Local moving companies in South Carolina
When relocating from South Carolina to Stockton, CA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 40 South Carolina movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Stockton, CA.
- HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Carey Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 79
DOT #: 271654
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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
Company Info
State license #: 9664-B
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Upward Endeavors, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9784-A
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 2557751
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
Company Info
State license #: 2973
Years in Business: 117
DOT #: 076235
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from South Carolina to Stockton, CA
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Carolina to Stockton, CA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,158 – $4,881 | $1,339 – $3,366 | $1,344 – $2,685 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,530 – $7,396 | $2,260 – $4,760 | $1,456 – $3,295 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,770 – $10,363 | $3,308 – $6,414 | $1,936 – $3,803 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,634-mile move from South Carolina to Stockton, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 17, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from South Carolina to Stockton, CA
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Stockton, CA, you can expect to spend between $1,158 and $4,881. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,530 to $7,396 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $6,770 and $10,363.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Stockton, CA
When moving from South Carolina to Stockton, CA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,339 and $3,366. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,260 to $4,760. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,308 up to $6,414. 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 Stockton, CA
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. 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 from South Carolina to Stockton, CA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,344 and $2,685. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,456 and $3,295. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,936 and $3,803.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from South Carolina to Stockton, CA
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 | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Smooth Move Charleston | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Ballantyne & Beyond Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Carey Moving & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,180 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% | 96% |
| Antiques | 34% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from South Carolina to Stockton, CA
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Stockton, 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. Stockton, CA
| South Carolina | Stockton | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,065 | $1,775 |
| Average home cost | $295,769 | $437,561 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $63,915 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96 | 125 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 10.3% |
| State Income Tax | 7.0% | 13.3% |
Stockton sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Stockton is roughly 67% higher than in South Carolina. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- Home prices in Stockton are approximately 48% higher than in South Carolina. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- Since income levels in Stockton are similar to those in South Carolina, your bank account won’t take much of a hit when you move.
- With unemployment 119% higher in Stockton than South Carolina, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- Expect income taxes in California to run about 90% higher than in South Carolina, which could cut into your paycheck.
How life is different in Stockton from South Carolina
| Stockton | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 320,804 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 93ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 38ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 17″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 75.2 | 28.0 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Stockton voted Democratic, while South Carolina was Republican.
- Summer in Stockton usually hits around 93ºF, pretty similar to the 91ºF you’re used to in South Carolina. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
- During the coldest part of the year, Stockton gets down to 38ºF while South Carolina is similar at 33ºF. When winter temperatures are about the same, you can expect an easier seasonal transition with predictable expenses and a routine that feels familiar.
- In Stockton, you’ll see just 17 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.
- Stockton doesn’t get snow, while South Carolina sees around 1 inch annually. Relocating to Stockton means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Stockton has a higher crime rate than South Carolina with a crime index of 75.2 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 Stockton
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Stockton has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in Stockton
- The Haggin Museum
- Children’s Museum of Stockton
Parks in Stockton
- University Park World Peace Rose Garden
Sports teams in Stockton
- Stockton Heat (AHL)
- Stockton Kings (NBA G League)
- Stockton Ports (Low-A West)
Universities in Stockton
- University of the Pacific
- California State University, Stanislaus
- Humphreys University
- Kaplan College of Stockton
- Christian Life College
Other considerations when moving to Stockton, CA
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license directly 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: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to California without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: 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 Stockton take?
The time frame for a move from South Carolina to Stockton, CA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in South Carolina, the longer it’ll take to reach Stockton. 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.
Delivery from South Carolina to Stockton can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from South Carolina to Stockton?
If you’re gearing up for a 2,634-mile move from South Carolina to Stockton, 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 Stockton, CA?
Summer in Stockton can reach highs of 93°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 38°F. That’s why most people moving from South Carolina to Stockton opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
South Carolina moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
- South Carolina to California car shippers
- South Carolina to California
- South Carolina to Florida
- South Carolina to Georgia
- South Carolina to Illinois
- South Carolina to Michigan
- South Carolina to New York
- South Carolina to North Carolina
- South Carolina to Ohio
- South Carolina to Pennsylvania
- South Carolina to Texas
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!