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How Much Do Movers Cost in Charleston, WV ?

Quick answer: In Charleston, West Virginia, local movers usually charge between $689 and $4,590, or around $133 per hour. If you’re heading out of West Virginia, the cost of long-distance movers in Charleston depends on the move size, mileage, and any extra services you request.

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Average cost of local movers in Charleston, WV

When you choose to hire a moving company in Charleston, the ease and efficiency of the process cannot be overlooked. However, this convenience typically requires a bigger budget compared to handling the move on your own.

Here’s how much professional movers cost in Charleston based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $689 $186 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $875 $186 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $1,285 $261 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $2,693 $365 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $3,058 $365 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $4,590 $511 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost details

  • Studio: The typical studio apartment move involves two skilled movers, taking approximately three hours. The time needed is influenced by how many possessions you have and their type, and the cost is set at $186 per hour.
  • One bedroom: Expect to spend around $186 per hour when moving from a one-bedroom home. This includes a two-person team working for approximately four hours.
  • Two bedrooms: Relocating a two-bedroom home in West Virginia generally costs around $261 an hour. Expect to need three movers for a duration of about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: For a three-bedroom home, expect to pay an hourly rate of $365 for West Virginia movers. A three-bedroom home typically takes eight hours to complete using a four-person crew.
  • Four bedrooms: Relocating a four-bedroom home in West Virginia requires four movers and will take around nine hours, with a pricing of $365 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: When you hire West Virginia movers for a home with five or more bedrooms, the rate is $511 per hour. Generally, a move of this magnitude demands five movers and takes approximately 10 hours.

Here’s a perk: The average hourly rate for movers in Charleston, WV, is lower than the national average — $133 vs. $139.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Charleston move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Charleston, WV

Our expert team has thoroughly analyzed licensing, insurance options, online reviews, and hundreds of other data points to identify the top local moving companies in Charleston.

  1. Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Dunbar Transfer: 4.0 out of 5 stars
  3. Evans Van & Storage: 3.94 out of 5 stars
  4. Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.14 out of 5 stars
  5. Positive Moves: 3.78 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Good communication
  • Efficient service
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to home
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
Review Analysis
Central Van & Storage, Inc. stands out for reliable and professional movers, backed by 75% positive customer feedback from 16 reviews. Customers consistently praised friendly staff, careful item handling, strong communication, and efficient moving processes. Helpful movers and organized service frequently set them apart from competitors. Some clients reported major concerns, including damages to homes, missing items, and unexpectedly high final costs. Negative experiences mainly centered on property damage and billing disputes. Central Van & Storage earns strong recommendations for care and professionalism, but those hiring them should pay attention to cost estimates and document all belongings carefully.
Get a Quote (800) 753-1898

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 076235


Services Offered

  • 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
Customer Praise
  • Quick moving process
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • On-time arrival
  • Well-prepared crew
Customer Complaints
Review Analysis
Moving with confidence is what customers experience at Dunbar Transfer. All four feedback entries show complete satisfaction, with clients highlighting the company’s fast moving process, punctuality, and skilled staff. Movers handled tough conditions, like stairs and tight spaces, with efficiency and professionalism. Customers frequently report that jobs were completed quickly and that staff were courteous and prepared. Unlike many moving companies where complaints about delays or damage are common, Dunbar Transfer’s customer input reveals no negative experiences, setting it apart from competitors. This consistently positive input signals reliable, well-executed moves for those seeking trustworthy local movers.
Get a Quote (304) 722-1003

Company Info

State license #:

DOT #: 1186580


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Helpful movers
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Moving made easy and stress-free—most feedback about Evans Van & Storage points to a high-quality, reliable experience. Out of 130 reviews, 93% reflect satisfied customers, highlighting professional, polite staff, efficient service, careful handling, helpful movers, and clear communication. Movers regularly earn praise for their respectful approach and the care taken with furniture and delicate possessions. Customers describe a well-organized, punctual moving process, frequently noting that nothing arrived scratched or broken. Many cite affordability and flexibility as standout features, with the company frequently able to accommodate changing schedules and specific customer needs. Negative feedback is rare but centers on issues like damaged or missing items, poor communication after problems, and unexpected charges. Compared to other moving companies—often criticized for hidden fees and careless service—Evans Van & Storage appears to set itself apart by consistently delivering professionalism and dependability, making it a recommended choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (800) 437-4017

Company Info

State license #:

DOT #: 070851


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Affordable rates
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Damage to items
  • Unreliable timing
Review Analysis
Feedback paints a clear divide: Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems is praised for having professional, polite staff, handling items with care, working efficiently, offering good rates, and maintaining solid communication. Half of all customer input highlights smooth moves, careful handling, and courteous movers—traits that set them above many local competitors for timely service and affordability. But equally frequent are strong reports of lost valuables, damaged furniture, and unreliable timing. Several customers mention misplacement or theft of personal items and lack of follow-up from management, concerns rarely seen in top-performing moving companies. While many point to a hassle-free, professional experience, others caution against major service and trust issues. Out of 34 reviews, 50% are positive, and 50% negative, making the choice less than straightforward for those considering this company.
Get a Quote (304) 529-2360

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 587135


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple—Positive Moves earns high marks from customers, with 93% of feedback noting prompt, professional, and friendly service. Input consistently highlights the staff’s efficiency, careful handling, and polite demeanor. Customers appreciate fast work, competitive rates, and workers who go the extra mile, even in difficult conditions. Reports of organized crews and effective communication set this company apart from the average mover. On the downside, the small number of negative reviews mention issues such as property damage, late arrivals, and unexpected charges. These problems, while rare, raise concerns about consistency and responsiveness. Compared to others in the industry, Positive Moves receives standout praise for professionalism and care—with a few exceptions where service did not meet expectations.
Get a Quote (304) 590-0840

Company Info

State license #:

DOT #: 


Services Offered

  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Fragile-only packing

Average cost to hire interstate movers in Charleston, WV

The cost of moving out of West Virginia depends heavily on where you’re headed. To give you a clearer picture, we’ve included a few sample price points below. For the most accurate numbers, be sure to check your specific moving route from West Virginia or use our moving cost calculator.

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

When moving a one-bedroom home from Charleston and out of West Virginia, the overall cost will mostly come down to distance, move size, and how you decide to move.

Still, to give you a rough idea, here are some sample cost ranges for long-distance moves from West Virginia:

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

Costs for moving a two- or three-bedroom home out of Charleston are mostly influenced by the total load. A modest three-bedroom move can sometimes come in cheaper than a larger, well-furnished two-bedroom home with heavier belongings.

Here’s a general overview of what you might pay for two- to three-bedroom moves covering comparable distances:

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

Moving a four-bedroom or larger home from Charleston is a complex task with many factors to consider. The expenses can fluctuate greatly based on the distance, the amount of belongings, and the time of year.

Below is an estimate of what long-distance moves originating from Charleston for homes with four or more bedrooms might entail:

Best interstate moving companies in Charleston, WV

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

Best overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most experienced mover
Licensedcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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 star star star star star 4.8 / 5
(866) 825-0554
At A Glance
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years’ experience
read our full review
(866) 825-0554
Best customer service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Average cost of moving containers in Charleston, WV

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.

Best moving containers in Charleston, WV

For more trusted providers, browse this list of top moving container companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount

Average cost to rent a moving truck in Charleston, WV

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.

Here are the typical costs of Charleston rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19 – $39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $1 – $1 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20-$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • Mileage on the rental truck
  • Number of days you rent it
  • Tolls along your route
  • Hotel and restaurant expenses
  • Added coverage or insurance plans
  • Fuel usage
  • Renting gear like hand trucks or straps
  • Urban parking costs

Best moving truck rentals in Charleston, WV

Opting for a DIY move using a rental truck often turns out to be the most budget-friendly choice. In Charleston, there’s a wide selection of moving truck rental companies eager to assist you in starting your journey. If you’re prepared to handle the physical work yourself, here are some leading options worth considering:

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 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, WV

The average cost of labor-only moving companies in Charleston is an hourly rate of $70 for each crew member. Most moves — even small one-bedroom apartments — require a crew of two movers, so plan on about $141 per hour to hire labor assistance in Charleston.

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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Hire moving labor
  • Online quotes
  • Nationwide
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 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 movers in Charleston, WV

Since no two moves are exactly the same, neither are the costs. The amount you’ll pay will be based on the exact details of your move. There are some common cost factors to consider with your Charleston move, including:

  • The distance of your move: The further you travel, the more the expenses increase. Generally, local moves are less costly compared to interstate or nationwide relocations, which demand greater time, fuel, and manpower.
  • The size of your move: The more belongings you have, the more your move will cost. Moving a four-bedroom home will typically be more expensive than moving a studio apartment.
  • When you move: The time of year and month, as well as the day of the week, you move can all impact costs. The reason centers around demand. You’ll pay more to relocate during the summer months, since that is the peak moving season. Mid-month moves are normally a little cheaper than those at the start or end of the month, when most rental leases begin or end. Moving mid-week instead of weekends can also save you some money, since most people choose a Saturday or Sunday for their moving day.
  • Your moving method: Full-service movers handle everything for you, but that convenience comes at a price. Choosing a DIY option, like a moving container company, can be more affordable if you’re willing to do the heavy lifting yourself.
  • Optional services: Add-ons like packing, unpacking, or high-value insurance will raise your total. Even if you DIY, hiring labor to help load or unload will increase your costs.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Purchase extra insurance, if needed. By law, full-service movers include basic released value protection at no cost, but it only covers $0.60 per pound per item. That means an original sculpture worth $750 and weighing 12 pounds would only be covered for $7.20 ($0.60 x 12). For peace of mind, ask your mover or home insurer about full-value protection based on your belongings’ actual worth.
  • Verify your moving approval. Some communities, particularly those governed by HOAs, might have specific restrictions on moving days or times. Ensure you review these guidelines in advance and inform your property manager of your scheduled move-in or move-out 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.

What discounts do Charleston movers offer?

Some movers in Charleston advertise discounts for specific groups. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available locally compared to state and national averages:

Type of discount Charleston West Virginia National average
AAA members 0.0% 0.0% 1.13%
Seniors 0.0% 0.0% 4.31%
Students 0.0% 0.0% 1.17%
Teachers 0.0% 0.0% 0.35%
Law enforcement 0.0% 0.0% 0.72%
Military 0.0% 0.0% 3.97%

Ask upfront about discounts when calling Charleston movers — offers vary from one company to the next.

What is the cheapest way to move to Charleston?

To cut costs, consider hiring a container service that allows you to pack and load your items while they manage the transportation in Charleston. Alternatively, you can opt to rent a moving truck and take care of everything independently.

Here are the average moving costs from Charleston to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Philadelphia $1,917 – $5,043 $1,220 – $2,347 $427 – $801
Wilmington $2,020 – $5,317 $1,112 – $2,182 $398 – $839
Camp Pendleton North $3,707 – $7,940 $2,123 – $4,587 $1,423 – $3,148

How to pay for your Charleston move

Credit cards are common, but many Charleston movers also accept cash or money orders. Below, see how payment options stack up across city, state, and national movers.

Payment method Charleston West Virginia U.S.
Credit card 4 8 2863
Cash 4 5 824
Money order 1 2 272

Payment options vary, so be sure to ask what’s accepted when contacting Charleston movers.

Helpful Charleston resources

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