Top local movers for Charleston to Irvine moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Charleston that also provides long-distance services to Irvine can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 10 local movers in Charleston who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Charleston to Irvine.
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Cougar Moving: 4.12 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.16 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 9792-B
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 9823
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2357653
Alternate Names: Go Smooth Move, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2362770
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
Company Info
Pricing: $124/hr
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2868021
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Charleston to Irvine?
Movers in South Carolina generally charge an average of $137 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,238 – $5,154 | $1,258 – $3,193 | $1,390 – $2,584 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,477 – $7,125 | $2,212 – $5,029 | $1,490 – $3,234 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,212 – $11,026 | $3,045 – $6,313 | $1,882 – $4,084 |
Cost to hire movers from Charleston to Irvine
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Charleston to Irvine typically costs between $1,238 and $5,154. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,477 and $7,125 when moving from Charleston to Irvine. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Charleston to Irvine, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,212 up to $11,026.
Cost of moving containers from Charleston to Irvine
If you’re relocating from Charleston to Irvine, you’ll typically spend between $1,258 and $3,193 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,212 up to $5,029. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,045 and $6,313. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to Irvine
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Charleston to Irvine move, 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, expect to pay between $1,390 and $2,584. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,490 to $3,234. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,882 and $4,084.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Charleston to Irvine
The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Charleston to Irvine might be as low as $2,497, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,150.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Charleston.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,390 to $3,372 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Charleston to Irvine
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Irvine runs about 73% higher for singles and 128% higher for families than Charleston.
Singles spend around $9,167 in Charleston versus $5,300 in Charleston; families pay $18,000 compared with $7,890.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Charleston | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,529 | $2,719 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,487 | $4,575 |
| Average home value | $559,231 | $1,561,760 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,294 | $114,027 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,300 | $9,167 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,890 | $18,000 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 5.4% |
| Sales tax | 9.0% | 7.75% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 60% higher in Irvine than in Charleston, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 179% higher in Irvine than in Charleston.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 83% higher in Irvine than in Charleston, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Irvine, as the cost of living for a single person in Irvine is 73% greater than in Charleston. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Irvine, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 128% more than it is in Charleston.
- The unemployment rate in Irvine exceeds that of Charleston by about 35%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 14% lower in Irvine than Charleston, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 90% higher in California than in South Carolina. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Charleston and Irvine, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $156.99 | $200.96 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.78 | $54.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.55 | $4.50 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.82 | $4.59 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $29.17 | $54.17 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Irvine, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charleston than in Irvine.
- Eggs cost more in Charleston than in Irvine.
- Bread costs less in Charleston than in Irvine.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Irvine.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in Irvine.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Irvine.
How life is different in Charleston vs. Irvine
| Charleston | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 150,277 | 307,670 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 40 | 43 |
| Bike friendliness score | 50 | 69 |
| Crime index | 44.97 | 31.01 |
| Safety index | 55.03 | 68.99 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Irvine’s population is about 105% greater than Charleston.
- Irvine’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 3.
- Irvine is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 40 out of 100.
- With a score of 69 out of 100, Irvine is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 50 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Irvine’s crime rate is lower than Charleston with a score of 31.01 compared to Charleston’s 44.97. This means that Irvine neighborhoods are safer than 31.01% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
- Irvine is considered to be safer than Charleston with a safety index of 68.99 vs Charleston’s 55.03.
- Air quality in Irvine is Good, and in Charleston it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Charleston to Irvine move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Irvine without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Irvine
Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Irvine.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Westpark
- Westpark II
- Oak Creek
- Woodbridge
- University Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Westpark II
- Turtle Rock
- Woodbridge
- South Irvine
- Northwood Point
Things to do in Irvine
Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Irvine. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Irvine include museums and art centers like the Pretend City Children’s Museum, Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art, and Museum of Woman.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Orange County Great Park, Adventure Playground, William R. Mason Regional Park, and Turtle Rock Community Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an UC Irvine Anteaters (Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball, Water Polo)Adult Basketball LeaguesAdult Soccer LeaguesAdult Softball LeaguesTennis LeagueSand Volleyball LeagueKickball League game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Charleston to Irvine?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Charleston to Irvine. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Charleston.
When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Irvine?
With many people choosing to move from Charleston to Irvine in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Charleston to Irvine take?
Covering 2,477 miles, the move from Charleston, SC to Irvine, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Charleston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Irvine can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Charleston can handle specialty items for my move to Irvine?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Charleston, 6 movers can handle pianos. 4 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of SC, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
Charleston moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
- South Carolina to California car shippers
- South Carolina to California movers
- South Carolina to Florida movers
- South Carolina to Georgia movers
- South Carolina to Illinois movers
- South Carolina to Michigan movers
- South Carolina to New York movers
- South Carolina to North Carolina movers
- South Carolina to Ohio movers
- South Carolina to Pennsylvania movers
- South Carolina to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!