The best local movers for Raleigh to Charleston moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Raleigh that also handles long-distance moves to Charleston. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 28 local movers in Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Charleston.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2934
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2548
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 1931566
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2657
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3205320
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2311
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 076235
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1267633
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 3619230
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Raleigh to Charleston?
The average hourly rate for movers in North Carolina is $145. 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 | $910 – $2,818 | $606 – $1,492 | $321 – $543 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,518 – $4,105 | $1,088 – $2,132 | $352 – $664 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,205 – $5,688 | $1,510 – $2,573 | $410 – $801 |
Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to Charleston
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Raleigh to Charleston will cost between $910 and $2,818. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Raleigh to Raleigh will range from $1,518 to $4,105, and a large move from Raleigh to Charleston will cost from $2,205 to $5,688.
Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to Charleston
If you’re moving from Raleigh to Charleston, expect to pay between $606 and $1,492 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,088 up to $2,132. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,510 and $2,573. 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 Raleigh to Charleston
Renting a moving truck from Raleigh 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 $321 and $543. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $352 and $664. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $410 up to $801 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Raleigh to Charleston
The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,235, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $4,746.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Raleigh, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($321–$709) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Raleigh to Charleston
Many movers find Charleston easier on the wallet than Raleigh – roughly 75% less for singles and 36% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,549 for one person in Charleston versus $6,077 in Raleigh. For a family of four, it’s $3,862 compared with $6,077.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Raleigh | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,820 | $933 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,000 | $1,800 |
| Average home value | $431,795 | $153,672 |
| Average income (per capita) | $2,572 | $59,354 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,077 | $1,549 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,077 | $3,862 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 6.2% |
| Sales tax | 7.25% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 6.5% |
- If you’re heading to Charleston from Raleigh, you’ll find that rent is roughly 48% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 64% less in Charleston than in Raleigh.
- Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 2208% higher in Charleston than in Raleigh, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
- 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 75% lower than in Raleigh.
- Choosing to move to Charleston can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 36% less than in Raleigh.
- In Charleston, the unemployment rate is approximately 44% higher than in Raleigh, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes show little difference between Charleston and Raleigh (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
- Income taxes are 44% higher in West Virginia than in North Carolina, 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 Raleigh and Charleston:
| Living Expense | Raleigh | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $190.88 | $128.95 |
| Cell phone plan | $64.40 | $45.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $3.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.12 | $2.20 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.50 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $50.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.18 | $31.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Raleigh than in Charleston.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Raleigh than in Charleston.
- Eggs cost more in Raleigh than in Charleston.
- Bread is more expensive in Raleigh than in Charleston.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Raleigh than in Charleston.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Raleigh than in Charleston.
- Gym memberships cost more in Raleigh than in Charleston.
How life is different in Raleigh vs. Charleston
| Raleigh | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 467,665 | 48,018 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 2 |
| Walkability score | 31 | 33 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 28 |
| Crime index | 38.87 | 53.94 |
| Safety index | 60.13 | 46.06 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Charleston’s population is about 90% less than Raleigh.
- Charleston’s public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Raleigh’s score of 4.
- Charleston is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Raleigh’s 31 out of 100.
- Charleston has a bike-friendliness score of 28 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Raleigh, which has a score of 39.
- Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 53.94 compared to Raleigh’s 38.87. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
- Charleston is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 46.06 vs Raleigh’s 60.13.
- Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Raleigh it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Raleigh 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: 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a West Virginia moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: West Virginia 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 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: 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 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
Once you’re settled into your new home in West Virginia, 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 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 — 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 Golden Eagles (Mountain East) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Raleigh to Charleston?
The best time to move from Raleigh to Charleston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Raleigh.
When is the cheapest time to move from Raleigh to Charleston?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Charleston take?
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, covers 315 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Raleigh movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Charleston.
Which movers in Raleigh give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 1 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Raleigh?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 20 movers in Raleigh advertise piano moving expertise. 8 movers in Raleigh provide antique moving services. State totals show 78 piano movers and 38 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.
Helpful moving resources
Raleigh moving services
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