Top-rated movers to make your Norfolk to Charleston move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Norfolk that offers long-distance services to Charleston can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 20 top local movers in Norfolk who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Norfolk to Charleston.
- Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 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 #: 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 #: 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 #: 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 Norfolk to Charleston?
In Virginia, moving services typically cost around $161 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,006 – $2,738 | $666 – $1,507 | $358 – $673 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,671 – $4,674 | $1,124 – $2,115 | $414 – $782 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,029 – $6,826 | $1,584 – $2,762 | $505 – $939 |
Cost to hire movers from Norfolk to Charleston
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Charleston from Norfolk, you can expect prices to land between $1,006 and $2,738. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,671 to $4,674 for the trip from Norfolk to Charleston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,029 and $6,826.
Cost of moving containers from Norfolk to Charleston
Moving containers from Norfolk to Charleston will cost you $666 to $1,507 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,124 to $2,115. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,584 to $2,762. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Norfolk to Charleston
Renting a moving truck from Norfolk to Charleston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $358 and $673 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $414 to $782. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $505 to $939.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Norfolk to Charleston move
The cost of Norfolk movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,408 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,015 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Norfolk.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $358 to $935, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Norfolk to Charleston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Charleston runs about 91% higher for singles and 42% higher for families than Norfolk.
Singles spend around $5,300 in Norfolk versus $2,769 in Norfolk; families pay $7,890 compared with $5,552.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Norfolk | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,875 | $2,529 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,492 | $4,487 |
| Average home value | $283,890 | $559,231 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,484 | $62,294 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,769 | $5,300 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,552 | $7,890 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Charleston? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 67% higher than in Norfolk, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Charleston are about 97% higher than those in Norfolk.
- In terms of average income, Charleston and Norfolk are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Charleston, as living costs for a single person are 91% higher than in Norfolk. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- 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 42% higher than in Norfolk.
- The unemployment rate in Charleston is about 45% lower than in Norfolk. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Charleston are 50% more than in Norfolk, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 22% above those in Virginia. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Norfolk and Charleston:
| Living Expense | Norfolk | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $190.88 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $49.33 | $54.78 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $4.55 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.12 | $3.82 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.25 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $29.17 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Norfolk than in Charleston.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Norfolk than in Charleston.
- Eggs cost more in Norfolk than in Charleston.
- Bread is more expensive in Norfolk than in Charleston.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Norfolk than in Charleston.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Norfolk than in Charleston.
- Gym memberships cost more in Norfolk than in Charleston.
How life is different in Norfolk vs. Charleston
| 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 |
- Charleston’s population is about 37% less than Norfolk.
- Charleston’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Norfolk’s score of 6.
- Charleston is less walkable than Norfolk with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Norfolk’s 46 out of 100.
- With a score of 50 out of 100, Charleston is more bike-friendly than Norfolk, which has a score of 47 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Charleston’s crime rate is lower than Norfolk with a score of 44.97 compared to Norfolk’s 58.1. This means that Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Norfolk neighborhoods are safer than 58.1%.
- Charleston is considered to be safer than Norfolk with a safety index of 55.03 vs Norfolk’s 41.9.
- Air quality in Charleston is Good, and in Norfolk it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Norfolk to Charleston move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- 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 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Charleston
Planning your move to The Holy City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Charleston.
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 settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Charleston has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Charleston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Charleston RiverDogs (Carolina League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Norfolk to Charleston?
Planning your move from Norfolk to Charleston? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Norfolk.
When is the cheapest time to move from Norfolk to Charleston?
Because most people are moving from Norfolk to Charleston in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Norfolk to Charleston take?
The 438-mile journey from Norfolk, VA to Charleston, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Norfolk offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Charleston.
Are there special savings available from movers in Norfolk?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Norfolk?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Norfolk, 17 movers can manage piano relocations. 9 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Virginia has 77 piano movers and 47 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Norfolk moving services
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