Top-rated movers to make your Charleston to San Francisco move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Charleston that offers long-distance services to San Francisco can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed five top local movers in Charleston who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Charleston to San Francisco.
- Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Dunbar Transfer: 4.0 out of 5 stars
- Evans Van & Storage: 3.94 out of 5 stars
- Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.14 out of 5 stars
- Positive Moves: 3.78 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 076235
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
DOT #: 1186580
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
DOT #: 070851
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 35
DOT #: 587135
Alternate Names: Future Enterprises Corporation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Fragile-only packing
How much does it cost to move from Charleston to San Francisco?
In West Virginia, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,358 – $5,637 | $1,374 – $3,418 | $1,399 – $2,654 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,937 – $7,608 | $2,323 – $4,932 | $1,500 – $3,387 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,187 – $11,778 | $3,393 – $6,841 | $1,875 – $4,036 |
Cost to hire movers from Charleston to San Francisco
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to San Francisco from Charleston, you can expect prices to land between $1,358 and $5,637. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,937 to $7,608 for the trip from Charleston to San Francisco. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,187 and $11,778.
Cost of moving containers from Charleston to San Francisco
Moving containers from Charleston to San Francisco will cost you $1,374 to $3,418 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,323 to $4,932. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,393 to $6,841. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of West Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to San Francisco
Renting a moving truck from Charleston to San Francisco typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,399 and $2,654 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,500 to $3,387. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,875 to $4,036.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Charleston to San Francisco move
The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,750 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,274 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Charleston.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,399 to $3,718, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Charleston to San Francisco
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Francisco runs about 144% higher for singles and 126% higher for families than Charleston.
Singles spend around $3,781 in Charleston versus $1,549 in Charleston; families pay $8,717 compared with $3,862.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Charleston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $933 | $3,259 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,800 | $5,475 |
| Average home value | $153,672 | $1,241,003 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,354 | $136,689 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,549 | $3,781 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,862 | $8,717 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.2% | 5.4% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.63% |
| State income tax | 6.5% | 13.3% |
- Planning a move to San Francisco? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 271% higher than in Charleston, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in San Francisco are about 708% higher than those in Charleston.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 130% higher in San Francisco compared to Charleston, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in San Francisco, as living costs for a single person are 144% higher than in Charleston. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to San Francisco, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Francisco is 126% higher than in Charleston.
- The unemployment rate in San Francisco is about 13% lower than in Charleston. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in San Francisco are 23% more than in Charleston, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in California are 105% above those in West Virginia. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Charleston and San Francisco:
| Living Expense | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $128.95 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $45.33 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.26 | $5.91 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.20 | $5.06 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $50.00 | $125.00 |
| Gym membership | $31.00 | $99.96 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in San Francisco, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in San Francisco.
- Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in San Francisco.
- Bread costs less in Charleston than in San Francisco.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in San Francisco.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in San Francisco.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in San Francisco.
How life is different in Charleston vs. San Francisco
| Charleston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 48,018 | 808,988 |
| Transportation score | 2 | 10 |
| Walkability score | 33 | 99 |
| Bike friendliness score | 28 | 99 |
| Crime index | 53.94 | 61.41 |
| Safety index | 46.06 | 38.59 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- San Francisco’s population is about 1585% greater than Charleston.
- San Francisco’s public transportation score of 10 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 2.
- San Francisco is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 99 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 33 out of 100.
- With a score of 99 out of 100, San Francisco is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 28 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- San Francisco’s crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 61.41 compared to Charleston’s 53.94. This means that San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94%.
- San Francisco is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 38.59 vs Charleston’s 46.06.
- Air quality in San Francisco is Moderate, and in Charleston it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Charleston to San Francisco move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to San Francisco. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in San Francisco
Planning your move to The Golden Gate City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in San Francisco.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Marina District
- Mission Bay
- Mission District
- Noe Valley
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bernal Heights
- Inner Sunset
- Noe Valley
- North Beach
- Presidio Heights
Things to do in San Francisco
After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, San Francisco has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: San Francisco features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, Walt Disney Family Museum, and San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Golden Gate Park, Presidio of San Francisco, Mission Dolores Park, and Crissy Field — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an San Francisco 49ers (NFL)San Francisco Giants (MLB)Golden State Warriors (NBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Charleston to San Francisco?
Planning your move from Charleston to San Francisco? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Charleston.
When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to San Francisco?
Because most people are moving from Charleston to San Francisco in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Charleston to San Francisco take?
The 2,558-mile journey from Charleston, WV to San Francisco, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Charleston offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in San Francisco.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Charleston?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Charleston, 3 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, West Virginia has 5 piano movers and 4 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Charleston moving services
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