Quick answer: Expect to pay $1,782–$8,936 for a move from Charlotte to Riverside, with most moves taking seven to 18 days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 2,394 miles.

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

Our track recordtoggle

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

From North Carolina to California, your interstate move will have a lot of moving parts — starting with which company to hire. Charlotte has 33 options for interstate moves, and each one comes with different strengths and specialties. Deciding which is right for you can be a challenge in itself.

After comparing service packages, pricing details, and real feedback from customer reviews, we were able to pinpoint the best long-distance movers in Charlotte for every moving option.

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charlotte to Riverside

Making the trip from Charlotte to Riverside is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

We’ve put together a list of the best full-service movers for this route to help you make the move with ease.

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 Charlotte?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Charlotte to all of NC and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Charlotte (Count) Charlotte (%) North Carolina (Count) North Carolina (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 40 98% 111 97% 2830 98%
Unpacking 39 95% 110 96% 2795 97%
Fragile-only packing 16 39% 29 25% 714 25%
Packing materials 28 68% 80 70% 1681 58%
Storage
Storage 29 71% 88 77% 2498 87%
Climate-controlled storage 15 37% 34 30% 973 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 27 66% 62 54% 1884 65%
Art 13 32% 41 36% 1397 48%
Antiques 11 27% 38 33% 1398 48%
Piano 28 68% 78 68% 2172 75%
Hot tub 6 15% 20 17% 668 23%
Pool table 10 24% 36 31% 941 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 85 North Carolina 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.

Local moving companies servicing Charlotte to Riverside moves

When planning a move from Charlotte to Riverside, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Charlotte who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Charlotte to Riverside.

  1. You Move Me: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Hilldrup: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Best Movers US: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. TBC Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/YouMoveMeCo/, https://twitter.com/youmovemeco?lang=en
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about You Move Me for their consistently professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient moving process, prompt communication, and quick service. Out of 296 reviews, 94% are positive—a strong record compared to most moving services, where praise often centers on reliability and friendliness. Many clients highlight how polite, organized, and attentive the crews are, with moves usually completed faster than expected and within the quoted price.
Negative feedback makes up just over 5% and focuses on reports of damaged or missing items and unexpected cost increases. A few customers mention property scratches or items left unpacked. Some describe communication issues after a problem occurred, mainly involving follow-up on claims for damaged or missing possessions. Neutral input, though rare, points to scheduling hiccups and occasional assembly mistakes. Compared with similar companies, You Move Me stands out for delivering smooth moves but should address isolated complaints about item care and billing accuracy.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 926-3900

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
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantnc
97% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Like clockwork, Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out for delivering quick, careful moves with polite, professional teams. Out of 277 feedback entries, 97% praised their efficient service, careful handling, strong communication, and respectful crews. Customers commonly noted how rapidly yet delicately their belongings were moved, and many compared Gentle Giant favorably to other companies for great teamwork and customer care.
Pricing came in as expected or lower for most reviewers. A small number of customers, 2.5%, encountered issues with communication or abrupt customer service, generally during scheduling or initial contact, and some found pricing policies confusing. Only one neutral review appeared. Compared to other movers, Gentle Giant earns trust and recommendations for their reliable, efficient approach, but could improve by streamlining communication for all situations.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 376-2338

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
https://www.facebook.com/Hilldrup, https://twitter.com/hilldrup
86% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Hilldrup receives outstanding customer input, with 85.5% positive feedback from 234 reviews. Customers highlight the professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, and good communication. Many describe their moves as stress-free, efficient, and handled by considerate crews, contrasting their experiences favorably to other moving companies.
A smaller portion points out issues like damage to items, delivery delays, and unexpected charges. Negative reviews often focus on items arriving broken, billing disputes, or unfulfilled service promises. Compared to competitors, Hilldrup builds trust through reliability and courtesy, but some reports of higher costs and claims concerns persist.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 486-8429

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
https://www.facebook.com/BestMoversUS, https://twitter.com/BestMoversUS
0% of all reviews were positive
0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Best Movers US has 11 customer feedback entries, with 73% being positive. Many customers praised the company for its efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of items. They appreciated the organization and smooth moving process, noting how the movers treated their belongings with care.
However, several customers reported issues such as unexpected charges, damage to items, and poor communication. Some expressed frustration over unprofessional behavior and a lack of response to their concerns. Overall, the company has a solid reputation but also faces challenges that potential customers should consider before hiring.
Show more
Get a Quote (704) 493-8212

Company Info

State license #: 2539

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2317956


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/tbcmovers, https://twitter.com/IncTbc
90% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
TBC Movers impresses customers with outstanding professionalism, efficient crews, careful item handling, and fast moving processes. Out of 51 reviews analyzed, 90% provide positive feedback describing polite staff and affordability, which sets this company apart from other movers. Customers appreciate well-managed moves with prompt communication and safe handling of their belongings.
Some mention same-day flexibility and the team's ability to resolve unexpected issues effectively. A few critical reviews describe issues involving property or item damage, unprofessional behavior, and slow or inadequate resolution of complaints. Negative experiences contrast with the overwhelmingly positive input about skilled movers and trustworthiness. Compared to competitors, TBC Movers earns strong recommendations for reliable, well-priced moving help, though a handful of customers felt dissatisfied with damage claims and complaint handling.
Show more
Get a Quote (980) 428-6390

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

How much does it cost to move from Charlotte to Riverside?

Charlotte movers charge $80 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 $1,483 - $6,496 $1,649 - $4,175 $1,595 - $3,085
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,438 - $8,936 $2,901 - $5,900 $1,782 - $3,827
4+ bedrooms $8,258 - $13,268 $3,872 - $8,006 $2,296 - $4,645
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,394 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 North Carolina to California

Planning a move from North Carolina to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,483 and $6,496. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,438 and $8,936 for the same journey (NC to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,258 to $13,268.

Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to California

If you're moving from North Carolina to California, expect to pay between $1,649 and $4,175 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,901 up to $5,900. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,872 and $8,006. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to California

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,595 and $3,085 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,782 to $3,827. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,296 to $4,645.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors influencing moving costs from Charlotte to Riversidetoggle

The cost of Charlotte movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Charlotte to Riverside can be as low as $1,483 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $12,233.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charlotte so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,595 to $4,453. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Charlotte to Riverside

Many movers find Riverside easier on the wallet than Charlotte — roughly 19% less for singles and 33% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,573 for one person in Riverside versus $3,158 in Charlotte. For a family of four, it’s $5,604 compared with $8,325.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Charlotte Riverside
Average 1 BR rent $1,913 $2,163
Average 3 BR rent $3,790 $3,270
Average home value $391,658 $642,297
Average income (per capita) $64,814 $76,755
Unemployment rate 3.3% 7.1%
Sales tax 7.25% 8.75%
State income tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Riverside, since prices are typically 28% higher than in Charlotte.
  • The home prices in Riverside are 64.0% higher than in Charlotte, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Riverside, where incomes are, on average, 18.4% higher than in Charlotte. Major employers in Riverside include Bourns, California Baptist University, and Riverside County Office of Education.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Riverside. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 18.5% lower than in Charlotte.
  • A move to Riverside 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 32.7% less than what it costs in Charlotte.
  • The unemployment rate in Riverside is 115.15% higher than in Charlotte.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Riverside, since its sales taxes are 20.69% higher than what you are paying in Charlotte.
  • State income taxes in Riverside are 195.56% higher than in Charlotte.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Charlotte and Riverside:

Charlotte Riverside
Basic utilities $156.99 $226.85
Cell phone plan $54.78 $46.5
Dozen eggs $4.55 $5.45
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.02
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $19
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $85
Gym membership $51.9 $35
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charlotte than in Riverside, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charlotte than in Riverside.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charlotte than in Riverside.
  • Bread costs less in Charlotte than in Riverside.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charlotte than in Riverside.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charlotte than in Riverside.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Charlotte than in Riverside.

How life is different in Charlotte vs. Riverside

Riverside Charlotte
Population 317,261 874,579
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 43 26
Bike friendliness score 49 31
Crime Index 40.24 46.52
Safety Index 59.76 53.48
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • Riverside's population is about 64% less than Charlotte.
  • Riverside's public transportation has a similar score to Charlotte.
  • Riverside is more walkable than Charlotte with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Charlotte's 26 out of 100.
  • With a score of 49 out of 100, Riverside is more bike-friendly than Charlotte, which has a score of 31 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Riverside's crime rate is lower than Charlotte with a score of 40.24 compared to Charlotte's 46.52. This means that Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charlotte neighborhoods are safer than 46.52%.
  • Riverside is considered to be safer than Charlotte with a safety index of 59.76 vs Charlotte's 53.48.
  • Air quality in Riverside is moderate, and in Charlotte it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Charlotte vs. Riverside move

  • Weather: Riverside has hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While California doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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 Riverside without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Riverside

Now that you've chosen City of Arts and Innovation as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Riverside to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Canyon Crest
  • Victoria
  • Downtown
  • Magnolia Center
  • La Sierra South

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Orangecrest
  • Mission Grove
  • Canyon Crest
  • Alessandro Heights
  • Victoria

Things to do in Riverside

Now that you've made the move to California it's the perfect time to explore Riverside From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Riverside is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the March Field Air Museum, Mission Inn Museum, Riverside Art Museum, Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center, and Heritage House.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Mount Rubidoux Park, Fairmount Park, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, and Ryan Bonaminio Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an California Baptist Lancers (College sports), UC Riverside Highlanders (College sports), or Riverside City College Tigers (College sports): Baseball, Cheerleading, Football, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Water Polo, Softball, Beach Volleyball, Volleyball game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charlotte to Riverside?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Charlotte to Riverside. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Charlotte.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charlotte to Riverside?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charlotte to Riverside 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 Charlotte to Riverside take?

Covering 2,394 miles, the move from Charlotte, NC to Riverside, CA typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Charlotte movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Riverside can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Charlotte offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in Charlotte offer AAA member savings. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 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.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Charlotte?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 28 movers in Charlotte provide piano moving services. 11 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2172 and 1398.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources