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($1,131) Cost to Move From Lafayette, LA to Charleston, SC

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 871 miles from Lafayette to Charleston has an average cost ranging from $634 to $5,583. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–seven days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Lafayette to Charleston

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Lafayette to Charleston

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Lafayette to Charleston. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 4 interstate moving companies in Lafayette. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Charleston.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Lafayette to Charleston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 871-mile move from Lafayette to Charleston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,873 – $4,479
  • Moving Container $1,042 – $1,927
  • Rental Truck $587 – $1,085
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,234 – $5,583
  • Moving Container $1,396 – $2,895
  • Rental Truck $634 – $1,238
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,122 – $7,748
  • Moving Container $1,820 – $3,788
  • Rental Truck $770 – $1,661
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Budget Truck Rental
Lafayette, LA Bonneau, SC
3 Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Grosse Tete, LA Kiawah Island, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 04, 2025
PODS
Melville, LA Seabrook Island, SC
Studio apartment
Oct 01, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Church Point, LA Moncks Corner, SC
Studio apartment
Sep 30, 2025
American Van Lines
Loreauville, LA Mount Pleasant, SC
Studio apartment
Sep 27, 2025
BLVD Moving
Leonville, LA Folly Beach, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 22, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Basile, LA North Charleston, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Safeway Moving
Rosedale, LA Rockville, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 05, 2025
North American Van Lines
Parks, LA Goose Creek, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Palmetto, LA James Island, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Charleston, SC to Lafayette, LA guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Lafayette to Charleston moves

Organizing a move from Lafayette to Charleston can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating six local movers in Lafayette known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Lafayette to Charleston.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Acadiana Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  4. A & L Movers: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.5% of all reviews were positive
7.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, reliable moves stand out in feedback for Two Men and a Truck, with 215 reviews out of 235 (91.5%) praising their professional staff, careful handling, and efficient service. Customers consistently describe employees as polite and attentive, and many note that communication remains strong from booking through follow-up. Movers frequently exceeded expectations with timely arrivals and efficient, careful work that protects belongings and property. Services are often described as stress-free, flexible, and consistently organized, comparing favorably to competitors who lack this level of reliability. The most common concerns involve items damaged during moves, unexpected costs, and occasional rudeness from staff. Negative feedback, accounting for just over 7%, points to isolated instances of broken items, higher bills, and less courteous conduct. Only three neutral reviews mention inconsistent service speeds and unclear pricing, but the vast majority of input shows that this company delivers trustworthy, professional, and effective moving solutions.
Get a Quote (337) 366-8056

Company Info

State license #: 7915

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
50.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word-of-mouth travelers say Acadiana Movers excels in professionalism, careful handling, and prompt service. Half the feedback praised courteous movers, organized moves, and budget-friendly rates—customers recommend the company for both storage and moving. Others raised red flags about missing items, unexpected charges, and trouble reaching staff. The main complaints focus on lost belongings, surprise costs, and unclear communication. Out of eight reviews, half gave strong praise while half voiced strong dissatisfaction, making Acadiana Movers a company with both standout benefits and significant challenges compared to similar moving services.
Get a Quote (337) 504-4395

Company Info

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1996186

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.4% of all reviews were positive
3.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about quick, professional movers who handle belongings carefully and work efficiently. Polite, helpful staff and easy scheduling make the process smooth and stress-free. Most feedback highlights excellent communication, respectful crews, and fair prices. In rare cases, customers dealt with damaged items, unexpected charges, or movers arriving late or not at all. With over 96% of input being positive and 221 reviews analyzed, College Hunks outperforms many moving companies, delivering reliable service that earns strong recommendations from most people using their service.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 8363

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.0% of all reviews were positive
16.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A&L Movers receives standout feedback, with 144 customer inputs—a remarkable 84% are positive. Most clients mention professional, polite staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient service, and transparent pricing. Fast and smooth moves also earn frequent praise. However, there are concerns from a small portion of clients: the primary complaints center on damages to items, late arrivals, and poor complaint handling. Negative experiences often involve unresolved damage claims or difficult communication when issues arise. Compared to other moving companies, A&L Movers typically provides quicker, more personable moves with attentive teams, but some customers have faced significant problems when things did not go as planned.
Get a Quote (337) 335-0921

Company Info

State license #: 8056

Years in Business: 9

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
56.9% of all reviews were positive
42.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for All My Sons Moving & Storage leaves no room for doubt—results with this company can be impressive, but repeated complaints highlight substantial drawbacks. Out of 343 reviews, nearly 57% praised the staffs professionalism, careful handling of items, quick and efficient work, and truly helpful movers, comparing their experience favorably to services offered by others. Many customers describe friendly crews who wrap every possession with care, keep customers informed, and make moving feel less stressful than expected. Nearly half the reviewers, though, caution that billing practices are unpredictable and complaints about surprise fees or unexplained charges eclipse those logged for most competitors. Damaged items and late arrivals are also frequent issues listed among the negative feedback. In comparison with similar companies, All My Sons earns higher marks for hardworking teams but draws more frustration over the cost and clarity of its price structure. For those valuing prompt, personable service and careful handling, All My Sons stands out—but potential customers should request thorough, written estimates and review all contract details to avoid billing surprises.
Get a Quote (225) 263-6913

Company Info

State license #: 7508-A

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage of Baton Rouge

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Lafayette to Charleston?

On average, moving companies in Louisiana charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,131 – $4,502 $769 – $1,812 $598 – $1,075
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,234 – $5,583 $1,396 – $2,895 $634 – $1,238
4+ bedrooms $4,122 – $7,748 $1,820 – $3,788 $770 – $1,661
*Estimated cost ranges for a 871-mile move from Lafayette to Charleston are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Lafayette to Charleston

When planning a move to Charleston from Lafayette, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,131 and $4,502. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,234 and $5,583 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,122 to $7,748.

Cost of moving containers from Lafayette to Charleston

When you’re heading from Lafayette to Charleston, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $769 and $1,812. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,396 and $2,895. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,820 to $3,788. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Louisiana easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lafayette to Charleston

A moving rental truck from Lafayette to Charleston is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $598 to $1,075. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $634 to $1,238, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Lafayette to Charleston costs around $770 to $1,661.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Lafayette to Charleston

The cost of Lafayette movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Lafayette to Charleston may only cost $1,989, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,523.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Lafayette.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($598–$1,363), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Lafayette to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 197% higher for singles and 88% higher for families than Lafayette.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Lafayette versus $1,785 in Lafayette; families pay $7,890 compared with $4,208.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Lafayette Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $1,200 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $1,725 $4,487
Average home value $214,264 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $59,490 $62,294
Cost of living (single) $1,785 $5,300
Cost of living (family of four) $4,208 $7,890
Unemployment rate 5.8% 4.0%
Sales tax 9.45% 9.0%
State income tax 4.25% 7.0%
  • Rent is about 12% less expensive in Charleston than in Lafayette, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 161% steeper in Charleston compared to Lafayette.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Charleston and Lafayette are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Charleston, with the cost of living for a single person being 197% more than in Lafayette. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Charleston, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 88% higher than in Lafayette.
  • Charleston has a lower unemployment rate than Lafayette by about 31%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are nearly equal in both Charleston and Lafayette (within a 5% range), so budgeting should not be affected by this change.
  • Income taxes are 65% more in South Carolina than in Louisiana. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Lafayette versus Charleston:

Living Expense Lafayette Charleston
Basic utilities $244.46 $156.99
Cell phone plan $52.00 $54.78
Dozen eggs $4.35 $4.55
Loaf of bread $2.99 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $17.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $76.11 $80.00
Gym membership $61.33 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • Bread costs less in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Lafayette than in Charleston.

How life is different in Lafayette vs. Charleston

Lafayette Charleston
Population 121,374 150,277
Transportation score 3 3
Walkability score 42 40
Bike friendliness score 47 50
Crime index 45.75 44.97
Safety index 54.25 55.03
Air quality Good Good
  • Charleston’s population is about 24% greater than Lafayette.
  • Charleston’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Lafayette, making them very similar.
  • Charleston and Lafayette are similarly walkable.
  • With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Lafayette, which has a score of 47 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Charleston and Lafayette have a similar crime rate with scores of 44.97 and 45.75, respectively.
  • Charleston and Lafayette have a similar safety level, with scores of 55.03 and 54.25.
  • Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Lafayette it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Lafayette to Charleston move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Lafayette and Charleston are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in South Carolina, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in South Carolina, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Charleston. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Charleston

With your sights set on The Holy City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Charleston.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Harleston Village
  • James Island
  • North Charleston
  • South of Broad West Ashley

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Mount Pleasant
  • Park Circle
  • Stiles Point
  • Summerville
  • Wagener Terrace

Things to do in Charleston

With your move to South Carolina complete, you can dive right into experiencing Charleston. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Charleston is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, and The Charleston Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Lafayette to Charleston?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Lafayette to Charleston. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Lafayette.

When is the cheapest time to move from Lafayette to Charleston?

Want to save on your move from Lafayette to Charleston? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Lafayette to Charleston take?

The 871-mile move from Lafayette, LA, to Charleston, , takes two to seven days. Some Lafayette movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Charleston.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Lafayette?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 2 movers in Lafayette provide piano moving services. 2 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 18 piano movers and 11 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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