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($1,442) Cost to Move From Charleston, WV to San Jose, CA

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Quick answer: A typical 2,586-mile move from Charleston to San Jose runs $1,718 – $8,251 and takes about seven to 21 days. Costs vary based on how much you’re moving, when, and if you hire a company or go DIY.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our guide to moving from San Jose to Charleston.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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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

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Best professional movers from Charleston to San Jose

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from Charleston to San Jose far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

Charleston has 4 interstate moving companies, here are our top picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to get you moving to San Jose without the headaches.

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

What moving services are available in Charleston?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Charleston to all of WV and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Charleston (Count) Charleston (%) WV (Count) WV (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 2 50% 5 55% 2,833 98%
Unpacking 2 50% 5 55% 2,798 96%
Fragile-only packing 2 50% 2 22% 718 24%
Packing materials 0 0% 0 0% 1,684 58%
Storage
Long-term 2 50% 6 66% 2,499 86%
Climate-controlled 1 25% 3 33% 977 33%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 1 25% 3 33% 1,884 65%
Art 3 75% 5 55% 1,398 48%
Antiques 2 50% 4 44% 1,401 48%
Piano 3 75% 5 55% 2,173 75%
Hot tub 1 25% 2 22% 670 23%
Pool table 2 50% 4 44% 941 32%

How we chose the best movers WV→CA moverstoggle

At moveBuddha, our specialists conducted a thorough evaluation of 9 West Virginia moving companies, identifying the leading ones by examining client satisfaction, reviews, and value.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Errors happen in moving. The best companies acknowledge them quickly and take real steps to resolve any problems for their customers.
  • Industry reputation (15%): Within the moving field, the company has earned respect and regularly engages in conferences and trade groups.
  • Online reputation (15%): The organization ensures its website is reliable and actively addresses online customer inquiries in a professional manner.
  • Service options (10%): Top movers provide versatile offerings including packing, storage, special-item handling, and the option for faster delivery when needed.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The best local movers for Charleston to San Jose moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Charleston that also handles long-distance moves to San Jose. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated the top 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 San Jose.

  1. Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Dunbar Transfer: 3.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.24 out of 5 stars
  4. Evans Van & Storage: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  5. Positive Moves: 3.76 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
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
93.1% 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
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 San Jose?

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 $1,442 – $5,879 $1,410 – $3,613 $1,571 – $2,927
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,951 – $8,251 $2,628 – $5,470 $1,718 – $3,310
4+ bedrooms $7,505 – $12,517 $3,275 – $7,372 $1,965 – $4,273
Based on 2,586 miles and prior averages, these price estimates are only a guide. The true cost will reflect your move size, any additional services, ease of truck access, and broader market or availability factors.

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to San Jose

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Charleston to San Jose will cost between $1,442 and $5,879. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Charleston to Charleston will range from $3,951 to $8,251, and a large move from Charleston to San Jose will cost from $7,505 to $12,517.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to San Jose

If you’re moving from Charleston to San Jose, expect to pay between $1,410 and $3,613 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,628 up to $5,470. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,275 and $7,372. 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 San Jose

Renting a moving truck from Charleston to San Jose 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 $1,571 and $2,927. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,718 and $3,310. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,965 up to $4,273 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Charleston to San Jose toggle

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,893, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $12,573.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charleston, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,571–$4,015) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Charleston to San Jose

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Jose runs about 137% higher for singles and 116% higher for families than Charleston.

Singles spend around $3,674 in Charleston versus $1,549 in Charleston; families pay $8,354 compared with $3,862.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charleston San Jose
Average 1 BR rent $933 $3,027
Average 3 BR rent $1,800 $5,240
Average home value $153,672 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $59,354 $83,421
Unemployment rate 6.2% 6.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 9.38%
State income tax 6.5% 13.3%
  • Rent is estimated to be 254% higher in San Jose compared to Charleston; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 846% greater in San Jose than in Charleston.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 41% higher in San Jose than in Charleston, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Jose, since the cost of living for a single person in San Jose is 137% higher than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to San Jose, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 116% greater than in Charleston.
  • In San Jose, the unemployment rate is approximately 6% higher than in Charleston, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 34% in San Jose 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 San Jose:

Living Expense Charleston San Jose
Basic utilities $128.95 $293.08
Cell phone plan $45.33 $48.44
Dozen eggs $3.26 $4.80
Loaf of bread $2.20 $4.93
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $20.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $50.00 $100.00
Gym membership $31.00 $123.75
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in San Jose, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in San Jose.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in San Jose.

How life is different in Charleston vs. San Jose

Charleston San Jose
Population 48,018 971,233
Transportation score 2 7
Walkability score 33 51
Bike friendliness score 28 62
Crime index 53.94 47.73
Safety index 46.06 52.27
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Jose’s population is about 1923% greater than Charleston.
  • San Jose’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 2.
  • San Jose is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 33 out of 100.
  • With a score of 62 out of 100, San Jose 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.
  • San Jose’s crime rate is lower than Charleston with a score of 47.73 compared to Charleston’s 53.94. This means that San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94%.
  • San Jose is considered to be safer than Charleston with a safety index of 52.27 vs Charleston’s 46.06.
  • Air quality in San Jose is Moderate, and in Charleston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston to San Jose 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Man Jose, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in San Jose.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout San Jose, such as the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children’s Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, and San Jose Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — 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 San Jose Barracuda (AHL)San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)San Jose Giants (California League)San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to San Jose?toggle

The best time to move from Charleston to San Jose 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 San Jose?toggle

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

Moving from Charleston, WV to San Jose, covers 2,586 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 San Jose.

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 2,173 and 1,401.

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

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