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($1,193) Cost to Move From Riverside, CA to Charleston, SC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,437 miles from Riverside to Charleston has an average cost ranging from $1,429 to $7,209. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly seven–18 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Riverside to Charleston

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Riverside to Charleston

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Riverside to Charleston. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 50 interstate moving companies in Riverside. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Charleston.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Riverside to Charleston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,437-mile move from Riverside to Charleston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,516 – $5,712
  • Moving Container $1,715 – $3,120
  • Rental Truck $1,253 – $2,654
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,392 – $7,209
  • Moving Container $2,222 – $4,428
  • Rental Truck $1,429 – $3,099
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,907 – $11,950
  • Moving Container $3,209 – $6,265
  • Rental Truck $1,714 – $3,689
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Budget Truck Rental
Citrus, CA Jamestown, SC
2 Bedrooms
Nov 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Pomona, CA Moncks Corner, SC
3 Bedrooms
Nov 21, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Banning, CA Hollywood, SC
4 Bedrooms
Nov 19, 2025
Safeway Moving
Dana Point, CA Ladson, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 04, 2025
North American Van Lines
Fontana, CA Lincolnville, SC
4 Bedrooms
Nov 04, 2025
Roadway Moving
Irwindale, CA Folly Beach, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 09, 2025
PODS
Valle Vista, CA Charleston, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
American Van Lines
Loma Linda, CA McClellanville, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 12, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Claremont, CA Kiawah Island, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 08, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
El Monte, CA Bonneau, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Charleston, SC to Riverside, CA guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Riverside to Charleston moves

Organizing a move from Riverside to Charleston can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 55 local movers in Riverside known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

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

  1. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Burgess Moving and Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Alex Moving and Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Inland Empire Movers: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.5% of all reviews were positive
9.0% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.0% of all reviews were positive
11.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is the promise most echoed in customer feedback for Burgess Moving and Storage. Out of 100 reviews analyzed, 86% praised the company for professional, polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, helpful movers, and good communication—qualities not always found with competitors. Customers consistently highlighted how respectful and attentive the teams are, along with their ability to manage even fragile or complicated moves with ease. Many reviewers emphasized the stress-free process and the reliability of the crews, noting thoughtful touches like clear labeling, organized packing, and transparent coordination. On the downside, 11% of feedback focused on damage to items, poor communication, or unexpected charges. Issues such as mishandled insurance claims, delays in delivery, and unresolved damages set them apart from top-tier service providers. Although most people described the company as responsive and considerate, a small number cited frustration with follow-up and accountability after the move. Compared to many moving companies, Burgess stands out for outstanding service and professionalism, but some gaps remain in handling complaints and post-move issues.
Get a Quote (951) 682-4300

Company Info

State license #: 0056647

Years in Business: 78

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Burgess North America , North American Moving & Storage , Burgess Moving and Storage , Inland Moving & Storage Company , Burgess North American

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.5% of all reviews were positive
12.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Golden West Moving Systems shows a strong record of professional, efficient, and helpful service, with 88% of reviews sharing positive experiences. Many customers praise the movers’ care with belongings, quick process, and respectful demeanor. Clients appreciate both smooth long-distance and complex moves, and several note accurate estimates and clear communication throughout the process. Negative feedback makes up about 13% of input and centers chiefly on employee conduct, accidental property damage, and limited service availability. Rare incidents of unprofessional behavior and lack of area coverage contrast with the many endorsements for the company’s reliability and thoroughness. Golden West appears to deliver a higher standard of moving service compared to many competitors, earning frequent recommendations for both residential and business moves.
Get a Quote (800) 548-2400

Company Info

State license #: 0190351

Years in Business: 61

DOT #: 70719

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
54.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with Alex Moving and Storage often stand out for efficient service, professional and friendly teams, and careful handling of belongings. Many customers note fast moves and clear communication exceeding what is typical among moving services. However, reports of damaged items, lost boxes, and lack of communication occur more frequently than with highly-rated competitors. Over half of the analyzed feedback was negative, citing property loss and damage as common themes. While staff professionalism shines in some moves, repeated breakdowns in handling and tracking led to distrust among customers. Out of 126 reviews, 42.9% shared positive stories, while 54.8% reported serious issues, placing Alex Moving & Storage behind top-tier moving companies in reliability.
Get a Quote (714) 482-3599

Company Info

State license #: 0164751

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 582228

Alternate Names: Uribe Trucking, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (909) 922-0000

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1778475

Alternate Names: Local Moving Services, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

On average, moving companies in California charge about $128 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,193 – $5,155 $1,187 – $3,170 $1,319 – $2,680
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,392 – $7,209 $2,222 – $4,428 $1,429 – $3,099
4+ bedrooms $6,907 – $11,950 $3,209 – $6,265 $1,714 – $3,689
*Estimated cost ranges for a 2,437-mile move from Riverside to Charleston are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Riverside to Charleston

When planning a move to Charleston from Riverside, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,193 and $5,155. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,392 and $7,209 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,907 to $11,950.

Cost of moving containers from Riverside to Charleston

When you’re heading from Riverside to Charleston, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,187 and $3,170. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,222 and $4,428. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,209 to $6,265. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Riverside to Charleston

A moving rental truck from Riverside to Charleston is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,319 to $2,680. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,429 to $3,099, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Riverside to Charleston costs around $1,714 to $3,689.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Riverside to Charleston

The cost of Riverside movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Riverside to Charleston may only cost $2,630, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $10,699.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Riverside.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,319–$3,500), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Riverside to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 106% higher for singles and 41% higher for families than Riverside.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Riverside versus $2,573 in Riverside; families pay $7,890 compared with $5,604.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Riverside Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $2,163 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $3,270 $4,487
Average home value $642,297 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $76,755 $62,294
Cost of living (single) $2,573 $5,300
Cost of living (family of four) $5,604 $7,890
Unemployment rate 7.1% 4.0%
Sales tax 8.75% 9.0%
State income tax 13.3% 7.0%
  • Rent is about 9% more expensive in Charleston than in Riverside. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 13% cheaper in Charleston than in Riverside.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 19% less in Charleston than in Riverside.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Charleston, with the cost of living for a single person being 106% more than in Riverside. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Charleston, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 41% higher than in Riverside.
  • Charleston has a lower unemployment rate than Riverside by about 44%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are nearly equal in both Charleston and Riverside (within a 5% range), so budgeting should not be affected by this change.
  • Income taxes are 47% less in South Carolina compared to California, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

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

Living Expense Riverside Charleston
Basic utilities $226.85 $156.99
Cell phone plan $46.50 $54.78
Dozen eggs $5.45 $4.55
Loaf of bread $4.02 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85.00 $80.00
Gym membership $35.00 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Riverside than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Riverside than in Charleston.
  • Eggs cost more in Riverside than in Charleston.
  • Bread is more expensive in Riverside than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Riverside than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Riverside than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Riverside than in Charleston.

How life is different in Riverside vs. Charleston

Riverside Charleston
Population 317,261 150,277
Transportation score 5 3
Walkability score 43 40
Bike friendliness score 49 50
Crime index 40.24 44.97
Safety index 59.76 55.03
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Charleston’s population is about 53% less than Riverside.
  • Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Riverside’s score of 5.
  • Charleston is less walkable than Riverside with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Riverside’s 43 out of 100.
  • Both Charleston and Riverside have similar bike-friendliness scores (49 vs 50), meaning Charleston is about as safe for cyclists as Riverside. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Riverside with a score of 44.97 compared to Riverside’s 40.24. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24%.
  • Charleston is considered to be less safe than Riverside with a score of 55.03 vs Riverside’s 59.76.
  • Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Riverside it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Riverside to Charleston move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Riverside and Charleston are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in South Carolina, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in South Carolina, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Charleston. Get started 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Charleston

With your sights set on The Holy City, these are some of the most popular 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

With your move to South Carolina complete, you can dive right into experiencing Charleston. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Charleston is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, and The Charleston Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • 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 Riverside to Charleston?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Riverside to Charleston. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Riverside.

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

Want to save on your move from Riverside to Charleston? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Riverside to Charleston take?

The 2,437-mile move from Riverside, CA, to Charleston, , takes seven to 18 days. Some Riverside movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Charleston.

What kinds of discounts do Riverside movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 1 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

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

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Riverside?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 41 movers in Riverside provide piano moving services. 33 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,300 and 1,465.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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