,609 |
| Cost of living index | 96 | 88 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 2.9% |
| Average sales tax | 7.46% | 9.22% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 5.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Alabama?
Rent is about 13% lower in Alabama than in South Carolina.
Avg rent: $1,065 vs. $925
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 23% lower in Alabama than in South Carolina.
Avg home value: $295,769 vs. $227,508
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 6% lower in Alabama than in South Carolina.
Avg income (per capita): $63,623 vs. $59,609
Is the overall cost of living higher in Alabama?
The cost of living is 8% lower in Alabama than in South Carolina.
Cost of living index: 96 vs. 88
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 24% higher in Alabama than in South Carolina.
Avg sales tax: 7.46% vs. 9.22%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 29% lower in Alabama than in South Carolina.
State income tax: 7.0% vs. 5.0%
How is daily life different in Alabama compared to South Carolina?
Relocating is about more than a job or a place to live — it’s how your day-to-day life will feel.
| Alabama | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,108,468 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Republican 65-35 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 56″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 21.48 | 28.0 |
Will Alabama feel more crowded than South Carolina?
Alabama and South Carolina have similar population sizes, so the “crowdedness” difference may be minimal.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both South Carolina and Alabama voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (91°F vs. 91°F).
Winter: Lows are very similar (33°F vs. 33°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Alabama?
Rain: Alabama gets more rain (56″ vs. 48″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (1 inch vs. 1 inch).
Is Alabama safer than South Carolina?
Alabama has a lower crime index than South Carolina (21.48 vs. 28.0), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Alabama?
Museums in Alabama
- Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center
- Battleship USS ALABAMA
- Legacy Museum
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Parks in Alabama
- Gulf State Park
- Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
- Sipsey Wilderness
- The Wharf
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Sports teams in Alabama
- Auburn Tigers (NCAA)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (NCAA)
- AFC Mobile (NPSL)
- Dixie Derby Girls (WFTDA)
- Birmingham Squadron (NBA G League)
Universities in Alabama
- The University of Alabama
- Auburn University
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- The University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Samford University
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Alabama move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Alabama moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Alabama, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance (“released value protection”) free of charge. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Alabama?
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Alabama?
To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Alabama moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Alabama?
You won’t need a moving permit in Alabama.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
Interstate movers must provide basic insurance at no extra cost. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
Discount availability varies by mover.
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
South Carolina Moving Services
Frequently Traveled South Carolina Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All 
Hide All
