Local moving companies in Charleston

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Inexperienced movers
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking. On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/FlexStorageInc/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Flex Moving & Storage receives glowing feedback for its polite, professional staff and efficient service, setting it apart from other companies. Most clients appreciate quick moves, careful handling, and approachable crews who communicate well and make the process easy. The company stands out for reliability and friendly support—qualities not always found in movers. Feedback highlights that belongings usually arrive undamaged, staff are punctual, and rates are affordable compared to competitors. Some customers even call out specific team members for exceptional integrity and helpfulness. On the downside, a small group of clients point out serious problems including damaged items, hidden or unexpected charges, and difficulty reaching support for resolutions. There are concerns about claims for property damage being handled poorly, and in rare cases, clients report belongings being lost or disposed of without proper notice. Despite these significant complaints, with 89% of the feedback being positive, Flex Moving & Storage maintains a strong reputation, outperforming many companies in customer service and care.
Get a Quote (786) 738-9516

Company Info

Years in Business: 2

DOT #: 3610638


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/smoothmovecharleston/, https://twitter.com/gosmoothmove?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unprofessional behavior
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving with Smooth Move Charleston means you'll likely be impressed. Out of 270 customer inputs, 94% praised the company for efficient service, professional staff, careful handling of possessions, clear communication, and a smooth moving process. Multiple people noted easy scheduling, as well as fast, cautious crews that often finished under budget and with no surprises. Customers described their moves as stress-free with property and valuables respected throughout. Hardworking, fast-moving teams and personable attitudes have made these movers stand out when compared to others in the industry. Negative input made up just 5%, with issues concentrated around property damage, unprofessional conduct, or communication gaps. These incidents involved broken or lost items and inconsistent follow-up, which customers found frustrating. Overall, most people felt their belongings were handled safely and the staff was knowledgeable and courteous. Few companies in Charleston earn the consistent, high marks for reliability and skill Smooth Move Charleston receives from its customers.
Get a Quote (843) 860-9717

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
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySonsCharleston/, https://twitter.com/AllMySonsMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Strong word of mouth powers All My Sons Moving & Storage, with 62% of customer input praising the team's efficiency, careful handling, professional attitude, and quick pace. Clients frequently mention courteous crews and movers who ensure belongings arrive undamaged—qualities that set them apart from many competitors. On the downside, 38% warn of damages to items, extra or unexpected charges, and poor communication, including unresolved complaints and higher-than-quoted bills. Two reviews report slow or inconsistent follow-up on damages and pricing disputes—much more critical than what customers typically see from rivals. The broad review base of 346 entries gives a clear picture: All My Sons is recognized for reliable, fast work, but also criticized for lapses in property care and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (843) 202-4860

Company Info

State license #: 9792-B

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ReadsMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Highly recommended
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
Customers spotlight professional and friendly crews, careful handling of belongings, efficient and organized moves, reliable communication, and consistent high recommendations for Reads Moving Systems of Carolina. Over half (51.9%) of the 129 reviews are positive, highlighting respectful treatment and punctual service. Feedback frequently mentions staff professionalism, strong communication, and movers who go out of their way to ensure a seamless experience. On the other hand, a significant portion (44.2%) of reviews point out issues, especially property damage, poor communication, and discourteous behavior. Item breakage and missing goods appear in numerous complaints. Compared to some moving companies, Reads stands out for responsiveness and care when things go smoothly, but negative input often focuses on resolving claims and recognizing problems. Customers seeking careful movers and courteous staff report excellent results, but those valuing faultless communication and damage-free moves should carefully weigh recent feedback.
Get a Quote (843) 285-7374

Company Info

State license #: 149-D

Years in Business: 47

DOT #: 2021301


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

Factors influencing moving costs from Charleston to Maryland

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The number of belongings you’re moving will directly affect your overall moving costs, along with your home’s size and layout.
  • Time of year: Moving prices usually go up in the summer, which is peak moving season in Charleston.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Choosing to move yourself is typically less expensive, but it also means more effort and hassle than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Charleston, SC, to Maryland

Leaving Charleston for Maryland means embracing a new lifestyle—and likely saving some cash. Living in Charleston typically comes with a higher price tag, so your move could open the door to more affordable living.

Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Charleston and Maryland stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.

Compare cost of living: Charleston vs. Maryland

Charleston, SC Maryland
Average rent cost $2,500 $1,598
Average home cost $559,231 $418,438
Average income (per capita) $62,294 $98,461
Unemployment rate 4.0% 3.0%
State income tax 7.0% 5.75%
  • Rent is about 36% less expensive in Maryland than in Charleston, so you’ll have more cash on hand each month.
  • If you’re buying a home, your dollar will stretch further in Maryland. In fact, home prices in Charleston are 25.2% higher than what you’ll find in Maryland.
  • The average income is about 58.1% higher in Maryland than in Charleston.
  • Maryland has a lower unemployment rate than Charleston by about 25.0%.
  • Income taxes are 17.86% lower in Maryland than in Charleston, so your bring home pay should increase.

How life is different in Charleston, SC, from Maryland

If you’re moving from Charleston to Maryland, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in Maryland is like compared to the Holy City.

Charleston, SC Maryland
Population 6,180,253 150,277
Political leaning Democratic 56-43 Democratic 63-34.4
Summer high 87ºF 89ºF
Winter low 25ºF 39ºF
Annual rain 44" 48"
Annual snow 19" 0"
Crime index 20.34 44.97
  • In the last presidential election, Maryland voted Democratic and Charleston voted Democratic.
  • Luckily, you won’t have to buy a new summer wardrobe since the average summertime high in Maryland is 87º F, which is right on par with the average of 89º F in Charleston.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Maryland reaches the temperature of 25º F while Charleston only gets down to 39º F, so you may need to buy a new winter coat for your move to the Old Line State.
  • No big surprises here. When you move from Charleston to Maryland, you can expect about the same annual rainfall with 44 inches in Maryland, and 48 inches in Charleston.
  • In Maryland, it snows about 19 inches annually, compared to the 0 inches of snow in Charleston. Make sure you like the cold and enjoy snowy weather before making the move.

Other considerations when moving to Maryland from Charleston

When you’re moving from Charleston to Maryland, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.

  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Maryland moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Maryland, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. You’ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Maryland seamlessly. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.

Things to do in Maryland

Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, Maryland has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.

Museums in Marylandtoggle

  • U.S. Naval Academy
  • The Walters Art Museum
  • American Visionary Art Museum
  • Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
  • Baltimore Museum of Art
  • B&O Railroad Museum
  • Glenstone Museum
  • Bruce Snake Gabrielson's Surf Art Gallery and Museum
  • The Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum
  • Baltimore Museum of Industry

Parks in Marylandtoggle

  • Northside Park
  • Rock Creek Regional Park
  • Wheaton Regional Park
  • Centennial Park
  • Hagerstown City Park
  • C&O Canal Historical Park
  • Carroll Creek Linear Park
  • Allen Pond Park
  • Catoctin Mountain Park
  • Lake Elkhorn Park

Sports Teams in Marylandtoggle

  • Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
  • Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
  • Washington Commanders (NFL)
  • Maryland Terrapins (NCAA)
  • Potomac River Exiles Men's Rugby Club (MAC)

Universities in Marylandtoggle

  • Johns Hopkins University
  • University of Maryland
  • University of Maryland, Baltimore County
  • University of Maryland, Baltimore
  • Towson University
  • University of Baltimore
  • United States Naval Academy
  • Loyola University Maryland
  • Morgan State University
  • Frostburg State University

FAQs

How long does a move from Charleston to Maryland take?

Wondering how long your move from Charleston, SC to Maryland will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes one to six days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.

If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.

What is the best way to get a car from Charleston to Maryland?

Need to ship your car from Charleston to Maryland? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Charleston to Maryland.

Why are people moving from Charleston to Maryland?

Many people are moving to Maryland because of its delicious food and ample economic opportunity.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Charleston?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Charleston .

Helpful moving resources