($1,304) Cost of Moving From South Carolina to Illinois
Quick answer: Moving from South Carolina to Illinois usually costs between $731 and $7,079, with most moves taking about two–seven days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Illinois to South Carolina guide.
Our track record
The best South Carolina to Illinois full-service movers
Thinking about moving from South Carolina to Illinois? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.
Kick off your move from South Carolina to Illinois with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in South Carolina.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in South Carolina
With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in South Carolina. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Charleston: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Carey Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
HD Auston Moving Systems

DOT #: 271654
Years in Business: 79
200 Pate Drive, Greenville, SC 29609 USHD 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 271654
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 27
854 Kingswood Drive, Conway, SC 29526 USTwo 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
- State license #: 9684-B
Alternative Business Names
- Reliable Service Group Inc
Ballantyne & Beyond Moving

DOT #: 2557751
Years in Business: 16
1228 Transformation Ln, Fort Mill, SC 29707Ballantyne & 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2557751
- State license #: 9784-A
Smooth Move Charleston

DOT #: 2357653
Years in Business: 12
4767 Rivers Avenue, Charleston, SC 29405 USSmooth 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2357653
- State license #: 9823
Alternative Business Names
- Go Smooth Move, LLC
Carey Moving & Storage

DOT #: 076235
Years in Business: 117
1 Shelter Drive, Greer, SC 29650 USCarey Moving & Storage has been serving Greer, SC, and its surrounding areas since 1908, offering reliable local residential moving services. Unlike some nearby movers, Carey also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services. Despite mixed reviews—with a low average rating on Yelp and a solid 4.1 rating on Google—the company maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, signaling overall customer satisfaction. Additionally, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a flexible and trusted choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 076235
- State license #: 2973
The best South Carolina to Illinois moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in South Carolina and delivering it to your new place in Illinois.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best South Carolina to Illinois moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from South Carolina to Illinois, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best South Carolina to Illinois labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from South Carolina to Illinois.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to IL move
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to Illinois?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from South Carolina to Illinois, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,304 - $4,710 | $934 - $2,409 | $727 - $1,344 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,773 - $7,079 | $1,645 - $3,348 | $731 - $1,644 |
4+ bedrooms | $4,651 - $9,594 | $2,326 - $4,419 | $953 - $1,976 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 831 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to Illinois
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from South Carolina to Illinois, you can expect prices to land between $1,304 and $4,710. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,773 to $7,079 for the trip from SC to IL. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,651 and $9,594.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Illinois
If you’re relocating from South Carolina to Illinois, you’ll typically spend between $934 and $2,409 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,645 up to $3,348. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,326 and $4,419. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Illinois
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $727 and $1,344. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $731 and $1,644. Planning a move from South Carolina to Illinois or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $953 up to $1,976 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to IL
There are many factors that influence South Carolina moving costs. The cost to move from South Carolina to Illinois will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in South Carolina is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from SC to IL
If you’re moving to Illinois from South Carolina, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Illinois
Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in South Carolina and Illinois. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:
South Carolina | Illinois | |
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Average rent cost | $1,065 | $1,179 |
Average home cost | $295,769 | $249,224 |
Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $78,433 |
Cost of Living Index | 96 | 90 |
Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.3% |
Average Sales Tax | 7.46% | 8.82% |
State Income Tax | 7.0% | 4.95% |
- Rent costs 11% more in Illinois compared to South Carolina. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
- Home prices in Illinois are about 16% lower than in South Carolina, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 23% higher in Illinois compared to South Carolina. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
- Living in Illinois costs about 6% less than in South Carolina. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
- Illinois’s unemployment rate is about 13% higher than South Carolina’s. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
- Sales taxes are 18% higher in Illinois compared to South Carolina. You'll probably spend more on everyday taxable items such as clothing, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- Income taxes are 29% lower in Illinois compared to South Carolina. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Illinois vs. South Carolina
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Illinois stacks up against South Carolina across important lifestyle factors:
Illinois | South Carolina | |
---|---|---|
Population | 12,549,689 | 5,373,555 |
Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | Republican 58-42 |
Summer high | 86ºF | 91ºF |
Winter low | 17ºF | 33ºF |
Annual rain | 40" | 48" |
Annual snow | 22" | 1" |
Crime index | 19.7 | 28.0 |
- The population of Illinois is approximately 134% greater than the population of South Carolina. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
- In the last presidential election, Illinois voted Democratic and South Carolina voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in Illinois is 86ºF and in South Carolina, it’s 91ºF. Moving to a cooler summer climate can bring relief from extreme heat, lower energy bills, and make it more comfortable outdoors, an appealing choice for those who value comfort and outdoor accessibility.
- During the coldest part of the year, Illinois reaches about 17ºF and South Carolina only gets down to 33ºF. Moving to Illinois with its colder winters means you need to prepare for higher heating costs, possible lifestyle shifts, and more intense weather, but it can also offer unique seasonal experiences and beauty.
- You can expect only about 40 inches of annual rainfall in Illinois versus 48 inches of rainfall in South Carolina. Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
- In Illinois, it snows about 22 inches annually while South Carolina gets only about 1 inch of snow. With the additional snowm you'll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
- Illinois has a lower crime rate than South Carolina with a crime index of 19.7 vs. 28.0. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it's not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. Illinois
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Illinois to South Carolina.
Pros of living in South Carolina | Pros of living in Illinois |
---|---|
Warm southern hospitality | Home of Chicago |
Plentiful outdoor activities | Ample economic opportunity |
Beautiful landscapes | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Consistently gorgeous weather | Delicious food |
Rich historical significance | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. Illinois
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving South Carolina for Illinois.
Cons of living in South Carolina | Cons of living in Illinois |
---|---|
High cost of living | Harsh winter weather |
Hurricane frequency | Bad traffic |
Low quality of healthcare | High crime rate |
High taxes | Dull landscape |
Abundance of construction | Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Illinois move
- Weather: Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley"
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
- State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Illinois moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Illinois, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Illinois without a hitch. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called "released value protection," free of charge. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Illinois
Get excited to explore Illinois. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee river State Park
Sports Teams in Illinois
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northern Illinois University