Best Movers from California to South Carolina (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When you’re moving from California to South Carolina, you’ll typically spend between $1,807 and $9,117. Most moves take around seven–21 days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from South Carolina to California guide.
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The best California to South Carolina full-service movers
Moving from California to South Carolina? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.
Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving California for your relocation to South Carolina:
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in California
Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in California, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0190673
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3670248
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around San Bruno, CA since 2010. They stand out with a solid reputation, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp from 429 reviews, and a 4.6 average rating on Google from 129 reviews. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, customers frequently praise their professionalism and efficiency. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, along with the specialized capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. Flexible payment options, including cash and credit cards, and no required deposit, further underscore their customer-first approach.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best California to South Carolina moving container companies
Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in California and delivering it to your new place in South Carolina.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best California to South Carolina moving truck rentals
Looking to cut costs on your move from California to South Carolina? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:
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The best California to South Carolina labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from California to South Carolina.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to SC move
How much does it cost to move from California to South Carolina?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to South Carolina, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,585 - $6,882 | $1,569 - $4,189 | $1,722 - $3,264 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,884 - $9,117 | $2,786 - $6,037 | $1,807 - $3,967 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,743 - $15,002 | $4,239 - $8,041 | $2,378 - $4,916 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,504 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from California to South Carolina
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,585 and $6,882. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,884 to $9,117 for the trip from CA to SC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,743 and $15,002.
Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina
If you're moving from California to South Carolina, expect to pay between $1,569 and $4,189 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,786 up to $6,037. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $4,239 and $8,041. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to South Carolina
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,722 and $3,264 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,807 to $3,967. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,378 to $4,916.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to SC
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to South Carolina. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
- Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.
What to know before moving from CA to SC
When moving from California to South Carolina, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: California vs. South Carolina
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in California and South Carolina. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
| California | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $63,623 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.7% |
| Average Sales Tax | 8.68% | 7.46% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 7.0% |
- Rent in South Carolina is about 43% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in South Carolina are about 62% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Carolina are about 31% lower than in California.
- Living in South Carolina costs about 28% less than in California. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
- South Carolina boasts an unemployment rate about 13% lower than California. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
- Sales tax in South Carolina is 14% lower than in California. If you have a big family or tend to spend more, this lower rate in South Carolina can make a noticeable difference in your overall living costs.
- Income taxes are 47% lower in South Carolina compared to California. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. California
Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in South Carolina compared to California across a few key lifestyle factors:
| South Carolina | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,373,555 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 58-42 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 48" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 1" | 7" |
| Crime index | 28.0 | 28.43 |
- The population of South Carolina is approximately 86% lower than the population of California. Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
- In the last presidential election, South Carolina voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in South Carolina is 91ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, South Carolina reaches about 33ºF and California only gets down to 59ºF. Moving to South Carolina with its colder winters means you need to prepare for higher heating costs, possible lifestyle shifts, and more intense weather, but it can also offer unique seasonal experiences and beauty.
- You can expect about 48 inches of annual rainfall in South Carolina versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California. More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
- In South Carolina, it only snows about 1 inch annually while California gets 7 inches of snow. Moving to South Carolina, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles, making it a great fit for those seeking a milder winter climate.
- South Carolina and California have a similar crime rate of 28.43. Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it's important to research at the city or neighborhood level as well.
Comparing the pros of California vs. South Carolina
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in South Carolina compared to California.
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Warm southern hospitality |
| Pleasant weather | Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Abundant recreational options | Beautiful landscapes |
| High quality of life | Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Fresh and healthy foods | Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. South Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to South Carolina.
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | High cost of living |
| Heavy tax burdens | Hurricane frequency |
| Natural disasters | Low quality of healthcare |
| Terrible traffic | High taxes |
| Strange laws | Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your California to South Carolina move
- Weather: South Carolina had hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters and coastal areas of the state have very mild winters. While precipitation is abundant the entire year in almost the entire state, the coast tends to have a slightly wetter summer, while inland, the spring and autumn transitions tend to be the wettest periods and winter the driest season, with November being the driest month.
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a South Carolina moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to South Carolina right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Carolina
Get excited to explore South Carolina. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in South Carolina
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Coastal Discovery Museum
- Brookgreen Gardens
- BMW Zentrum
Parks in South Carolina
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park
- Falls Park on the Reedy
- Kiawah Beachwalker Park
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
- Riverfront Park
Sports Teams in South Carolina
- Clemson Tigers (NCAA)
- Augusta GreenJackets (Low-A East)
- Charleston Battery (USL Championship)
- Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A East)
- Columbia Fireflies (Low-A East)
Universities in South Carolina
- Clemson University
- University of South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina
- College of Charleston
- Furman University
