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Local moving companies in Detroit
Out of 36 Detroit movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Carolina.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 114
DOT #: 511993
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1673815
Alternate Names: Royal Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 20587
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 1660642
Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Local moving services in Detroit, MI
A quick snapshot of how many Detroit movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Detroit, MI to South Carolina
The following table outlines average prices to move from Detroit to South Carolina, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,142 – $4,103 | $758 – $1,838 | $546 – $1,005 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,299 – $6,071 | $1,313 – $2,575 | $561 – $1,217 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,054 – $8,361 | $1,813 – $3,349 | $722 – $1,475 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 734-mile move from Detroit, MI, 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 Detroit to South Carolina
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Detroit to South Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $1,142 and $4,103. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,299 and $6,071 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,054 to $8,361.
Cost of moving containers from Detroit to South Carolina
When you’re heading from Detroit to South Carolina, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $758 and $1,838. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,313 and $2,575. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,813 to $3,349. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Detroit easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit 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 Detroit to South Carolina in a rental truck will cost around $546 to $1,005. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $561 to $1,217, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $722 to $1,475.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Detroit to SC
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Detroit:
- 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 Detroit to SC
If you’re moving to South Carolina from Detroit, MI, you’ll find the cost of living is about the same. With similar expenses, your budget shouldn’t need big adjustments, but it’s always smart to check the breakdown to see where small differences might show up.
Compare cost of living: Detroit vs. South Carolina
| Detroit, MI | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,250 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $73,156 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $37,761 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.06% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 7.0% |
South Carolina sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in South Carolina runs roughly 15% less than in Detroit, which means monthly savings.
- Expect mortgage payments to be about 304% higher in South Carolina than in Detroit, requiring some adjustments.
- Salaries in South Carolina are typically 68% higher than in Detroit, which could make it easier to cover expenses or boost savings.
- The cost of living is about the same in South Carolina and Detroit, so you won’t need to worry about big financial shifts.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in South Carolina, where the unemployment rate is 48% lower than in Detroit.
- Income taxes are 65% higher in South Carolina than in Michigan, cutting into your take-home pay.
How life is different in Detroit, MI from South Carolina
If you’re moving from Detroit 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 Detroit.
| Detroit, MI | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 639,111 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 34″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 72.92 | 28.0 |
South Carolina Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, South Carolina leaned Republican, while Detroit supported Democratic.
- High summer temperatures in South Carolina can climb to 91ºF, making it significantly hotter than Detroit, where summer highs max out at 84ºF. Prepare yourself for more sunshine, vibrant outdoor gatherings, and potentially higher air conditioning costs as you adjust to this sunnier place.
- Milder winters in South Carolina average 33ºF, compared with Detroit, which dips to 19ºF. 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 34 inches in Detroit. 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 Detroit. That means moving to South Carolina brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- With a lower crime index of 28.0, South Carolina offers a safer environment compared to Detroit, which posts a higher index of 72.92.
Other considerations when moving to South Carolina
When moving from Detroit 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 Detroit to South Carolina take?
Wondering how long your move from Detroit, MI to South Carolina will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes one to six 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 Detroit?
Yes—20 movers in Detroit offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Detroit mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Detroit to South Carolina?
Need to ship your car from Detroit to South Carolina? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Michigan to South Carolina.
Why are people moving from Detroit 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 Detroit?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Detroit.
Can I pay for my move from Detroit, MI, with cash?
There are four movers in Detroit 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.
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