Top-rated movers to make your Cincinnati to Charleston move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Cincinnati that offers long-distance services to Charleston can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 12 top local movers in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Charleston.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Clark and Sons Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Relocation Services: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.34 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 136562
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 604361
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2962688
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00604903
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 1878284
Alternate Names: Smooth Move Relocation Services LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops Moving Help
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
How much does it cost to move from Cincinnati to Charleston?
In Ohio, moving services typically cost around $153 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 | $1,240 – $3,484 | $696 – $1,598 | $454 – $847 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,222 – $5,696 | $1,219 – $2,493 | $475 – $1,057 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,910 – $7,707 | $1,644 – $3,318 | $593 – $1,288 |
Cost to hire movers from Cincinnati to Charleston
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Charleston from Cincinnati, you can expect prices to land between $1,240 and $3,484. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,222 to $5,696 for the trip from Cincinnati to Charleston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,910 and $7,707.
Cost of moving containers from Cincinnati to Charleston
Moving containers from Cincinnati to Charleston will cost you $696 to $1,598 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,219 to $2,493. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,644 to $3,318. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Cincinnati to Charleston
Renting a moving truck from Cincinnati to Charleston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $454 and $847 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $475 to $1,057. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $593 to $1,288.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Cincinnati to Charleston move
The cost of Cincinnati movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,698 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,801 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Cincinnati.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $454 to $1,116, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Cincinnati to Charleston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 115% higher for singles and 23% higher for families than Cincinnati.
Singles spend around $5,300 in Cincinnati versus $2,467 in Cincinnati; families pay $7,890 compared with $6,418.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Cincinnati | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,488 | $2,529 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,893 | $4,487 |
| Average home value | $232,735 | $559,231 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,682 | $62,294 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,467 | $5,300 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,418 | $7,890 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.5% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Charleston? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 72% higher than in Cincinnati, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Charleston are about 140% higher than those in Cincinnati.
- In terms of average income, Charleston and Cincinnati are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Charleston, as living costs for a single person are 115% higher than in Cincinnati. 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 23% higher than in Cincinnati.
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is about 18% lower than in Cincinnati. 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 38% more than in Cincinnati, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 100% above those in Ohio. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Cincinnati and Charleston:
| Living Expense | Cincinnati | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $128.95 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $56.81 | $54.78 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.26 | $4.55 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.30 | $3.82 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.82 | $29.17 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Cincinnati than in Charleston, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Cincinnati than in Charleston.
- Eggs are less expensive in Cincinnati than in Charleston.
- Bread costs less in Cincinnati than in Charleston.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Cincinnati than in Charleston.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Cincinnati than in Charleston.
- Gym memberships cost more in Cincinnati than in Charleston.
How life is different in Cincinnati vs. Charleston
| Cincinnati | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 309,317 | 150,277 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 49 | 40 |
| Bike friendliness score | 36 | 50 |
| Crime index | 48.47 | 44.97 |
| Safety index | 49.53 | 55.03 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Charleston’s population is about 51% less than Cincinnati.
- Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Cincinnati’s score of 6.
- Charleston is less walkable than Cincinnati with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Cincinnati’s 49 out of 100.
- With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Cincinnati, which has a score of 36 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 Cincinnati with a score of 44.97 compared to Cincinnati’s 48.47. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Cincinnati neighborhoods are safer than 48.47%.
- Charleston is considered to be safer than Cincinnati with a safety index of 55.03 vs Cincinnati’s 49.53.
- Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Cincinnati it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Charleston?
Planning your move from Cincinnati to Charleston? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Cincinnati.
When is the cheapest time to move from Cincinnati to Charleston?
Because most people are moving from Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Charleston take?
The 620-mile journey from Cincinnati, OH to Charleston, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Cincinnati 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 there special savings available from movers in Cincinnati?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Cincinnati?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Cincinnati, 3 movers can manage piano relocations. By comparison, Ohio has 59 piano movers and 37 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.
Helpful moving resources
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