Local moving companies in Houston
Out of 49 Houston movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Carolina.
- A Better Tripp Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- 3 Men Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Square Cow: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Johnnie T. Melia Moving & Storage: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 005972633C
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 679167
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 000534796B
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 1914113
Alternate Names: 3 Men Movers LTD
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Company Info
State license #: 007018347C
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 006362543C
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1748594
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 0000005457
Years in Business: 56
DOT #: 436264
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Houston, TX
At a glance, the number of Houston movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Houston, TX to South Carolina
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Houston to South Carolina with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,116 – $4,846 | $792 – $2,010 | $642 – $1,168 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,519 – $5,709 | $1,540 – $3,030 | $687 – $1,403 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,106 – $7,918 | $1,956 – $3,869 | $870 – $1,795 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 991-mile move from Houston, TX, to South Carolina using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Houston to South Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Houston to South Carolina typically costs between $1,116 and $4,846. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,519 and $5,709. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,106 up to $7,918.
Cost of moving containers from Houston to South Carolina
If you’re relocating from Houston to South Carolina, you’ll typically spend between $792 and $2,010 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,540 up to $3,030. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,956 and $3,869. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Houston.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Houston to South Carolina
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Houston to South Carolina, expect to pay between $642 and $1,168. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $687 to $1,403. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $870 and $1,795.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from Houston to SC
The cost of a move in Houston can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in Houston often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from Houston to SC
When you move to South Carolina from Houston, TX, expect living costs to be largely equivalent. Your financial planning may not require significant changes, yet it’s advisable to analyze the expenses to pinpoint any minor discrepancies.
Compare cost of living: Houston vs. South Carolina
| Houston, TX | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,549 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $263,945 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,833 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 97 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 7.0% |
South Carolina sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 31% lower in South Carolina than in Houston, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
- You’ll spend roughly 12% more on housing in South Carolina compared to Houston, so plan for a larger mortgage.
- Incomes in South Carolina are around 9% below those in Houston, which could mean tightening your budget.
- Since cost of living levels are so similar in South Carolina and Houston, you won’t see much financial change after relocating.
- In South Carolina, the unemployment rate is about 15% higher than in Houston, which could make the job market more competitive for newcomers.
- South Carolina has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Houston, TX from South Carolina
When planning a move from Houston to South Carolina, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Houston behind for life in South Carolina.
| Houston, TX | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 53″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 63.5 | 28.0 |
South Carolina Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Houston and South Carolina voted Republican.
- Summer highs typically reach about 91ºF in South Carolina and 94ºF in Houston. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Colder winters await in South Carolina, where lows average 33ºF, compared to Houston at 43ºF. This shift means more heating costs and brisker weather, but also unique seasonal charm and activities.
- In South Carolina, expect around 48 inches of rainfall yearly, much like the 53 inches you’ve seen in Houston. Your overall experience shouldn’t change much, though the seasonal rhythm of rain may differ.
- South Carolina gets about 1 inch of snow each year, while Houston sees none. Moving to South Carolina means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- South Carolina has a lower crime index of 28.0 versus Houston at 63.5, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.
Comparing the pros of Houston, TX versus South Carolina:
Relocating can open up a world of new experiences. Discover the unique charms of Houston when set against South Carolina.
| Pros of living in Houston, TX | Pros of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Warm southern hospitality |
| Ample economic opportunity | Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Delicious seafood | Beautiful landscapes |
| Diversity | Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Affordable housing | Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of Houston, TX versus South Carolina:
While venturing from Houston to South Carolina, be mindful of the potential hurdles you may encounter.
| Cons of living in Houston, TX | Cons of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Tropical storms | High cost of living |
| Heat and humidity | Hurricane frequency |
| Terrible traffic | Low quality of healthcare |
| Limited public transportation | High taxes |
| High crime rate | Abundance of construction |
Other considerations when moving to South Carolina
If you’re relocating from Houston to South Carolina, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a South Carolina moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- Moving permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to South Carolina without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in South Carolina
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, South Carolina has plenty 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 Houston to South Carolina take?
The time it takes to move from Houston, TX, to South Carolina ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take two to seven days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in Houston offer custom-built crate services?
21 movers in Houston list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Houston mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Houston to South Carolina?
Need to ship your car from Houston to South Carolina? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Texas to South Carolina.
Why are people moving from Houston to South Carolina?
Many people are moving to South Carolina because of its warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities. On the other hand, people are moving away from Houston because of the tropical storms and heat and humidity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to South Carolina.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Houston?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Houston.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from Houston, TX?
THere are currently, eight movers in Houston that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
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