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($1,253) Cost to Move From Charleston, WV to Oakland, CA

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Estimated cost & time: For a 2,551 mile move from Charleston to Oakland, costs typically range from $1,469 to $8,236. Plan for the travel time to be around seven–21 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Charleston to Oakland

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

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

Best professional movers from Charleston to Oakland

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Charleston to Oakland, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 5 interstate moving companies located in Charleston, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Oakland seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Charleston to Oakland

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,631 – $5,809
  • Moving Container $1,846 – $3,648
  • Rental Truck $1,342 – $2,872
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,631 – $8,236
  • Moving Container $2,370 – $4,883
  • Rental Truck $1,469 – $3,224
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,972 – $12,628
  • Moving Container $3,264 – $6,310
  • Rental Truck $1,914 – $3,916
Recent Moving Price Estimates
Safeway Moving
Reedy, WV Ross, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 21, 2025
North American Van Lines
Handley, WV Sausalito, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
United Van Lines
Spencer, WV Newark, CA
Studio apartment
Oct 06, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Clay, WV Ashland, CA
Studio apartment
Oct 03, 2025
American Van Lines
Hurricane, WV Cherryland, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Marmet, WV Half Moon Bay, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Charleston, WV Orinda, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 30, 2025
Roadway Moving
Milton, WV North Fair Oaks, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 18, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
St. Albans, WV Reliez Valley, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025
BLVD Moving
Barboursville, WV Walnut Creek, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Oakland, CA to Charleston, WV guide.

The best local movers for Charleston to Oakland moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Charleston that also handles long-distance moves to Oakland. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated five local movers in Charleston who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Charleston to Oakland.

  1. Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Dunbar Transfer: 4.0 out of 5 stars
  3. Evans Van & Storage: 3.94 out of 5 stars
  4. Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.14 out of 5 stars
  5. Positive Moves: 3.78 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.0% of all reviews were positive
25.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Central Van & Storage, Inc. stands out for reliable and professional movers, backed by 75% positive customer feedback from 16 reviews. Customers consistently praised friendly staff, careful item handling, strong communication, and efficient moving processes. Helpful movers and organized service frequently set them apart from competitors.
Some clients reported major concerns, including damages to homes, missing items, and unexpectedly high final costs. Negative experiences mainly centered on property damage and billing disputes. Central Van & Storage earns strong recommendations for care and professionalism, but those hiring them should pay attention to cost estimates and document all belongings carefully.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 753-1898

Company Info

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with confidence is what customers experience at Dunbar Transfer. All four feedback entries show complete satisfaction, with clients highlighting the company’s fast moving process, punctuality, and skilled staff. Movers handled tough conditions, like stairs and tight spaces, with efficiency and professionalism.
Customers frequently report that jobs were completed quickly and that staff were courteous and prepared. Unlike many moving companies where complaints about delays or damage are common, Dunbar Transfer’s customer input reveals no negative experiences, setting it apart from competitors. This consistently positive input signals reliable, well-executed moves for those seeking trustworthy local movers.
Show more
Get a Quote (304) 722-1003

Company Info

DOT #: 1186580

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.1% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy and stress-free—most feedback about Evans Van & Storage points to a high-quality, reliable experience. Out of 130 reviews, 93% reflect satisfied customers, highlighting professional, polite staff, efficient service, careful handling, helpful movers, and clear communication. Movers regularly earn praise for their respectful approach and the care taken with furniture and delicate possessions.
Customers describe a well-organized, punctual moving process, frequently noting that nothing arrived scratched or broken. Many cite affordability and flexibility as standout features, with the company frequently able to accommodate changing schedules and specific customer needs. Negative feedback is rare but centers on issues like damaged or missing items, poor communication after problems, and unexpected charges. Compared to other moving companies—often criticized for hidden fees and careless service—Evans Van & Storage appears to set itself apart by consistently delivering professionalism and dependability, making it a recommended choice for local and long-distance moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 437-4017

Company Info

DOT #: 070851

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
50.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback paints a clear divide: Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems is praised for having professional, polite staff, handling items with care, working efficiently, offering good rates, and maintaining solid communication. Half of all customer input highlights smooth moves, careful handling, and courteous movers—traits that set them above many local competitors for timely service and affordability. But equally frequent are strong reports of lost valuables, damaged furniture, and unreliable timing.
Several customers mention misplacement or theft of personal items and lack of follow-up from management, concerns rarely seen in top-performing moving companies. While many point to a hassle-free, professional experience, others caution against major service and trust issues. Out of 34 reviews, 50% are positive, and 50% negative, making the choice less than straightforward for those considering this company.
Show more
Get a Quote (304) 529-2360

Company Info

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 587135

Alternate Names: Future Enterprises Corporation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.4% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple—Positive Moves earns high marks from customers, with 93% of feedback noting prompt, professional, and friendly service. Input consistently highlights the staff’s efficiency, careful handling, and polite demeanor. Customers appreciate fast work, competitive rates, and workers who go the extra mile, even in difficult conditions.
Reports of organized crews and effective communication set this company apart from the average mover. On the downside, the small number of negative reviews mention issues such as property damage, late arrivals, and unexpected charges. These problems, while rare, raise concerns about consistency and responsiveness. Compared to others in the industry, Positive Moves receives standout praise for professionalism and care—with a few exceptions where service did not meet expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (304) 590-0840

Company Info

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Fragile-only packing

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

The average hourly rate for movers in West Virginia is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,253 – $5,364 $1,387 – $3,221 $1,356 – $2,872
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,631 – $8,236 $2,370 – $4,883 $1,469 – $3,224
4+ bedrooms $6,972 – $12,628 $3,264 – $6,310 $1,914 – $3,916
*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,551-mile move from Charleston to Oakland are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to Oakland

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Charleston to Oakland will cost between $1,253 and $5,364. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Charleston to Charleston will range from $3,631 to $8,236, and a large move from Charleston to Oakland will cost from $6,972 to $12,628.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to Oakland

If you’re moving from Charleston to Oakland, expect to pay between $1,387 and $3,221 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,370 up to $4,883. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,264 and $6,310. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from West Virginia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to Oakland

Renting a moving truck from Charleston to Oakland is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,356 and $2,872. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,469 and $3,224. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,914 up to $3,916 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Charleston to Oakland toggle

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,859, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $11,837.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charleston, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,356–$3,718) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Oakland

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Oakland runs about 103% higher for singles and 122% higher for families than Charleston.

Singles spend around $3,146 in Charleston versus $1,549 in Charleston; families pay $8,584 compared with $3,862.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charleston Oakland
Average 1 BR rent $933 $1,969
Average 3 BR rent $1,800 $4,450
Average home value $153,672 $736,156
Average income (per capita) $59,354 $94,389
Cost of living (single) $1,549 $3,146
Cost of living (family of four) $3,862 $8,584
Unemployment rate 6.2% 4.5%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.25%
State income tax 6.5% 13.3%
  • Rent is estimated to be 151% higher in Oakland compared to Charleston; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 379% greater in Oakland than in Charleston.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 59% higher in Oakland than in Charleston, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Oakland, since the cost of living for a single person in Oakland is 103% higher than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Oakland, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Oakland is 122% greater than in Charleston.
  • Oakland enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 27% lower compared to Charleston, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 46% in Oakland over Charleston, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 105% higher in California than in West Virginia, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Charleston and Oakland:

Living Expense Charleston Oakland
Basic utilities $128.95 $277.25
Cell phone plan $45.33 $53.00
Dozen eggs $3.26 $6.71
Loaf of bread $2.20 $5.09
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $30.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $50.00 $140.00
Gym membership $31.00 $54.28
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Oakland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in Oakland.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Oakland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Oakland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in Oakland.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Oakland.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Oakland

Charleston Oakland
Population 48,018 440,646
Transportation score 2 8
Walkability score 33 75
Bike friendliness score 28 65
Crime index 53.94 68.62
Safety index 46.06 31.38
Air quality Good Good
  • Oakland’s population is about 818% greater than Charleston.
  • Oakland’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 2.
  • Oakland is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 33 out of 100.
  • With a score of 65 out of 100, Oakland is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 28 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Oakland’s crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 68.62 compared to Charleston’s 53.94. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94%.
  • Oakland is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 31.38 vs Charleston’s 46.06.
  • Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Charleston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston to Oakland move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California 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: 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 Oakland. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Oakland

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Oakland.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Grand Lake
  • Piedmont Avenue
  • Rockridge
  • Temescal

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Fairview Park
  • Rockridge
  • Bushrod
  • Upper Rockridge
  • Lakeshore

Things to do in Oakland

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Oakland, such as the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, and Oakland Aviation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Oakland Athletics (MLB)Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to Oakland?toggle

The best time to move from Charleston to Oakland is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Charleston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Oakland?toggle

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charleston to Oakland, 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 Oakland take?toggle

Moving from Charleston, WV to Oakland, covers 2,551 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days. Need to move faster? Some Charleston movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Oakland.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Charleston?toggle

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 3 movers in Charleston advertise piano moving expertise. 2 movers in Charleston provide antique moving services. State totals show 5 piano movers and 4 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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