Best Movers Near Aiken, SC (2026 Reviews)
Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. is Aiken's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.5/5 stars. Rankings are based on 1,849 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Aiken, SC, covering 11 local Aiken movers.
Local movers in Aiken are priced hourly. The South Carolina average is $138/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
rating
4.42 / 5
- Years in Business: 112
- Yelp: 1.8 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.36 / 5
- Years in Business: 26
- Yelp: 2.9 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.36 / 5
- Years in Business: 21
- Yelp: 2.4 / 5
- BBB: A+
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Moving in Aiken, SC right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Aiken. The one exception is the Thanksgiving window. The week of and after Thanksgiving sees an end-of-year demand spike. Aim for early to mid-November for the best combination of price and availability.
What are the top-rated moving companies in Aiken, SC?
Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. is Aiken's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.5/5.
moveBuddha scored 11 Aiken movers drawing on 1,849 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.85/5. Rankings include movers based in Aiken and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- Budget Movers of Augusta Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Apple Moving: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- ADSI Moving Systems Inc: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Monro Moving & Storage: 4.06 out of 5 stars
- JEGA Movers LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.16 out of 5 stars
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. has been in business for 21 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. has about 81% positive reviews across roughly 566 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.4.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Budget Movers of Augusta Inc..
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I had called them with short notice and they were wonderful. Very fast and nothing was damaged. They moved me from one third-story home to another with a smile.
Great company. Very responsive staff, easy to book service, very timely, very professional, and they took utmost care of every item.
Organized packing
Good communication
Quick response times
Quick moving process
Helpful movers
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Coleman Worldwide Moving has been in business for 112 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Coleman Worldwide Moving has about 86% positive reviews across roughly 368 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.8.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Coleman Worldwide Moving.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Coleman Worldwide Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Jalen, Chris, and Calvin did an excellent job packing my house. They were very professional, punctual, and handled everything with care. The team worked efficiently, stayed organized, and made the whole moving process much less stressful.
From the initial communication to the final delivery, Labron and Domo were incredibly professional and efficient. They were always available to answer questions and kept me informed throughout the entire process.
Quick response times
Quick moving process
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Apple Moving has been in business for 26 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and labor-only moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Apple Moving has about 48% positive reviews across roughly 54 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.9.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Apple Moving.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Apple Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The five-man crew showed up on time, protected my floors, worked hard, stayed organized, and treated my home and belongings with respect.
Ruben and Rey were professional, friendly, courteous, finished in a timely manner, and very reasonable. I would recommend them and Apple Moving for any move.
Consistency and follow-up
Good communication
Professional and polite staff
Efficient service
Quick response times
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. ADSI Moving Systems Inc has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and international moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. ADSI Moving Systems Inc has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 130 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from ADSI Moving Systems Inc.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. ADSI Moving Systems Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
From start to finish the communication from both Wendy and the driver Scott was the best we have ever experienced. They contacted us every day with updates, and our stuff arrived safely when we expected it.
The on-site team was prompt, professional and efficient. The back-office staff were helpful in setting up the move, responding to support questions, and ensuring our satisfaction.
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 intrastate moving and office 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.
Careful handling
Quick response times
Friendly and approachable staff
Professional and polite staff
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. Gentlemen Movers Inc. has been in business for 23 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like estate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Gentlemen Movers Inc. has about 81% positive reviews across roughly 260 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.4.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Gentlemen Movers Inc..
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Gentlemen Movers Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Robert responded to my request in less than two hours on a weekend and was then able to fit me in that afternoon.
From start to finish, every team member was courteous, careful with my belongings, and efficient.
Friendly and approachable staff
Professional and polite staff
Quick response times
Helpful movers
Respectful of property
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Monro Moving & Storage has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Monro Moving & Storage has about 75% positive reviews across roughly 32 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Monro Moving & Storage.
Customer service 3.5
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Monro Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
Team Jonathan was the best movers we ever had. The team worked well together (all 7 of them), pleasan, efficient and showed up on time. Best part no damage to the furniture or walls. Highly recommend!
We have always had great luck with them, but today I was especially impressed with Robert and the 2 young men who were with him. It was 95 degrees outside and they worked very hard and were very professional.
Quick response times
Flexibility
Quick moving process
Efficient service
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. JEGA Movers LLC has been in business for 6 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. JEGA Movers LLC has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 183 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.5.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from JEGA Movers LLC.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. JEGA Movers LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I called on a Saturday to get items moved from my home to office. By Sunday afternoon my items are moved and I'm settling in. They arrived on time and wasted no time wrapping and loading them with care.
James, the owner, contacted me a few hours after I submitted a quote. He took time to understand the move, and when I said the date was flexible, he adjusted the quote.
Helpful movers
Quick moving process
Respectful of property
Friendly and approachable staff
Careful handling
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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 26 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 53% positive reviews across roughly 128 total reviews.
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 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
James and Will were awesome and went above and beyond to ensure I had a great moving experience from Summerville to Sumter to Santee. The whole haul was much smoother, shorter and cheaper than I thought.
Fast and professional. Jaylon Gadson handled my move and is excellent. Highly recommend!
Quick response times
Quick moving process
Efficient service
Friendly and approachable staff
Professional and polite staff
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 922 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
On time, quick and easy to work with.
After another moving company left us in the lurch last minute, these men stepped in quickly and got us moved. Professional, polite, and quick!
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How do Aiken, SC moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | City rank | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
4.5 |
#1 of 11 | 81% | A+ | ||
|
4.38 |
#2 of 11 | 86% | A+ | ||
|
4.3 |
#4 of 11 | 48% | A+ | ||
|
4.3 |
#3 of 11 | 87% | N/A | ||
|
4.58 |
—
Top 10 in South Carolina |
89% | A+ | ||
|
4.36 |
— | 81% | N/A | ||
4.06 |
#5 of 11 | 75% | N/A | ||
|
4.44 |
— | 92% | A+ | ||
|
4.22 |
— | 53% | A | ||
|
4.16 |
— | 96% | N/A |
Proximity to Aiken is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.
Top-rated movers in nearby South Carolina cities
- Anderson movers
- Beaufort movers
- Berea movers
- Bluffton movers
- Boiling Springs movers
- Carolina Forest movers
- Cayce movers
- Charleston movers
- Clemson movers
- Columbia movers
- Conway movers
- Dentsville movers
- Easley movers
- Five Forks movers
- Florence movers
- Forest Acres movers
- Fort Mill movers
- Fountain Inn movers
- Gaffney movers
- Gantt movers
- Garden City movers
- Goose Creek movers
- Greenville movers
- Greenwood movers
- Greer movers
- Hanahan movers
- Hilton Head Island movers
- Irmo movers
- James Island movers
- Ladson movers
- Lake Wylie movers
- Lexington movers
- Mauldin movers
- Moncks Corner movers
- Mount Pleasant movers
- Myrtle Beach movers
- Newberry movers
- North Augusta movers
- North Charleston movers
- North Myrtle Beach movers
- Oak Grove movers
- Orangeburg movers
- Parker movers
- Port Royal movers
- Red Bank movers
- Red Hill movers
- Rock Hill movers
- Seven Oaks movers
- Simpsonville movers
- Socastee movers
- Spartanburg movers
- St. Andrews movers
- Summerville movers
- Sumter movers
- Taylors movers
- Tega Cay movers
- Wade Hampton movers
- West Columbia movers
South Carolina is the #2 most popular moving destination in the country right now. moveBuddha's 2026 data shows about 2 people searching to move in for every 1 searching to leave. Myrtle Beach is the most sought-after moving destination of any city in the entire country, with nearly 4 people looking to move there for every 1 looking to leave. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report →
Popular moving routes from Aiken, SC
Local movers in Aiken are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-26, I-77, I-85, and I-385. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Aiken, SC for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
rating
4.9 / 5
- Best overall value
- Veteran owned
- Portion to charity
rating
4.9 / 5
- Certified crews
- Flat-rate pricing
- Family-owned
rating
4.8 / 5
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
How much do movers cost in Aiken, SC?
Local movers in Aiken are priced hourly. The South Carolina average is $138/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in Aiken |
|---|---|
| Studio | $255 – $425 |
| 1 bedroom | $340 – $595 |
| 2 bedrooms | $510 – $850 |
| 3 bedrooms | $765 – $1,275 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,020 – $1,870 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Aiken's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare Aiken mover prices? See our full guide on Aiken, SC mover costs →
Which Aiken, SC movers offer specialty services?
Not every Aiken mover handles specialty items. moveBuddha tracked 11 Aiken moving companies across 5 specialty service categories. The breakdown below shows availability rates for this market and the top-rated mover in each category:
- Piano moving: 5 of 11 Aiken movers (45.45%) offer it. Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. (4.5/5) is Aiken's top-rated piano mover.
- Antique handling: 5 of 11 Aiken movers (45.45%) offer it. Coleman Worldwide Moving (4.38/5) also handles antique care.
- Art packing: 5 of 11 Aiken movers (45.45%) offer it. Coleman Worldwide Moving (4.38/5) also offers art packing.
- Climate-controlled storage: 2 of 11 Aiken movers (18.18%) offer it. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.58/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
What movers in Aiken offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 5 of 11 Aiken movers (45.45%). Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. (4.5/5) is Aiken's top-rated piano mover.
| Piano moving in Aiken | Details |
|---|---|
| Aiken movers offering this | 5 of 11 (45.45%) |
| Top-rated Aiken piano movers | Budget Movers of Augusta Inc., Coleman Worldwide Moving |
| Upright piano | $680 to $1,275 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,020 to $2,125 |
| Grand piano | $1,530 to $2,975 |
Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.
What movers in Aiken offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 5 of 11 Aiken movers (45.45%). Coleman Worldwide Moving (4.38/5) also handles antique care.
| Antique handling in Aiken | Details |
|---|---|
| Aiken movers offering this | 5 of 11 (45.45%) |
| Top-rated Aiken antique movers | Coleman Worldwide Moving, ADSI Moving Systems Inc |
| Added cost to a household move | $850 to $2,125 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $43 to $425 |
| Custom crating per item | $128 to $170 |
Custom crating and per-piece handling fees are the main cost factors. Standard released-value coverage ($0.60/lb) is inadequate for high-value antiques, so full-value protection adds to the total. The more pieces requiring individual crating, the higher the cost. See moveBuddha's guide to best antique moving companies for specialists in this market.
What movers in Aiken offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 5 of 11 Aiken movers (45.45%). Coleman Worldwide Moving (4.38/5) also offers art packing.
| Art packing in Aiken | Details |
|---|---|
| Aiken movers offering this | 5 of 11 (45.45%) |
| Top-rated Aiken art movers | Coleman Worldwide Moving, ADSI Moving Systems Inc |
| Per-piece handling fee | $43 to $425 |
| Custom crating per item | $128 to $170 |
Cost scales with piece count and crating complexity. Framed canvases and sculptures require custom-built crates at $150 to $200 each. Confirm the mover has handled similar media before booking. See how to pack and move art for what to verify before signing.
What movers in Aiken offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 2 of 11 Aiken movers (18.18%). TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.58/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
| Climate-controlled storage in Aiken | Details |
|---|---|
| Aiken movers offering this | 2 of 11 (18.18%) |
| Top-rated Aiken providers | TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, Gentlemen Movers Inc. |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $218 |
Cost is driven by unit size and duration. Longer storage gaps and larger loads raise the monthly total. Climate control is most relevant for wood furniture, electronics, and vinyl; standard units can handle hardier items at lower cost. See moveBuddha's climate-controlled storage guide for a full cost and provider breakdown.
Apartment and high-rise moving in Aiken
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Aiken adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:
- Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Aiken apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
- Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
- Labor-only movers: 36% of Aiken movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. is Aiken's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Aiken apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in Aiken, SC
Not every Aiken move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Aiken, SC are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.
rating
4.3 / 5
- Affordable pricing
- Online pricing
- Several discounts
rating
4.0 / 5
- Most expensive
- 4 truck sizes
- Unlimited mileage
rating
4.2 / 5
- Greatest coverage
- 7 truck sizes
- One way rentals
Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in Aiken, SC are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.
rating
4.5 / 5
- Unlimited storage
- 3 container sizes
- 10% discount
rating
4.3 / 5
- Flexible timelines
- Local franchise support
- Fits tight spaces
rating
5.0 / 5
- Affordable pricing
- Offers car shipping
- No hidden fees
Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in Aiken, SC start with Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. (4.5/5) and Apple Moving (4.3/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.
rating
4.5 / 5
- Years in Business: 21
- 81% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
rating
4.3 / 5
- Years in Business: 26
- 48% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
rating
4.58 / 5
- Years in Business: 32
- 89% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
Moving in Aiken, SC: what you need to know
An Aiken move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.
Before move day
- Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Aiken residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with South Carolina DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Aiken buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
- Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
- Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.
Timing your move
- Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Aiken's summer highs reach 92°F, which pushes prices up and crew availability down. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
- Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.
South Carolina moving regulations and your rights
- Verify your mover is licensed: all South Carolina movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at South Carolina's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
- 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.
- Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
- When moving in South Carolina, explore movers' insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
- Industry oversight: South Carolina Trucking Association sets professional standards for South Carolina movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.
Frequently asked questions: moving in Aiken, SC
How much do movers cost in Aiken, SC?
Local movers in Aiken, SC charge by the hour. The South Carolina average is $138/hour for a 2-person crew. Aiken's top-rated mover is Budget Movers of Augusta Inc., earning a 4.5/5 on moveBuddha, drawing on 40,051 verified customer reviews across South Carolina.
Key cost factors for a Aiken move, based on moveBuddha's review data:
- Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
- Deposit requirement: many Aiken movers require a deposit to secure your booking. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: available from select Aiken movers. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
- Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
- Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Aiken across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 82% of Aiken movers (9 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 73% of Aiken movers (8 companies) offer full packing, and 45% supply packing materials. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.
DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.
What do full-service movers in Aiken include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in Aiken, SC includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Aiken movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of Aiken movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 73% (8 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Packing materials | 45% | Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking |
| Storage | 55% | ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$218/month |
| Crating (fragile/high-value items) | 36% (4 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 36% (4 companies) | Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge |
| Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) | Situational | $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200 |
Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.
Do movers in Aiken offer senior, military, or other discounts?
moveBuddha found no confirmed senior, military, AAA, student, teacher, or law enforcement discounts among the Aiken movers in its database. That does not mean discounts are unavailable. Ask each mover directly at the quote stage, since some companies offer unpublished rates for eligible groups. Confirm any discount in writing before signing.
How far in advance should I book movers in Aiken?
Book Aiken movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.
Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Aiken movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Aiken movers provide one?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Aiken apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.
Any licensed, insured Aiken mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.
Are movers in Aiken licensed and insured?
South Carolina requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the South Carolina licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Always ask your Aiken mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.
How long does a local move take in Aiken?
Local Aiken moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Aiken-area data:
- Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
- 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
- 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
- 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew
These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.
Do Aiken movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most Aiken movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:
- Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Aiken
- Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
- Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
- Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces
A mover with genuine Aiken apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.
What is the best time of year to move in Aiken?
The cheapest time to move in Aiken is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.
Peak season runs May through September. Aiken's summer highs reach 92°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.
Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Aiken's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Aiken?
moveBuddha scores 11 moving companies in Aiken on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. Based on that scoring, Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. ranks #1 of 11 in Aiken.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews Aiken, SC moving companies
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%). Rankings for Aiken draw on 40,051 verified customer reviews across South Carolina: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.
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.
See how Aiken's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Aiken's top movers →
How to move in Aiken: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Aiken, SC, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- Verify your mover's license and insurance. 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.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Aiken building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
- Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Aiken street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Aiken movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.
The final verdict: moving in Aiken, SC
- Best overall: Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. (4.5/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked Aiken mover.
- Best runner-up: Coleman Worldwide Moving (4.38/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. (4.5/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: Budget Movers of Augusta Inc. (4.5/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: hourly; get 3 binding estimates to set your baseline.
Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.