Local moving companies in South Carolina
When you’re moving from South Carolina to Rochester, NY, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Palmetto State to the vibrant The Flour City.
Out of 40 South Carolina movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Rochester, NY.
- Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 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
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 9784-A
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 2557751
Ballantyne & 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.
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 #: 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
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 #: 9860
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: Truemove LLC
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving specializes in local residential moves in and around Piedmont, SC, with additional office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. Unlike some nearby movers, they accept credit cards and require no deposit. Though their Yelp reviews average at 2.5 stars from 16 reviews, their Google My Business profile shines with a stellar 4.9-star rating from 758 reviews, indicating a strong reputation among a broader customer base.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 9756
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1442337
Gentlemen Movers Inc., based in Columbia, SC, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2004. They stand out in the area by also offering packing and unpacking services, and they accept credit cards with no deposit required. While their Yelp profile shows mixed reviews with an average rating of 2.0 from 21 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts a higher average rating of 4.0 from 110 reviews, complemented by an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A+. Compared to other local movers, Gentlemen Movers Inc. provides a versatile set of services and has a strong track record of customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Grandfather clocks
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from South Carolina to Rochester, NY
This table details typical cost ranges to move from South Carolina to Rochester, NY, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,118 – $4,076 | $769 – $1,792 | $580 – $1,094 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,213 – $5,381 | $1,368 – $2,863 | $608 – $1,274 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,526 – $6,994 | $1,912 – $3,491 | $799 – $1,531 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 834-mile move from South Carolina to Rochester, NY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from South Carolina to Rochester, NY
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Rochester, NY, typically costs between $1,118 and $4,076. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,213 and $5,381. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Carolina to Rochester, NY, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,526 up to $6,994.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Rochester, NY
When relocating from South Carolina to Rochester, NY, you’ll typically spend between $769 and $1,792 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,368 up to $2,863. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,912 and $3,491. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Rochester, NY
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 from South Carolina to Rochester, NY, expect to pay between $580 and $1,094. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $608 to $1,274. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $799 and $1,531.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from South Carolina to Rochester, NY
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ballantyne & Beyond Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Smooth Move Charleston | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Gentlemen Movers Inc. | ✓ | × | × | × |
After evaluating 3,175 movers, here’s how South Carolina movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| South Carolina | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 34% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from South Carolina to Rochester, NY
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Rochester, NY differs from what you’re used to in South Carolina. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Rochester, NY
| South Carolina | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,065 | $1,250 |
| Average home cost | $295,769 | $200,576 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,623 | $64,214 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 9.8% |
| State Income Tax | 7.0% | 10.9% |
Rochester sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Rochester is approximately 17% higher than in South Carolina. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Buying a home in Rochester could be more affordable, with prices averaging 32% less than in South Carolina.
- Because income levels in Rochester are comparable to those in South Carolina, you can expect a similar financial situation in your new hometown.
- Even though unemployment in Rochester is 109% higher than in South Carolina, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
- Income taxes are 56% higher in New York than in South Carolina. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Rochester from South Carolina
| Rochester | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 211,328 | 5,373,555 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-38 | Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 33″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 77″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 37.54 | 28.0 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Rochester leaned Democratic, while South Carolina went Republican.
- In summer, highs in Rochester average 82ºF, compared to 91ºF in South Carolina. Making the move to a cooler place lets you beat the heat, save on energy bills, and spend more time outdoors.
- Winter in Rochester brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 17ºF. That’s noticeably chillier than the 33ºF winters back in South Carolina. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Rochester treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
- You can expect only about 33 inches of annual rainfall in Rochester vs the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- Each year, Rochester gets about 77 inches of snow, while South Carolina sees only 1 inch. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
- Crime rates in Rochester are higher than in South Carolina, with a crime index of 37.54 versus 28.0. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Rochester
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Rochester.
Museums in Rochester
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- George Eastman Museum
- National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
- ARTISANworks
- Rochester Museum & Science Center
Parks in Rochester
- Seabreeze Amusement Park
- Highland Park
- Erie Canal Trail
- Cobbs Hill Park
- Ontario Beach Park
Sports teams in Rochester
- Rochester Americans (AHL)
- Roberts Wesleyan Redhawks (ECC)
Universities in Rochester
- University of Rochester
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- St. John Fisher College
- Nazareth College of Rochester
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Other considerations when moving to Rochester, NY
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- 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: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a New York moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in New York, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- 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 New York on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from South Carolina to Rochester take?
The time it takes to move from South Carolina to Rochester, NY depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in South Carolina, the longer the drive time to Rochester will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from South Carolina to Rochester can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from South Carolina to Rochester?
If you’re planning a 834-mile move from South Carolina to Rochester, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Rochester, NY?
Summer temperatures in Rochester can soar to 82°F, while winters can get as chilly as 17°F. That’s why most people making the move from South Carolina to Rochester 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.
Helpful moving resources
South Carolina moving services
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