Quick answer: A typical 761-mile move from New York City to Charleston runs $733–$6,191 and takes two to seven days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Charleston to New York City guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best Movers By Type

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Labor Only

Best Professional Movers from New York City to Charleston

Choosing a long-distance moving company in New York City to go to Charleston can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

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

How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your New York City to Charleston journey

Organizing a move from New York City to Charleston can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in New York City known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from New York City to Charleston.

  1. White Glove Moving & Storage: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Great Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Roadway Moving : 4.86 out of 5 stars
  5. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/WhiteGloveMoving, https://twitter.com/WGMoving
90% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Across 741 customer reviews, White Glove Moving & Storage shines for their meticulous handling, professionalism, and swift, efficient work—nearly 90% of feedback expresses satisfaction. Movers are repeatedly recognized for careful treatment of items, reliable communication, and prompt execution, often exceeding expectations. Customers cite friendly, organized teams and well-wrapped belongings as standout features.
A minority report issues like damaged goods, delayed delivery, or unexpected fees, especially with long-distance jobs or storage. Compared to typical moving companies, White Glove receives notably fewer complaints about lost or mishandled property. While most customers strongly recommend them, a few warn to clarify terms up front to avoid delivery surprises or extra expenses. White Glove’s track record for dependable, courteous service sets them ahead in the industry, as reflected in consistently positive input from clients.
Show more
Get a Quote (877) 941-0568

Company Info

State license #: 648262

Years in Business: 29

DOT #: 648262


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/PieceofCakeMoving/, https://twitter.com/pieceofcakemove?lang=en
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions.
Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 651-7273

Company Info

State license #: 40244

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3066988

Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/greatmoversnyc/, https://twitter.com/greatmoversny
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input about Great Movers stands out for its consistency—210 out of 221 reviews are positive, amounting to 95% glowing feedback. Clients repeatedly praise the company for efficient, friendly, and highly professional service. Most cite careful handling of possessions, quick and seamless moves, affordable pricing, and clear communication as standouts.
People frequently highlight stress-free relocations, respectful crews, and precise timing, making Great Movers an appealing choice for those seeking reliability. Negative feedback, only 5%, centers largely on significant damages to items, disappointing insurance payouts, and surprise charges. Some report unprofessional behaviors during complaints and claim poor handling of property damage issues. Compared with other movers, Great Movers excels in customer satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, but documented damages and insurance disputes are notable risks, so care is warranted on that front.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 306-9980

Company Info

State license #: 39493

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2180117


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RoadwayMoving/, https://x.com/roadwaymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves aren’t a myth—Roadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move.
Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focus—making them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 812-5240

Company Info

State license #: 38589

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1854436


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/DumboMoving, https://twitter.com/dumbomoving
55% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs.
Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problems—unexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyalty—or frustration—in a crowded industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 222-8282

Company Info

State license #: 36990

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1543241


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from New York City to Charleston?

New York City movers charge $110 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 $1,319 - $4,413 $904 - $2,306 $639 - $1,215
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,571 - $6,191 $1,628 - $3,331 $733 - $1,488
4+ bedrooms $4,334 - $8,549 $2,387 - $4,337 $891 - $1,840
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 761 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 New York to South Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from New York to South Carolina will cost between $1,319 and $4,413. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NY to SC will range from $2,571 to $6,191, and a large move from New York to South Carolina will cost from $4,334 to $8,549.

Cost of moving containers from New York to South Carolina

Moving from New York to South Carolina? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $904 and $2,306. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,628 to $3,331. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,387 up to $4,337. 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 New York.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York to South Carolina

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $639 to $1,215. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $733 to $1,488, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from New York to South Carolina costs around $891 to $1,840.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Key factors that impact the cost of your New York City to Charleston movetoggle

The cost of New York City 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 New York City to Charleston can be as low as $1,319 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,482.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in New York City 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 $639 to $1,588. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from New York City to Charleston

Moving from New York City to Charleston means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in Charleston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how New York City compares to Charleston so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New York City Charleston
Average rent cost $4,340 $2,500
Average home value $752,778 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $62,294
Cost of living (single person) $5,683 $5,300
Cost of living (family of 4) $15,081 $7,890
Unemployment rate 11.2% 4.0%
Sales tax 8.0% 9.0%
State income tax 10.9% 7.0%
  • Rent prices in Charleston are 42% lower than in New York City, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Charleston.
    Home prices in Charleston are 25.7% lower than in New York City.
  • Income in Charleston is 20.2% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Charleston — including Joint Base Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, and The Boeing Company — may pay more.
  • 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 6.7% lower than in New York City.
  • A move to Charleston 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 47.7% less than what it costs in New York City.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 64.29% lower than in New York City.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Charleston, since its sales taxes are 12.50% higher than what you are paying in New York City.
  • One perk of moving to Charleston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 35.78% lower than in New York City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,797.82 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.

How life is different in New York City vs. Charleston

Charleston New York City
Population 150,277 8,258,035
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 10
Walkability score 40 88
Bike friendliness score 50 69
Crime Index 44.97 50.83
Safety Index 55.03 49.17
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston's population is about 98% less than New York City.
  • Charleston's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus New York City's higher score of 10.
  • Charleston is less walkable than New York City with a score of 40 out of 100 vs New York City's 88 out of 100.
  • Charleston has a bike-friendliness score 50 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as New York City, which has a score of 69 out of 100.
  • Charleston's crime rate is lower than New York City with a score of 44.97 compared to New York City's 50.83. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
  • Charleston is considered to be safer than New York City with a safety index of 55.03 vs New York City's 49.17.
  • Air quality in Charleston is good, and in New York City it's good.

Other things to consider for your New York City vs. Charleston move

  • Weather: Consider moving to Charleston around October, April and May as these are the most pleasant months, while July and August are the least comfortable ones due to thunderstorms which can cause delays in your moving plans.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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 check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina 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: 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: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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

Ready to relocate to Holy City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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: Cultural attractions in Charleston include museums and art centers like the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, The Charleston Museum, and Gibbes Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • 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 New York City to Charleston?

The best time to move from New York City to Charleston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in New York City.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Charleston?

With many people choosing to move from New York City to Charleston in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from New York City to Charleston take?

The 761-mile move from New York City, NY, to Charleston, SC, takes two to seven days. Some New York City movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Charleston.

Helpful moving resources