Local moving companies in California
Moving from California to Charleston, WV calls for the support of experienced and reliable movers who can handle relocations with ease.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Charleston, WV.
- Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191566
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2950711
Since 2017, 680 Movers has been a trusted local moving company serving Walnut Creek, CA, and nearby areas. Known for their comprehensive local residential moving services, they stand out from competitors with their top-rated customer satisfaction, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond local moves, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized services such as piano and pool table relocations. At $125 per hour, 680 Movers provides a blend of quality and affordability that makes them a popular choice among Walnut Creek residents.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Charleston, WV
Check out the table below for average cost ranges to move from California to Charleston, WV, across different service types and home sizes.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,288 – $5,457 | $1,328 – $3,141 | $1,336 – $2,745 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,785 – $7,327 | $2,267 – $4,567 | $1,418 – $3,205 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,840 – $11,922 | $3,309 – $6,205 | $1,940 – $4,046 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,454-mile move from California to Charleston, WV using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of confirmed prices from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to account for seasonal patterns and market movement. Actual charges can change depending on load size, optional services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and your dates. Always compare several quotes to get a realistic price range.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Charleston, WV
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from California to Charleston, WV, you’ll likely pay between $1,288 and $5,457. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,785 and $7,327 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,840 to $11,922.
Cost of moving containers from California to Charleston, WV
When you’re heading from California to Charleston, WV, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,328 and $3,141. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,267 and $4,567. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,309 to $6,205. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Charleston, WV
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck from California to Charleston, WV will cost around $1,336 to $2,745. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,418 to $3,205, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $1,940 to $4,046.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Compare local moving companies from California to Charleston, WV
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Republic Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| 680 Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Among the 3,175 movers we’ve evaluated, here’s where California movers stand in terms of national service and discount offerings:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Charleston, WV
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Charleston, WV has in store compared to California. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: California vs. Charleston, WV
| California | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $875 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $153,672 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $59,354 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 81 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 6.2% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 6.5% |
Charleston sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 53% less expensive in Charleston than in California, so you could take advantage of the savings.
- On average, homes in Charleston are 80% cheaper than in California, making your move easier on your wallet.
- On average, incomes in Charleston are about 35% lower than in California. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you move.
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is 15% higher than in California. It’s a good idea to plan carefully and prepare for a more competitive job market.
- West Virginia has income tax rates about 51% lower than California, so your paycheck will stretch further.
How life is different in Charleston from California
| Charleston | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 48,018 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 24ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 28″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 53.94 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Charleston voted Republican, while California leaned Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Charleston is 86ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF. With summer temperatures being similar, you’ll likely enjoy an easy transition, but don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather trends, and energy costs to truly understand what summer will be like in your new state.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Charleston drop to 24ºF, compared to 59ºF in California. Moving to Charleston means you’ll need to adapt to chillier winters, which might mean higher heating costs and some adjustments to your daily routine. On the bright side, you’ll also get to experience unique winter scenery and plenty of seasonal fun.
- You can expect about 46 inches of rain each year in Charleston, significantly more than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. That extra rain comes with lusher landscapes and wetter days, so it’s a good idea to grab some quality waterproof gear and embrace the new climate.
- Each year, Charleston gets about 28 inches of snow, far more than the 7 inches you might be accustomed to in California. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
- Charleston has a higher crime rate than California, with a crime index of 53.94 compared to 28.43. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good reminder to look into local safety precautions and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Things to do in Charleston
From beautiful parks and fascinating museums to exciting sports and stellar universities, Charleston really has something for everyone.
Museums in Charleston
- Clay Center
- West Virginia State Museum
- Avampato Discovery Museum
- The Art Emporium
Parks in Charleston
- Haddad Riverfront Park
- Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve
- Cato Park
Sports teams in Charleston
- Charleston Golden Eagles (Mountain East)
Universities in Charleston
- West Virginia Junior College Charleston
- University of Charleston
Other considerations when moving to Charleston, WV
- HOA rules: Before moving day, check your neighborhood or community rules so you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve your building’s elevator in advance and double-check any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify your West Virginia moving license status right on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to West Virginia, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This way, you can select your moving date and ensure your mail is forwarded to West Virginia right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Charleston take?
How long it takes to move from California to Charleston, WV depends on your starting point and the type of move you choose. No matter the method, loading your belongings usually takes a day or less, even if you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re starting from northern California, it’ll take longer to get to Charleston. When renting a truck, plan for a one- to two-day drive, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Getting your stuff from California to Charleston can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Charleston?
Planning a 2,454-mile move from California to Charleston? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Charleston, WV?
With the summer highs of 86°F and the winter lows of 24°F, most people move to Charleston from California during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Charleston during summer or winter.
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