10 Best Moving Companies in South Carolina (2026 Reviews)
Fact Checked by:
moveBuddha analyzed 116 South Carolina movers and 40,051 verified reviews. Smooth Move Charleston is the highest-rated local mover in South Carolina, with a 4.72/5 moveBuddha rating, 13 years in business, and 96% positive feedback across 974 verified reviews.
Local moves in South Carolina cost $477 for a studio to $4,531 for a 5+ bedroom home. Get a personalized estimate with moveBuddha's free moving cost calculator, then compare movers, starting with our top-ranked South Carolina mover, Smooth Move Charleston.
rating
4.66 / 5
- Years in Business: 13
- Yelp: 4.2 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.64 / 5
- Years in Business: 7
- Yelp: 2.8 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.62 / 5
- Years in Business: 119
- Yelp: 1.9 / 5
- BBB: A+
10 Best Local Moving Companies in South Carolina
The 10 best local moving companies in South Carolina are led by Smooth Move Charleston, which has a moveBuddha rating of 4.72/5 and 96% positive customer reviews. Ratings among the top 10 companies range from 4.50 to 4.72 out of 5, based on a combined 8,818 verified customer reviews.
moveBuddha evaluated 116 moving companies in South Carolina, scoring each on industry experience, review quality, quote accuracy, and customer service. Our ratings incorporate verified customer reviews, FMCSA complaint data, BBB standing, and moveBuddha's proprietary data from more than 1,000 real moving quotes and moves. Last updated November 2026.
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.72/5 stars
- HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.64/5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58/5 stars
- Smooth Move: 4.56/5 stars
- Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.56/5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.50/5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.50/5 stars
- Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.50/5 stars
- Mark 1 Moving: 4.50/5 stars
- Kelly Moving Inc: 4.50/5 stars
Quick moving process
Efficient service
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Smooth Move Charleston has been in business for 13 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Smooth Move Charleston has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 974 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Smooth Move Charleston, and Smooth Move Charleston makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Smooth Move Charleston emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
My experience with smooth move was great! They were quick and efficient. All my Furniture and TVs were wrapped in packing blankets. I felt like I didn't have to worry about anything.
A 3-man crew was on time. Protected the walls and stairs. Wrapped all of the furniture and loaded with care. The team moving was polite, timely and professional. Best of all, they finished well under their estimated time.
Consistency and follow-up
Flexibility
Good communication
Careful handling
Respectful of property
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. HD Auston Moving Systems has been in business for 80 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. HD Auston Moving Systems has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 279 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.7.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from HD Auston Moving Systems.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. HD Auston Moving Systems emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Best move I have ever had. From beginning to end, Hardy and his crew excelled in every way. Not only were they a pleasure to work with, their communication, preparation and execution was consistent and first-rate.
Mr. Auston was professional, pleasant and helpful. He communicated via phone calls, texts and email. He assured me that everything would work out fine, and it did!
Friendly and approachable staff
Professional and polite staff
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 32 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 1110 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Robert and Kenji were superb. They were professional, fast, super careful, and never dilly-dallied. They came there to do a job and they did exactly that. I would use them again and recommend them.
The movers were communicative, professional, hard-working, and reliable. They packed my furniture with extreme care, wrapped everything well, and moved all my belongings safely and efficiently.
Friendly and approachable staff
Professional and polite staff
Respectful of property
Helpful movers
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Smooth Move has been in business for 13 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Smooth Move has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 722 total reviews.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Smooth Move, and Smooth Move makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Smooth Move emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Smooth Move made our moving experience truly go smoothly! Kelvin, Riley, Nathan, and Justin were so kind, helpful, and hardworking. They made sure that all of our furniture was well protected and packaged, worked efficiently
They showed up, maintained quick and friendly communication, were very polite and respectful of our property. No banged furniture, no scarred walls or doors.
Consistency and follow-up
Flexibility
Good communication
Respectful of property
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and international moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 258 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Ballantyne & Beyond Moving. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
We have used them 3 times and all three times they were excellent. On time to load and deliver. Highly recommend.
Used them about a year ago to move and will use again based on good experience. Dustin has been very responsive.
Helpful movers
Quick moving process
Professional and polite staff
Friendly and approachable staff
Quick response times
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. All My Sons Moving & Storage has been in business for 27 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 82% positive reviews across roughly 3457 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.4.
Quote accuracy 3.8
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All My Sons Moving & Storage.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Zac, Conner, AJ, and John are amazing! Helpful, prompt and polite! Highly recommend. Great team!
Ricky's crew did a great job. Super efficient
Quick response times
Quick moving process
Friendly and approachable staff
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and estate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 1324 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I called College Hunks to move a fridge from a storage unit. I got an appointment the same day, and they even came early because they were in the area. Danny and Ryan were very nice.
Juwon, Michael and Cole were friendly, arrived on time, and were very careful moving our 200lb furniture pieces. They disassembled and reassembled our beds quickly and finished the job under the estimated time.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Efficient service
Respectful of property
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Low Country Moving, LLC has been in business for 14 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Low Country Moving, LLC has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 530 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.1.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Low Country Moving, LLC.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Low Country Moving, LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I had a great experience with Low Country Moving Specialists. They worked quickly and efficiently while ensuring all my belongings were carefully moved from place to place. The crew was friendly and responsive.
Low Country Moving was outstanding -clear communication and pricing, timely, professional, careful with our stuff, and very efficient. Great value -well worth it.
Consistency and follow-up
Flexibility
Good communication
Quick response times
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Mark 1 Moving has been in business for 38 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Mark 1 Moving has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 103 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Mark 1 Moving.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Mark 1 Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Kristen came out right away, provided an accurate quote, and kept in touch throughout. The crew secured everything, delivered promptly, and nothing was missing or damaged. They went above and beyond.
Kristen was in good communication throughout the process, with no surprises. The team was professional and efficient, and we referred family because of the service.
Experienced movers
Affordable rates
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Consistency and follow-up
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Kelly Moving Inc has been in business for 22 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and labor-only moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Kelly Moving Inc has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 61 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 5.0.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Kelly Moving Inc.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Kelly Moving Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Kelly Moving never disappoints—always on time, careful moving of furniture and very helpful.
Great experience with Kelly Movers. Very knowledgeable, efficient, careful and customer oriented. Best move I've ever made!
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Compare the top moving companies in South Carolina
Based on moveBuddha's moving data, updated November 2026, here's how the top 10 movers in South Carolina compare.
| Mover | moveBuddha score | Positive reviews | Verified reviews | Years in business | FMCSA status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Smooth Move Charleston Get A Quote |
4.72/5 | 96% | 974 | 13 | N/A |
| #2 HD Auston Moving Systems Get A Quote |
4.64/5 | 89% | 279 | 80 | Active |
| #3 TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Get A Quote |
4.58/5 | 89% | 1,110 | 32 | Active |
| #4 Smooth Move Get A Quote |
4.56/5 | 97% | 722 | 13 | N/A |
| #5 Ballantyne & Beyond Moving Get A Quote |
4.56/5 | 87% | 258 | 18 | N/A |
| #6 All My Sons Moving & Storage Get A Quote |
4.50/5 | 82% | 3,457 | 27 | Active |
| #7 College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving Get A Quote |
4.50/5 | 97% | 1,324 | 7 | Active |
| #8 Low Country Moving, LLC Get A Quote |
4.50/5 | 92% | 530 | 14 | Active |
| #9 Mark 1 Moving Get A Quote |
4.50/5 | 85% | 103 | 38 | Active |
| #10 Kelly Moving Inc Get A Quote |
4.50/5 | 98% | 61 | 22 | Active |
How to read FMCSA status: Movers that transport belongings across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA. "N/A" means we didn't find an active FMCSA registration, which is common for movers that only offer local or in-state moves, or labor-only services like loading and unloading. These movers are typically licensed or registered at the state level instead. If you're moving out of South Carolina, choose a mover with an active FMCSA status.
Other local South Carolina movers
These South Carolina movers were reviewed by moveBuddha but did not make our top 10. See all 116 South Carolina movers we've reviewed →
- Hilldrup
- Carey Moving & Storage
- JEGA Movers LLC
- Gentlemen Movers Inc.
- A & M Friendly Movers LLC
- Swamp Rabbit Moving
- Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc.
- Estrada Pro Moving
- Smith Dray Line
- Fairway Moving Services
- LaBarbera Movers LLC
- Glaser & Sons Mooving
- MoveCrew, LLC
- Miracle Movers
- Anderson Transfer
- Undergrads Moving
- Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
- Cougar Moving
- Move It Williams LLC
- Workhorse Moving and Storage
- Saltwater Moving Company Charleston SC
- Highway Men Moving
- Strong Men Moving
- Coleman Worldwide Moving
- Carolina House Movers
South Carolina ranked #1 among the most popular moving destinations in the country in mid-2026. According to moveBuddha's mid-2026 moving trends analysis, about 2 people searched for moves into South Carolina for every 1 searching to leave (2.02 in-to-out ratio), putting the state back ahead of Idaho. If you're moving to South Carolina, movers can book up quickly, so compare quotes and lock in your moving date early. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report
Best Interstate Movers in South Carolina
The best interstate movers in South Carolina are led by Safeway Moving, which scores 4.90/5 on moveBuddha. 88 of South Carolina's 116 movers (76%) hold interstate operating authority, compared with 71% nationally. The top-rated interstate movers below average 4.87/5. Data last updated November 2026.
If you're moving from South Carolina to a destination 500+ miles away, a local mover may not be the right fit. Long-distance moves require interstate operating authority, appropriate estimates, and the equipment and experience to handle moves across state lines. We recommend using one of the top-rated long-distance moving companies in South Carolina for any out-of-state move of significant distance.
Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving (USDOT#: 3166589) offers the best overall value among full-service interstate movers for moves over 500 miles from South Carolina because it combines solid pricing with premium features that make long-distance moving feel more manageable from start to finish.
- Best overall value: Safeway Moving stands out with a barcode-scanned inventory and 24/7 customer support, giving you more control and visibility than many competitors we reviewed.
- Competitive advantage: Safeway adds to that value with 30 days of free climate-controlled storage and optional full-value protection, which can be especially useful for expensive items or more complicated interstate moves.
- Average cost: Safeway Moving's pricing typically falls between $1,000 and $4,900 for long-distance moves, based on moveBuddha's pricing data.
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT#: 614506) is our top pick for the most experienced full-service interstate mover for moves over 500 miles from South Carolina because it has the operational depth and specialized handling expertise needed for long-distance moves involving antiques, pianos, bulky furniture, and other high-value items.
- Most experienced handling: American Van Lines operates as a carrier with in-house crews trained to manage fragile, oversized, and high-value shipments, which makes it especially reliable for moves where careful execution is critical.
- Competitive advantage: American Van Lines backs that up with custom crating, climate-controlled storage, antique services, and support for last-minute long-distance moves, making it a leading choice for complex and specialty-item relocations.
- Average cost: Our moveBuddha data shows American Van Lines pricing around $3,948 for a typical 2-bedroom interstate move around 1,000 miles.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines (USDOT#: 070851) is our top pick for the best customized plans among full-service interstate movers for moves over 500 miles from South Carolina because it provides more control over pricing, services, and booking terms than competing long-distance movers.
- Best customized plans: North American Van Lines offers flexible, build-your-own service options with a la carte pricing and tracking tools, making it easier to tailor a move to your budget and priorities.
- Competitive advantage: North American Van Lines has no upfront deposit, flexible service packages such as fragile-only packing, and vehicle-shipping add-ons, which gives it more customization than other full-service competitors.
- Average cost: Pricing typically falls between $5,330 and $13,462 for long-distance moves, based on firsthand moveBuddha pricing data.
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
What specialty moving services are available in South Carolina?
Not every mover in South Carolina offers specialty services. Based on moveBuddha's review of 116 South Carolina movers, here are the specialty services available in South Carolina, how common they are, and who we recommend for each:
- Art handling: The best art handling company in South Carolina is Low Country Moving, LLC (4.50/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 22% of South Carolina movers offer art handling as a specialty service.
- Antique moving: The best antique moving company in South Carolina is HD Auston Moving Systems (4.64/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 32% of South Carolina movers offer antique moving as a specialty service.
- Junk removal: The best junk removal company in South Carolina is Smooth Move Charleston (4.72/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 30% of South Carolina movers offer junk removal as a specialty service.
- Fragile-only packing: The best fragile-only packing company in South Carolina is Mark 1 Moving (4.50/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 15% of South Carolina movers offer fragile-only packing as a specialty service.
- Storage: The best storage company in South Carolina is Smooth Move Charleston (4.72/5 moveBuddha rating). About 60% of South Carolina movers offer storage services.
- Climate-controlled storage: The best climate-controlled storage company in South Carolina is Smooth Move Charleston (4.72/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 27% of South Carolina movers offer climate-controlled storage as a specialty service.
- Hot tub relocation: The best hot tub relocation company in South Carolina is College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.50/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 8% of South Carolina movers offer hot tub relocation as a specialty service.
- Piano moving: The best piano moving company in South Carolina is Smooth Move Charleston (4.72/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 45% of South Carolina movers offer piano moving as a specialty service.
How much do movers cost in South Carolina?
Hiring local movers in South Carolina costs an average $477 for a studio up to $4,531 for a 5+ bedroom home. Most local movers in South Carolina charge $138/hour for a 2-person crew, based on moveBuddha's 2026 quote data. Compare flat-rate vs. hourly movers before you book.
The table below breaks down average local moving costs in South Carolina by home size, including estimated total prices and hourly rates.
| Home size | Avg. total cost | Cost/hour |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $477 | $193 |
| 1 bedroom | $671 | $193 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,096 | $271 |
| 3 bedrooms | $2,559 | $379 |
| 4 bedrooms | $2,938 | $379 |
| 5+ bedrooms | $4,531 | $531 |
Peak-season moves (May through August) and month-end dates cost 15% to 20% more. Get a personalized South Carolina moving cost estimate →
Key South Carolina Moving Tips & Consumer Protection
Whether your move stays in South Carolina or becomes a cross-country move, here is what to know before you book:
- Weather: South Carolina had hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters and coastal areas of the state have very mild winters. While precipitation is abundant the entire year in almost the entire state, the coast tends to have a slightly wetter summer, while inland, the spring and autumn transitions tend to be the wettest periods and winter the driest season, with November being the driest month.
- Building and parking rules: If you are moving to or from an HOA community or a building with an elevator, check the handbook or ask management about moving days, truck size limits, and elevator reservations. Also check with your destination city for any truck or container parking permits, especially in downtown or high-traffic areas.
- South Carolina mover 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. Verify a license → You can also confirm any mover's USDOT status and complaint history through the FMCSA site.
- Red flags: Be wary of movers that provide quotes without assessing your belongings, demand large cash deposits upfront, arrive in unmarked trucks, or refuse to provide a written estimate. These are common warning signs of a potential rogue moving company.
- Moving insurance: Interstate movers must offer free basic coverage, but it pays only $0.60 per pound per item (just $3 for a 5-pound item worth $500). Requirements for local moves vary by state, so ask your South Carolina mover what coverage it includes and whether it offers full-value protection.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move to keep your mail uninterrupted.
How to choose movers in South Carolina
Choosing the right moving company in South Carolina means looking beyond price. Licensing, customer reviews, transparent estimates, and consumer protections all matter. Use this checklist to compare movers before you book.
- Pricing and estimates: Get written estimates from at least three moving companies, ideally after an in-person or virtual walkthrough. Ask about binding estimates, potential extra fees, and what's included in the quoted price. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to see how estimates compare with typical moving costs.
- Discounts and price matching: About 16% of South Carolina movers offer military discounts, and about 3% offer senior discounts. Ask whether your mover offers additional savings or will match a competitor's written estimate.
- Service and reviews: Look beyond star ratings to see how movers handle customer complaints, damaged belongings, and unexpected charges. moveBuddha evaluates 116 South Carolina movers on customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. Smooth Move Charleston leads with a 4.72/5 rating. See our guide on how to choose a moving company.
- moveBuddha Certified movers: Consider a moveBuddha Certified mover for added protection. Every Certified mover passes our vetting process for safety, licensing, reputation, transparency, and pricing, agrees to ongoing monitoring, and commits to additional customer protections.
- Booking and flexibility: Ask about deposit requirements, cancellation policies, and rescheduling fees before committing. Moving companies book up quickly during peak season (May through August), so try to reserve your preferred date at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
Final Verdict: Best Moving Companies in South Carolina
After evaluating 116 moving companies in South Carolina and comparing national providers, moveBuddha recommends these top picks for local moves, long-distance relocations, moving containers, and DIY moves.
- Best overall local mover in South Carolina: Smooth Move Charleston (4.72/5). Smooth Move Charleston ranks first among the 116 local movers moveBuddha analyzed in South Carolina. Local moving costs range from $477 for a studio to $4,531 for a 5+ bedroom home.
- Best overall value for interstate moves: Safeway Moving (4.90/5). Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top pick for value on long-distance moves from South Carolina, offering flat-rate pricing and full licensing and insurance for interstate relocations. Read our Safeway Moving review.
- Best for professionally trained crews: American Van Lines (4.90/5). American Van Lines stands out for its experienced, professionally trained moving crews and transparent flat-rate pricing on interstate moves. Read our American Van Lines review.
- Best moving container: PODS (4.5/5). Moving containers offer a flexible alternative to full-service movers and can cost significantly less. Load at your own pace while PODS handles transportation.
- Best budget DIY option: Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5). Rental trucks are often the most affordable option for DIY moves in South Carolina, especially over shorter distances. Factor in fuel, mileage charges, and other fees when comparing the total cost.
FAQs about moving in South Carolina
How can I see all moving companies in South Carolina?
You can see all moving companies in South Carolina in our comprehensive list of South Carolina movers.
What is the cheapest way to move in South Carolina?
Rental trucks are the cheapest way to move in South Carolina. DIY moves cost roughly 30% less than full-service movers. Renting a truck and hiring a labor-only crew for loading and unloading gives you professional help at a fraction of full-service pricing. Moving containers are the next most affordable option and remove the need to drive a large vehicle yourself.
What is a full-service move?
A full-service move means the moving company handles packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. About 75% of South Carolina movers offer professional packing, and about 60% offer storage. Full-service is the most hands-off option but costs more than DIY alternatives. Confirm exactly which services are included in your quote before signing.
What is the difference between a moving broker and a moving carrier?
A moving carrier owns trucks and employs the crew that physically moves your belongings. A moving broker arranges moves through third-party carriers and does not handle your items directly. moveBuddha is not a broker and does not recommend working with moving brokers. We advise booking directly with a licensed carrier whenever possible.
How much should you tip movers in South Carolina?
For a local move, $20 to $50 per mover is a standard tip. For a long-distance move, $50 to $100+ per mover is appropriate, especially if the crew handled heavy furniture, stairs, or challenging access conditions. Tipping is not required, but it is customary for good service. Tip each crew member individually in cash at the end of the job. Read our full guide on tipping movers for more information.
How long does a move take in South Carolina?
A local move in South Carolina typically takes 4 hours for a 1-bedroom and 8 hours for a 3-bedroom home. Long-distance moves out of South Carolina add transit time that varies by distance and carrier. Full-service movers typically provide a delivery window of 1 to 14 business days for interstate moves, depending on distance. Rental trucks and moving containers give you more control over exact delivery timing.
When is the best time of year to move in South Carolina?
The cheapest time to move in South Carolina is during the off-season, from September through April. Peak moving season runs May through August, with June and July commanding the highest rates. Moves booked midweek and mid-month also tend to cost less than weekend or month-end bookings. Planning around these windows can save 15% to 20% on your total moving cost.
How we chose the best moving companies in South Carolina
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 116 South Carolina moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%).
That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
- Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
- Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.
Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.