Quick answer: A move from Charleston to Norfolk costs $437–$5,082 and takes one to four days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 437-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Norfolk 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
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

When you’ve got 4 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Charleston, the search for the right one can quickly become overwhelming. And that’s after you decide whether to hand the job over to a full-service team or keep more control — and save a little money — with a DIY approach.

We’ve already done the hard work for you. Each Charleston mover was reviewed for services offered, pricing, and overall value, with customer experiences drawn from online reviews. From there, we narrowed the field to the best long-distance movers in Charleston, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Professional
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Best professional movers from Charleston to Norfolk

If you’d rather let the professionals handle every part of your interstate move from Charleston to Norfolk, a full-service mover is the way to go. These companies can manage everything, so you can focus on the big picture instead of the heavy lifting.

Here are our top picks for full-service movers that can get you from Charleston to Norfolk with less stress and more peace of mind.

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

Availability varies a lot by market. Use this table to see how common each service is among movers in Charleston, compared to all of SC and nationwide, so you can spot what’s easy to book and what may take extra planning.

Service Charleston (Count) Charleston (%) South Carolina (Count) South Carolina (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 6 75% 48 96% 2836 98%
Unpacking 6 75% 48 96% 2801 97%
Fragile-only packing 0 0% 7 14% 718 25%
Packing materials 6 75% 45 90% 1684 58%
Storage
Storage 5 63% 41 82% 2502 87%
Climate-controlled storage 2 25% 17 34% 976 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 4 50% 28 56% 1887 65%
Art 2 25% 16 32% 1401 48%
Antiques 3 38% 17 34% 1401 48%
Piano 5 63% 32 64% 2176 75%
Hot tub 0 0% 7 14% 670 23%
Pool table 1 13% 9 18% 944 33%

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

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Charleston that also handles long-distance moves to Norfolk. 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 Norfolk.

  1. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Low Country Moving, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Bellhop Moving: 4.76 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 Norfolk?

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 $1,151 - $3,365 $697 - $1,813 $405 - $817
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,113 - $5,082 $1,339 - $2,421 $437 - $969
4+ bedrooms $3,330 - $7,813 $1,831 - $3,390 $566 - $1,098
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 437 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

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Virginia will cost between $1,151 and $3,365. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SC to VA will range from $2,113 to $5,082, and a large move from South Carolina to Virginia will cost from $3,330 to $7,813.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Virginia

When you're heading from South Carolina to Virginia, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $697 and $1,813. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,339 and $2,421. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,831 to $3,390. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from South Carolina easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Virginia

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 $405 and $817. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $437 to $969. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $566 and $1,098.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from Charleston to Norfolktoggle

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 Norfolk can be as low as $1,151 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $6,361.
  • 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 $405 to $1,050. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Norfolk

Looking to trim monthly costs? Norfolk usually runs cheaper than Charleston — about 48% for singles and 30% for families.

Singles average $2,769 in Norfolk vs. $5,300 in Charleston; families see $5,552 vs. $7,890.

The breakdown below shows where those savings appear:

Charleston Norfolk
Average 1 BR rent $2,529 $1,875
Average 3 BR rent $4,487 $2,492
Average home value $559,231 $283,890
Average income (per capita) $62,294 $63,484
Unemployment rate 4.0% 7.3%
Sales tax 9.0% 6.0%
State income tax 7.0% 5.75%
  • Rent prices in Norfolk are 40% 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 Norfolk.
    Home prices in Norfolk are 49.2% lower than in Charleston.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Norfolk, where incomes are, on average, 1.9% higher than in Charleston. Major employers in Norfolk include CMA CGM, Norfolk Southern Railway, and PRA Group.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Norfolk. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 47.8% lower than in Charleston.
  • A move to Norfolk 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 29.6% less than what it costs in Charleston.
  • The unemployment rate in Norfolk is 82.50% higher than in Charleston.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Norfolk, since the city's sales taxes in Norfolk are 33.33% lower than in Charleston.
  • One perk of moving to Norfolk 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 Norfolk:

Charleston Norfolk
Basic utilities $156.99 $190.88
Cell phone plan $54.78 $49.33
Dozen eggs $4.55 $4.71
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.12
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $18.25
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $75
Gym membership $29.17 $40
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Norfolk, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charleston than in Norfolk.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in Norfolk.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Norfolk.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Norfolk.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Charleston than in Norfolk.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Norfolk.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Norfolk

Norfolk Charleston
Population 238,005 150,277
Transportation Score 6 3
Walkability score 46 40
Bike friendliness score 47 50
Crime Index 58.1 44.97
Safety Index 41.9 55.03
Air Quality Good Good
  • Norfolk's population is about 58% greater than Charleston.
  • Norfolk's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Charleston's lower score of 3.
  • Norfolk is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Charleston's 40 out of 100.
  • Both Norfolk and Charleston have the same bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, meaning Norfolk 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.
  • Norfolk's crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 58.1 compared to Charleston's 44.97. This means that Norfolk neighborhoods are safer than 58.1% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
  • Norfolk is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 41.9 vs Charleston's 55.03.
  • Air quality in Norfolk is good, and in Charleston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston vs. Norfolk move

  • Weather: If you are considering a move to Norfolk, plan your move on the months of May, October and September as these are the most pleasant months in Norfolk, while July and January are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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). Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Virginia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Virginia doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Norfolk. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Norfolk

Now that you've decided to make the move to Norfolk, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Norfolk.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • East Ghent
  • Downtown
  • Newtown
  • West 21st Street
  • Colonial Place

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Ghent
  • Virginia Beach
  • Edgewater-Larchmont
  • West Ghent
  • East Ghent

Things to do in Norfolk

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

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Norfolk, such as the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Chrysler Museum of Art, Nauticus, MacArthur Memorial, and Hermitage Museum and Gardens.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Norfolk Botanical Garden, Pagoda & Oriental Garden, Town Point Park, and Lake Drummond — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Norfolk Tides (Baseball-International League (AAA)), Norfolk Admirals (Ice hockey), Old Dominion University (Football), or Old Dominion University (Basketball) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Covering 437 miles, the move from Charleston, SC to Norfolk, VA typically takes one to four days. Some Charleston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Norfolk can help bridge the gap.

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 2176 and 1401.

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

Helpful moving resources