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Local moving companies in Pennsylvania
When you are heading from Pennsylvania to Charleston, SC, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free. We’ve handpicked the best local moving companies with expertise in moves from the Keystone State to the Holy City, so your journey is seamless from start to finish.
Out of 78 Pennsylvania movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Charleston, SC.
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- The Armstrong Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Hughes Relocation Services: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- South Hills Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 8925314
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2969363
Zip to Zip Moving Inc has been a trusted local residential moving company in and around Exton, PA since 2018. With an impressive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, safes, and antiques, they outshine many nearby competitors. Their stellar reputation is backed by numerous positive reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a perfect score of 5.0 on Google. Additionally, their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further cements their standing as a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 8917264
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage
Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920700
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3078473
Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.
Forward Moving LLC, serving Exton, PA, has been the reliable choice for local residential moving since 2018. Known for their comprehensive range of services, they handle everything from simple packing and unpacking to more specialized tasks like moving pianos, art, and antiques. While their Yelp reviews average a 3.9 rating from 11 reviewers, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average from 274 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Forward Moving LLC accepts credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 103976
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 110502
Hughes Relocation Services, based in Lansdale, PA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 1983. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and strong online reviews, including a 4.7 average rating on Google from 292 reviews. Unlike many nearby movers, Hughes Relocation Services also offers packing, unpacking, and crating services, and can handle specialty items such as pianos and art with care. Additionally, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 94
DOT #: 98045
South Hills Movers, a trusted name in Bethel Park, PA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1931. With an impressive array of offerings that include packing, unpacking, and specialized services for moving pianos, art, and antiques, they cater to a wide range of customer needs. While their Yelp profile shows a modest rating, they boast a stronger 4.1 average on Google and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a generally positive reputation. Compared to other nearby movers, South Hills Movers stands out for their long history and comprehensive service options, making them a reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from Pennsylvania to Charleston, South Carolina:
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zip to Zip Moving Inc | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| The Armstrong Company | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Forward Moving LLC | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✔ |
| Hughes Relocation Services | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| South Hills Movers | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,887 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Pennsylvania movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Pennsylvania | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 97% | 97% |
| Antiques | 56% | 48% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Pennsylvania to Charleston, SC
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Charleston, SC to what you’re used to in Pennsylvania. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs Charleston, SC
| Pennsylvania | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,110 | $2,500 |
| Average home value | $268,824 | $559,231 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,170 | $62,294 |
| Unemployment rate | 3% | 4% |
| State income tax | 3% | 7% |
Charleston sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Charleston is about 125% higher than in Pennsylvania. Be sure to factor this into your budget, since both your move-in costs and monthly rent will be higher.
- In Charleston, expect home prices to be about 108% higher than in Pennsylvania. Get ready for a bigger down payment, increased property taxes, and higher overall homeownership expenses.
- Expect salaries in Charleston to be approximately 15% lower than in Pennsylvania. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making your move.
- Unemployment in Charleston is about 18% higher than in Pennsylvania. Still, you can snag a great job by being proactive. Start networking early and hit the ground running on your job hunt.
- Income taxes in Charleston are 128% higher than in Pennsylvania, so keep this in mind when you’re mapping out your budget. Your take-home pay might be a bit less than what you’re used to.
How life is different in Charleston from Pennsylvania
| Charleston | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 150,277 | 12,961,683 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56-43 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 89ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 39ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 48" | 44" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 38" |
| Crime index | 44.97 | 17.62 |
Charleston sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Charleston voted Democratic, while Pennsylvania voted Republican.
- Summer temperatures in Charleston typically reach 89°F, while in Pennsylvania, highs average around 83°F. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and a hotter days.
- In the coldest months, Charleston typically dips to 39ºF, while Pennsylvania can reach lows of 19ºF. By moving to Charleston, you’ll experience milder winters, making everyday life simpler, less expensive, and perfect for enjoying more time outdoors.
- You’ll get about 48 inches of rain each year in Charleston, pretty similar to the 44 inches you’re used to in Pennsylvania. The overall rainfall might not change much, but the timing and patterns could still impact your day-to-day life.
- In Charleston, you’ll only see about 0 inches of snow each year, less than the 38 inches you’re used to in Pennsylvania. With these lighter winters, you can look forward to less shoveling, easier driving, and fewer winter headaches overall, making Charleston a great choice if you want a milder cold season.
- Charleston has a higher crime rate than Pennsylvania, with a crime index of 44.97 compared to 17.62. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good reminder to look into local safety precautions and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Things to do in Charleston
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Charleston truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Charleston
Parks in Charleston
Sports Teams in Charleston
Universities in Charleston
Other considerations when moving to Charleston, SC
- 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: Before moving day, check your neighborhood or community rules so you don't run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- 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. Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can check your South Carolina moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to South Carolina, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to South Carolina without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Insurance rules vary by state. 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: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Pennsylvania to Charleston take?
The time it takes to move from Pennsylvania to Charleston, SC depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Planning a move from northern Pennsylvania to Charleston? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
Moving your belongings from Pennsylvania to Charleston typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Pennsylvania to Charleston?
Planning a 751-mile move from Pennsylvania to Charleston? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Charleston, SC?
Summer in Charleston can reach highs of 89°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 39°F. That’s why most people moving from Pennsylvania to Charleston opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
