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($1,211) Cost to Move From Charleston, WV to Lafayette, LA

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Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,017 miles from Charleston to Lafayette is generally between $685 and $6,161. The trip duration should be approximately two–eight days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Charleston to Lafayette

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 Lafayette

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Charleston to Lafayette, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Charleston, you have a choice of 5 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Lafayette smoothly and with confidence.

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 Lafayette

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,017-mile move from Charleston to Lafayette using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,038 – $4,928
  • Moving Container $1,138 – $2,055
  • Rental Truck $621 – $1,229
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,490 – $6,161
  • Moving Container $1,539 – $3,063
  • Rental Truck $685 – $1,504
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,332 – $7,669
  • Moving Container $1,976 – $3,913
  • Rental Truck $932 – $1,831
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Roadway Moving
West Hamlin, WV Scott, LA
Studio apartment
Oct 13, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Barboursville, WV Rosedale, LA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
BLVD Moving
Milton, WV Port Barre, LA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 22, 2025
American Van Lines
Chesapeake, WV Leonville, LA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 20, 2025
United Van Lines
Hamlin, WV Estherwood, LA
Studio apartment
Sep 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Whitesville, WV Palmetto, LA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
North American Van Lines
West Logan, WV Cankton, LA
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
Safeway Moving
Fayetteville, WV Eunice, LA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Reedy, WV Henderson, LA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Chapmanville, WV Krotz Springs, LA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 07, 2025

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

Top local movers for Charleston to Lafayette moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Charleston that also provides long-distance services to Lafayette can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed five local movers in Charleston who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Charleston to Lafayette.

  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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Lafayette?

Movers in West Virginia generally charge an average of per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,211 – $4,780 $792 – $2,031 $647 – $1,304
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,490 – $6,161 $1,539 – $3,063 $685 – $1,504
4+ bedrooms $4,332 – $7,669 $1,976 – $3,913 $932 – $1,831
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,017-mile move from Charleston to Lafayette, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to Lafayette

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Charleston to Lafayette typically costs between $1,211 and $4,780. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,490 and $6,161 when moving from Charleston to Lafayette. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Charleston to Lafayette, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,332 up to $7,669.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to Lafayette

If you’re relocating from Charleston to Lafayette, you’ll typically spend between $792 and $2,031 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,539 up to $3,063. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,976 and $3,913. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from West Virginia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to Lafayette

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Charleston to Lafayette move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $647 and $1,304. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $685 to $1,504. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $932 and $1,831.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Charleston to Lafayette

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Charleston to Lafayette might be as low as $2,363, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,677.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Charleston.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $647 to $1,676 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Lafayette

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Lafayette runs about 15% higher for singles and 9% higher for families than Charleston.

Singles spend around $1,785 in Charleston versus $1,549 in Charleston; families pay $4,208 compared with $3,862.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charleston Lafayette
Average 1 BR rent $933 $1,200
Average 3 BR rent $1,800 $1,725
Average home value $153,672 $214,264
Average income (per capita) $59,354 $59,490
Cost of living (single) $1,549 $1,785
Cost of living (family of four) $3,862 $4,208
Unemployment rate 6.2% 5.8%
Sales tax 7.0% 9.45%
State income tax 6.5% 4.25%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 223% higher in Lafayette than in Charleston, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 39% higher in Lafayette than in Charleston.
  • Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Lafayette and Charleston, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Lafayette, as the cost of living for a single person in Lafayette is 15% greater than in Charleston. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Lafayette, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 9% more than it is in Charleston.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 6% lower than Charleston, Lafayette boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Lafayette exceed those in Charleston by 35%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 35% lower in Louisiana than in West Virginia. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Charleston and Lafayette, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Charleston Lafayette
Basic utilities $128.95 $244.46
Cell phone plan $45.33 $52.00
Dozen eggs $3.26 $4.35
Loaf of bread $2.20 $2.99
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $17.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $50.00 $76.11
Gym membership $31.00 $61.33
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Lafayette, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Lafayette.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in Lafayette.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Lafayette.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Lafayette.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in Lafayette.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Lafayette.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Lafayette

Charleston Lafayette
Population 48,018 121,374
Transportation score 2 3
Walkability score 33 42
Bike friendliness score 28 47
Crime index 53.94 45.75
Safety index 46.06 54.25
Air quality Good Good
  • Lafayette’s population is about 153% greater than Charleston.
  • Lafayette’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 2.
  • Lafayette is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 33 out of 100.
  • With a score of 47 out of 100, Lafayette 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.
  • Lafayette’s crime rate is lower than Charleston with a score of 45.75 compared to Charleston’s 53.94. This means that Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94%.
  • Lafayette is considered to be safer than Charleston with a safety index of 54.25 vs Charleston’s 46.06.
  • Air quality in Lafayette is Good, and in Charleston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston to Lafayette move

  • 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: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • State licensing: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Louisiana moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Louisiana, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lafayette without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Lafayette

Ready to relocate to The Hub City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lafayette.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Saint Streets
  • Freetown-Port Rico
  • Downtown Lafayette
  • Scott
  • Youngsville

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Youngsville
  • Erath
  • Maurice
  • Broussard
  • Milton
  • Scott
  • Cade

Things to do in Lafayette

Now that you’ve made the move to Louisiana, it’s the perfect time to explore Lafayette. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lafayette include museums and art centers like the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children’s Museum of Acadiana, and Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Charleston to Lafayette. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Charleston.

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

With many people choosing to move from Charleston to Lafayette in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Charleston to Lafayette take?

Covering 1,017 miles, the move from Charleston, WV to Lafayette, typically takes two to eight days. Some Charleston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lafayette can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Charleston can handle specialty items for my move to Lafayette?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Charleston, 3 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of WV, there are 5 piano movers and 4 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

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