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Local moving companies in South Carolina
When you are heading from South Carolina to Oakland, CA, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free. We’ve handpicked the best local moving companies with expertise in moves from the Palmetto State to the Town, so your journey is seamless from start to finish.
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
- Hilldrup: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 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 #: 167-G
Years in Business: 121
DOT #: 22302
Hilldrup, a local moving company based in Duncan, SC, specializes in residential moves within the area and stands out for its comprehensive range of services. Unlike many competitors, Hilldrup offers additional conveniences such as packing, unpacking, crating, and fragile-only packing options. This company is well-regarded, boasting a high average rating of 4.8 from 137 Google reviews, although Yelp reviews show a slightly lower average of 3.7. Customers can also enjoy flexible payment options with no deposit required and shipment tracking to ensure peace of mind. Hilldrup’s solid reputation and extensive services make it a reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- 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
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 | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Hilldrup | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| All My Sons Moving & Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Smooth Move Charleston | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
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, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Oakland, CA is really like compared to South Carolina. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we'll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
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 leaned Democratic, while South Carolina went Republican.
- Summer highs in Oakland average around 72°F, while South Carolina often sees temperatures soar to 91°F. Relocating to a cooler area means escaping the intense heat, cutting down on energy costs, and enjoying more time outside.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Oakland generally drop to around 44ºF, while South Carolina can get as cold as 33ºF. Moving to Oakland means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- In Oakland, you can expect just 24 inches of rain each year—far less than the 48 inches back in South Carolina. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy your new surroundings. This brighter weather is sure to boost your mood and help you feel right at home.
- In Oakland, you can expect around 0 inches of snow each year, about the same as the 1 inch you’ve experienced in South Carolina. With both locations experiencing similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t bring any unexpected snow-related challenges.
- Crime rates in Oakland are higher than in South Carolina, with a crime index of 68.62 versus 28.0. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily 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: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you'll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area'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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify your California moving license status right on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to California on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Insurance requirements differ depending on the 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: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
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.
