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I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.
I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Average cost of local Charleston, IL movers

Hiring a moving company in Charleston is definitely the most convenient way to move, but that convenience comes at a higher cost than a DIY approach. You'll need to decide whether you want movers to do all the heavy lifting for you or if you'd rather save money by doing at least some of the work yourself.

Here's how much movers cost in Charleston:

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $881 $756 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $1,658 $733 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $3,272 $1,017 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $9,060 $1,423 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $10,224 $1,468 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $16,778 $2,035 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost detailstoggle

  • Studio: Expect to pay around $756 per hour for studio moves in Charleston. These usually take three hours with a two-person crew.
  • One bedroom: A one-bedroom move in Charleston averages $733 hourly. You'll need two movers for approximately four hours.
  • Two bedrooms: The going hourly rate for moving a two-bedroom home in Charleston is $1,017. It generally takes five hours with a three-person crew.
  • Three bedrooms: In Charleston, the average cost to move a three-bedroom home is about $1,423 per hour, requiring four movers and eight hours of work.
  • Four bedrooms: For a four-bedroom home in Charleston, you're looking at $1,468 per hour. This job typically takes nine hours with a four-person team.
  • Five or more bedrooms: Large homes with five or more bedrooms in Charleston can cost about $2,035 per hour. Expect ten hours of work by a five-person crew.

Quickly compare moving quotes for your Charleston move with our instant, free cost calculator.

Best local movers in Charleston, IL

If your move is local, don’t miss our list of the best moving companies in Charleston:

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Federal Companies: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Sappington & Sons Moving Inc: 4.42 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/Bellhops-Moving-106135414112443/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Affordable rates
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Bellhop Moving’s speed, efficiency, and friendly approach. Out of 115 reviews, nearly 70% share positive input, highlighting fast-moving crews, affordable prices, clear communication, and respectful service. Many describe the process as easy and stress-free. On the downside, about a quarter of feedback points to problems like late arrivals, damaged belongings, and a lack of follow-through from customer service. Complaints focus on delayed service, unwrapped or mishandled items, and poor responsiveness when issues arise. Compared to traditional movers, Bellhop often wins on price and flexibility but loses ground on reliability during peak times. Most customers praise the courteous staff and quick booking, yet a minority experienced significant disruptions or property damage. While Bellhop is often a cost-effective and efficient choice, those with high-value or complex moves may want to weigh the risk of potential delays or mishandling before booking.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/FlexStorageInc/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Helpful movers
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers praise Flex Moving & Storage for having efficient, friendly, and professional movers who help make the moving process fast and affordable. The majority of input highlights timely service and staff who communicate well and handle belongings carefully. Clients report a streamlined booking process and note that rates offer strong value compared to competitors. On the downside, several feedback entries report recurring issues with surprise charges, such as higher-than-quoted invoices and unauthorized credit card deductions. Multiple complaints cite property damage and poor handling of delicate items. Communication lapses, unresponsive support, and challenging claims processes are mentioned in a notable number of complaints. With nearly 80% of customer input positive, Flex rates higher than many moving companies for professionalism and efficiency, but persistent billing and support problems may be a dealbreaker for some seeking reliability throughout the move.
Get a Quote (786) 738-9516

Company Info

Years in Business: 3

DOT #: 3610638

Alternate Names: Flex Storage Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenChampaign/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenAndATruck
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Service that keeps the stress low and the pace high—TWO MEN AND A TRUCK impresses most customers, with 263 feedback entries analyzed and 78% of customers praising efficient and careful moves. Customers frequently highlight hardworking, polite staff who communicate clearly and handle items with care, often completing moves quicker than estimated. Many point to seamless moves, accurate timelines, and easy interactions with both the movers and office staff. Despite these highlights, about one in five report issues. Main frustrations include estimates that fall far short of final bills, damages to belongings, and difficulty reaching management. Some customers mention that items were left behind, claims for repairs dragged on, or promised communication failed to materialize. While the majority enjoy a well-run operation that stands out among local moving companies for reliability and professionalism, select customers encounter inconsistency in estimating and follow-up. For those looking to book, prepare by detailing inventory upfront to prevent miscommunication and ask how travel and additional charges are calculated.
Get a Quote (217) 583-4036

Company Info

State license #: 113793

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Shunk Corporation


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/federalcos, https://twitter.com/federalcos
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Poor packing quality
Review Analysis
Customers say Federal Companies stands out for its professional, efficient, and communicative staff, often making stressful moves feel manageable. Employees like Kyle and Julie receive frequent praise for their professionalism, kindness, and expertise. Many customers mention careful handling of belongings, fair and binding estimates, and timely, organized moves—qualities that many other moving firms struggle to deliver as reliably. Some mention affordability, especially with discounts for university affiliates. On the downside, a minority report significant problems like broken or missing items, inaccurate weight or cost estimates, and poor packing quality. Several negative reviews highlight difficulty resolving claims and receiving compensation for damages. Federal Companies earns consistently high marks compared to competitors, particularly for professionalism and seamless coordination, but recurring issues with item damage and pricing disputes suggest room for improvement.
Get a Quote (217) 393-8224

Company Info

State license #: 4588

Years in Business: 111

DOT #: 642945

Alternate Names: Federal O'Byrne Moving & Storage, Federal/O'Byrne Moving & Storage, LLC, Allied Van Lines, Federal, Federal Brokerage, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089772651794&paipv=0&eav=AfYaoihxC9U9o9CdoRb_61zNjnFeCzQO4w_GnlpWzUnM8jNfgkV09NfTWlR-WHmlwOA,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Affordable rates
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Lack of communication
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Damage to items
Review Analysis
Fast moves, friendly staff, and affordable pricing headline the feedback for Sappington & Sons Moving Inc. After analyzing 75 reviews, 81% of customers reported positive experiences, praising the team’s professional service, careful handling of belongings, efficiency, and budget-friendly rates. Many highlight the movers’ polite attitude and seamless coordination, making stressful moves much easier. A few customers note problems with communication, mainly regarding unreturned calls or delayed responses. Some mention higher-than-expected costs or occasional item damage, but these complaints appear far less common. Compared to other movers, Sappington & Sons earn standout praise for quick, cost-effective, and courteous help.
Get a Quote (812) 235-6776

Company Info

State license #: 457784

Years in Business: 37


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card

Moving costs in other nearby Illinois citiestoggle

Average cost to move out of state with Charleston movers

Since the cost of moving out of Illinois depends largely on where you're moving, we've provided some example costs below. To get the most accurate pricing based on your specific destination, find your moving route to Illinois or use our moving cost calculator.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from Charleston

Several factors influence the price of a one-bedroom move from Charleston — mainly how far you’re going, how much you're bringing, and how you plan to get it there.

Below are some common price ranges to help estimate the cost of long-distance moves from Illinois:

Cost to move a two or three-bedroom home out of state from Charleston

Out-of-state moving costs from Charleston for two- or three-bedroom homes depend on the total volume and weight of everything you’re bringing. For instance, the cost to move a three-bedroom home that’s lightly furnished and compact might be lower than that of a large, fully furnished two-bedroom space.

That said, here’s a general look at the price ranges you can expect for two- to three-bedroom moves of similar distance from Charleston:

Cost to move a four bedroom home (or larger) out of state from Charleston

Below is a look at some example four-bedroom move costs out of state from Charleston. Remember, your exact price will ultimately be based on the amount of belongings you have, what time of year you are moving, and how far you're moving.

Sample ranges for interstate moves from Charleston of four or more bedrooms:

Best interstate moving companies in Charleston

Now that you have an idea of what your out-of-state move from Illinois will cost, it's time to start looking at the best long-distance movers in Charleston.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Average cost of moving containers in Charleston, IL

In Charleston, moving container prices usually start around $530 for local moves and can run as high as $2,950 for longer hauls. Cross-country relocations tend to be more expensive, with some topping out near $6,950 or more. The final price depends heavily on the distance and size of the container you go with.

Our favorite container mover in Charleston is PODS, largely because they offer a versatile range of container sizes — eight, 12, and 16 feet — along with reasonable pricing and consistently positive feedback from customers. However, you should get quotes from PODS and two other moving container companies before making a decision.

You can always start by checking out these other top-rated moving container companies.

Best moving container companies in Charleston

Choosing a moving container company is a smart option if you’re comfortable packing and loading on your own but would rather leave the driving to a pro. We recommend these dependable container companies In Charleston:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Average cost of moving truck rentals in Charleston, IL

In Charleston, daily rental costs for a moving truck usually start at $60, with most people paying between $19 and $39, plus mileage fees of $1 to $1. It’s a solid choice for those looking to cut costs, but keep in mind it’s a fully DIY approach. You'll be doing the heavy lifting and the driving.

Best moving truck rentals in Charleston

The most budget-friendly way to move is by packing everything up and hitting the road with a rental truck. There are plenty of moving truck rental companies to choose from in Charleston. If you don’t mind the extra effort, here are a few of the best ones:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Average cost of labor-only moving companies in Charleston, IL

In Charleston, labor-only movers typically charge $30–$40 per hour per person. That means your total hourly cost will be around $60–$80, depending on how many movers you hire.

It typically only takes a two-person crew to handle smaller spaces like studios and one-bedrooms. For two- and three-bedroom homes, plan on three to four movers. It’ll likely take a crew of four or five people to move homes with four or more bedrooms.

Best labor-only moving companies in Charleston

Finding reliable moving help in Charleston means looking for labor-only companies with upfront pricing and solid service reviews. It’s even better if they offer extras like packing assistance or moving supplies.

These are our top picks for labor-only movers.

Here are our favorite labor-only movers.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Hire moving labor
  • Online quotes
  • Nationwide
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Online booking
  • Move Concierge
  • Affordable

Factors that affect the cost of your Charleston move

Since every move is a little different, your total cost will depend on your individual needs. Still, here are some of the key factors that commonly affect Charleston moving costs:

  • Distance: Long-distance moves tend to cost more due to added mileage, fuel charges, and labor hours. Staying within the same city or region is typically more affordable.
  • Move size: More items = more money. Larger households usually need extra hands and a bigger truck, both of which increase the price.
  • Moving method: Full-service movers offer convenience, but they charge for it. If you go with a moving container company, you can cut costs by handling the packing and lifting yourself.
  • Add-on services: Want help packing or extra coverage for your stuff? These kinds of add-ons cost more — and even DIY moves cost extra if you hire help for the heavy lifting.
  • Move date: Prices spike during the busy season (summer), weekends, and the beginning or end of the month. You’ll often save by moving mid-week or mid-month when demand is lower.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Buy additional insurance. Full-service movers are required by federal law to provide basic insurance, known as released value protection, at no cost. While you can't beat free, released value protection provides very minimal coverage — $0.60 per pound per item, regardless of the item's value. So, your reimbursement on a damaged 25-pound TV worth $1,000 would only be $15 ($0.60 x 25 pounds). Most moving companies — and some home insurance providers — offer optional comprehensive insurance plans. While these come at an added cost, they will protect your items based on estimated value instead of weight.
  • Get your move approved. Many neighborhoods — particularly those with HOAs — have restrictions around moving. Typically, these restrictions outline which days and times moving is allowable. It's best to double-check the rules ahead of time and to proactively inform a property management group of your moving date.
  • Have your paperwork handy. If you are moving to or from an apartment complex, you may need to show proof on moving day of your mover's insurance coverage and, if applicable, an elevator reservation. Go ahead and gather this information — which is usually available in your moving contract — so you aren't scrambling for it when your moving date arrives.
  • Reserve parking. You can learn more about the rules and regulations on the Charleston website.

Helpful Charleston Resources

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