($1,523) Cost of Moving From South Carolina to California
Quick answer: When planning a move from South Carolina to California, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,903 to $8,589. Most relocations will take about seven–21 days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to South Carolina guide.
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The best South Carolina to California full-service movers
Moving from South Carolina to California? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.
Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving South Carolina for your relocation to California:
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in South Carolina
With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in South Carolina, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.
- HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Carey Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
HD Auston Moving Systems
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 271654
Years in Business: 79
200 Pate Drive, Greenville, SC 29609 USHD Auston Moving Systems, with its home base in Greenville, SC, is a seasoned moving firm that has been in business since 1945. They offer a comprehensive selection of services which sets them apart from other local competitors. Offering both local and long-distance residential moving, they also extend services into office relocations. Their professional team is even equipped to handle special items, such as pianos. They pride themselves on their customer service, offering both packing and unpacking services, as well as crating services for those hard-to-pack or valuable items. Unlike many of its competitors, HD Auston Moving Systems accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, which adds to the convenience when planning a move. HD Auston Moving Systems has a varied online reputation with a modest 2.5 rating from 13 Yelp reviews, but a much stronger 4.7 average from an impressive 183 Google My Business reviews. This suggests that while there may be a few mixed opinions, the majority of customers are highly satisfied. Their Better Business Bureau rating of A+ further emphasizes their commitment to customer satisfaction and business ethics. Overall, HD Auston Moving Systems shows a long history of quality service and a robust client-friendly approach.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 271654
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 27
854 Kingswood Drive, Conway, SC 29526 USTwo Men and a Truck in Conway, SC, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 1999. Unlike some nearby competitors, they also offer packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, catering to a wide range of moving needs. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 on Google from 456 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the company is well-regarded for its professionalism and customer satisfaction. Accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit make them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
- State license #: 9684-B
Alternative Business Names
- Reliable Service Group Inc
Ballantyne & Beyond Moving
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 2557751
Years in Business: 16
1228 Transformation Ln, Fort Mill, SC 29707Ballantyne & Beyond Moving, established in 2009, offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Fort Mill, SC. Unlike many competitors, they extend their expertise to long-distance and international moves, as well as office relocations, and provide comprehensive packing and unpacking services. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an impressive 4.7-star average from 134 Google reviews, their reputation stands strong, although their Yelp average of 3.5 suggests some room for improvement. Flexible payment options, including credit cards and no required deposit, make them a convenient choice for a stress-free moving experience.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2557751
- State license #: 9784-A
Smooth Move Charleston
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 2357653
Years in Business: 12
4767 Rivers Avenue, Charleston, SC 29405 USSmooth Move Charleston has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Charleston, SC, since 2014. Known for their comprehensive offerings, which include packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out among other local movers. Consumer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive average rating of 4.9 on Google from 569 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, Smooth Move Charleston accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient and reliable choice for your next move.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2357653
- State license #: 9823
Alternative Business Names
- Go Smooth Move, LLC
Carey Moving & Storage
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 076235
Years in Business: 117
1 Shelter Drive, Greer, SC 29650 USCarey Moving & Storage has been serving Greer, SC, and its surrounding areas since 1908, offering reliable local residential moving services. Unlike some nearby movers, Carey also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services. Despite mixed reviews—with a low average rating on Yelp and a solid 4.1 rating on Google—the company maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, signaling overall customer satisfaction. Additionally, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a flexible and trusted choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 076235
- State license #: 2973
The best South Carolina to California moving container companies
Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in South Carolina and delivering it to your new place in California.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best South Carolina to California moving truck rentals
Looking to cut costs on your move from South Carolina to California? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best South Carolina to California labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from South Carolina to California, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to CA move
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to California?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from South Carolina to California. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,523 - $6,354 | $1,620 - $4,149 | $1,705 - $3,536 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,553 - $8,589 | $2,992 - $6,161 | $1,903 - $4,170 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,987 - $14,124 | $3,799 - $7,964 | $2,498 - $4,672 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,504 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to California
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to California typically costs between $1,523 and $6,354. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,553 and $8,589 when moving from SC to CA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Carolina to California, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,987 up to $14,124.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to California
Moving from South Carolina to California? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,620 and $4,149. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,992 to $6,161. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,799 up to $7,964. 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 South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to California
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,705 and $3,536 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,903 to $4,170. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home or making a long-distance move from South Carolina to California, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,498 to $4,672.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to CA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from South Carolina to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in South Carolina.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from SC to CA
When moving from South Carolina to California, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. California
Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in South Carolina and California. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:
| South Carolina | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,065 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $295,769 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 7.46% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 7.0% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 74% more expensive in California than in South Carolina; make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 161% higher in California than in South Carolina.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 44% higher in California than in South Carolina, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- The cost of living is 40% higher in California than in South Carolina. If you're making the move to California with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than South Carolina by about 15%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring processes.
- Sales taxes are 16% higher in California than in South Carolina. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 90% higher in California than in South Carolina. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in California vs. South Carolina
Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a new home, it’s about how your everyday life will actually feel. Factors like climate, safety, local culture, and the community’s size can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a quick comparison of what life is like in California versus South Carolina across key lifestyle categories:
| California | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 48" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 1" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 28.0 |
- If you’re moving from South Carolina to California, you’ll find California has about 626% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
- In the most recent presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while South Carolina went with Republican.
- Summer temperatures usually hit around 87ºF in California and 91ºF in South Carolina. If those numbers are close, you’ll likely have an easy time getting used to the new climate. Just don’t forget to think about humidity, typical weather, and energy costs to get the full picture of summer in your new place.
- Winter temperatures in California hover around 59ºF, while South Carolina can dip to a chilly 33ºF. By making the move to California, you’ll enjoy gentler winters, making life a bit easier and often more affordable. Plus, with less snow and cold, you’ll have more chances to get outdoors. If you’re ready to swap snow shovels for sunnier days, this is the perfect change for you.
- In California, you’ll see about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- Every year, California gets around 7 inches of snow, much more than the 1 inch that South Carolina typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter and need plenty of warm gear.
- Both California and South Carolina share a crime rate of 28.0. However, crime levels can vary widely between different cities and neighborhoods, so it’s a good idea to look up local crime stats for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. California
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in California and South Carolina.
| Pros of living in South Carolina | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Warm southern hospitality | Ample economic opportunity |
| Plentiful outdoor activities | Pleasant weather |
| Beautiful landscapes | Abundant recreational options |
| Consistently gorgeous weather | High quality of life |
| Rich historical significance | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. California
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving South Carolina for California.
| Cons of living in South Carolina | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | High cost of living |
| Hurricane frequency | Heavy tax burdens |
| Low quality of healthcare | Natural disasters |
| High taxes | Terrible traffic |
| Abundance of construction | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to California move
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
- HOA rules: Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Easily verify a California moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports Teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
