Quick answer: For a 355-mile move from Charleston to Columbia, expect to spend around $427–$5,552 and one to four days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

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

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best movers by type

There are 4 interstate moving companies in Charleston, so figuring out which one is best for your move from Charleston, WV, to Columbia, SC, can feel overwhelming. You’ll also need to decide whether to hire professional full-service movers or take a more DIY approach.

Not to worry — we’ve made the process easier for you. We compared each mover by key factors like service options and cost, and analyzed customer feedback in online reviews. Using our research, we have narrowed the list of Charleston companies to only the best long-distance movers in Charleston, no matter what type of move you’re planning.

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Professional
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Best professional movers from Charleston to Columbia

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Charleston to Columbia, full-service movers are the answer. They manage every step so you can keep your attention on the big decisions and the excitement of the move.

Here are our picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to take you from Charleston to Columbia without the headaches.

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

What moving services are available in Charleston?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare Charleston with the broader WV landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service Charleston (Count) Charleston (%) West Virginia (Count) West Virginia (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 2 50% 4 50% 2545 98%
Unpacking 2 50% 4 50% 2514 97%
Fragile-only packing 2 50% 2 25% 631 24%
Packing materials 0 0% 0 0% 1519 59%
Storage
Storage 2 50% 5 63% 2248 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 25% 3 38% 823 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 1 25% 3 38% 1649 64%
Art 3 75% 5 63% 1271 49%
Antiques 2 50% 4 50% 1190 46%
Piano 3 75% 5 63% 1919 74%
Hot tub 1 25% 2 25% 585 23%
Pool table 2 50% 4 50% 845 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to SC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 7 West Virginia 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 Charleston to Columbia journey

Organizing a move from Charleston to Columbia 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 Charleston 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 Charleston to Columbia.

  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/Centralvan, https://twitter.com/central_allied
75% of all reviews were positive
25% 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/Dunbar-Transfer-836290623147133,
100% of all reviews were positive
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/people/Watts-Brothers-Moving-Storage/100064128341117/,
50% of all reviews were positive
50% 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/profile.php?id=100076853387998,
93% of all reviews were positive
5% 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/profile.php?id=100063156732944,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% 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 Columbia?

Charleston 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 $1,126 - $3,610 $741 - $1,671 $400 - $689
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,102 - $5,552 $1,343 - $2,514 $427 - $826
4+ bedrooms $3,143 - $7,666 $1,743 - $3,075 $513 - $988
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 355 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 West Virginia to South Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from West Virginia to South Carolina will cost between $1,126 and $3,610. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from WV to SC will range from $2,102 to $5,552, and a large move from West Virginia to South Carolina will cost from $3,143 to $7,666.

Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to South Carolina

If you're relocating from West Virginia to South Carolina, you'll typically spend between $741 and $1,671 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,343 up to $2,514. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,743 and $3,075. 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 West Virginia 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 $400 and $689 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $427 to $826. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $513 to $988.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors influencing moving costs from Charleston to Columbiatoggle

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Charleston to Columbia can be as low as $1,126 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $6,385.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charleston so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $400 to $901. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Columbia

Monthly costs run higher in Columbia than in Charleston — roughly 26% more for singles and 11% more for families.

Singles spend $1,956 vs. $1,549, and families $4,274 vs. $3,862.

Use the comparison below to plan your budget with confidence:

Charleston Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $933 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $1,800 $2,220
Average home value $153,672 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $59,354 $64,683
Unemployment rate 6.2% 5.2%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.0%
State income tax 6.5% 7.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Columbia, since prices are typically 65% higher than in Charleston.
  • The home prices in Columbia are 43.6% higher than in Charleston, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Columbia, where incomes are, on average, 9.0% higher than in Charleston. Major employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbia, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 26.3% higher than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Columbia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 10.7% higher than in Charleston.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 16.13% lower than in Charleston.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Columbia, since its sales taxes are 14.29% higher than what you are paying in Charleston.
  • State income taxes in Columbia are 7.69% higher than in Charleston.

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

Charleston Columbia
Basic utilities $128.95 $148.09
Cell phone plan $45.33 $54.77
Dozen eggs $3.26 $3.46
Loaf of bread $2.2 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15 $16
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $50 $60
Gym membership $31 $40
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Columbia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Columbia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in Columbia.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Columbia.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Columbia

Columbia Charleston
Population 136,632 48,018
Transportation Score 5 2
Walkability score 35 33
Bike friendliness score 35 28
Crime Index 3.0 53.94
Safety Index 48.39 46.06
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Columbia is about 185% greater than Charleston, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Columbia offers better access to buses and trains than Charleston, based on public transportation ratings. Columbia has a transit score of 5 out of 10 compared to 2 in Charleston. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • You'll find Columbia to be about as walkable as Charleston. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 35 and 33 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
  • If cycling is your thing, Columbia is considered more bike-friendly than Charleston in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, while Charleston is rated as 28 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a lower crime rate than Charleston based on scores of 3.0 and Charleston's 53.94, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • Columbia is generally as safe as Charleston, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • The air quality in Columbia and Charleston 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 Charleston vs. Columbia move

  • Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
  • 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: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • 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 Columbia Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers' insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Columbia

Ready to relocate to Soda City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Lexington
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it's time to see what Columbia is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbia include museums and art centers like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, EdVenture Children's Museum, and South Carolina Military Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay 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 Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Charleston to Columbia 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 Columbia?

With many people choosing to move from Charleston to Columbia 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 Columbia take?

The 355-mile move from Charleston, WV, to Columbia, SC, takes one to four days. Some Charleston movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbia.

Which movers in Charleston offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 3 movers in Charleston have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 2 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across WV, there are 5 piano movers and 4 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 1919 and 1190.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources