Quick answer: A typical 438-mile move from Charleston to Chesapeake runs $455–$5,510 and takes one to four days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

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

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

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

Best movers by type

There are 3 interstate moving companies in Charleston, so figuring out which one is best for your move from Charleston, SC, to Chesapeake, VA, can feel overwhelming. You’ll also need to decide whether to hire professional full-service movers or take a more DIY approach.

Not to worry — we’ve made the process easier for you. We compared each mover by key factors like service options and cost, and analyzed customer feedback in online reviews. Using our research, we have narrowed the list of Charleston companies to only the best long-distance movers in Charleston, no matter what type of move you’re planning.

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Professional
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Rental truck
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Best professional movers from Charleston to Chesapeake

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from Charleston to Chesapeake far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

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 5 83% 43 98% 2523 98%
Unpacking 5 83% 43 98% 2491 97%
Fragile-only packing 0 0% 7 16% 620 24%
Packing materials 5 83% 40 91% 1502 58%
Storage
Storage 4 67% 36 82% 2225 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 17% 13 30% 817 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 3 50% 23 52% 1628 63%
Art 2 33% 15 34% 1256 49%
Antiques 2 33% 12 27% 1176 46%
Piano 4 67% 27 61% 1901 74%
Hot tub 0 0% 6 14% 575 22%
Pool table 1 17% 8 18% 834 32%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 29 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.

Local moving companies servicing Charleston to Chesapeake moves

When planning a move from Charleston to Chesapeake, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Charleston who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Charleston to Chesapeake.

  1. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Bellhop Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.42 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/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
https://www.facebook.com/FlexStorageInc/,
89% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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

How much does it cost to move from Charleston to Chesapeake?

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 $1,083 - $3,266 $704 - $1,743 $405 - $825
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,952 - $5,510 $1,313 - $2,624 $455 - $913
4+ bedrooms $3,501 - $8,045 $1,760 - $3,194 $595 - $1,109
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 438 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 Virginia

Planning a move from South Carolina to Virginia? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,083 and $3,266. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,952 and $5,510 for the same journey (SC to VA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,501 to $8,045.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Virginia

Moving from South Carolina to Virginia? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $704 and $1,743. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,313 to $2,624. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,760 up to $3,194. 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 Virginia

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 $405 and $825. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $455 and $913. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $595 up to $1,109 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Charleston to Chesapeaketoggle

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Charleston to Chesapeake might cost as little as $1,083, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $6,754.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Charleston, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $405 to $1,030 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Chesapeake

Looking to trim monthly costs? Chesapeake usually runs cheaper than Charleston — about 64% for singles and 54% for families.

Singles average $1,882 in Chesapeake vs. $5,300 in Charleston; families see $3,656 vs. $7,890.

The breakdown below shows where those savings appear:

Charleston Chesapeake
Average 1 BR rent $2,529 $1,775
Average 3 BR rent $4,487 $2,250
Average home value $559,231 $375,209
Average income (per capita) $62,294 $63,484
Unemployment rate 4.0% 5.0%
Sales tax 9.0% 6.0%
State income tax 7.0% 5.75%
  • Rent prices in Chesapeake are 28% lower than in Charleston, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Chesapeake.
    Home prices in Chesapeake are 32.9% lower than in Charleston.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Chesapeake, where incomes are, on average, 1.9% higher than in Charleston. Major employers in Chesapeake include Dollar Tree, Chesapeake City Schools, and Coast Guard Exchange System.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chesapeake. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 64.5% lower than in Charleston.
  • A move to Chesapeake 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 53.7% less than what it costs in Charleston.
  • The unemployment rate in Chesapeake is 25.00% higher than in Charleston.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Chesapeake, since the city's sales taxes in Chesapeake are 33.33% lower than in Charleston.
  • One perk of moving to Chesapeake is paying less in state income taxes, which are 17.86% lower than in Charleston.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Charleston and Chesapeake:

Charleston Chesapeake
Basic utilities $156.99 $302.5
Cell phone plan $54.78 $53.67
Dozen eggs $4.55 $3.36
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.17
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $13
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $70
Gym membership $29.17 $43
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Chesapeake, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charleston than in Chesapeake.
  • Eggs cost more in Charleston than in Chesapeake.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Chesapeake.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Charleston than in Chesapeake.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Charleston than in Chesapeake.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Chesapeake.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Chesapeake

Chesapeake Charleston
Population 249,422 150,277
Transportation Score 2 3
Walkability score 21 40
Bike friendliness score 35 50
Crime Index 25.0 44.97
Safety Index 70.88 55.03
Air Quality Good Good
  • Chesapeake's population is about 66% greater than Charleston.
  • Chesapeake's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Charleston's higher score of 3.
  • Chesapeake is less walkable than Charleston with a score of 21 out of 100 vs Charleston's 40 out of 100.
  • Chesapeake has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Charleston, which has a score of 50 out of 100.
  • Chesapeake's crime rate is lower than Charleston with a score of 25.0 compared to Charleston's 44.97. This means that Chesapeake neighborhoods are safer than 25.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
  • Chesapeake is considered to be safer than Charleston with a safety index of 70.88 vs Charleston's 55.03.
  • Air quality in Chesapeake is good, and in Charleston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston vs. Chesapeake move

  • Weather: It is advisable tp plan your relocation to Chesapeake on May, October and September are the most pleasant months in Chesapeake, while July and January are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Virginia moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Virginia, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Chesapeake Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Chesapeake

With your sights set on Chesapeake, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Chesapeake.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Capital District
  • Central Office
  • Radnor/Fort Myer Heights
  • North Highland
  • Ghent

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Greenbrier
  • Great Bridge
  • Hickory

Things to do in Chesapeake

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

  • Arts and culture: Chesapeake is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum, AR Workshop Chesapeake, and Portlock Galleries at SoNo.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Oak Grove Lake Park, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Northwest River Park, and Chesapeake Arboretum — 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 Southern Chesapeake Athletic Association (youth baseball and softball) and Oscar Smith Tigers (high school sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to Chesapeake?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Charleston to Chesapeake. 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 Chesapeake?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charleston to Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake take?

Covering 438 miles, the move from Charleston, SC to Chesapeake, VA typically takes one to four days. Some Charleston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chesapeake can help bridge the gap.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Charleston?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 4 movers in Charleston provide piano moving services. 2 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 27 piano movers and 12 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 1901 and 1176.

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

Helpful moving resources