($1,160) Movers From Charleston, SC to California

1. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
2. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.48 out of 5 stars
3. Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
4. Cougar Moving: 4.12 out of 5 stars
5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.16 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Charleston to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,160 and $4,936. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,670 to $7,490 for the trip from Charleston to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,305 and $11,487.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to California

Moving containers from Charleston to California will cost you $1,311 to $3,495 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,303 to $4,995. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,173 to $6,933. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Charleston.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to California

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 $1,438 and $2,895 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Charleston to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,603 to $3,414. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,986 to $4,066.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Charleston:

• Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
• Time of year: Summer moves in Charleston 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.

• In California, rent is about 26% lower than in Charleston, making housing easier on your budget.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 38% higher in California than in Charleston.
• On average, incomes in California run 48% above Charleston, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
• Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 20% higher than in Charleston, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
• Moving to California means facing an unemployment rate 35% higher than in Charleston, which could mean stiffer competition when job hunting.
• Expect to pay about 90% more in income taxes in California compared to South Carolina.

• In the last presidential election, both Charleston and California voted Democratic.
• Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 89ºF in Charleston, 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 California stay around 59ºF, noticeably warmer than Charleston, where lows drop to 39ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
• In California, you’ll get only about 22 inches of rain per year, versus 48 inches in Charleston. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
• California gets about 7 inches of snow each year, while Charleston sees none. Moving to California means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
• California records a lower crime rate (28.43) than Charleston (44.97), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
• Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in California, 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 California. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• 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.