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Local moving companies in Charlotte
- You Move Me: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Hilldrup: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- TBC Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2572
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2518689
Alternate Names: TEC Ventures LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2406
Years in Business: 45
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2210
Years in Business: 121
DOT #: 22302
Alternate Names: Hilldrup Companies, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2975
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2585931
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2774
Years in Business: 143
DOT #: 1222904
Alternate Names: E. E. Ward Moving & Storage Co., EE Ward Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Factors influencing moving costs from Charlotte to California
The cost of Charlotte movers will depend on:
- Move size: The number of belongings you need to move, plus the size and layout of your home, will affect your overall moving cost.
- Time of year: Moving during summer—peak season in Charlotte—usually means higher prices from movers.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is typically more affordable, but it comes with extra effort and stress compared to letting professionals handle your move.
What to know before moving from Charlotte, NC, to California
Heading from Charlotte to California comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because California usually has a higher cost of living than Charlotte, it’s smart to budget and plan ahead.
Take a look at how living in Charlotte stacks up against California so you’re prepared before making the move:
Compare cost of living: Charlotte vs. California
| Charlotte, NC | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,790 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $391,658 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,814 | $91,905 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 13.3% |
California sources: World Population Review, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation
- Plan to set aside extra for rent in California. It typically runs 4% higher than in Charlotte.
- Thinking about buying? Home prices in California are roughly 96.9% higher than in Charlotte, so make sure you can afford a steeper mortgage.
- You’ll find average incomes are around 41.8% higher in California compared to Charlotte.
- Unemployment rates are about 63.6% higher in California than in Charlotte.
- Brace yourself for higher income taxes. They’re 195.56% steeper in California than in Charlotte.
How life is different in Charlotte, NC, from California
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in California stacks up against what you’re used to in the Queen City.
| Charlotte, NC | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 874,579 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 89ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 30ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 43" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 2" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 46.52 |
California sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, BestPlaces
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Charlotte voted Republican.
- Luckily, you won’t have to buy a new summer wardrobe since the average summertime high in California is 87º F, which is right on par with the average of 89º F in Charlotte.
- During the coldest part of the year, Charlotte reaches the temperature of 30º F while California only gets down to 59º F, so you’ll be able to enjoy warmer winter weather in the Golden State.
- When you move from Charlotte to California you can put away your raincoats, with only 22 inches of annual rainfall in California compared to the 43 inches in Charlotte that you’re used to.
- In the winter, you’ll enjoy about the same amount of cold, snowy weather in California, with 7 inches of snow annually, as you did in Charlotte with 2 inches.
Comparing the pros of Charlotte, NC, vs. California:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Charlotte vs California side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Charlotte, NC | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Delicious food | Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity | Pleasant weather |
| Quality education | Abundant recreational options |
| Low cost of living | High quality of life |
| Pleasant weather | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Charlotte, NC, vs. California:
Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Charlotte for California.
| Cons of living in Charlotte, NC | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Natural disasters | High cost of living |
| Quiet nightlife | Heavy tax burdens |
| Low diversity | Natural disasters |
| Terrible drivers | Terrible traffic |
| Terrible traffic | Strange laws |
Other considerations when moving to California from Charlotte
If you’re moving from Charlotte to California, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days..
- 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in California
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, California has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in California
Parks in California
Sports Teams in California
Universities in California
FAQs
How long does a move from Charlotte to California take?
The time it takes to move from Charlotte, NC, to California ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take seven to 21 days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
What is the best way to get a car from Charlotte to California?
Need to get your car from Charlotte to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Charlotte to California car shippers.
Why are people moving from Charlotte to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather. On the other hand, people are moving away from Charlotte because of the natural disasters and quiet nightlife.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Charlotte?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Charlotte.
