Top-rated movers to make your Albany to Charleston move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Albany that offers long-distance services to Charleston can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed eight top local movers in Albany who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Albany to Charleston.
- Mabey’s Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Clark Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Don’s Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 623
Years in Business: 68
DOT #: 125550
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 37553
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 125563
Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage , Clark Moving and Storage of Albany
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1462
Years in Business: 75
DOT #: 134890
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 35196
Years in Business: 99
DOT #: 1566123
Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 55254
Alternate Names: All-Ways Moving & Storage Co.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Albany to Charleston?
In New York, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,063 – $3,930 | $786 – $1,986 | $587 – $1,145 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,159 – $5,094 | $1,467 – $2,877 | $634 – $1,333 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,569 – $6,633 | $1,916 – $3,844 | $787 – $1,669 |
Cost to hire movers from Albany to Charleston
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Charleston from Albany, you can expect prices to land between $1,063 and $3,930. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,159 to $5,094 for the trip from Albany to Charleston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,569 and $6,633.
Cost of moving containers from Albany to Charleston
Moving containers from Albany to Charleston will cost you $786 to $1,986 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,467 to $2,877. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,916 to $3,844. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Albany to Charleston
Renting a moving truck from Albany to Charleston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $587 and $1,145 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $634 to $1,333. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $787 to $1,669.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Albany to Charleston move
The cost of Albany movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,969 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,647 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Albany.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $587 to $1,454, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Albany to Charleston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 194% higher for singles and 88% higher for families than Albany.
Singles spend around $5,300 in Albany versus $1,801 in Albany; families pay $7,890 compared with $4,205.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Albany | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,426 | $2,529 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,900 | $4,487 |
| Average home value | $281,584 | $559,231 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,546 | $62,294 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,801 | $5,300 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,205 | $7,890 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Charleston? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 72% higher than in Albany, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Charleston are about 99% higher than those in Albany.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 6% lower in Charleston compared to Albany.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Charleston, as living costs for a single person are 194% higher than in Albany. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Charleston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 88% higher than in Albany.
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is about 44% lower than in Albany. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Charleston are 13% more than in Albany, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 36% below those in New York. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Albany and Charleston:
| Living Expense | Albany | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $203.15 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.53 | $54.78 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $4.55 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.93 | $3.82 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $79.50 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $31.25 | $29.17 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Albany than in Charleston.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Albany than in Charleston.
- Eggs cost more in Albany than in Charleston.
- Bread is more expensive in Albany than in Charleston.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Albany than in Charleston.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Albany than in Charleston.
- Gym memberships cost more in Albany than in Charleston.
How life is different in Albany vs. Charleston
| Albany | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 99,224 | 150,277 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 65 | 40 |
| Bike friendliness score | 55 | 50 |
| Crime index | 10.0 | 44.97 |
| Safety index | 49.65 | 55.03 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Charleston’s population is about 51% greater than Albany.
- Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Albany’s score of 8.
- Charleston is less walkable than Albany with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Albany’s 65 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 Albany, which has a score of 55.
- Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Albany with a score of 44.97 compared to Albany’s 10.0. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0%.
- Charleston is considered to be safer than Albany with a safety index of 55.03 vs Albany’s 49.65.
- Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Albany it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Albany to Charleston move
- 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Charleston. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Charleston
Planning your move to The Holy City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Charleston has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Charleston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Albany to Charleston?
Planning your move from Albany to Charleston? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Albany.
When is the cheapest time to move from Albany to Charleston?
Because most people are moving from Albany to Charleston in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Albany to Charleston take?
The 900-mile journey from Albany, NY to Charleston, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Albany offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Charleston.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Albany?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Albany, 4 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, New York has 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
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