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($884) Cost to Move From Durham, NC to Charleston, SC

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 304 miles from Durham to Charleston, expect to pay between $339 and $4,191. The journey should take about one–four days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Durham 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 Durham to Charleston

For a stress-free interstate move from Durham to Charleston, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 26 interstate moving companies in Durham, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Charleston.

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 Durham to Charleston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 304-mile move from Durham to Charleston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $975 – $3,362
  • Moving Container $887 – $1,581
  • Rental Truck $308 – $543
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,457 – $4,191
  • Moving Container $1,055 – $2,091
  • Rental Truck $339 – $651
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,183 – $5,746
  • Moving Container $1,395 – $2,573
  • Rental Truck $393 – $817
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.
Mayflower Transit
Liberty, NC Seabrook Island, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 20, 2025
PODS
Green Level, NC Sullivan’s Island, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
American Van Lines
Staley, NC Ravenel, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
BLVD Moving
Bunn, NC Jamestown, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
United Van Lines
Elon, NC McClellanville, SC
Studio apartment
Sep 01, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Louisburg, NC Edisto Beach, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 11, 2025
Roadway Moving
Stovall, NC Hanahan, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Fuquay-Varina, NC Cottageville, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 04, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Rolesville, NC Mount Pleasant, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 02, 2025
North American Van Lines
Ossipee, NC Summerville, SC
4 Bedrooms
Jul 31, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Charleston, SC to Durham, NC guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Durham to Charleston moves

When planning a move from Durham to Charleston, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 27 local movers in Durham who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Durham to Charleston.

  1. TROSA Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Truckin’ Movers Corporation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Miracle Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Bellhop Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
14.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t get easier, but customers say TROSA Moving delivers some of the best service in the region. In this analysis of 323 reviews, 84.5% reflect positive feedback, showing that most customers value TROSA’s efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many highlight affordable rates and quick, smooth moving processes—even for complex moves or specialty items. A few reviews describe honest, responsive follow-up for minor hiccups, with frequent praise for thoroughness and reliability. Negative feedback, although much less frequent, centers on damage to items, communication lapses, and dissatisfaction with some staff interaction. Some customers reported careless packing, unresponsive customer service, or rude behavior during quotes or scheduling. Compared to other movers, TROSA stands out for going above and beyond to resolve complaints and for competitive pricing. The small portion of neutral feedback acknowledges both the care and quick response from TROSA, even if some minor issues required follow-up. Across the board, most reviewers recommend TROSA with confidence, especially appreciating their consistent professionalism and value.
Get a Quote (919) 419-1059

Company Info

State license #: C-726

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 675014

Alternate Names: TROSA Inc., TROSA Moving & Storage, TROSA Lawn Care, TROSA Thrift , TROSA Moving , Triangle Residential Options for Substance Abusers , Trosa Furniture & Frameshop , TROSA Lawncare

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
22.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t have to be a headache—TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives high marks from most customers, with 78% of the 273 reviews expressing satisfaction. Many people praise the team’s efficient service and fast-moving process, highlighting how careful staff routinely handle items with respect. Professionalism, excellent communication, and punctuality set this mover apart from typical competitors. Customers often note their moves finish quickly and without damage, boosting trust in the experience. On the flip side, 22% rendered negative feedback, mostly about items arriving damaged, poor complaint resolution, and unexpected final costs. Some report difficulty reaching support when resolving claims, and a handful describe costly surprises on invoices. Compared to other moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK delivers top-tier efficiency and professionalism, but falls short if something goes wrong and a customer needs follow-up. Most who need a reliable, careful move praise their work. Those focused on complaint handling or seeking guaranteed no-damage results should consider these risk points before booking.
Get a Quote (919) 261-7509

Company Info

State license #: 2443

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Oliver & Finley, LLC , Two Men And A Truck

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.8% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Thousands of Triangle-area customers agree—Truckin’ Movers Corporation delivers a moving experience that’s a cut above most competitors. Out of 263 customer feedback entries examined, a remarkable 93% described positive results. Repeated praise centers on professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient service, clear communication, and fast moving processes. Customers consistently note moves happening on time, accurate price estimates, and items delivered undamaged—even during complex interstate or international relocations. Negative input represents less than 7% of all feedback, and most issues involve items damaged in transit, inaccurate estimates leading to higher final bills, or delayed arrivals and deliveries. Some negative experiences also raise concerns about problem resolution and claims processes. Despite a few challenging moves, Truckin’ Movers sets a high standard for reliability and care, with service quality that stands out among area moving companies.
Get a Quote (919) 682-2300

Company Info

State license #: 2262

Years in Business: 48

DOT #: 0233952

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.4% of all reviews were positive
16.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and satisfied customers paint Miracle Movers as a standout among moving companies—of 255 reviews, 82.4% shine with positive feedback. Customers consistently praise the efficient service, careful handling, professional crews, speedy moves, and clear communication. Many note the company excels at protecting belongings and making stressful transitions feel easy. On the other hand, the most consistent complaints are about damage to household items, slow or lacking responses to claims, and occasional unexpected or higher charges at billing. Despite these issues, negative comments account for less than one-fifth of feedback, considerably lower than industry averages. For most clients, Miracle Movers reliably delivers a prompt, safe move with friendly staff, putting it well ahead of many competitors who struggle with service consistency and trust.
Get a Quote (919) 656-4043

Company Info

State license #: 2894

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2461529

Alternate Names: Miracle Movers of Raleigh, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
53.1% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving stands out for movers who work quickly, handle items with care, and maintain a friendly, professional attitude. Over half the feedback highlights a smooth, efficient moving process. Customers appreciate reliable scheduling, approachable staff, and fast service—traits that compare well to industry standards. Some clients, though, face problems like damaged belongings, unexpected charges, or late arrivals. Main complaints point to carelessness with items, delays, and surprise fees. A number of customers also had trouble with customer service responsiveness during issues. While many would recommend Bellhop for efficient, courteous movers, those with damaged goods or billing issues experienced significant frustration. Out of 32 customer inputs, 53% were positive, suggesting the company often delivers strong results but still has areas needing improvement.
Get a Quote (919) 246-4318

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

Movers in North Carolina charge $145 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 $884 – $2,679 $624 – $1,463 $321 – $577
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,457 – $4,191 $1,055 – $2,091 $339 – $651
4+ bedrooms $2,183 – $5,746 $1,395 – $2,573 $393 – $817
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 304-mile relocation from Durham to Charleston, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Durham to Charleston

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Durham to Charleston, you can expect to spend between $884 and $2,679. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,457 to $4,191 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Durham to Charleston typically runs between $2,183 and $5,746.

Cost of moving containers from Durham to Charleston

When moving from Durham to Charleston, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $624 and $1,463. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,055 to $2,091. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,395 up to $2,573. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Durham to Charleston

Renting a moving truck in Durham is usually your cheapest option to get to Charleston. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $321 and $577. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $339 and $651. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $393 and $817.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Durham to Charleston

The cost of Durham movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,153, but larger homes can run up to $4,697.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Durham.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($321–$695) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Durham to Charleston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 89% higher for singles and 33% higher for families than Durham.

Singles spend around $5,300 in Durham versus $2,803 in Durham; families pay $7,890 compared with $5,945.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Durham Charleston
Average 1 BR rent $1,875 $2,529
Average 3 BR rent $2,573 $4,487
Average home value $391,719 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $69,117 $62,294
Cost of living (single) $2,803 $5,300
Cost of living (family of four) $5,945 $7,890
Unemployment rate 4.1% 4.0%
Sales tax 7.5% 9.0%
State income tax 4.5% 7.0%
  • As you consider relocating to Charleston, note that rent can be roughly 47% more expensive than it is in Durham; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 43% higher in Charleston than in Durham.
  • It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 10% less in Charleston than in Durham.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person is 89% more than in Durham. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Charleston, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 33% more than it is in Durham.
  • Both Charleston and Durham present nearly identical unemployment rates, within a 5% range, signifying stability in employment conditions.
  • Sales taxes are 20% higher in Charleston than in Durham. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 56% higher in South Carolina compared to North Carolina. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Durham with Charleston:

Living Expense Durham Charleston
Basic utilities $148.21 $156.99
Cell phone plan $51.67 $54.78
Dozen eggs $4.53 $4.55
Loaf of bread $3.66 $3.82
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70.00 $80.00
Gym membership $40.00 $29.17
  • Basic utilities cost less in Durham than in Charleston, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Durham than in Charleston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Durham than in Charleston.
  • Bread costs less in Durham than in Charleston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Durham than in Charleston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Durham than in Charleston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Durham than in Charleston.

How life is different in Durham vs. Charleston

Durham Charleston
Population 283,506 150,277
Transportation score 4 3
Walkability score 30 40
Bike friendliness score 38 50
Crime index 54.72 44.97
Safety index 45.28 55.03
Air quality Good Good
  • Charleston’s population is about 47% less than Durham.
  • Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Durham’s score of 4.
  • Charleston is more walkable than Durham with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Durham’s 30 out of 100.
  • With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Durham, which has a score of 38 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Charleston’s crime rate is lower than Durham with a score of 44.97 compared to Durham’s 54.72. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72%.
  • Charleston is considered to be safer than Durham with a safety index of 55.03 vs Durham’s 45.28.
  • Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Durham it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Durham to Charleston move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving 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: 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 verify a South Carolina moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While South Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Charleston smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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

Now that you’ve chosen The Holy City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Charleston to check out.

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

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it’s time to see what Charleston is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Charleston offers cultural landmarks like 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 — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • 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 Durham to Charleston?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Durham to Charleston are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Durham are lower.

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

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

A move of 304 miles from Durham, NC to Charleston, generally takes one to four days. Movers in Durham sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Charleston is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Durham offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 19 movers in Durham have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 8 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across NC, there are 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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