Best overall value
Local moving companies in Portland
- Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- William C. Huff Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Bridges Bros. Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Careful handling
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Unprofessional behavior
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Speedy, professional, and genuinely careful are the words customers use most in their feedback on Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine. After examining 226 reviews, about 68% share positive experiences—much higher than is typical for movers in the region. People rave about swift, effective service and consistently polite team members who treat belongings with respect. Many mention efficient booking, clear communication, and how movers save clients time and hassle, sometimes accomplishing in hours what others would take all day. Several positive comments highlight movers arriving on time, providing status updates, and making sure each item is placed carefully. Costs are often seen as fair and up-front, which sets the company apart from others that add surprise charges.
Negative feedback, making up 31%, commonly centers on items being damaged, some crews arriving hours late or even canceling at the last minute, and a handful of customers describing confrontations with management and unprofessional interactions. These customers report frustrations with complaint handling and say unpleasant experiences weren't sufficiently resolved. Some mention lost property or property damage, with unsatisfactory follow-through on claims. Neutral comments are rare but generally point to issues with quotes or communication rather than performance.
Compared to other moving companies, Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine stands out for its efficiency and consistent professionalism during moves, but recurring complaints about item damage and customer service on difficult days should be weighed carefully when booking.
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1846942
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Good communication
- Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
Review Analysis
Consistently rated at the top, William C. Huff Moving & Storage stands out in customer feedback as a reliable and skilled moving partner. Out of 149 reviews, 99% are positive—a record most competitors cannot match in the moving industry. Clients comment on the company’s professional and polite staff, thorough care taken with property, efficient and smooth moves, and clear communication at all stages. Many mention repeat positive experiences and note how helpful and respectful the movers are with belongings, organization, and special requests. A small number of reviews mention issues with care when storing or handling items, but this is extremely rare. The overwhelmingly positive feedback, high repeat business, and consistent professionalism position William C. Huff ahead of most moving services for quality and reliability.
Company Info
State license #: 361089
Years in Business: 117
DOT #: 361089
Alternate Names: William C. Huff Trucking Company, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
Moving day feels less stressful with Bridges Bros. Movers, according to nearly all 238 feedback entries—over 96% rate the company highly. Most input praises their professional and polite staff, efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, quick timelines, and clear communication. Clients mention movers are organized, respectful, and easy to contact. Many say everyone from the office team to the drivers was courteous and dedicated. The strongest positive trend is the staff’s professionalism and care, something that sets them apart from most movers, keeping valuables safe and easing customer anxiety. While nearly everyone reports a smooth transition and friendly service, six reviewers raised issues. The most frequent complaint is about unexpected charges or bills higher than the original quote. A few others cite damage to furniture or describe some staff as abrupt. Two neutral comments mention the final cost exceeding the estimate and awkward policy communication. Compared to other moving companies, Bridges Bros. stands out with reliable, hard-working crews and a reputation for careful handling, but customers advise watching quotes closely to avoid unwelcome surprises.
Company Info
State license #: 3152985
Years in Business: 106
DOT #: 3152985
Alternate Names: Bridges Brothers Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Unfriendly or rude staff
- Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Raving fans lead the chorus for Two Men and a Truck, with 244 reviews analyzed and 95.5% offering glowing feedback. Customers most often mention the team's efficiency, professionalism, and care when handling belongings. Movers consistently show up on time, work fast, remain friendly, and treat items with respect, setting them apart from many companies in the moving industry. The staff's politeness and strong communication earn repeated praise. A small number of complaints highlight issues such as item damage, rude or unhelpful office staff, and higher final charges than quoted. Even though only 4.5% of the feedback is negative, these reviews describe serious incidents with damaged goods or disappointing customer service—concerns not uncommon in this sector but flagged more harshly by affected customers. Compared to most movers, Two Men and a Truck receive far more high marks for service quality, reliability, and the pleasant attitude of their teams, with only isolated negative experiences amid a sea of positive reports.
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Consistently strong service sets Bisson Moving & Storage apart in the industry. Analyzing 87 reviews, about 71% of feedback highlights careful handling, professional staff, fast moving, and proactive communication. Customers often praise efficiency and care with belongings, noting prompt, polite crews who minimize moving stress. Pricing and timing are usually clear and reliable. Some clients describe issues, with 25% of feedback citing property damage, lack of communication, or unexpected charges—issues other movers face but mentioned less here. Neutral feedback is rare. Bisson rates above average among moving companies for professionalism, communication, and the courtesy of its team, though a few negative experiences involve poor follow-up and damaged goods.
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company, Bisson I & R Commercial Services, Bisson I & R Document Security, Bisson Transportation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International 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
Key factors that influence moving costs from Portland to Charleston
What to know before moving from Portland to Charleston
Moving from Portland to Charleston means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Portland than in Charleston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Portland compares to Charleston so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Portland | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,991 | $875 |
| Average home value | $542,001 | $153,672 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,171 | $59,354 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,491 | $1,549 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,060 | $3,862 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 6.2% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 6.5% |
- Rent prices in Charleston are 56% lower than in Portland, 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 71.6% lower than in Portland. - Income in Charleston is 7.5% lower than in Portland, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Charleston — including IOGAWV President, Kanawha County Board Of Education, and CDSscrubs — may pay more.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Charleston. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 37.8% lower than in Portland.
- 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 36.3% less than what it costs in Portland.
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is 19.23% higher than in Portland.
- Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Charleston, since its sales taxes are 27.27% higher than what you are paying in Portland.
- State income taxes in Charleston are 12.07% higher than in Portland.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,865.52 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.
How life is different in Portland vs. Charleston
| Charleston | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 48,018 | 68,408 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 2 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 33 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 28 | 68 |
| Crime Index | 53.94 | 32.16 |
| Safety Index | 46.06 | 67.84 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Charleston might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 30% less than Portland.
- Getting around Charleston without a car might be more difficult than in Portland. Charleston has a public transportation score of 2 out of 10, whereas Portland is ranked 6. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
- Charleston neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Portland. Based on its score of 33 out of 100, Charleston isn't as walkable as Portland, which has a score of 62 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
- You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Charleston, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Portland. While Portland has a bike-friendliness score of 68 out of 100, Charleston earned a 28. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
- The crime rate in Charleston is higher than in Portland, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 53.94 in Charleston, it is 32.16 in Portland. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
- You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Charleston. With a crime index of 46.06, Charleston ranks lower in overall safety than Portland, whose index is 67.84. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
- The air quality in Charleston and Portland is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.
Other things to consider for your Portland vs. Charleston move
- Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Charleston, while January and February are the least comfortable months.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth 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: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a West Virginia moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: West Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- 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: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers' insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Charleston
Now that you've decided to make the move to Charlie West, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Charleston.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- East End
- West Side
- Kanawha City
- City Center
Best neighborhoods for families
- South Hills
- Edgewood
- Kanawha City
- Fort Hill
- Loudon Heights
Things to do in Charleston
After settling into your new West Virginia home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Charleston has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Charleston, such as the Clay Center, West Virginia State Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and The Art Emporium.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Haddad Riverfront Park, Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve, and Cato Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Charleston Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.
source: AttractionsofAmerica
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Portland to Charleston?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Portland to Charleston. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Portland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Charleston?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Portland to Charleston moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Portland to Charleston take?
Covering 849 miles, the move from Portland, ME to Charleston, WV typically takes two to seven days. Some Portland movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Charleston can help bridge the gap.
