Top-rated movers to make your Charleston to Mobile move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Charleston that offers long-distance services to Mobile can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 10 top local movers in Charleston 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 Charleston to Mobile.
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Cougar Moving: 4.12 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.16 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 9792-B
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 9823
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2357653
Alternate Names: Go Smooth Move, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2362770
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
Company Info
Pricing: $124/hr
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2868021
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Charleston to Mobile?
In South Carolina, moving services typically cost around $137 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 | $1,080 – $3,250 | $717 – $1,766 | $454 – $890 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,912 – $5,308 | $1,269 – $2,395 | $495 – $1,067 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,362 – $7,193 | $1,610 – $3,097 | $642 – $1,202 |
Cost to hire movers from Charleston to Mobile
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Mobile from Charleston, you can expect prices to land between $1,080 and $3,250. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,912 to $5,308 for the trip from Charleston to Mobile. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,362 and $7,193.
Cost of moving containers from Charleston to Mobile
Moving containers from Charleston to Mobile will cost you $717 to $1,766 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,269 to $2,395. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,610 to $3,097. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to Mobile
Renting a moving truck from Charleston to Mobile typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $454 and $890 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $495 to $1,067. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $642 to $1,202.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Charleston to Mobile move
The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,569 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,343 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Charleston.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $454 to $1,171, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Charleston to Mobile
Many movers find Mobile easier on the wallet than Charleston – roughly 66% less for singles and 48% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,825 for one person in Mobile versus $5,300 in Charleston. For a family of four, it’s $4,104 compared with $7,890.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Charleston | Mobile | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,529 | $1,083 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,487 | $1,833 |
| Average home value | $559,231 | $186,159 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,294 | $61,962 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,300 | $1,825 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,890 | $4,104 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 6.2% |
| Sales tax | 9.0% | 10.0% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 5.0% |
- When relocating from Charleston to Mobile, expect to find rent about 48% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 67% more affordable in Mobile compared to Charleston.
- In terms of average income, Mobile and Charleston are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Mobile, as the cost of living for a single person is 66% lower compared to Charleston.
- A move to Mobile 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 48% less than what it costs in Charleston.
- Mobile shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Charleston by around 55%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Mobile are 11% more than in Charleston, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Alabama are 29% below those in South Carolina. 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 Charleston and Mobile:
| Living Expense | Charleston | Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $156.99 | $165.58 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.78 | $68.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.55 | $3.50 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.82 | $3.31 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $29.17 | $36.13 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Mobile, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Mobile.
- Eggs cost more in Charleston than in Mobile.
- Bread is more expensive in Charleston than in Mobile.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Charleston than in Mobile.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Mobile.
How life is different in Charleston vs. Mobile
| Charleston | Mobile | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 150,277 | 187,041 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 40 | 32 |
| Bike friendliness score | 50 | 34 |
| Crime index | 44.97 | 64.95 |
| Safety index | 55.03 | 35.05 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Mobile’s population is about 24% greater than Charleston.
- Mobile’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Charleston, making them very similar.
- Mobile is less walkable than Charleston with a score of 32 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 40 out of 100.
- Mobile has a bike-friendliness score of 34 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Charleston, which has a score of 50.
- Mobile’s crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 64.95 compared to Charleston’s 44.97. This means that Mobile neighborhoods are safer than 64.95% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
- Mobile is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 35.05 vs Charleston’s 55.03.
- Air quality in Mobile is Good, and in Charleston it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Charleston to Mobile 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 guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Alabama’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Alabama 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 Mobile. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Mobile
Planning your move to The Port City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Mobile.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Spanish Fort
- Point Clear
- Tillmans Corner
- Theodore
- Chickasaw
Best neighborhoods for families
- Point Clear
- Saraland
- Loxley
- Satsuma
- Semmes
Things to do in Mobile
After settling into your new Alabama home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Mobile has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Mobile features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the GulfQuest – National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, Battleship USS ALABAMA, Mobile Carnival Museum, and History Museum of Mobile.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Mobile Bay, Mobile Botanical Gardens, Bienville Square, and Medal of Honor 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 South Alabama Jaguars (Sun Belt)Spring Hill Badgers (SIAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Charleston to Mobile?
Planning your move from Charleston to Mobile? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Charleston.
When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Mobile?
Because most people are moving from Charleston to Mobile 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 Charleston to Mobile take?
The 620-mile journey from Charleston, SC to Mobile, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Charleston offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Mobile.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Charleston?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Charleston, 6 movers can manage piano relocations. 4 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, South Carolina has 33 piano movers and 18 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
Charleston moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
- South Carolina to Alabama car shippers
- South Carolina to California movers
- South Carolina to Florida movers
- South Carolina to Georgia movers
- South Carolina to Illinois movers
- South Carolina to Michigan movers
- South Carolina to New York movers
- South Carolina to North Carolina movers
- South Carolina to Ohio movers
- South Carolina to Pennsylvania movers
- South Carolina to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!