Quick answer: A move from Ontario to Charleston costs $1,908–$9,630 and takes seven to 18 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 2,437-mile move yourself.

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

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

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Best Professional Movers from Ontario to Charleston

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Ontario to Charleston isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

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

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California 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 top local movers servicing Ontario to Charleston moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Ontario that also handles long-distance moves to Charleston. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Ontario who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Ontario to Charleston.

  1. Golden Eagle Moving, LLC: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Big Deahl's Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  5. Trek Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/goldeneaglemovingunited/,
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stories don’t get much better—customers share that Golden Eagle Moving stands out for having polite, professional staff, fast and careful service, and exceptionally helpful crews. Out of 160 customer reviews, 81% reported positive experiences, often noting excellent communication and attention to detail. Most people found their items well handled and teams easy to work with, which sets this mover apart from competitors.
A small but important segment of the feedback points to damaged or missing items, as well as occasions where delivery arrived late. Some also mentioned challenges with compensation for lost or broken belongings. Compared to other movers, Golden Eagle earns high marks for reliability and service, but there are a few cautionary stories about handling precious items and delays.
Show more
Get a Quote (909) 946-7655

Company Info

State license #: 0191570

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Golden Eagle Moving Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/VIPMayflower/,
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Stellar service and professionalism are at the heart of most customer input for VIP Transport, Inc. Out of 244 reviews analyzed, 88.5% reflect positive feedback with standout praise for the company’s professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling of possessions. Movers are routinely described as efficient, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile, making the moving process much less stressful.
Customers also highlight helpful attitudes and strong organizational skills from both office and field staff, setting VIP Transport ahead of many competitors. The main negative feedback, making up about 9%, centers on damaged items, slow resolution of claims, or lapses in communication and delivery timelines. Still, these issues appear in a small minority of cases. A few neutral comments mention price competitiveness and the condition of vehicles. With consistent praise for attentive and skilled teams, transparent communication, and a reputation for reducing the hassle of relocation, VIP Transport remains a top choice for complex or long-distance moves—even if some room for improvement persists regarding claims and rare mishandled items.
Show more
Get a Quote (951) 272-3700

Company Info

State license #: 0137029

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit, VIP Transport East, Inc, VIP Transport - United Van Lines, VIP Transport - Mayflower Transit, United Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.
Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
Show more
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/TrekMovers/, https://twitter.com/trek_movers
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves, stress-free results—Trek Movers impresses with fast, careful, and courteous crews. From nearly 1,400 customer reviews, 95.6% highlight efficient service, professionalism, gentle handling, and excellent communication. Customers praise how movers wrap, pack, and transport even precious or bulky items, finishing jobs ahead of or within timeframes.
Friendly teams minimize moving-day anxiety and adapt to special requests. Compared to other companies, Trek's pricing is transparent and often seen as good value for reliable, polite moving teams. Clients book and reschedule with ease. For many repeat customers, Trek raises the industry bar for care and punctuality. On the other hand, a small share—about 4%—voice frustrations about higher-than-expected costs, rare item damage, or delays. Some cite big bills after slow moves, or unresolved compensation for property harm. A few mention late arrivals. Neutral comments typically mention slower service or difference of opinion on pricing, while still noting jobs get done. For most, Trek Movers delivers trustworthy, efficient, and careful moves unmatched by most other providers.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 298-0044

Company Info

State license #: 0191956

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3256910

Alternate Names: Trek Solutions LLC, Trek Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

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

Ontario movers charge $110 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 $1,546 - $6,617 $1,539 - $4,150 $1,675 - $3,342
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,442 - $9,630 $2,823 - $5,860 $1,908 - $3,820
4+ bedrooms $8,609 - $14,310 $3,843 - $7,958 $2,268 - $4,975
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,437 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 California to South Carolina

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,546 and $6,617. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,442 to $9,630 for the trip from CA to SC. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $8,609 and $14,310.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina

If you're relocating from California to South Carolina, you'll typically spend between $1,539 and $4,150 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,823 up to $5,860. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,843 and $7,958. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California 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 $1,675 and $3,342 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,908 to $3,820. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,268 to $4,975.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Ontario to Charlestontoggle

The cost of Ontario 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 Ontario to Charleston can be as low as $1,546 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $14,143.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Ontario 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 $1,675 to $4,188. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Ontario to Charleston

Moving from Ontario to Charleston comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Charleston is generally more expensive than Ontario, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Ontario Charleston
Average rent cost $2,619 $2,500
Average home value $668,089 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $71,908 $62,294
Cost of living (single person) $2,473 $5,300
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,793 $7,890
Unemployment rate 6.9% 4.0%
Sales tax 8.75% 9.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Charleston are 5% lower than in Ontario, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Charleston.
    Home prices in Charleston are 16.3% lower than in Ontario.
  • Income in Charleston is 13.4% lower than in Ontario, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Charleston — including Joint Base Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, and The Boeing Company — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 114.3% higher than in Ontario. 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 36.2% higher than in Ontario.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 42.03% lower than in Ontario.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Charleston, since its sales taxes are 2.86% higher than what you are paying in Ontario.
  • One perk of moving to Charleston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 47.37% lower than in Ontario.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $6,429.44 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Ontario.

How life is different in Ontario vs. Charleston

Charleston Ontario
Population 150,277 175,265
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 5
Walkability score 40 48
Bike friendliness score 50 46
Crime Index 44.97 50.25
Safety Index 55.03 49.75
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston's population is about 14% less than Ontario.
  • Charleston's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Ontario's higher score of 5.
  • Charleston is less walkable than Ontario with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Ontario's 48 out of 100.
  • With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Ontario, which has a score of 46 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Charleston's crime rate is lower than Ontario with a score of 44.97 compared to Ontario's 50.25. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ontario neighborhoods are safer than 50.25%.
  • Charleston is considered to be safer than Ontario with a safety index of 55.03 vs Ontario's 49.75.
  • Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Ontario it's good.

Other things to consider for your Ontario 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Charleston Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Charleston

Now that you've chosen Holy City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Charleston to check out.

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

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it's time to see what Charleston is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Charleston include museums and art centers like 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 — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Ontario to Charleston You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Ontario.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Ontario to Charleston are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Ontario to Charleston take?

The 2,437-mile journey from Ontario, CA to Charleston, SC, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Ontario offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Charleston.

Helpful moving resources