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($1,155) Cost to Move From Charleston, SC to San Jose, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,735 miles from Charleston to San Jose, expect to pay between $1,542 and $6,988. The journey should take about seven–21 days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Charleston to San Jose

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charleston to San Jose

For a stress-free interstate move from Charleston to San Jose, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 6 interstate moving companies in Charleston, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to San Jose.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Charleston to San Jose

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,735-mile move from Charleston to San Jose using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,338 – $5,740
  • Moving Container $1,810 – $3,700
  • Rental Truck $1,559 – $2,759
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,436 – $6,988
  • Moving Container $2,322 – $5,050
  • Rental Truck $1,542 – $3,596
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,871 – $11,053
  • Moving Container $3,337 – $6,884
  • Rental Truck $2,093 – $4,329
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
North Charleston, SC Capitola, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
Roadway Moving
Ravenel, SC Portola Valley, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hanahan, SC Colma, CA
Studio apartment
Oct 05, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Sullivan’s Island, SC North Gate, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 14, 2025
Mayflower Transit
McClellanville, SC Castle Hill, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 10, 2025
United Van Lines
Lincolnville, SC San Carlos, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
BLVD Moving
Rockville, SC Alameda, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
PODS
Folly Beach, SC Los Gatos, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Ridgeville, SC Aptos Hills-Larkin Valley, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Kiawah Island, SC Tracy, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Jose, CA to Charleston, SC guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Charleston to San Jose moves

When planning a move from Charleston to San Jose, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 10 local movers in Charleston who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Charleston to San Jose.

  1. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  4. Cougar Moving: 4.12 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.16 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
61.8% of all reviews were positive
37.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Strong word of mouth powers All My Sons Moving & Storage, with 62% of customer input praising the team’s efficiency, careful handling, professional attitude, and quick pace. Clients frequently mention courteous crews and movers who ensure belongings arrive undamaged—qualities that set them apart from many competitors. On the downside, 38% warn of damages to items, extra or unexpected charges, and poor communication, including unresolved complaints and higher-than-quoted bills. Two reviews report slow or inconsistent follow-up on damages and pricing disputes—much more critical than what customers typically see from rivals. The broad review base of 346 entries gives a clear picture: All My Sons is recognized for reliable, fast work, but also criticized for lapses in property care and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (843) 202-4860

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.4% of all reviews were positive
5.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Smooth Move Charleston means you’ll likely be impressed. Out of 270 customer inputs, 94% praised the company for efficient service, professional staff, careful handling of possessions, clear communication, and a smooth moving process. Multiple people noted easy scheduling, as well as fast, cautious crews that often finished under budget and with no surprises. Customers described their moves as stress-free with property and valuables respected throughout. Hardworking, fast-moving teams and personable attitudes have made these movers stand out when compared to others in the industry. Negative input made up just 5%, with issues concentrated around property damage, unprofessional conduct, or communication gaps. These incidents involved broken or lost items and inconsistent follow-up, which customers found frustrating. Overall, most people felt their belongings were handled safely and the staff was knowledgeable and courteous. Few companies in Charleston earn the consistent, high marks for reliability and skill Smooth Move Charleston receives from its customers.
Get a Quote (843) 860-9717

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.6% of all reviews were positive
10.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Low Country Moving, LLC receives high praise from most customers, with 233 out of 260 feedback entries (nearly 90%) recommending their services. Clients consistently report efficient and quick service, professional and courteous staff, careful handling of items, and solid communication. Many say booking is easy and pricing is straightforward, noting experiences that are smoother than with larger national firms. On the downside, some report instances of damaged items, especially when furniture is not packed as securely as expected. There are also complaints about poor packing quality and communication breakdowns when resolving claims. Compared to other movers, this company stands out for its speed, reliability, and professional attitude, though attention to packing details is vital for higher-value items. Persistent issues around item care and follow-up detract from an otherwise stellar reputation.
Get a Quote (843) 737-1279

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2362770

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
8.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe Cougar Moving as a moving company that consistently delivers fast, careful, and affordable service, with nearly nine out of ten reviewers sharing very favorable feedback out of 132 responses analyzed. Clients frequently highlight the team’s efficiency, professionalism, and skill in handling belongings safely, appreciating the affordable rates and responsiveness through the booking process. Many reviewers note punctuality and a friendly, positive attitude among staff, promptly addressing client needs throughout the move. Although most feedback speaks highly of careful handling, some clients experienced damaged items or property, with dissatisfaction directed at slow complaint resolution and, in isolated cases, perceived unprofessional behavior. Communication breakdowns and lack of follow-through on repairs emerged in the few negative comments. Cougar Moving earns stronger praise for reliable, value-driven local moves compared to typical competitors, though future clients should still inquire about damage protection and response times for claims. Nearly 90% of customer input recommends Cougar Moving for those seeking an attentive, efficient moving service at a competitive price point.
Get a Quote (843) 608-1835

Company Info

Pricing: $124/hr

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2868021

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
46.1% of all reviews were positive
52.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day stories pour in for College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, with 323 customer inputs analyzed here. About 46% of feedback is positive, praising efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, fast-moving teams, and clear communication. Many customers describe prompt service, courteous crews, and movers who treat belongings with respect and operate swiftly. On the other hand, 52% of reviews report damaged items, poor communication, or delays. Recurring complaints detail furniture and walls scratched or broken, no response to damage claims, and movers arriving hours late with little notice. Some experience unreliability in scheduling and disappointed follow-up. Compared to other movers, College Hunks’ strong points include efficiency and friendly staff, but incidents of property damage and lack of accountability appear more common here than average. Shoppers seeking careful, timely service should confirm details in advance, as outcomes can differ widely.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

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 San Jose?

Movers in South Carolina charge $137 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 $1,155 – $5,015 $1,418 – $3,363 $1,514 – $2,759
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,436 – $6,988 $2,322 – $5,050 $1,542 – $3,596
4+ bedrooms $6,871 – $11,053 $3,337 – $6,884 $2,093 – $4,329
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,735-mile relocation from Charleston to San Jose, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to San Jose

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Charleston to San Jose, you can expect to spend between $1,155 and $5,015. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,436 to $6,988 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Charleston to San Jose typically runs between $6,871 and $11,053.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to San Jose

When moving from Charleston to San Jose, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,418 and $3,363. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,322 to $5,050. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,337 up to $6,884. 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 Charleston to San Jose

Renting a moving truck in Charleston is usually your cheapest option to get to San Jose. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,514 and $2,759. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,542 and $3,596. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,093 and $4,329.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Charleston to San Jose

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,527, but larger homes can run up to $9,913.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Charleston.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,514–$3,795) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Charleston to San Jose

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Jose runs about -31% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than Charleston.

Singles spend around $3,674 in Charleston versus $5,300 in Charleston; families pay $8,354 compared with $7,890.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charleston San Jose
Average 1 BR rent $2,529 $3,027
Average 3 BR rent $4,487 $5,240
Average home value $559,231 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $62,294 $83,421
Cost of living (single) $5,300 $3,674
Cost of living (family of four) $7,890 $8,354
Unemployment rate 4.0% 6.6%
Sales tax 9.0% 9.38%
State income tax 7.0% 13.3%
  • As you consider relocating to San Jose, note that rent can be roughly 24% more expensive than it is in Charleston; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 160% higher in San Jose than in Charleston.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 34% higher in San Jose compared to Charleston, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in San Jose, where the cost of living for a single person is 31% less than in Charleston.
  • If your journey leads to San Jose, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 6% more than it is in Charleston.
  • The unemployment rate in San Jose is 65% higher compared to Charleston, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are similar in San Jose and Charleston (within about 5%), meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
  • Income taxes are 90% higher in California compared to South Carolina. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Charleston with San Jose:

Living Expense Charleston San Jose
Basic utilities $156.99 $293.08
Cell phone plan $54.78 $48.44
Dozen eggs $4.55 $4.80
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.93
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $20.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $100.00
Gym membership $29.17 $123.75
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in San Jose, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in San Jose.

How life is different in Charleston vs. San Jose

Charleston San Jose
Population 150,277 971,233
Transportation score 3 7
Walkability score 40 51
Bike friendliness score 50 62
Crime index 44.97 47.73
Safety index 55.03 52.27
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Jose’s population is about 546% greater than Charleston.
  • San Jose’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 3.
  • San Jose is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 40 out of 100.
  • With a score of 62 out of 100, San Jose is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 50 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • San Jose’s crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 47.73 compared to Charleston’s 44.97. This means that San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
  • San Jose and Charleston have a similar safety level, with scores of 52.27 and 55.03.
  • Air quality in San Jose is Moderate, and in Charleston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston to San Jose move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches San Jose smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in San Jose

Now that you’ve chosen Man Jose as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in San Jose to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what San Jose is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, San Jose offers cultural landmarks like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children’s Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, and San Jose Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an San Jose Barracuda (AHL)San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)San Jose Giants (California League)San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to San Jose?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Charleston to San Jose are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Charleston are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to San Jose?

Because spring and fall moves from Charleston to San Jose are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Charleston to San Jose take?

A move of 2,735 miles from Charleston, SC to San Jose, generally takes seven to 21 days. Movers in Charleston sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in San Jose is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Charleston offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 6 movers in Charleston have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 4 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across SC, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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