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Best Moving Companies in Charleston, SC

We compared 30 companies and chose the top movers

    • Best overall
      PODS
      4.6(5,096)
    • Customer service
      Agility Van Lines
      5.0(128)
    • Packing services
      Safe Ship Moving
      3.6(1,525)
    Author picture
    By: Cassidy McCants
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Matt Zane

    Best Moving Companies in Charleston, SC

    After analyzing verified reviews from local customers, PODS is our pick for the best moving company in Charleston. Agility Van Lines is best if you value responsive communication throughout your move. Safe Ship Moving is the ideal pick for those who want peace of mind from expert packing.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,823,214 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    Our 4 moving company picks in Charleston

    1. Best overall: PODS
    2. Best customer service: Agility Van Lines
    3. Best packing services: Safe Ship Moving
    4. Best quote accuracy: Roadway Moving

    To help you find the best options, we compared moving companies available in Charleston. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Charleston customers.

    To make our picks, we also considered pricing, the quote and deposit processes and the availability of packing services and storage options. Read our full methodology below for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

    Compare moving companies

    Our 4 Charleston moving company picks

    Learn more about our top picks for the best moving companies, based on verified reviews from Charleston area customers and broader South Carolina feedback on ConsumerAffairs.

    Best overall

    PODS

    PODS
    4.6
    5,096 reviews
    Deposit
    100% 1 to 7 days prior
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    1397252
    Read Reviews

    PODS earned our top spot for its container-based approach, which delivers a weather-resistant storage container directly to your Charleston address. You load it on your own schedule — no rush. If you need to delay your move due to weather, flooding or last-minute issues, you can keep the container on-site or at a PODS facility until you’re ready.

    Best for: DIYers

    Pros
    • Flexible scheduling timelines
    • Storage at your home or facility
    • No driving required
    • Nationwide availability
    Cons
    • You must load and unload
    • Parking space required for container
    • Delivery windows can be wide
    • Moving container rentals
    • On-site storage
    • Warehouse storage
    • Commercial moving
    • Car shipping referrals
    • Quote type: Nonbinding (estimate only; final price may vary)
    • Deposit: 100% 1 to 7 days prior
    • Discounts: Military, friend referral, long-term storage

    South Carolina customer reviews find PODS to be a convenient, reliable and flexible moving and storage solution with professional drivers and generally smooth delivery experiences, though a few noted issues with customer service.

    “Using Pods was easy and straightforward. The delivery and pick up were on time. Ray did the pick up. … It was a tight spot. … He definitely knew his job. Well done.”
    Sandy Charleston, SC
    “I had a fantastic experience with PODS when I needed some extra storage space while redoing my garage floors. I opted for the 8-foot pod, and it was perfect for my needs. Their service impressed me—from the seamless drop-off to the courteous drivers handling the pod.”
    Michele Summerville, SC
    “PODS was on time consistently and delivered everything as promised. I found their service to be excellent, and the drivers were top-notch. … I am more than pleased with the service and I would recommend them to others.”
    Chris Summerville, SC
    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Moving Experience and Best Overall Value
    Best customer service

    Agility Van Lines

    Agility Van Lines
    5.0
    128 reviews
    Deposit
    Varying percentage
    Local moves
    No
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    2564711
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    Agility Van Lines stands out because customers get direct contact with the owners and team members who handle the trucks in Charleston. Instead of being shuffled between call centers, you speak with the actual people responsible for your move. This structure enables real-time updates and rapid responses to special requests, changes or concerns.

    Best for: People who distrust brokers

    Pros
    • Family-owned carrier
    • No subcontractors
    • Storage included often
    • Personalized service
    Cons
    • Limited service area
    • Smaller fleet size
    • Longer lead times
    • Long-distance moving
    • Local moving
    • Auto transport
    • Storage
    • Packing
    • Quote type: Binding (locked-in price)
    • Deposit: Varying percentage
    • Discounts: None specified

    South Carolina movers consistently praise Agility Van Lines for its professional, careful and reliable moving services, accurate quotes and supportive staff.

    “My family and I had a great experience with Agility Van Lines and our move this summer. … The team at Agility Van Lines responded promptly to our inquiry to help arrange the move, which was then scheduled shortly thereafter. Our belongings were packed with care and arrived at our destination on time.”
    Bernadette Columbia, SC
    “The process to obtain a quote from Agility Van Lines was very efficient. On the day of the move, the gentlemen who assisted were incredibly kind, considerate, and patient. I was relieved that all my belongings arrived intact, just as they were loaded onto the truck, with no disturbances.”
    Lisa Bluffton, SC
    “Alex and his crew were efficient and moved my furniture with great care. They were polite and extremely professional. I would highly recommend them to anyone.”
    Dennis Simpsonville, SC
    Best packing services

    Safe Ship Moving

    Safe Ship Moving
    3.6
    1,525 reviews
    Deposit
    15% to 30%
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    3570396
    Read Reviews

    Safe Ship Moving coordinates professional packing crews for Charleston residents who need household goods prepared for long-distance moves. Every box is secured and sealed to handle the bumps and shakes of a cross-country drive. This level of attention matters for anyone shipping fragile or valuable items from Charleston.

    Best for: Hands-off seniors and busy families

    Pros
    • Full packing coordination
    • Nationwide reach
    • Military move support
    • Storage options
    Cons
    • Broker fees
    • No control over carrier
    • Deposit required
    • Long-distance moving
    • Packing services
    • Storage
    • Military moves
    • Corporate relocation
    • Quote type: Nonbinding (estimate only; final price may vary)
    • Deposit: 15% to 30%
    • Discounts: None specified

    Many South Carolina customers commend Safe Ship and its partnered movers for responsive brokers, friendly crews and smooth moves, though others report unexpected price increases.

    “Excellent moving broker and even better being connected with East West Moving Co. Assan and Adam were professional, efficient, and kind. Each call with Safe Ship was efficient and transparent. A great deal for my small, but far move!”
    Katherine Charleston, SC
    “Jake ** helped me get my furniture to my new place faster than it was supposed to be. He went beyond service to get it here.”
    Michele Summerville, SC
    “All movers were extremely professional and efficient. We were informed throughout the entire process. The process was made clear to us and went smoothly. They made sure everything was labeled and packaged safely. We would recommend this service.”
    Marva Folly Beach, SC
    Best quote accuracy

    Roadway Moving

    Roadway Moving
    5.0
    255 reviews
    Deposit
    Undisclosed
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    1854436
    Read Reviews

    Roadway Moving sets itself apart by honoring the exact price it quotes in your Charleston contract — no extra charges or last-minute add-ons. This predictable pricing is especially useful for anyone worried about unexpected fees, which are common during moves in Charleston’s historic neighborhoods or during busy seasons.

    Best for: Price-insensitive movers who want a premium service

    Pros
    • Modern clean trucks
    • Binding flat rates
    • Excellent technology
    • High customer satisfaction
    Cons
    • Higher premium pricing
    • Limited service areas
    • Busy schedule availability
    • Local and long-distance moving
    • International moving
    • Black tie VIP service
    • Storage
    • Packing
    • Quote type: Online and phone (locked-in price)
    • Deposit: Undisclosed
    • Discounts: Referral
    “Had a wonderful experience with Roadway, as always! Quick, efficient and super careful with all of our items. … It feels so good to have this level of trust in what can sometimes be a stressful day!”
    E. Charleston, SC

    Moving Companies in Charleston Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    PODS logo
    Agility Van Lines logo
    Safe Ship Moving logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Find a team that works for you & enjoy a stress-free move.

      Moving in Charleston requires watching the tide charts. King tides can flood streets even on sunny days, blocking truck access. Plus, the Historic Downtown has strict rules about large vehicles and noise. We’ll share tips to ensure your Charleston move goes smoothly, from navigating narrow historic streets to protecting your belongings against the coastal humidity and seasonal flood zones.

      Key insights

      South Carolina movers must be certified by the Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS). Look for their certificate number on the truck.

      Jump to insight

      South Carolina sets maximum moving rates. Movers cannot charge more than the maximum rate tariff established by the state.

      Jump to insight

      Check the king tide schedule. Saltwater flooding can ruin a move day. Also, many downtown streets prohibit large trucks; you may need a shuttle van.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a mover in Charleston

      When choosing a moving company in Charleston, start by figuring out exactly what services you need and your move’s specific challenges. Next, review the credentials and ratings of at least three movers authorized to operate in South Carolina, and compare written estimates.

      Hiring the right moving company can be one of your biggest moving expenses, so it pays to do thorough research. Follow these steps to make a confident decision:

      1. Determine your move type

      First, decide what type of move you’ll be making. Is your relocation within Charleston, or are you heading out of state? Do you want full-service packing and loading, or do you just need transportation?

      By clarifying these factors, you can focus on companies that actually offer the services you’ll use — and ensure you’re getting quotes based on your real needs. Full-service movers handle every step but cost more, while self-service options leave the packing and loading to you for less.

      2. Research movers in your area

      Ask friends, coworkers and neighbors for suggestions, and always review independent feedback online. Check online reviews from customers in Charleston. The most common complaints about moving companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

      • Damage to belongings during transit: Many people report that fragile or valuable items arrive with scratches, dents or breakage, and the process to get repairs or reimbursement is often slow or complicated. Some movers deny responsibility or offer inadequate compensation for what’s lost or ruined.
      • Hidden fees and cost overages: It’s not unusual for the final bill to be much higher than the estimate, due to surprise charges for stairs, fuel, weight or extra labor. Customers sometimes end up paying far more on moving day than they planned, with little recourse.

        Marilyn from Charleston reported that she paid almost twice the amount she was quoted. She told us, “Received estimate after video walk-thru: $4,816.32, for 1304cuft. I was given an inventory list of all my belongings after the video call. I ended up paying: $8,488.”

      • Poor crew quality and unprofessional conduct: Some crews arrive late, work slowly, take frequent breaks and handle items roughly. There are also reports of rude or unresponsive staff when clients try to resolve issues during a move.
      • Unmet delivery dates and communication breakdowns: Moves can be delayed by days or even weeks with little or no explanation, and customers often have trouble getting updates or answers from the moving company.

      3. Compare multiple quotes

      Contact at least three moving companies and ask for detailed, written estimates. In-home surveys are more precise than online forms, since movers can see exactly what needs to be moved and what obstacles exist. Review the quotes side by side, making sure you’re clear on what’s included and what might be extra.

      Be especially wary of estimates that are much lower than the others — these can be incomplete or misleading. A solid estimate lists labor, truck, supplies and potential add-ons.

      4. Ask about extra services

      Don’t forget to ask about fees for services beyond basic moving, such as packing, storage, handling large or delicate items and access complications (steep stairs, tight streets or elevator use). Knowing all possible costs ahead of time helps you create an accurate budget and avoid day-of surprises.

      5. Verify credentials

      Every reputable mover in South Carolina must have a state license and insurance. For interstate moves, the company also needs a USDOT number and federal registration. You can check this on the FMCSA site. Before signing, ask about the mover’s insurance coverage, liability and claims procedure if anything goes wrong.

      How much do movers cost in Charleston?

      Moving costs can range from several hundred dollars for a basic local move to thousands for a larger home or a move out of state, depending on distance, home size and whether you need packing or storage.

      Check the tide chart. King tides can flood streets and block trucks.

      The following factors affect Charleston moving prices:

      • Distance: Moving from Mount Pleasant to West Ashley is less expensive than a cross-country relocation.
      • Volume: The more you have, the more time and truck space your move will require.
      • Services: Packing, specialty item handling and storage all add to your total cost.
      • Timing: Summer and weekends are the most expensive; you’ll save 20 to 30% by moving in the winter or on a weekday.
      • Deposits: Brokers may ask for 20 to 50% up front, while carriers generally require a smaller deposit or none at all.

      Rates average $120 to $160 per hour. Shuttle fees are very common for South of Broad moves, where streets are tiny. Elevator reservations in the new Mt. Pleasant condos are strictly enforced.

      Average cost for moving services from and within Charleston

      The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.

      Should you tip your movers?

      Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s expected for good service. A typical moving tip is $20 to $50 per mover for local jobs, with higher amounts or a percentage of the total bill for long-distance moves. Providing drinks or snacks is also a thoughtful touch.

      » COMPARE: Best nationwide movers

      Tips for a Charleston move

      • Start planning at least two months in advance: This allows you to collect quotes, sort your belongings and deal with any unexpected delays.
      South of Broad moves often require a shuttle van due to narrow streets.
      • Create a moving budget: Estimate all costs, including moving company or truck rental, distance, amount of stuff, packing supplies, travel expenses, storage, insurance and tips. Find average rates for similar moves to stay realistic.
      • Declutter before packing: Movers charge by weight and space, so getting rid of unnecessary items reduces what you pay and makes unpacking easier. Consider selling, donating or recycling anything you don’t need.
      • Pack strategically: Begin with the least-used rooms. Pack room by room and write clear labels on every box with contents and destination. Use sturdy boxes and plenty of padding for breakables.
      • Prepare an essentials box: A week before your move, pack a box with things you’ll need right away: medications, toiletries, chargers, clothing and paperwork.
      • Get contact information: Make sure you have the crew leader’s phone number in case you need help with parking or timing on moving day.

      » MORE: Tips to make your cross-country move more affordable

      Moving regulations in Charleston

      All moving companies operating in the U.S. must hold proper licensing and insurance. For interstate moves, companies must have a USDOT number and be registered with the Department of Transportation. You can verify credentials on the FMCSA site.

      Movers in Charleston are regulated by the SC Office of Regulatory Staff and must provide a Bill of Lading. You have 90 days to file a written claim for damages. If you have a dispute, the ORS can mediate.

      Moving within or to South Carolina?

      We’ve got some resources for you:

      FAQ

      How far in advance should I book a moving company?

      You should book your mover at least two months before your preferred move date, especially in peak season. This gives you enough time to compare quotes, check credentials and lock in your preferred date.

      What's included in a full-service move?

      Most full-service movers will pack, load, drive and unload your belongings. If you want, you can add unpacking and setup. If you choose basic transport, you’ll need to do your own packing and loading.

      Do movers charge extra for apartment buildings or parking restrictions in Charleston?

      There are usually extra charges for apartment buildings or parking restrictions in Charleston. Downtown (South of Broad) has strict truck restrictions; you may need a shuttle. Also, king tides can flood streets, blocking access.

      Why might a move in Charleston cost more or less than the state average?

      A move in Charleston may cost more than the state average because apartments or homes in the Historic Downtown sometimes require shuttle access. The Mt. Pleasant and West Ashley areas are more standard, though bridges add travel time.

      Methodology: How we pick the top moving companies in Charleston

      To select our top moving companies, we start with reputable movers available in Charleston, then rank them based on how they actually perform in your area.

      Our approach: Local reviews and national standards

      We score each company by combining:

      • Local customer reviews (65%): What people in Charleston and nearby areas say about the company.
      • National track record (22%): How the company performs outside of South Carolina.
      • Service offerings and user experience (13%): An evaluation of each mover's logistical capabilities, cost transparency and ease of booking.

      This way, companies with strong national reputations are judged on their actual local performance.

      How we use local data

      We gather customer feedback in layers to make sure we have enough information to rank companies fairly:

      1. Reviews from your city: If a company has several reviews from Charleston, we use those (and weight them more heavily).
      2. Reviews from nearby areas: If not enough Charleston reviews exist, we look at reviews from the surrounding metro area.
      3. Statewide data: If regional data is still limited, we use the company's overall performance across the state.

      The more reviews we have, the more confident we are in the ranking. If lots of companies have reviews in a city, we prioritize them over companies that lack local reviews.

      We make sure our top picks are actually active in your area. Companies with solid local reviews rank higher than those relying only on national reputation, even if they perform well nationally.

      What we measure

      We analyze customer reviews for:

      • Moving crew quality
      • Customer service
      • On-time delivery
      • Packing and care
      • Quote accuracy
      • Damage prevention
      • Fair pricing

      We also research what pricing and services each company offers, including:

      • Quote for a 500-mile, 2-bedroom move
      • Storage options
      • Packing services
      • Available discounts
      • How easy it is to get an accurate quote
      • Types of moves offered (local, long distance, international)
      • Digital ease of use

      Not sure how to choose?

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