Quick answer: The cost to move from Huntsville to Charleston ranges from $542 to $7,088 and the journey will take approximately one to four days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 478-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Charleston to Huntsville guide.

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best movers by type

For a move from Huntsville to Charleston, you’ll have no shortage of options. There are 8 interstate movers in your area, giving you plenty of choices… but also a big decision to make about whether to go full-service or take on more of the work yourself.

We reviewed every Huntsville company against key criteria, including service variety, affordability, and what people are saying in online reviews. Only the best long-distance movers in Huntsville made our final list.

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Best professional movers from Huntsville to Charleston

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Huntsville to Charleston, full-service movers are the answer. They manage every step so you can keep your attention on the big decisions and the excitement of the move.

Here are our picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to take you from Huntsville to Charleston without the headaches.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Huntsville?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare Huntsville with the broader AL landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service Huntsville (Count) Huntsville (%) Alabama (Count) Alabama (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 8 100% 43 100% 2831 98%
Unpacking 8 100% 42 98% 2796 97%
Fragile-only packing 2 25% 10 23% 715 25%
Packing materials 5 63% 26 60% 1682 58%
Storage
Storage 7 88% 38 88% 2499 87%
Climate-controlled storage 3 38% 15 35% 973 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 6 75% 28 65% 1885 65%
Art 2 25% 10 23% 1397 48%
Antiques 3 38% 14 33% 1398 48%
Piano 7 88% 33 77% 2173 75%
Hot tub 1 13% 10 23% 668 23%
Pool table 1 13% 13 30% 941 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 33 Alabama movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The best local movers servicing Huntsville to Charleston moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Huntsville that offers long-distance services to Charleston can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Huntsville who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Huntsville to Charleston.

  1. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Applewhite Movers LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. This Side Up Moving & Storage : 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. The Armstrong Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/MotivatedMoversBirmingham, https://twitter.com/MMoversBham
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top marks for hustle: the vast majority of the 255 feedback entries for Motivated Movers, Inc. praise efficient moving, professional teams, and careful handling of customer belongings. Nearly 94% of customers shared a positive experience, highlighting staff courtesy, quick and organized service, and movers who routinely went the extra mile. Clients often compare Motivated Movers favorably to other companies, citing lower stress, reasonable prices, and reliable communication.
On the rare occasion issues occurred (about 6% of input), most complaints centered on items damaged, unexpectedly high final bills, or unprofessional behavior by management during disputes. A single neutral review noted high costs and poorly protected appliances. Motivated Movers appears to perform far above industry averages in service quality, with especially strong marks for professionalism and efficiency, but future customers should clarify pricing and keep an eye on item care to avoid rare pitfalls.
Show more
Get a Quote (256) 858-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 14


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/twomenhuntsville/, https://x.com/twomenhsv
85% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck frequently means careful handling and a courteous, professional team. Analysis of 247 pieces of customer feedback reveals 85% positive experiences. Movers stand out for treating furniture and fragile items with care, working efficiently, and keeping customers informed.
Packing is meticulous, and jobs are often finished quickly. Communication from the office and booking staff is reliable. Many customers returned to the company after trying competitors who didn’t measure up. On the downside, about 13% of feedback reports notable problems. Damaged belongings top complaints, followed by delays and trouble resolving issues with the claims department. A handful of families described slow moves or items arriving late, and several noted poor follow-up when filing claims for broken items. Compared to most moving services, Two Men and a Truck’s drivers and teams deliver stronger respect for property and quicker, friendlier service. Some customers did pay more than expected or faced communication lapses when there was a problem, but the majority received a seamless, damage-free move with attentive, helpful service.
Show more
Get a Quote (256) 392-9462

Company Info

State license #: 614

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/ApplewhiteMovers/, https://twitter.com/applewhitemover?lang=en
87% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—most customers describe Applewhite Movers LLC as prompt, polite, and highly efficient. Out of 140 reviews analyzed, 87% were positive. Clients often highlight the professionalism, careful handling of belongings, impressive speed, and helpful movers who communicate well.
Many noted a stress-free experience and appreciated the team’s respectfulness and reliability, which set Applewhite apart from typical moving services in the region. Negative feedback mostly relates to property damage, delayed schedules, and unprofessional attitude during some moves, with a few reports of mishandling and poor claim resolution. Compared to other companies, Applewhite consistently delivers better communication and more diligent movers, though some improvements in damage claims and staff consistency could further strengthen their reputation.
Show more
Get a Quote (256) 430-1198

Company Info

State license #: 4119

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2172780


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Home-Mover/This-Side-Up-Moving-575232349339672/, https://twitter.com/tsumoving?lang=en
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about This Side Up Moving & Storage for their professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, and strong communication, with 229 out of 244 reviews praising these traits. Movers regularly earn praise for their courtesy, quick moving process, and the care they show in protecting belongings and homes. Many mention seamless booking, reliable quote accuracy, and respectful treatment, even in physically demanding moves.
Compared to other moving companies, This Side Up receives more consistent five-star input. Some negative feedback centers on property damage, poor complaint resolution, and lost items. Delays in claims handling and unaddressed damages frustrate the small minority of dissatisfied customers. One neutral review noted confusion and a truck mismatch, resulting in minor damages and unexpected charges. The company stands out for delivering a professional and respectful experience, but could improve by enhancing how it handles claims and follows up after reported issues.
Show more
Get a Quote (256) 653-7612

Company Info

State license #: 3959

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1874024


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/HuntsvilleMover/, https://twitter.com/armstronghsv
87% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Armstrong Relocation stands out for highlighting a reliable, skilled moving crew. Out of 119 reviews, 87% share positive experiences, often complimenting professional staff, careful handling, and efficient service. Customers mention effective communication and speed, noting how Armstrong reduces moving stress.
On the downside, 12% express concerns like damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and delayed deliveries. A small portion describe frustration with claims or lost belongings. Armstrong Relocation scores higher customer satisfaction than many competitors, frequently winning praise for staff politeness and thoroughness. Despite rare but impactful complaints, most input positions this company as a top performer for care, professionalism, and hassle-free moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (256) 772-6664

Company Info

State license #: 3859

Years in Business: 64

DOT #: 1170867


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Huntsville to Charleston?

Huntsville movers charge $65 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,477 - $4,118 $865 - $2,097 $508 - $892
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,617 - $7,088 $1,470 - $2,808 $542 - $1,114
4+ bedrooms $4,436 - $10,471 $2,096 - $3,902 $661 - $1,262
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 478 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Alabama to South Carolina

Planning a move from Alabama to South Carolina? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,477 and $4,118. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,617 and $7,088 for the same journey (AL to SC). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,436 to $10,471.

Cost of moving containers from Alabama to South Carolina

Moving from Alabama to South Carolina? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $865 and $2,097. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,470 to $2,808. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,096 up to $3,902. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to South Carolina

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $508 and $892 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $542 to $1,114. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $661 to $1,262.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Huntsville to Charlestontoggle

The cost of Huntsville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Huntsville to Charleston can be as low as $1,477 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $8,188.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Huntsville so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $508 to $1,184. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Huntsville to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move — Charleston runs about 69% higher for singles and 91% higher for families than Huntsville.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Charleston versus $3,133 in Huntsville; families pay $7,890 compared with $4,140.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Huntsville Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $1,358 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $2,400 $4,487
Average home value $266,736 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $60,959 $62,294
Unemployment rate 3.1% 4.0%
Sales tax 9.0% 9.0%
State income tax 5.0% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Charleston, since prices are typically 77% higher than in Huntsville.
  • The home prices in Charleston are 109.7% higher than in Huntsville, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Charleston, where incomes are, on average, 2.2% higher than in Huntsville. Major employers in Charleston include Joint Base Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, and The Boeing Company.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 69.2% higher than in Huntsville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Charleston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 90.6% higher than in Huntsville.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 29.03% higher than in Huntsville.
  • Sales taxes are the same in Charleston and Huntsville.
  • State income taxes in Charleston are 40.00% higher than in Huntsville.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Huntsville versus Charleston.

Huntsville Charleston
Basic utilities $180 $156.99
Cell phone plan $50.56 $54.78
Dozen eggs $4.26 $4.55
Loaf of bread $3.33 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.5 $18
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $62.5 $80
Gym membership $44 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Huntsville than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Huntsville than in Charleston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Huntsville than in Charleston.
  • Bread costs less in Huntsville than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Huntsville than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Huntsville than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Huntsville than in Charleston.

How life is different in Huntsville vs. Charleston

Charleston Huntsville
Population 150,277 241,114
Transportation Score 3 2
Walkability score 40 24
Bike friendliness score 50 40
Crime Index 44.97 42.55
Safety Index 55.03 57.45
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston's population is about 38% less than Huntsville.
  • Charleston's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Huntsville's lower score of 2.
  • Charleston is more walkable than Huntsville with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Huntsville's 24 out of 100.
  • With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Huntsville, which has a score of 40 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Charleston and Huntsville have a similar crime rate.
  • Charleston and Huntsville are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Huntsville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Huntsville vs. Charleston move

  • Weather: Consider moving to Charleston around October, April and May as these are the most pleasant months, while July and August are the least comfortable ones due to thunderstorms which can cause delays in your moving plans.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Charleston. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Charleston

Ready to relocate to Holy City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Charleston.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Harleston Village
  • James Island
  • North Charleston
  • South of Broad West Ashley

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Mount Pleasant
  • Park Circle
  • Stiles Point
  • Summerville
  • Wagener Terrace

Things to do in Charleston

Once you're settled into your new home in South Carolina, it's time to get out and discover what Charleston has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Charleston, such as the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, The Charleston Museum, and Gibbes Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Huntsville to Charleston?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Huntsville to Charleston are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Huntsville. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Huntsville to Charleston?

Because most people are moving from Huntsville to Charleston in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Huntsville to Charleston take?

Moving from Huntsville, AL to Charleston, SC covers 478 miles and usually takes one to four days Need to move faster? Some Huntsville movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Charleston.

What kinds of discounts do Huntsville movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 1 movers offer special pricing for military members. 1 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Huntsville?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Huntsville, 7 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Alabama has 33 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2173 and 1398 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources