Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
Local moving companies in Des Moines
Out of 13 Des Moines movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Carolina.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $130/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2468266
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 3527158
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $100/hr
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 1471037
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Local moving services in Des Moines, IA
A quick snapshot of how many Des Moines movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Des Moines, IA to South Carolina
The following table outlines average prices to move from Des Moines to South Carolina, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,148 – $4,938 | $892 – $2,030 | $738 – $1,378 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,553 – $5,868 | $1,552 – $3,009 | $798 – $1,638 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,219 – $7,898 | $2,014 – $4,256 | $994 – $1,956 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,103-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to South Carolina using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to South Carolina
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Des Moines to South Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $1,148 and $4,938. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,553 and $5,868 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,219 to $7,898.
Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to South Carolina
When you’re heading from Des Moines to South Carolina, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $892 and $2,030. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,552 and $3,009. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,014 to $4,256. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Des Moines easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to South Carolina
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 from Des Moines to South Carolina in a rental truck will cost around $738 to $1,378. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $798 to $1,638, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $994 to $1,956.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to SC
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Des Moines:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Higher demand in the summer season pushes up moving company rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers costs more but makes the process easier.
What you should know before moving from Des Moines to SC
Moving from Des Moines to South Carolina brings exciting changes, though you’ll also notice a surge in living costs. Since South Carolina often has a pricier lifestyle compared to Des Moines, it’s wise to prepare financially.
Explore the differences between residing in Des Moines and South Carolina to ensure you’re ready before relocating:
Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. South Carolina
| Des Moines, IA | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $192,347 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 7.0% |
South Carolina sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in South Carolina runs roughly 7% less than in Des Moines, which means monthly savings.
- Expect mortgage payments to be about 54% higher in South Carolina than in Des Moines, requiring some adjustments.
- Salaries in South Carolina are typically 9% higher than in Des Moines, which could make it easier to cover expenses or boost savings.
- The cost of living is about 10% higher in South Carolina than in Des Moines, so plan your finances carefully to handle the increase.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in South Carolina, where the unemployment rate is 20% lower than in Des Moines.
- Income taxes are 59% higher in South Carolina than in Iowa, cutting into your take-home pay.
How life is different in Des Moines, IA from South Carolina
If you’re moving from Des Moines to South Carolina, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in South Carolina is like compared to Des Moines.
| Des Moines, IA | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 28.0 |
South Carolina Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, South Carolina leaned Republican, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
- Summer highs hover close to 91ºF in South Carolina and near 86ºF in Des Moines. With such similar temperatures, you’ll find adapting to the new climate relatively straightforward. Don’t forget to consider factors like humidity, overall weather dynamics, and energy usage when picturing your summer experience in the new locale.
- Milder winters in South Carolina average 33ºF, compared with Des Moines, which dips to 13ºF. This can mean fewer weather hassles, reduced heating costs, and easier living.
- Prepare for around 48 inches of rainfall annually in South Carolina, compared with just 36 inches in Des Moines. With more rain comes greener scenery and a few more wet days, so plan for that adjustment.
- In South Carolina, you’ll only get about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than Des Moines. That means moving to South Carolina brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- With a crime index of 28.0, South Carolina is less safe than Des Moines, which has a lower index of 5.0. Plan accordingly and stay alert to local safety advice.
Other considerations when moving to South Carolina
When moving from Des Moines to South Carolina, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific rules for move-in days — verify with your HOA before moving.
- Elevator reservation: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves — check before your moving date.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit if you’re using a moving truck or larger vehicle. Be sure to check ahead of time to see 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can set your official move date so your mail is forwarded to South Carolina without any hiccups. Start here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules differ from state to state, so your specific needs will depend on your location. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in South Carolina
No matter what you’re into—parks, museums, sports, or universities—you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in South Carolina.
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 Des Moines to South Carolina take?
Wondering how long your move from Des Moines, IA to South Carolina will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes two to eight days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.
If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.
Can I find movers that build custom crates in Des Moines?
Yes—eight movers in Des Moines offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Des Moines mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Des Moines to South Carolina?
Need to ship your car from Des Moines to South Carolina? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Iowa to South Carolina.
Why are people moving from Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Des Moines.
Can I pay for my move from Des Moines, IA, with cash?
There are four movers in Des Moines that accept cash payments. That said, cash is not common in the moving industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier’s check for traceability and receipts. Typically, you’ll pay a deposit to secure your booking and move date, with the remaining balance collected at pickup or after delivery (policy varies by mover). Always confirm accepted payment types and the timing of each payment before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
