Local moving companies in Washington DC
Out of 82 Washington DC movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Carolina.
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 32
DOT #: 70719
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
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 2005212
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2005212
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2957382
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2957382
Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 45
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $145/hr
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 3455884
Alternate Names: BoxStar Moving Services , BoxStar Moving Services, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Washington DC, MD
Here’s how many movers in Washington DC include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Washington DC, MD to South Carolina
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Washington DC to South Carolina with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,145 – $2,979 | $644 – $1,579 | $378 – $742 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,874 – $5,135 | $1,150 – $2,311 | $445 – $906 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,412 – $7,734 | $1,546 – $3,084 | $549 – $997 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 493-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to South Carolina using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to South Carolina
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Washington DC to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,145 and $2,979. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,874 to $5,135 for the trip from Washington DC to SC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,412 and $7,734.
Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to South Carolina
Moving containers from Washington DC to South Carolina will cost you $644 to $1,579 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,150 to $2,311. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,546 to $3,084. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Washington DC.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to South Carolina
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $378 and $742 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Washington DC to South Carolina with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $445 to $906. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $549 to $997.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to SC
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Washington DC:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Washington DC fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Washington DC to SC
Making the switch from Washington DC to South Carolina might mean adjusting to a new lifestyle while possibly saving money. Since Washington DC is known for its higher expenses, this switch could lead to a more affordable living situation.
Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Washington DC and South Carolina stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.
Compare cost of living: Washington DC vs. South Carolina
| Washington DC, MD | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,400 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $594,337 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 151 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 7.0% |
South Carolina sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In South Carolina, rent is about 56% lower than in Washington DC, making housing easier on your budget.
- Homes in South Carolina are about 50% less expensive than in Washington DC, leaving you with a lighter mortgage.
- Expect average incomes to be roughly 37% lower in South Carolina than in Washington DC, so financial planning will be important.
- Expect the cost of living in South Carolina to be about 36% below Washington DC, giving you more financial flexibility.
- South Carolina has a lower unemployment rate than Washington DC by about 33%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Expect to pay about 22% more in income taxes in South Carolina compared to Maryland.
How life is different in Washington DC, MD from South Carolina
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in South Carolina stacks up against what you’re used to in Washington DC.
| Washington DC, MD | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49-48 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 89ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 27ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 43″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 14″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 28.0 |
South Carolina Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Washington DC and South Carolina voted Republican.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 91ºF in South Carolina as well as 89ºF in Washington DC, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Winter lows in South Carolina stay around 33ºF, noticeably warmer than Washington DC, where lows drop to 27ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
- In South Carolina, you’ll experience about 48 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 43 inches you’re used to in Washington DC. While the totals are close, timing and seasonal rain patterns could still impact your routine.
- In South Carolina, you’ll get about 1 inch of snow each year, far less than Washington DC. That means moving to South Carolina will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- South Carolina records a lower crime rate (28.0) than Washington DC (60.37), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Other considerations when moving to South Carolina
When you’re moving from Washington DC to South Carolina, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in South Carolina, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to South Carolina. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Carolina
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, South Carolina has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in South Carolina
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Coastal Discovery Museum
- Brookgreen Gardens
- BMW Zentrum
Parks in South Carolina
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park
- Falls Park on the Reedy
- Kiawah Beachwalker Park
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
- Riverfront Park
Sports teams in South Carolina
- Clemson Tigers (NCAA)
- Augusta GreenJackets (Low-A East)
- Charleston Battery (USL Championship)
- Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A East)
- Columbia Fireflies (Low-A East)
Universities in South Carolina
- Clemson University
- University of South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina
- College of Charleston
- Furman University
FAQ
How long does a move from Washington DC to South Carolina take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Washington DC, MD, to South Carolina? Most moves on this route usually take one to four days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 53 movers in Washington DC that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Washington DC moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Washington DC to South Carolina?
Need to get your car from Washington DC to South Carolina? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Washington DC to South Carolina car shippers.
Why are people moving from Washington DC to South Carolina?
Many people are moving to South Carolina because of its warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to South Carolina.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Washington DC?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Washington DC.
Can I pay for my move from Washington DC, MD, with cash?
There are 31 movers in Washington DC that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
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