Quick answer: A move from Seattle to Charleston costs $2,188–$11,356 and takes seven to 21 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 2,934-mile move yourself.

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

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best Professional Movers from Seattle to Charleston

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Seattle 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 WA to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 71 Washington 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 Seattle to Charleston journey

Organizing a move from Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle to Charleston.

  1. Eco Movers Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Hansen Bros Moving and Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Seattle Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Access Gentle Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/ecomoversmoving, https://x.com/ecomoversmoving
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Eco Movers Moving & Storage earns standout endorsement from customers, with 724 reviews analyzed and 89% of feedback being strongly positive. The most celebrated input highlights the team's efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick-moving operations, and clear communication. Many customers describe moving with Eco Movers as smooth and stress-free, often praising the staff for being skillful, friendly, and highly attentive to the safe handling of items.
Pricing transparency and flexibility in accommodating schedule changes further set them apart from companies that typically frustrate customers with hidden fees or lackluster service. On the flip side, less favorable reviews mainly cite damage to belongings, higher-than-estimated charges, or unexpected delays as sources of disappointment. Compared to other moving providers, Eco Movers is praised for reliability and communication, although some users warn to clarify coverage and discuss potential extra costs. Most people find their experience worth recommending, especially those seeking peace of mind, but a handful of customers advise diligence on insurance and estimates to minimize risk of costly issues.
Show more
Get a Quote (206) 971-6895

Company Info

State license #: 3227005

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 3227005

Alternate Names: GS Moving Services LLC, Eco-Movers, The Big Guys, The Big Guys Home Delivery, Eco Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/hansenbrosmoving, https://twitter.com/HansenBros
85% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Hansen Bros Moving and Storage gathers praise for professionalism, careful handling, and strong communication, with more than 85% of customer feedback describing positive interactions. Customers appreciate their efficient moving process, polite teams, and quick response times, especially compared to other companies. Many highlight the company’s ability to handle delicate items and manage complex moves with care.
Their clear communication and friendly staff receive frequent commendation, separating them from competitors who often fail in these areas. Some negative feedback points to damage to items, lapses in communication, and delayed or unreliable delivery. Issues like broken furniture, hard-to-reach staff, or shifting delivery dates affect a minority of clients, more commonly reported during long-distance or storage-based moves. For those seeking a seamless, attentive, and professional team, Hansen Bros stands out in the local field, though customers requiring interstate moves or long-term storage should be aware of potential service gaps.
Show more
Get a Quote (206) 365-4454

Company Info

State license #: 1782

Years in Business: 134

DOT #: 8257

Alternate Names: Peasley Transfer & Storage, Hansen Bros Moving and Storage, Peasley Transfer and Storage, Hansen Bros Transfer and Storage Co, PortaBox Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/seattlemovers/, https://x.com/SeatlleMovers
81% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving in Seattle just got easier for most, as feedback from 244 customers shows Seattle Movers stands out with 81% positive responses. Many highlighted the crew’s efficient work, careful attention to property, politeness, and quick moving abilities. Good communication and professionalism set them apart from competitors in the area, adding reassurance to stressful move days.
While the overwhelming majority praised the team’s reliable and effective service, some found fault with damage to items, a lack of professionalism, or delays in arrival and coordination, issues that cropped up more than with similar moving companies. Customers also noted occasional billing and management hiccups. Still, Seattle Movers’ reliability, respectful crews, and consistent customer experiences have led to strong repeat business and recommendations.
Show more
Get a Quote (206) 284-9445

Company Info

State license #: HG063388

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 1731101

Alternate Names: Express Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/bellevuemovers/,
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently praised for professionalism and care, Access Gentle Moving stands out in customer feedback, with 92% of 201 reviews expressing positive sentiment. Clients appreciate the team’s polite attitude, efficient service, and careful handling of items. Communication throughout the booking and moving process is described as responsive and clear, and moves are often completed faster than anticipated without sacrificing attention to detail.
Many customers note a stress-free and friendly experience, even for challenging jobs such as piano moving or moves in poor weather. On the other hand, critical input highlights incidents of unexpectedly high final costs, occasional scheduling delays, and concerns regarding communication or paperwork. Infrequent reports mention items misplaced or difficulty getting post-move issues resolved. Compared to most moving companies, Access Gentle Moving has a notably higher rate of satisfaction, particularly in professionalism and care, but potential customers should seek clear written estimates and confirm payment terms. Most people report a genuinely positive moving experience that exceeds expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (425) 830-5286

Company Info

State license #: 41220

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 1370158

Alternate Names: Access Gentle Moving Corp


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany, https://x.com/gentlegiantmove
100% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving done right is the theme echoed throughout Gentle Giant Moving Company's feedback. With 221 pieces of input analyzed, nearly every comment describes a positive experience—99.5% of customers express satisfaction. The service stands out for being efficient, careful with clients’ belongings, and quick to complete the job, while staff are consistently described as professional and polite.
Communication before and during moves is frequently praised as clear and responsive. Gentle Giant’s focus on care and precision prevents damage to property or items, which sets it apart from many movers. On the negative side, the only recurring issue raised is a lack of post-quote communication and trouble with deposit refunds, cited as the main complaint in the sole negative review. Prices are typically described as transparent, with final costs often matching or coming in below estimates, though one review notes estimates as a point of caution. Compared to other moving companies, Gentle Giant receives far more consistent and enthusiastic recommendations with almost universal praise.
Show more
Get a Quote (206) 213-0426

Company Info

State license #: HG060620

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company (West) LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Seattle movers charge $141 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 $1,876 - $7,992 $1,877 - $4,686 $1,980 - $3,723
2 - 3 bedrooms $5,775 - $11,356 $3,168 - $6,770 $2,188 - $4,432
4+ bedrooms $11,529 - $17,597 $4,376 - $9,434 $2,654 - $5,499
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,934 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 Washington to South Carolina

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Washington to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,876 and $7,992. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $5,775 to $11,356 for the trip from WA to SC. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $11,529 and $17,597.

Cost of moving containers from Washington to South Carolina

When you're heading from Washington to South Carolina, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,877 and $4,686. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $3,168 and $6,770. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,376 to $9,434. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington 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 $1,980 and $3,723 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $2,188 to $4,432. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,654 to $5,499.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors that influence moving costs from Seattle to Charlestontoggle

The cost of Seattle movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Seattle to Charleston (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,876, while larger moves may reach $16,103 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 Seattle,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $1,980 to $5,431), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Seattle to Charleston

Moving from Seattle to Charleston comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Charleston is generally more expensive than Seattle, 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:

Seattle Charleston
Average rent cost $1,975 $2,500
Average home value $842,068 $559,231
Average income (per capita) $77,845 $62,294
Cost of living (single person) $3,740 $5,300
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,801 $7,890
Unemployment rate 4.8% 4.0%
Sales tax 10.35% 9.0%
State income tax 0.0% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Charleston, since prices are typically 27% higher than in Seattle.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Charleston.
    Home prices in Charleston are 33.6% lower than in Seattle.
  • Income in Charleston is 20.0% lower than in Seattle, 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 41.7% higher than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • A move to Charleston 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 19.5% less than what it costs in Seattle.
  • The unemployment rate in Charleston is 16.67% lower than in Seattle.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Charleston, since the city's sales taxes in Charleston are 13.04% lower than in Seattle.
  • State income taxes in Charleston are 7.00% higher than in Seattle.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,251.34 in Charleston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.

How life is different in Seattle vs. Charleston

Charleston Seattle
Population 150,277 737,015
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 8
Walkability score 40 74
Bike friendliness score 50 71
Crime Index 44.97 58.88
Safety Index 55.03 49.23
Air Quality Good Good
  • Charleston might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 80% less than Seattle.
  • Getting around Charleston without a car might be more difficult than in Seattle. Charleston has a public transportation score of 3 out of 10, whereas Seattle is ranked 8. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Charleston neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Seattle. Based on its score of 40 out of 100, Charleston isn't as walkable as Seattle, which has a score of 74 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Charleston, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Seattle. While Seattle has a bike-friendliness score of 71 out of 100, Charleston earned a 50. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Charleston has a lower crime rate than Seattle based on scores of 44.97 and Seattle's 58.88, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Charleston than in Seattle, based on Charleston's safety index of 55.03 versus 49.23 for Seattle. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Charleston and Seattle 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 Seattle 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Charleston. Get started 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Charleston

Now that you've decided to make the move to Holy City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

Once you're settled into your new home in South Carolina, it's time to get out and discover what Charleston has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Charleston include museums and art 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 — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • 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 Seattle to Charleston?

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

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

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

Covering 2,934 miles, the move from Seattle, WA to Charleston, SC typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Seattle movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Charleston can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources