Quick answer: A typical 440-mile move from Chesapeake to Charleston runs $534–$5,617 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 Charleston to Chesapeake guide.

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

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Chesapeake to Charleston

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Chesapeake to go to Charleston can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

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

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 73 Virginia 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Chesapeake to Charleston journey

Organizing a move from Chesapeake to Charleston can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Chesapeake known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Chesapeake to Charleston.

  1. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Apple Moving : 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Tidal Town Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySons/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers continually praise All My Sons Moving & Storage for their professional, courteous crews who work quickly and handle belongings with noticeable care. Many describe helpful movers who are respectful, efficient, and able to ease the stress of moving, especially compared to other companies. Positive feedback repeatedly cites the staff's friendly attitude and careful handling—even for delicate or specialty items—making them a common recommendation in the area.
Some reviewers highlight the efficient pace and extra steps taken by crews to protect furniture and homes. Despite these strengths, a significant portion of feedback points to higher-than-expected costs, including surprise charges that diverge from initial estimates. Instances of property or item damage, along with dissatisfaction about unexpected fees and payment policies, appear regularly in complaints. Customers frustrated by these issues say they felt blindsided or compelled to pay more than quoted, which sets All My Sons apart from more transparent competitors. In short, most report a smooth, positive move but call out cost transparency and careful handling if considering this company for a future move. Total customer input analyzed: 268, with almost 74% positive and just over a quarter expressing major concerns.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 997-6615

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
https://www.facebook.com/TMTvirginiabeach/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel, https://x.com/tmtvabeach
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Exceptional service sets Two Men and a Truck apart, with 259 pieces of customer feedback showing 81% positive ratings. Customers most often praise their professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, fast moving process, and effective communication. Many highlight how the team reduces moving stress by showing respect for belongings and sticking to estimated timelines.
Positive mentions exceed most competitors, especially for friendly staff and problem-solving attitude. Some issues do arise, primarily involving damaged items, unexpected charges, and slow or unhelpful claim responses. Cost disputes and complaint handling concerns surface more often in negative feedback than with leading rivals. While the company excels in delivering a dependable, courteous moving experience for most clients, those concerned with damage claims or strict pricing should scrutinize contract details. The majority of customers would use them again or recommend them to friends.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 335-6514

Company Info

State license #: 3320644

Years in Business: 11

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
https://www.facebook.com/harrisonsbyapplemoving,
56% of all reviews were positive
43% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving feedback about Apple Moving paints a clear picture: most customers appreciate the company’s professional and polite staff, careful handling, prompt and efficient crews, and genuinely helpful movers. Out of the 275 reviews analyzed, 56% gave positive input, which sets Apple Moving ahead of many competitors who often struggle to earn majority positive feedback. Customers regularly highlight the movers’ attention to detail and willingness to accommodate special requests.
Still, nearly 43% of the feedback is negative, focusing primarily on damage to items, missing or misplaced belongings, and difficulty getting timely responses or claims resolved. Many negative reviewers felt attempts to resolve issues were dismissed or inadequately handled, especially regarding lost property or poor follow-up. While the moving teams are often described as hardworking and personable, the company could improve by increasing accountability and communication, particularly when damages or losses occur.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 397-1248

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
https://www.facebook.com/colemanallied, https://x.com/colemanallied
37% of all reviews were positive
61% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Coleman Worldwide Moving makes one thing clear: reliability is a challenge. From 59 reviews, only 37% classified as positive. Clients who left favorable responses point out careful handling, professional staff, and helpful movers.
Many described efficient packing and open communication as distinct perks. In contrast, negative feedback covers 61% of responses, where late arrivals, poor or missing communication, and significant damage to personal items dominate the complaints. Delays not only disrupt schedules but also result in missed flights and unnecessary stress. Compared to leading movers, Coleman shows more frequent timing and damage complaints, with less responsiveness on problems. Service can be friendly and efficient in some cases, but a high rate of dissatisfied feedback signals a need for improvement in reliability and care.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 857-0101

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
https://www.facebook.com/tidaltownmoving/,
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High praise and rapid recommendations pour in for Tidal Town Moving—feedback shows 255 reviews, and nearly 94% highlight speedy, careful, and professional service. Customers repeatedly acknowledge the crew's efficiency, attention to detail, and polite demeanor. Fast-moving teams, careful handling, and frequent communication stand out as key advantages.
Many note that moves are completed faster and with less stress than anticipated, and clear communication—including scheduling and pricing—is consistently recognized. On the downside, some experience item damage, claims of inaccurate cost estimates compared to other movers, and difficulty resolving damage claims. A small portion mentions frustration with claim resolutions or left-behind items. Compared to peers, Tidal Town Moving receives a far higher proportion of glowing feedback, yet claim handling and cost accuracy are areas for improvement. Most customers would highly recommend the service for attentive movers and a hassle-free move.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 981-0500

Company Info

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 4033059


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

Chesapeake movers charge $125 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 $1,310 - $3,573 $835 - $1,907 $453 - $834
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,180 - $5,617 $1,466 - $2,957 $534 - $989
4+ bedrooms $3,604 - $8,721 $1,946 - $3,711 $645 - $1,201
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 440 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 Virginia to South Carolina

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Virginia to South Carolina typically costs between $1,310 and $3,573. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,180 and $5,617 when moving from VA to SC. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Virginia to South Carolina, you're looking at costs ranging from $3,604 up to $8,721.

Cost of moving containers from Virginia to South Carolina

When you're heading from Virginia to South Carolina, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $835 and $1,907. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,466 and $2,957. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,946 to $3,711. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to South Carolina

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $453 and $834 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $534 to $989. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $645 to $1,201.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors that influence moving costs from Chesapeake to Charlestontoggle

The cost of Chesapeake movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Chesapeake to Charleston (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,310, while larger moves may reach $7,610 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Chesapeake,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $453 to $1,172), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Chesapeake to Charleston

Moving from Chesapeake to Charleston comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Charleston is generally more expensive than Chesapeake, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chesapeake Charleston
Average rent cost $1,800 $2,500
Average home value $375,209 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $63,484 $62,294
Cost of living (single person) $1,882 $5,300
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,656 $7,890
Unemployment rate 5.0% 4.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.0%
State income tax 5.75% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Charleston, since prices are typically 39% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • The home prices in Charleston are 49.0% higher than in Chesapeake, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Charleston is 1.9% lower than in Chesapeake, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Charleston — including Joint Base Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, and The Boeing Company — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Charleston, since the cost of living for a single person in Charleston is 181.6% higher than in Chesapeake. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Charleston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Charleston is 115.8% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 20.00% lower than in Chesapeake.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Charleston, since its sales taxes are 50.00% higher than what you are paying in Chesapeake.
  • State income taxes in Charleston are 21.74% higher than in Chesapeake.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $8,448.46 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chesapeake.

How life is different in Chesapeake vs. Charleston

Charleston Chesapeake
Population 150,277 249,422
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 2
Walkability score 40 21
Bike friendliness score 50 35
Crime Index 44.97 25.0
Safety Index 55.03 70.88
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 40% less than Chesapeake.
  • Charleston offers better access to buses and trains than Chesapeake, based on public transportation ratings. Charleston has a transit score of 3 out of 10 compared to 2 in Chesapeake. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Charleston means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Chesapeake. Charleston is considered more walkable than Chesapeake, with a score of 40 out of 100 versus 21 out of 100 in Chesapeake. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Charleston is considered more bike-friendly than Chesapeake in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Charleston has a bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, while Chesapeake is rated as 35 out of 100.
  • The crime rate in Charleston is higher than in Chesapeake, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 44.97 in Charleston, it is 25.0 in Chesapeake. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Charleston. With a crime index of 55.03, Charleston ranks lower in overall safety than Chesapeake, whose index is 70.88. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Charleston and Chesapeake is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Chesapeake vs. Charleston move

  • Weather: Consider moving to Charleston around October, April and May as these are the most pleasant months, while July and August are the least comfortable ones due to thunderstorms which can cause delays in your moving plans.
  • 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: 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in South Carolina, 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 Charleston Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Charleston

Now that you've chosen 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

Now that you've made the move to South Carolina it's the perfect time to explore Charleston From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Charleston is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Fort Sumter National Monument, Nathaniel Russell House, Old Slave Mart Museum, The Charleston Museum, and Gibbes Museum of Art.
  • 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: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

Covering 440 miles, the move from Chesapeake, VA to Charleston, SC typically takes one to four days. Some Chesapeake movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Charleston can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources