Quick answer: Expect to pay $810–$6,473 for a move from Boston to Charleston, with most moves taking two to seven days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 976 miles.

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

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

Choosing an interstate mover from Boston, MA, to Charleston, SC, isn’t as simple as picking the first name you find. In Boston, there are 86 companies that can handle that route, each with their own approach, pricing, and service style.

Our team took a close look at every interstate mover in Boston, examining service options, costs, and what customers are actually saying in reviews. The result is a carefully curated list of the best long-distance movers in Boston you can trust with your Boston to Charleston relocation.

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Professional
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Container
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Rental truck
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Best professional movers from Boston to Charleston

For an interstate move from Boston to Charleston, choosing a full-service mover means you won’t have to manage the packing, loading, or transport yourself. These companies handle the details so you can concentrate on your schedule and plans for settling in.

Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for full-service movers equipped to get you from Boston to Charleston efficiently and with minimal stress.

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 Boston?toggle

Not all services are equally available. The table below contrasts what movers provide in Boston with trends across MA and the country overall, pointing out which options are typically easy to secure and which may take more coordination.

Service Boston (Count) Boston (%) Massachusetts (Count) Massachusetts (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 96 100% 105 99% 2835 98%
Unpacking 96 100% 106 100% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 25 26% 27 25% 717 25%
Packing materials 85 89% 95 90% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 92 96% 101 95% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 41 43% 45 42% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 77 80% 87 82% 1886 65%
Art 59 61% 68 64% 1400 48%
Antiques 57 59% 65 61% 1400 48%
Piano 86 90% 93 88% 2175 75%
Hot tub 21 22% 23 22% 669 23%
Pool table 21 22% 23 22% 943 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 91 Massachusetts 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 Boston to Charleston moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston to Charleston.

  1. Poseidon Moving: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Flash Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Oscar's Moving Company: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  5. StairHopper Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/poseidonmoving, https://twitter.com/poseidonmoving?lang=en
55% of all reviews were positive
43% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers are divided on Poseidon Moving, with 49 reviews yielding 55% positive input. Many highlight the professionalism of the movers, efficient service, careful handling, competitive pricing, and responsive communication. Staff are repeatedly described as friendly, hardworking, and capable of handling challenging moves with care.
On the other hand, nearly 43% of client feedback details concerns about damaged items, difficulty reaching the company, or late arrivals and deliveries. Damage to belongings is a recurring theme, with some reports of claims or customer service issues going unresolved. Compared to other moving services, Poseidon stands out for affordability and staff quality but faces criticism for service reliability and post-move support. These patterns suggest Poseidon is an option for those focused on budget and friendly movers, but customers who prioritize reliability and damage-free delivery may want to evaluate alternatives or take extra precautions.
Show more
Get a Quote (617) 470-9950

Company Info

State license #: 31816

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2522855

Alternate Names: Poseidon Moving, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BostonBestRateMovers,
96% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Boston Best Rate Movers earns applause for its swift, careful, and professional moving teams. Out of 248 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised factors like efficiency, attention to detail, professionalism, timely arrivals, and budget-friendly rates. Customers often highlight careful wrapping, fast-paced teams, courteous staff, and straightforward pricing that rarely incurs surprises.
Users also welcome the ease of the booking process and the respectful treatment of property—qualities that place BBRM ahead of many local competitors. Only a handful of reviewers express frustration with unexpected costs, item damage, or unsatisfactory complaint resolution, noting higher-than-expected bills, difficult claims processes, or unresolved breakage issues. Even so, Boston Best Rate Movers consistently delivers an experience that exceeds expectations for reliability and service quality compared to other movers in the Boston area.
Show more
Get a Quote (617) 787-3528

Company Info

State license #: 31391

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1718049

Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/flashmoversma/, https://twitter.com/flashmoversma/
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Flash Moving leaves customers impressed by their speed, professionalism, and careful attention to belongings. From the 83 feedback submissions, 98.8% expressed satisfaction, while just one review highlighted dissatisfaction. Most clients praise efficient service, friendly staff, and a truly seamless process—all at transparent prices.
Highly recommended status appears repeatedly. Customers often mention reliable, skilled team members who handle challenging moves and heavy items with ease. The standout complaint focuses on unexpected extra charges and slow resolution of billing issues, suggesting improvements in pricing clarity and customer follow-up could further distinguish Flash Moving. Compared to many moving companies, customer input shows Flash Moving consistently outperforms in efficiency and professionalism, but must maintain vigilance in their billing practices to ensure trust.
Show more
Get a Quote (857) 241-8778

Company Info

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3025065


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/oscarsmoving,
84% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and attentive staff consistently define Oscar's Moving Company, based on analysis of 339 customer inputs. Nearly 84% of feedback expresses satisfaction, pointing to fast service, careful treatment of belongings, professionalism, speedy moving, and open communication as standout qualities. Teams frequently arrive on time, work efficiently, and ensure property is protected.
Many highlight helpful communication and a courteous attitude not always found with other movers in the industry. Yet, about 16% of feedback cites issues like damaged goods, missed time windows, and billing surprises. Reports of lost or broken items and charges exceeding quotes occur more than with top competitors. Despite some lapses, the high rate of repeat business suggests Oscar's consistently outperforms most local options for professionalism and efficiency while keeping prices transparent for the majority of customers.
Show more
Get a Quote (617) 202-9566

Company Info

State license #: 31320

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1637689

Alternate Names: Oscar's Moving Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/stairhoppers/, https://twitter.com/Stairhoppers
98% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call StairHopper Movers a top choice for hassle-free, fast, and professional moving. Out of 831 customer feedback pieces reviewed, 97.5% gave positive marks. Most highlight efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, speed, and strong communication as major reasons for high satisfaction.
Movers stand out for punctuality, wrapping and protecting furniture, and working quickly—often finishing ahead of schedule. Input often references respectful, friendly crews and transparent scheduling updates—a rarity among movers. Some feedback shares that costs ran higher than quoted, often due to extra material charges or underestimated packing needs. Customers occasionally noted surprise fees. A small number mention minor damage or billing complaints. Compared to many moving companies, StairHopper receives consistently stronger praise for reliability and organization, though pricing clarity could be improved. Many say it's the best move they've ever had and would recommend StairHopper to friends or use them again.
Show more
Get a Quote (857) 928-0876

Company Info

State license #: 31321

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1696867


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

Boston movers charge $100 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 $1,318 - $5,015 $907 - $2,369 $742 - $1,407
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,771 - $6,473 $1,612 - $3,401 $810 - $1,590
4+ bedrooms $4,653 - $8,445 $2,194 - $4,297 $1,006 - $1,994
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 976 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 Massachusetts to South Carolina

Planning a move from Massachusetts to South Carolina? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,318 and $5,015. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,771 and $6,473 for the same journey (MA to SC). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,653 to $8,445.

Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to South Carolina

If you're relocating from Massachusetts to South Carolina, you'll typically spend between $907 and $2,369 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,612 up to $3,401. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,194 and $4,297. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to South Carolina

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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 $742 and $1,407. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $810 to $1,590. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,006 and $1,994.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Boston to Charlestontoggle

The cost of Boston movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Boston to Charleston (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,318, while larger moves may reach $7,422 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Boston,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $742 to $1,735), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Boston to Charleston

Budget-wise, Charleston tends to come out ahead — about 10% lower for singles and 30% lower for families than Boston.

One person’s costs run $5,300 in Charleston vs. $4,820 in Boston; for a family of four, think $7,890 vs. $11,304.

Scan the comparison below to see where you’ll save most:

Boston Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $3,361 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $5,973 $4,487
Average home value $739,121 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $89,212 $62,294
Unemployment rate 6.2% 4.0%
Sales tax 6.25% 9.0%
State income tax 9.0% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Charleston are 27% lower than in Boston, 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 24.3% lower than in Boston.
  • Income in Charleston is 30.2% lower than in Boston, 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 10.0% higher than in Boston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • A move to Charleston can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 30.2% less than what it costs in Boston.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 35.48% lower than in Boston.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Charleston, since its sales taxes are 44.00% higher than what you are paying in Boston.
  • One perk of moving to Charleston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 22.22% lower than in Boston.

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

Boston Charleston
Basic utilities $203.15 $156.99
Cell phone plan $57.53 $54.78
Dozen eggs $4.71 $4.55
Loaf of bread $4.07 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25 $18
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $135 $80
Gym membership $77.5 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Boston than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Boston than in Charleston.
  • Eggs cost more in Boston than in Charleston.
  • Bread is more expensive in Boston than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Boston than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Boston than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Boston than in Charleston.

How life is different in Boston vs. Charleston

Charleston Boston
Population 150,277 675,647
Transportation Score 3 9
Walkability score 40 98
Bike friendliness score 50 86
Crime Index 44.97 39.88
Safety Index 55.03 60.12
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston's population is about 78% less than Boston.
  • Charleston's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Boston's higher score of 9.
  • Charleston is less walkable than Boston with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Boston's 98 out of 100.
  • Charleston has a bike-friendliness score 50 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Boston, which has a score of 86 out of 100.
  • Charleston's crime rate is higher than Boston with a score of 44.97 compared to Boston's 39.88. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88%.
  • Charleston is considered to be less safe than Boston with a score of 55.03 vs Boston's 60.12.
  • Air quality in Charleston is good, and in Boston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Boston 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: Charleston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Because spring and fall moves from Boston 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 Boston to Charleston take?

The 976-mile journey from Boston, MA to Charleston, SC, typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Boston 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.

Which movers in Boston give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

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

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Boston, 86 movers can handle pianos. 57 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MA, there are 93 piano movers and 65 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2175 and 1400 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources