Top-rated local movers that handle Chesapeake to Charleston moves
When planning a move from Chesapeake to Charleston, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 19 local movers in Chesapeake who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.
Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Chesapeake to Charleston.
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Apple Moving : 4.48 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 3786641
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Of Newport News, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 076235
Years in Business: 110
DOT #: 2897746
Alternate Names: Covan World Wide Moving, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 163678
Years in Business: 69
DOT #: 1934458
Alternate Names: Harrison’s Moving & Storage Co., Inc. , Harrison’s Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 3064442
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Virginia Beach
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 5223
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Chesapeake to Charleston?
Movers in Virginia charge $161 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 | $1,026 – $2,997 | $641 – $1,600 | $376 – $693 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,794 – $4,440 | $1,193 – $2,248 | $382 – $806 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,909 – $6,894 | $1,523 – $2,848 | $510 – $939 |
Cost to hire movers from Chesapeake to Charleston
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chesapeake to Charleston, you can expect to spend between $1,026 and $2,997. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,794 to $4,440 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Chesapeake to Charleston typically runs between $2,909 and $6,894.
Cost of moving containers from Chesapeake to Charleston
When moving from Chesapeake to Charleston, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $641 and $1,600. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,193 to $2,248. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,523 up to $2,848. 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 Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chesapeake to Charleston
Renting a moving truck in Chesapeake is usually your cheapest option to get to Charleston. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $376 and $693. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $382 and $806. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $510 and $939.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors that impact moving costs from Chesapeake to Charleston
The cost of Chesapeake movers will depend on:
- The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,421, but larger homes can run up to $5,844.
- Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Chesapeake.
- Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($376–$855) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.
What to know before moving from Chesapeake to Charleston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 182% higher for singles and 116% higher for families than Chesapeake.
Singles spend around $5,300 in Chesapeake versus $1,882 in Chesapeake; families pay $7,890 compared with $3,656.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Chesapeake | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,775 | $2,529 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,250 | $4,487 |
| Average home value | $375,209 | $559,231 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,484 | $62,294 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,882 | $5,300 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,656 | $7,890 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 7.0% |
- As you consider relocating to Charleston, note that rent can be roughly 39% more expensive than it is in Chesapeake; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 49% higher in Charleston than in Chesapeake.
- The average income in Charleston and Chesapeake is quite similar, within about 5%, so your finances should remain fairly stable.
- Plan for higher expenses in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person is 182% more than in Chesapeake. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
- If your journey leads to Charleston, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 116% more than it is in Chesapeake.
- Charleston experiences an unemployment rate that is about 20% lower than that of Chesapeake. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
- Sales taxes are 50% higher in Charleston than in Chesapeake. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 22% higher in South Carolina compared to Virginia. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.
The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Chesapeake with Charleston:
| Living Expense | Chesapeake | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $302.50 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $53.67 | $54.78 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.36 | $4.55 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.17 | $3.82 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $13.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $70.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $43.00 | $29.17 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
- Bread is more expensive in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chesapeake than in Charleston.
How life is different in Chesapeake vs. Charleston
| 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 |
- Charleston’s population is about 40% less than Chesapeake.
- Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is higher than Chesapeake’s score of 2.
- Charleston is more walkable than Chesapeake with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Chesapeake’s 21 out of 100.
- With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Chesapeake, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Charleston’s crime rate is higher than Chesapeake with a score of 44.97 compared to Chesapeake’s 25.0. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chesapeake neighborhoods are safer than 25.0%.
- Charleston is considered to be less safe than Chesapeake with a score of 55.03 vs Chesapeake’s 70.88.
- Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Chesapeake it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Chesapeake to Charleston move
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: While South Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Charleston smoothly. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Charleston
Now that you’ve chosen The Holy City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Charleston to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Harleston Village
- James Island
- North Charleston
- South of Broad West Ashley
Best neighborhoods for families
- Mount Pleasant
- Park Circle
- Stiles Point
- Summerville
- Wagener Terrace
Things to do in Charleston
After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it’s time to see what Charleston is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Charleston offers cultural landmarks like the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, and The Charleston Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Middleton Place, Battery & White Point Gardens, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chesapeake to Charleston?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Chesapeake to Charleston are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Chesapeake are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chesapeake to Charleston?
Because spring and fall moves from Chesapeake to Charleston are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Chesapeake to Charleston take?
A move of 440 miles from Chesapeake, VA to Charleston, generally takes one to four days. Movers in Chesapeake sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Charleston is a good fallback if you need extra time.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Chesapeake?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Which movers in Chesapeake offer piano or antique moving?
Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 16 movers in Chesapeake have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 9 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across VA, there are 77 piano movers and 47 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.
Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Chesapeake moving services
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