Quick answer: For a 307-mile move from Charleston to Chapel Hill, expect to spend around $437–$5,356 and one to four days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Chapel Hill to Charleston guide.

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

From South Carolina to North Carolina, your interstate move will have a lot of moving parts — starting with which company to hire. Charleston has 4 options for interstate moves, and each one comes with different strengths and specialties. Deciding which is right for you can be a challenge in itself.

After comparing service packages, pricing details, and real feedback from customer reviews, we were able to pinpoint the best long-distance movers in Charleston for every moving option.

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Professional
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charleston to Chapel Hill

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Charleston to Chapel Hill, full-service movers are the answer. They manage every step so you can keep your attention on the big decisions and the excitement of the move.

Here are our picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to take you from Charleston to Chapel Hill without the headaches.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Charleston?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Charleston to all of SC and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Charleston (Count) Charleston (%) South Carolina (Count) South Carolina (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 6 75% 48 96% 2830 98%
Unpacking 6 75% 48 96% 2795 97%
Fragile-only packing 0 0% 7 14% 714 25%
Packing materials 6 75% 45 90% 1681 58%
Storage
Storage 5 63% 41 82% 2498 87%
Climate-controlled storage 2 25% 17 34% 973 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 4 50% 28 56% 1884 65%
Art 2 25% 16 32% 1397 48%
Antiques 3 38% 17 34% 1398 48%
Piano 5 63% 32 64% 2172 75%
Hot tub 0 0% 7 14% 668 23%
Pool table 1 13% 9 18% 941 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to NC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 32 South Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The top local movers servicing Charleston to Chapel Hill moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Charleston that also handles long-distance moves to Chapel Hill. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Charleston who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Charleston to Chapel Hill.

  1. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/smoothmovecharleston/, https://twitter.com/gosmoothmove?lang=en
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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
62% of all reviews were positive
38% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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/LowCountryMoving/,
90% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Low Country Moving, LLC receives high praise from most customers, with 233 out of 260 feedback entries (nearly 90%) recommending their services. Clients consistently report efficient and quick service, professional and courteous staff, careful handling of items, and solid communication. Many say booking is easy and pricing is straightforward, noting experiences that are smoother than with larger national firms.
On the downside, some report instances of damaged items, especially when furniture is not packed as securely as expected. There are also complaints about poor packing quality and communication breakdowns when resolving claims. Compared to other movers, this company stands out for its speed, reliability, and professional attitude, though attention to packing details is vital for higher-value items. Persistent issues around item care and follow-up detract from an otherwise stellar reputation.
Show more
Get a Quote (843) 737-1279

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2362770


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
https://www.facebook.com/ReadsMovers/,
52% of all reviews were positive
44% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62% of all reviews were positive
35% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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

How much does it cost to move from Charleston to Chapel Hill?

Charleston movers charge $134 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,075 - $3,565 $790 - $1,724 $374 - $695
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,920 - $5,356 $1,363 - $2,514 $437 - $814
4+ bedrooms $2,958 - $7,709 $1,820 - $3,188 $545 - $983
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 307 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to North Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to North Carolina will cost between $1,075 and $3,565. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SC to NC will range from $1,920 to $5,356, and a large move from South Carolina to North Carolina will cost from $2,958 to $7,709.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to North Carolina

Moving containers from South Carolina to North Carolina will cost you $790 to $1,724 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,363 to $2,514. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,820 to $3,188. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to North Carolina

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you'll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $374 and $695. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $437 to $814. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $545 and $983.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Charleston to Chapel Hilltoggle

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Charleston to Chapel Hill can be as low as $1,075 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $6,004.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charleston so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $374 to $925. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Chapel Hill

Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Charleston — roughly 58% less for singles and 39% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $5,300 in Charleston. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $7,890.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Charleston Chapel Hill
Average 1 BR rent $2,529 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $4,487 $3,433
Average home value $559,231 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $62,294 $65,621
Unemployment rate 4.0% 3.2%
Sales tax 9.0% 7.5%
State income tax 7.0% 4.5%
  • Rent prices in Chapel Hill are 22% lower than in Charleston, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • The home prices in Chapel Hill are 5.9% higher than in Charleston, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Chapel Hill, where incomes are, on average, 5.3% higher than in Charleston. Major employers in Chapel Hill include University of North Carolina, Performance Bicycle, and Investors Title.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chapel Hill. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 57.6% lower than in Charleston.
  • A move to Chapel Hill can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 39.3% less than what it costs in Charleston.
  • The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is 20.00% lower than in Charleston.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Chapel Hill, since the city's sales taxes in Chapel Hill are 16.67% lower than in Charleston.
  • One perk of moving to Chapel Hill is paying less in state income taxes, which are 35.71% lower than in Charleston.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Charleston versus Chapel Hill.

Charleston Chapel Hill
Basic utilities $156.99 $156.99
Cell phone plan $54.78 $55.25
Dozen eggs $4.55 $4.53
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.04
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $15
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $80
Gym membership $29.17 $42
  • Basic utilities are priced about the same in Charleston and Chapel Hill.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Chapel Hill.
  • Eggs cost more in Charleston than in Chapel Hill.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Chapel Hill.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Charleston than in Chapel Hill.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Chapel Hill.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill Charleston
Population 63,764 150,277
Transportation Score 6 3
Walkability score 34 40
Bike friendliness score 50 50
Crime Index 26.42 44.97
Safety Index 73.58 55.03
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Chapel Hill's population is about 58% less than Charleston.
  • Chapel Hill's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Charleston's lower score of 3.
  • Chapel Hill is less walkable than Charleston with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Charleston's 40 out of 100.
  • Both Chapel Hill and Charleston have the same bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, meaning Chapel Hill is about as safe for cyclists as Charleston. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
  • Chapel Hill's crime rate is lower than Charleston with a score of 26.42 compared to Charleston's 44.97. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
  • Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Charleston with a safety index of 73.58 vs Charleston's 55.03.
  • Air quality in Chapel Hill is moderate, and in Charleston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston vs. Chapel Hill move

  • Weather: May, September and October are the most pleasant months for moving as these are the driest month in Chapel Hill in a yearl, while January and July are the months you need to watch out as there might be some weather-related delays.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in North Carolina, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While North Carolina doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Chapel Hill without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Now that you've chosen Southern Part of Heaven as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Chapel Hill to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • The Oaks
  • Winmore
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Southern Village
  • Westfall

Things to do in Chapel Hill

After settling into your new North Carolina home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chapel Hill has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Chapel Hill is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Kidzu Children's Museum, and FRANK Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to Chapel Hill?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Charleston to Chapel Hill. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Charleston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Chapel Hill?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charleston to Chapel Hill moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Charleston to Chapel Hill take?

Covering 307 miles, the move from Charleston, SC to Chapel Hill, NC typically takes one to four days. Some Charleston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chapel Hill can help bridge the gap.

Which movers in Charleston give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Charleston?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 5 movers in Charleston provide piano moving services. 3 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 32 piano movers and 17 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2172 and 1398.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources