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Local moving companies in South Carolina
When relocating from South Carolina to Lancaster, CA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey from the Palmetto State to the lively . We’ve rounded up moving companies that specialize in making your move smooth and simple, so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Out of 27 South Carolina movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Lancaster, CA.
- HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 79
DOT #: 271654
HD 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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9664-B
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Upward Endeavors, LLC
Two Men and a Truck has been a trusted local residential moving company in Greenville, SC since 2003. Offering comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, they also specialize in moving heavy items like pianos and safes. While their Yelp reviews are mixed, with an average rating of 2.8 from 37 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts a much higher average rating of 4.7 from 730 reviews. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, they stand out among local movers for their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9823
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2357653
Alternate Names: Go Smooth Move, LLC
Smooth 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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9792-B
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
All My Sons Moving & Storage has been serving Charleston, SC, with local residential moving services since 2000. While their Yelp profile reflects mixed feedback with an average rating of 1.6 from 99 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts a much more favorable 4.5 average rating from 1,390 reviews, and they hold an A rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, crating, and the ability to move specialty items like pianos, antiques, and safes. They accept credit cards, though a deposit is required. For those seeking a well-established moving company with diverse service offerings, All My Sons Moving & Storage presents a reputable option.
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 #: 9756
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1442337
Gentlemen Movers Inc., based in Columbia, SC, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2004. They stand out in the area by also offering packing and unpacking services, and they accept credit cards with no deposit required. While their Yelp profile shows mixed reviews with an average rating of 2.0 from 21 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts a higher average rating of 4.0 from 110 reviews, complemented by an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A+. Compared to other local movers, Gentlemen Movers Inc. provides a versatile set of services and has a strong track record of customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Grandfather clocks
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from South Carolina to Lancaster, California:
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HD Auston Moving Systems | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Smooth Move Charleston | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| All My Sons Moving & Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Gentlemen Movers Inc. | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,890 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how South Carolina movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| South Carolina | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 97% |
| Antiques | 34% | 48% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from South Carolina to Lancaster, CA
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Lancaster, CA to what you’re used to in South Carolina. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs Lancaster, CA
| South Carolina | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,065 | $2,600 |
| Average home value | $295,769 | $473,053 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $74,723 |
| Unemployment rate | 5% | 16% |
| State income tax | 7% | 13% |
Lancaster sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Lancaster is about 144% higher than in South Carolina. Be sure to factor in the higher move-in costs and monthly rent when budgeting for your move.
- Expect home prices in Lancaster to be about 60% higher than in South Carolina. Plan ahead for a bigger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall costs of owning a home.
- Salaries in Lancaster are typically 17% higher than in South Carolina. That extra income can make it easier to manage your living costs or boost your savings.
- Unemployment in Lancaster is about 232% higher than in South Carolina, but you can still land a great job by being proactive. Get a head start on networking and stay focused on the job hunt.
- Income taxes in Lancaster are 90% higher than in South Carolina, so keep this in mind when you’re budgeting. Your take-home pay might be a bit less.
How life is different in Lancaster from South Carolina
| Lancaster | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 173,516 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 58-38 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 98ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 31ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 8" | 48" |
| Annual snow | 1" | 1" |
| Crime index | 45.5 | 28.0 |
Lancaster sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Lancaster voted Democratic, while South Carolina voted Republican.
- Summer temperatures in Lancaster typically reach 98°F, while in South Carolina, highs average around 91°F. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and a hotter days.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Lancaster drop to 31ºF, compared to 33ºF in South Carolina. Moving to Lancaster means you’ll need to adapt to chillier winters, which might mean higher heating costs and some adjustments to your daily routine. On the bright side, you’ll also get to experience unique winter scenery and plenty of seasonal fun.
- In Lancaster, you’ll see just 8 inches of rain annually, much less than the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina. With fewer rainy days, you’ll have more opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. This sunnier climate can really lift your mood and energy as you settle into your new home.
- In Lancaster, you’ll see about 1 inch of snow each year, almost the same as the 1 inch you’re familiar with in South Carolina. Since both places get similar snowfall, you can look forward to a move without any snow-related surprises.
- Lancaster has a higher crime rate than South Carolina, with a crime index of 45.5 compared to 28.0. 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 Lancaster
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Lancaster can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Lancaster
Parks in Lancaster
Universities in Lancaster
Other considerations when moving to Lancaster, CA
- Weather: If you're looking to move to Lancaster, consider doing this on the months of May, October and April. Summers are hot and nearly rainless while winter could be mildly cold.
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve your building’s elevator in advance and double-check any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
- 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 your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify your California moving license on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but you need to check out local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This way, you can select your moving date and ensure your mail is forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Moving insurance requirements differ from state to state. 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: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from South Carolina to Lancaster take?
How long it takes to move from South Carolina to Lancaster, CA depends on your starting point and the type of move you choose. No matter the method, loading your belongings usually takes a day or less, even if you’re doing it yourself.
The farther north you are in South Carolina, the longer it’ll take to reach Lancaster. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from South Carolina to Lancaster can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from South Carolina to Lancaster?
With a 2368-mile move from South Carolina to Lancaster, it's smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Lancaster, CA?
With summer temperatures reaching 98°F and winter nights dipping to 31°F, most people make the move from South Carolina to Lancaster in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
