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Local moving companies in South Carolina
Moving from South Carolina to Oakland, CA calls for the support of experienced and reliable movers who can handle relocations with ease. To help make your move smooth and stress-free, we’ve compiled a list of the best local moving companies equipped to handle your journey from the Palmetto State to the heart of the Town.
Out of 27 South Carolina movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Oakland, CA.
- HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.72 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 #: 9684-B
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Reliable Service Group Inc
Two 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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9715-G
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage of Greenville, LLC
All My Sons Moving & Storage, serving Greenville, SC since 2000, specializes in local residential moving services and boasts a solid reputation for reliability and professionalism. Unlike some competitors, they provide comprehensive options including packing, unpacking, and crating services, making them a versatile choice for various moving needs. Their consumer reviews reflect a mixed reputation: a strong 4.4 average rating on Google with 1456 reviews contrasts with a lower 1.2 average rating on Yelp from 163 reviews, but their A rating from the BBB suggests a commitment to quality customer service. While they do require a deposit, they accept credit cards, adding convenience for their clients.
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
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 #: 9784-A
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 2557751
Ballantyne & 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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from South Carolina to Oakland, 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 | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| All My Sons Moving & Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Smooth Move Charleston | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Ballantyne & Beyond Moving | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,887 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 Oakland, CA
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Oakland, CA has in store compared to South Carolina. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs Oakland, CA
| South Carolina | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,065 | $2,200 |
| Average home value | $295,769 | $736,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $94,389 |
| Unemployment rate | 5% | 5% |
| State income tax | 7% | 13% |
Oakland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Oakland is about 107% 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 Oakland to be about 149% 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 Oakland are typically 48% higher than in South Carolina. That extra income can make it easier to manage your living costs or boost your savings.
- Moving to Oakland means you’ll benefit from an unemployment rate that’s roughly 4% lower than South Carolina. That could translate to better job prospects and more career opportunities for you.
- Income taxes in Oakland 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 Oakland from South Carolina
| Oakland | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 440,646 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 72ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 44ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 24" | 48" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 1" |
| Crime index | 68.62 | 28.0 |
Oakland sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Oakland voted Democratic and South Carolina voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in Oakland peaks at about 72ºF while South Carolina, gets up to 91ºF. Swapping scorching summers for a cooler climate means you can escape the heat, cut down on energy bills, and enjoy more time outside.
- During the coldest part of the year, Oakland reaches a temperature of 44ºF while South Carolina gets down to 33ºF. Relocating to Oakland means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
- You can expect only about 24 inches of annual rainfall in Oakland vs the48 inches of rainfall in South Carolina that you’re used to. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- In Oakland, it snows about 0 inches annually, which is very similar to the 1 inch of snow in South Carolina that you’re used to. Because snow conditions are consistent, you can expect a smooth move without any unexpected issues.
- Oakland has a higher crime rate than South Carolina with a crime index of 68.62 vs 28.0. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in Oakland
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Oakland truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Oakland
Parks in Oakland
Sports Teams in Oakland
Universities in Oakland
Other considerations when moving to Oakland, CA
- Weather: Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.
- 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 Oakland take?
How long it takes to move from South Carolina to Oakland, CA depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re heading to Oakland from northern South Carolina, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Getting your stuff from South Carolina to Oakland can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from South Carolina to Oakland?
If you’re gearing up for a 2665-mile move from South Carolina to Oakland, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Oakland, CA?
Summer temperatures in Oakland can soar to 72°F, while winters can get as chilly as 44°F. That’s why most people making the move from South Carolina to Oakland prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
