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($1,171) Cost to Move From Ann Arbor, MI to Charleston, SC

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Estimated cost & time: For a 818 mile move from Ann Arbor to Charleston, costs typically range from $618 to $5,842. Plan for the travel time to be around two–seven days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor to Charleston

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Ann Arbor to Charleston, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 26 interstate moving companies located in Ann Arbor, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Charleston seamless and enjoyable.

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 Ann Arbor to Charleston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 818-mile move from Ann Arbor to Charleston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,780 – $4,411
  • Moving Container $1,033 – $1,981
  • Rental Truck $545 – $1,048
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,347 – $5,842
  • Moving Container $1,437 – $2,722
  • Rental Truck $618 – $1,271
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,914 – $7,883
  • Moving Container $1,874 – $3,693
  • Rental Truck $714 – $1,450
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.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Byron, MI Edisto Beach, SC
3 Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
American Van Lines
Melvindale, MI Seabrook Island, SC
Studio apartment
Oct 16, 2025
PODS
Rockwood, MI Kiawah Island, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 12, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Dansville, MI Bonneau, SC
Studio apartment
Oct 04, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Wyandotte, MI Ridgeville, SC
Studio apartment
Sep 19, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Maybee, MI Charleston, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
North American Van Lines
South Rockwood, MI Mount Pleasant, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 28, 2025
United Van Lines
Huntington Woods, MI Jamestown, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 24, 2025
Allied Van Lines
South Lyon, MI Ravenel, SC
Studio apartment
Aug 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Stockbridge, MI Ladson, SC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Charleston, SC to Ann Arbor, MI guide.

The best local movers for Ann Arbor to Charleston moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Ann Arbor that also handles long-distance moves to Charleston. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 32 local movers in Ann Arbor who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Ann Arbor to Charleston.

  1. Handle With Care Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Men on the Move: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Handle With Care Moving’s exceptional efficiency, careful handling of belongings, and courteous, hard-working team. Feedback often highlights polite staff, excellent communication, and rapid, damage-free moves that stand out from other moving companies. Most clients appreciate straightforward estimates, transparent pricing, and how the company keeps moves stress-free. Negative feedback, though rare, centers on occasional item damage, challenges in resolving complaints, and unexpected charges or discrepancies in estimates. Handle With Care outpaces competitors in reliability and professionalism, making it one of the most trusted choices for moves in and out of Ann Arbor. Over 92% of the 249 reviews express strong satisfaction.
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
9.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers are raving about how smoothly Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage handles moving day. Nearly 90% of the 348 reviews are positive, standing out with efficiency, careful handling of belongings, professionalism, fair pricing, and excellent communication. Many mention a courteous and capable moving crew, stress-free organization, and no hidden fees. People appreciate how quickly and gently items are moved, even under challenging conditions such as snowstorms or tight schedules. Some say this company is better—friendlier, faster, and more affordable—compared to other movers they’ve hired before. Negative feedback makes up less than 10% of reviews, with most complaints centered on occasional damaged items, delayed arrivals without updates, and moves costing more than originally estimated. While infrequent, a few customers describe frustrations about reaching support or compensation for damages. Overall, the strong pattern of positive input shows that Campus Concepts consistently delivers reliable, efficient, and well-priced moving services that outshine many other local options.
Get a Quote (734) 545-5617

Company Info

State license #: 36269

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2582190

Alternate Names: Wondermove

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Corrigan Moving Systems for delivering reliable service, with 92% of input being positive among 25 feedback entries. Professional, polite staff and their careful handling of belongings stand out, along with efficient moving, clear communication, and rapid job completion. Many customers praise the team’s organization, responsive office staff, and ability to reduce stress during moves. Negative input points primarily to damaged or poorly handled items, especially on long-distance moves, along with claims about rude crew behavior and slow claims processing. Corrigan typically outshines other movers for its consistency and dependable teams, but these rare complaints show that insurance and furniture care on certain moves can require more attention.
Get a Quote (734) 973-9393

Company Info

State license #: 117864

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Corrigan Moving Systems , Midland Moving & Storage Company , Corrigan United Moving & Storage Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.5% of all reviews were positive
12.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback highlights the professionalism and reliability of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, with 256 reviews analyzed and over 85% reporting a positive experience. Customers often describe courteous, efficient staff, careful handling of belongings, and quick moving processes. Several note good communication and up-front transparency, setting this company above many local competitors. A smaller share of input, about 12%, details frustrations such as damaged items, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected charges, and occasional unclear pricing. Neutral feedback (2%) mentions issues with packing quality and unforeseen costs, though staff remain friendly. Overall, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives praise for their dependable, friendly service and speed, but a few recurring complaints about damages and pricing accuracy suggest that some moves may not meet expectations on protection or price. Most reviewers say the moving team’s professionalism and care stand out in the industry.
Get a Quote (734) 418-0575

Company Info

State license #: 33371

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day with Men on the Move feels less stressful for most clients. Out of 111 feedback entries, 87% report positive experiences. Customers consistently mention fast service, careful treatment of furniture, courteous staff, reliable pricing, and clear communication. Compared to similar movers, Men on the Move earns strong praise for both value and professionalism. Some input notes serious concerns: a handful voice frustration over damaged items, unexpectedly high charges, or unprofessional behavior. While rare, these problems stand out in the feedback and highlight areas where attention is still needed. Most find the team efficient and trustworthy, but there’s a small risk of costly or careless mistakes that rivals don’t always make.
Get a Quote (734) 913-9966

Company Info

Years in Business: 29

DOT #: 760250

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Ann Arbor to Charleston?

The average hourly rate for movers in Michigan is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,171 – $4,068 $761 – $1,809 $562 – $996
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,347 – $5,842 $1,437 – $2,722 $618 – $1,271
4+ bedrooms $3,914 – $7,883 $1,874 – $3,693 $714 – $1,450
*Approximate cost ranges for a 818-mile move from Ann Arbor to Charleston are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Ann Arbor to Charleston

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Ann Arbor to Charleston will cost between $1,171 and $4,068. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Ann Arbor to Ann Arbor will range from $2,347 to $5,842, and a large move from Ann Arbor to Charleston will cost from $3,914 to $7,883.

Cost of moving containers from Ann Arbor to Charleston

If you’re moving from Ann Arbor to Charleston, expect to pay between $761 and $1,809 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,437 up to $2,722. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,874 and $3,693. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ann Arbor to Charleston

Renting a moving truck from Ann Arbor to Charleston is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $562 and $996. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $618 and $1,271. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $714 up to $1,450 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Ann Arbor to Charleston

The cost of Ann Arbor movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,056, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,769.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Ann Arbor, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($562–$1,440) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 144% higher for singles and 48% higher for families than Ann Arbor.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Ann Arbor versus $2,176 in Ann Arbor; families pay $7,890 compared with $5,344.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Ann Arbor Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $1,831 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $3,763 $4,487
Average home value $474,909 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $66,964 $62,294
Cost of living (single) $2,176 $5,300
Cost of living (family of four) $5,344 $7,890
Unemployment rate 3.5% 4.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.0%
State income tax 4.25% 7.0%
  • Rent is estimated to be 11% higher in Charleston compared to Ann Arbor; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 18% greater in Charleston than in Ann Arbor.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 7% lower in Charleston compared to Ann Arbor.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 144% higher than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Charleston, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 48% greater than in Ann Arbor.
  • In Charleston, the unemployment rate is approximately 14% higher than in Ann Arbor, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 50% in Charleston over Ann Arbor, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 65% higher in South Carolina than in Michigan, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Ann Arbor and Charleston:

Living Expense Ann Arbor Charleston
Basic utilities $158.05 $156.99
Cell phone plan $48.64 $54.78
Dozen eggs $2.70 $4.55
Loaf of bread $3.60 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $80.00
Gym membership $44.00 $29.17
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.
  • Bread costs less in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Ann Arbor than in Charleston.

How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Charleston

Ann Arbor Charleston
Population 123,851 150,277
Transportation score 7 3
Walkability score 52 40
Bike friendliness score 71 50
Crime index 31.0 44.97
Safety index 79.18 55.03
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Charleston’s population is about 21% greater than Ann Arbor.
  • Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Ann Arbor’s score of 7.
  • Charleston is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor’s 52 out of 100.
  • Charleston has a bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71.
  • Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 44.97 compared to Ann Arbor’s 31.0. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
  • Charleston is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 55.03 vs Ann Arbor’s 79.18.
  • Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Ann Arbor it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor to Charleston move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status 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: 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: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Charleston

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Holy City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Charleston, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to Charleston?

The best time to move from Ann Arbor to Charleston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Ann Arbor.

When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Charleston?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor to Charleston take?

Moving from Ann Arbor, MI to Charleston, covers 818 miles and usually takes two to seven days. Need to move faster? Some Ann Arbor movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Charleston.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Ann Arbor?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 20 movers in Ann Arbor advertise piano moving expertise. 7 movers in Ann Arbor provide antique moving services. State totals show 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

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