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($1,056) Cost to Move From Indianapolis, IN to Charleston, SC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 727 miles from Indianapolis to Charleston is generally between $555 and $5,346. The trip duration should be approximately one–six days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis to Charleston

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Indianapolis to Charleston, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Indianapolis, you have a choice of 24 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Charleston smoothly and with confidence.

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 Indianapolis to Charleston

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,550 – $4,178
  • Moving Container $991 – $1,952
  • Rental Truck $530 – $996
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,082 – $5,346
  • Moving Container $1,326 – $2,731
  • Rental Truck $555 – $1,136
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,637 – $7,205
  • Moving Container $1,848 – $3,518
  • Rental Truck $673 – $1,334
Recent Moving Price Estimates
PODS
Carthage, IN Ladson, SC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Speedway, IN Rockville, SC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 05, 2025
North American Van Lines
Westfield, IN McClellanville, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Spring Lake, IN Folly Beach, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
United Van Lines
Edinburgh, IN Ravenel, SC
3 Bedrooms
Aug 29, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Beech Grove, IN Meggett, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Shelbyville, IN Kiawah Island, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 14, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Avon, IN Sullivan’s Island, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
Roadway Moving
Greencastle, IN Edisto Beach, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 12, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cicero, IN Jamestown, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 04, 2025

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

Top local movers for Indianapolis to Charleston moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Indianapolis that also provides long-distance services to Charleston can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 27 local movers in Indianapolis who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Indianapolis to Charleston.

  1. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Sherman Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Busy Bee Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Wheaton Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Leaders Moving & Storage Co. means working with a crew known for professionalism, efficiency, and careful handling. Of the 248 customer responses analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback, consistently highlighting friendly staff, speedy and careful work, and helpful attitudes. Many praised the team’s ability to handle heavy or delicate items and transparency with pricing.
Customers valued clear communication, organized crews, and prompt service, noting that many movers went the extra mile to ease their stress. On the other hand, roughly 10% of responses described issues such as items being damaged, inexperienced team members, and breakdowns in communication, with a few citing frustrating claims processes. A small number of customers felt that their movers lacked preparation or that management did not resolve complaints to their satisfaction. Compared to other companies in the moving industry, Leaders stands out for how often its staff receive recognition for both their skill and respectful, helpful approach. Most clients reported moves that finished on time, with their belongings arriving safely and all expectations met or exceeded.
Show more
Get a Quote (317) 280-3385

Company Info

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

Alternate Names: L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co. , Leaders Moving and Storage Company , Hilling Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.6% of all reviews were positive
28.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sherman Moving & Storage earns praise for a professional and courteous team, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and a moving process many customers find fast and stress-free. Most feedback highlights their reliability, with many saying the movers protect property and provide peace of mind—a notable advantage compared to other moving companies. Users often describe the staff as friendly, knowledgeable, and highly recommended the service.
On the downside, some customers report significant issues such as damages to items, especially furniture, higher costs than quoted, and unprofessional behavior from certain staff members. Concerns about billing transparency and complaint handling occasionally surface. Sherman stands out positively for its attentive staff and efficiency, but some past clients report disappointment due to unresolved damages or unexpected charges. Out of 74 reviews, 71.6% were positive.
Show more
Get a Quote (317) 784-5462

Company Info

Years in Business: 92

DOT #: 719392

Alternate Names: Ed Sherman Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Planes Moving & Storage earns praise for its professional, helpful staff and efficient moving process, backed by 236 reviews with nearly 90% positive feedback. Customers often highlight careful handling of items, prompt service, and friendly movers who make the relocation much easier than with other companies. Many clients say the teams take extra steps to protect property and communicate well throughout moves.
Affordability and transparent pricing also surface as advantages. In contrast, the most common complaints involve significant damage to belongings, unresolved compensation issues, and lack of communication from coordinators. Some people report surprise charges or poor response to claims. The volume and consistency of positive input position Planes ahead of most moving companies in reliability and customer satisfaction, though a few negative cases stand out for property damage and service gaps.
Show more
Get a Quote (317) 895-1444

Company Info

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 1458935

Alternate Names: Planes Companies , Planes Specialized Logistics , Planes Commercial Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
61.4% of all reviews were positive
34.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Buzzing with strong feedback, Busy Bee Movers stands out for efficiency, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and affordable rates, as reflected in 61.4% positive input from 324 reviews. Customers highlight respectful teams and jobs completed on time at competitive prices. Many appreciate transparent quotes and swift, careful moves.
While the moving crews earn praise for their hard work, affordable rates, and organization, 34.3% of feedback points to drawbacks such as unexpected charges, inadequate communication, and items occasionally arriving damaged. Some reviewers describe being overcharged compared to estimates, and several mention frustration when issues go unaddressed by management. Compared to other moving companies, Busy Bee Movers is celebrated for dependable staff and cost savings, but concerns about billing accuracy and responsive support set them apart as a company best suited for those willing to double-check pricing and terms in advance.
Show more
Get a Quote (317) 695-9927

Company Info

Years in Business: 34

DOT #: 573343

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
31.8% of all reviews were positive
67.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer stories draw a sharp line between satisfaction and frequent problems at Wheaton Moving & Storage. Out of 242 reviews, less than one-third offer positive feedback. Clients typically praise careful handling, professional crews, fast moves, good communication, and efficient service.
Yet most feedback details damage to items, missing or lost possessions, and poor communication—issues that outweigh positives for many customers. Compared with similar companies, complaints about lost or broken items and claim resolution are more frequent. Those seeking reliability may want to closely consider these patterns before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (317) 842-8111

Company Info

Years in Business: 64

DOT #: 70719

Alternate Names: Crown Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

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

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

Movers in Indiana generally charge an average of $130 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,056 – $3,570 $729 – $1,713 $514 – $1,005
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,082 – $5,346 $1,326 – $2,731 $555 – $1,136
4+ bedrooms $3,637 – $7,205 $1,848 – $3,518 $673 – $1,334
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 727-mile move from Indianapolis to Charleston, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Indianapolis to Charleston

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Indianapolis to Charleston typically costs between $1,056 and $3,570. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,082 and $5,346 when moving from Indianapolis to Charleston. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Indianapolis to Charleston, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,637 up to $7,205.

Cost of moving containers from Indianapolis to Charleston

If you’re relocating from Indianapolis to Charleston, you’ll typically spend between $729 and $1,713 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,326 up to $2,731. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,848 and $3,518. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Indiana.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Indianapolis to Charleston

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Indianapolis to Charleston move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $514 and $1,005. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $555 to $1,136. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $673 and $1,334.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Indianapolis to Charleston toggle

The cost of Indianapolis movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Indianapolis to Charleston might be as low as $1,812, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,563.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Indianapolis.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $514 to $1,326 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Indianapolis to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 89% higher for singles and 18% higher for families than Indianapolis.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Indianapolis versus $2,804 in Indianapolis; families pay $7,890 compared with $6,667.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Indianapolis Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $1,688 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $2,708 $4,487
Average home value $220,467 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $59,110 $62,294
Cost of living (single) $2,804 $5,300
Cost of living (family of four) $6,667 $7,890
Unemployment rate 5.6% 4.0%
Sales tax 7.0% 9.0%
State income tax 3.15% 7.0%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 79% higher in Charleston than in Indianapolis, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 154% higher in Charleston than in Indianapolis.
  • Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Charleston and Indianapolis, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Charleston, as the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 89% greater than in Indianapolis. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Charleston, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 18% more than it is in Indianapolis.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 29% lower than Indianapolis, Charleston boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Charleston exceed those in Indianapolis by 29%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 122% higher in South Carolina than in Indiana. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Indianapolis and Charleston, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Indianapolis Charleston
Basic utilities $231.67 $156.99
Cell phone plan $62.58 $54.78
Dozen eggs $3.33 $4.55
Loaf of bread $3.00 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $80.00
Gym membership $35.50 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Indianapolis than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Indianapolis than in Charleston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Indianapolis than in Charleston.
  • Bread costs less in Indianapolis than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Indianapolis than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Indianapolis than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Indianapolis than in Charleston.

How life is different in Indianapolis vs. Charleston

Indianapolis Charleston
Population 887,642 150,277
Transportation score 5 3
Walkability score 31 40
Bike friendliness score 43 50
Crime index 60.71 44.97
Safety index 39.29 55.03
Air quality Good Good
  • Charleston’s population is about 83% less than Indianapolis.
  • Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Indianapolis’s score of 5.
  • Charleston is more walkable than Indianapolis with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Indianapolis’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Indianapolis, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Charleston’s crime rate is lower than Indianapolis with a score of 44.97 compared to Indianapolis’s 60.71. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Indianapolis neighborhoods are safer than 60.71%.
  • Charleston is considered to be safer than Indianapolis with a safety index of 55.03 vs Indianapolis’s 39.29.
  • Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Indianapolis it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Indianapolis to Charleston move

  • 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: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through 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: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Charleston without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Charleston

Ready to relocate to The 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

Now that you’ve made the move to South Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore Charleston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • 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, and The Charleston Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Indianapolis to Charleston?toggle

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Indianapolis to Charleston?toggle

With many people choosing to move from Indianapolis to Charleston in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Indianapolis to Charleston take?toggle

Covering 727 miles, the move from Indianapolis, IN to Charleston, typically takes one to six days. Some Indianapolis movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Charleston can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Indianapolis offer any discounts?toggle

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 3 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Indianapolis can handle specialty items for my move to Charleston?toggle

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Indianapolis, 18 movers can handle pianos. 10 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IN, there are 43 piano movers and 21 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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