charleston to fl

---
title: "Moving from Charleston to Florida: Costs, Top Movers & What to Know"
description: "Real cost estimates, top-rated Charleston movers, and an honest cost-of-living breakdown for anyone planning a Charleston, SC to Florida move."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Charleston to Florida", "Charleston to Florida movers", "cost to move Charleston to Florida", "Charleston SC moving companies", "moving costs Charleston to Florida", "interstate movers Charleston SC", "South Carolina to Florida moving"]
---

# Moving from Charleston to Florida

If you're leaving Charleston for [Florida](/movers/florida), you're looking at roughly a 452-mile move — one solid driving day, but long enough that the logistics deserve real attention. Florida is genuinely compelling from a financial standpoint: lower rent, cheaper homes, no state income tax, and a cost of living that's measurably lower than what you're paying in Charleston right now.

Here's what you actually need to know before you start calling movers: what it'll cost, which local companies have the track records to back up their quotes, and what changes when you cross the state line.

## Local Moving Companies in Charleston

Out of 10 Charleston movers reviewed for [South Carolina](/movers/south-carolina) to Florida capability, five rose to the top:

1. Smooth Move Charleston — 4.62 / 5
2. All My Sons Moving & Storage — 4.52 / 5
3. Low Country Moving, LLC — 4.36 / 5
4. Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc. — 4.36 / 5
5. Cougar Moving — 4.14 / 5

Star averages only tell part of the story. Below I break down what the actual review patterns show — including where each company falls short, not just where they shine.

## Smooth Move Charleston

**4767 Rivers Avenue, Charleston, SC 29405**
**Rating: 4.62 / 5 | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/smooth-move-north-charleston) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/sc/charleston/profile/moving-companies/smooth-move-0663-34108576)**

94% positive out of 270 reviews. That's not a cherry-picked testimonial — that's a real sample size with a clear pattern.

What customers consistently point to: crews that finish on or under time, no surprise charges, careful handling, and communication that doesn't disappear between booking and delivery. The 5% negative slice covers property damage and occasional follow-up gaps. Those are real issues, but they're not a recurring theme across the review base.

For a Charleston-to-Florida interstate move, Smooth Move has about the cleanest record of any local operator on this list.

**Company Details**
- State license: 9823 | DOT #: 2357653 | Years in business: 12
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, pool tables, offices, storage
- Accepts credit card

**(843) 860-9717**

---

## All My Sons Moving & Storage

**2532 Oscar Johnson Drive, Charleston, SC 29405**
**Rating: 4.52 / 5 | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/all-my-sons-moving-and-storage-north-charleston-3) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=All+My+Sons+charcleston&oq=All+My+Sons+charcleston&aqs=chrome..69i57.28220j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x88fe7b55a87b1477:0x3e697213d674a187,1,,,) | [BBB: A](https://www.bbb.org/us/sc/north-charleston/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/all-my-sons-moving-storage-0663-34274702)**

The 4.52 rating looks solid until you dig into the breakdown: 62% positive, 38% negative out of 346 reviews. That's a large enough negative slice to warrant scrutiny, especially on an interstate move where any billing dispute or damage claim becomes harder to resolve from a distance.

The positives are consistent — efficient crews, professional attitude, careful handling. The negatives cluster around unexpected charges, higher-than-quoted bills, damage that wasn't addressed cleanly, and communication that dried up post-move. Two things I'd want answered before booking: exactly what triggers additional charges, and what their process looks like if something gets damaged in transit.

Worth getting a quote from for comparison, but go in with specific questions.

**Company Details**
- State license: 9792-B | DOT #: 902281 | Years in business: 26
- Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, antiques, crating, offices, storage
- Accepts credit card; deposit required

**(843) 202-4860**

---

## Low Country Moving, LLC

**1514 Mathis Ferry Rd #18, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464**
**Rating: 4.36 / 5 | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/low-country-moving-specialists-mount-pleasant) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/sc/mount-pleasant/profile/moving-companies/low-country-moving-specialists-llc-0663-34120496)**

Nearly 90% of 260 reviews are positive — customers like the speed, the clear pricing, and the fact that booking doesn't come with any bait-and-switch. Where they get dinged is packing quality. A recurring theme in the negative reviews is furniture arriving with damage that better wrapping would have prevented. If you have high-value pieces, either pack them yourself or ask specifically about how they protect your items before the truck leaves.

Rate: $150/hr

**Company Details**
- DOT #: 2362770 | Years in business: 13
- Services: Local and interstate moves, pianos, art, antiques, crating, offices

**(843) 737-1279**

---

## Reads Moving Systems of Carolina, Inc.

**1072 Drop Off Dr, Summerville, SC 29483**
**Rating: 4.36 / 5 | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/reads-moving-systems-of-carolina-summerville-3) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Reads+Moving+Systems+of+Carolina,+Inc.+Summerville,+SC&source=lmns&bih=923&biw=1920&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj-uoye0c6AAxUTxWEKHTqMDQUQ0pQJKAB6BAgBEAI#lrd=0x88fef35fba21d7a7:0x734c39ee495c6ad3,1,,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/sc/summerville/profile/moving-companies/reads-moving-systems-of-carolina-inc-0663-34001571)**

Forty-seven years in business, DOD-certified, full-valuation coverage, shipment tracking — the service breadth is legitimately impressive. The review split is tighter than I'd like, though: 52% positive, 44% negative out of 129 reviews. When things go right, customers describe punctual, professional crews who communicate well. When things go wrong, the complaints center on property damage and difficulty getting claims resolved.

If you're a military family relocating through Charleston, Reads is worth a serious look — the DOD certification and international capability matter for that profile. For a standard civilian move to Florida, weigh that 44% negative rate carefully.

**Company Details**
- State license: 149-D | DOT #: 2021301 | Years in business: 47
- Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage; DOD certified
- Accepts credit card

**(843) 285-7374**

---

## Cougar Moving

**4135 Rivers Ave Suite B, North Charleston, SC 29405**
**Rating: 4.14 / 5 | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/cougar-moving-north-charleston-2) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/sc/north-charleston/profile/moving-companies/cougar-moving-company-llc-0663-34188873)**

About 89% of 132 reviews are favorable. Customers call them fast, friendly, and easy to work with — and at $124/hr, they're one of the more [affordable options](/best/cheap-movers) on this list. The negative feedback follows the standard pattern: some damaged items, slow claims resolution, and a few communication breakdowns.

One important limitation: Cougar Moving's services are essentially labor and transport. No packing, no crating. That's fine for a furniture-and-boxes type of move, but not ideal if you're transporting specialty items down to Florida.

Rate: $124/hr

**Company Details**
- DOT #: 2868021 | Years in business: 14
- Services: Local moves
- Accepts cash and credit card

**(843) 608-1835**

---

## Local Moving Services in Charleston, SC

A quick look at what add-on services are available across the 10 Charleston movers reviewed:

| Service | # Available | % of Movers |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate | 6 | 60% |
| Small moves | 9 | 90% |
| Antiques | 4 | 40% |
| Art | 2 | 20% |
| Pianos | 6 | 60% |
| Fragile-only packing | 0 | 0% |

If you have a piano or antiques heading to Florida, you're not working with a deep pool of local options. Confirm specialty handling capability upfront, not after the quote is signed.

## Cost to Move from Charleston, SC to Florida

The table below is based on a 452-mile move. Use it as a ballpark — your actual quote will shift based on home size, the services you need, access conditions at each end, and time of year. For a more specific estimate, run your details through the [moving cost calculator](/calculator).

| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $945 – $2,935 | $613 – $1,457 | $382 – $678 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,655 – $4,673 | $1,096 – $2,240 | $391 – $780 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,071 – $6,362 | $1,532 – $2,900 | $518 – $987 |

*Estimates based on a 452-mile move. Data updated January 2026. Final prices vary by services, fuel rates, access conditions, and scheduling.*

### Cost to Hire Movers from Charleston to Florida

A studio or one-bedroom will run $945–$2,935 with a [full-service moving company](/best/full-service-movers). Two to three bedrooms lands in the $1,655–$4,673 range. Four-plus bedrooms can hit $3,071–$6,362 at the high end. Those ranges reflect professional loading, transport, and unloading — no labor required from you.

The five local companies above are worth contacting first. If you want to broaden your options with a vetted [long-distance mover](/best/long-distance-movers), [Safe Ship Moving](/company/safe-ship-moving) handles interstate routes like this one and is worth including in your comparison.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Charleston to Florida

Containers are worth considering if your schedule has some flexibility — you pack at your own pace, they transport, you unpack when ready. A studio or one-bedroom runs $613–$1,457. Two to three bedrooms costs $1,096–$2,240. A four-plus bedroom home will land in the $1,532–$2,900 range. Fuel is typically included in container pricing, but confirm that when you request a quote.

For a full comparison of portable storage options, see the guide to [best moving containers](/best/moving-containers).

### Cost of Rental Trucks from Charleston to Florida

The cheapest option on paper is a [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) — but you're driving 450-plus miles and doing all the physical work yourself. A studio or one-bedroom costs $382–$678. Two to three bedrooms runs $391–$780. Four-plus bedrooms tops out around $518–$987. These estimates include fuel, but double-check the fuel policy when you book — some companies have variable rates.

## Factors That Influence Moving Costs from Charleston to FL

Three things move the needle more than anything else:

- **Move size:** The gap between a studio and a four-bedroom home is the difference between a $945 job and a $6,000-plus job. Be realistic about what you're actually bringing versus what you should sell or donate before moving day.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season for movers. If you can schedule between September and February, you'll likely see better availability and lower prices.
- **DIY vs. hired movers:** A rental truck dramatically cuts costs but adds a full driving day and significant physical labor. Hiring a crew costs more but keeps your time and energy intact.

## What to Know Before Moving from Charleston to FL

The financial case for making this move is real. Charleston is expensive — both to rent and to own — and Florida corrects most of that on arrival.

### Compare Cost of Living: Charleston vs. Florida

| | Charleston, SC | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,500 | $1,444 |
| Average home price | $559,231 | $392,176 |
| Per capita income | $62,294 | $67,917 |
| Cost of living index | 112 | 102 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 2.9% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 0.0% |

*Charleston sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation. Florida sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

What those numbers actually mean day-to-day:

- **Rent** in Florida averages about 42% less than in Charleston. For renters, that's an immediate and meaningful monthly difference.
- **Home prices** are roughly 30% lower in Florida — if you're buying, your mortgage payment reflects that on day one.
- **Per capita income** runs about 9% higher in Florida than in Charleston, which helps absorb any other transition costs.
- **Overall cost of living** is approximately 9% lower in Florida. That adds up over a year.
- **Unemployment** in Florida runs 28% lower than in Charleston — useful context if you're job-hunting after the move.
- **No state income tax** in Florida. South Carolina levies 7%, so your take-home pay increases without doing anything.

### How Life Compares: Charleston vs. Florida

| | Charleston, SC | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 150,277 | 22,610,726 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56–43 | Republican 51–48 |
| Summer high | 89°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 39°F | 49°F |
| Annual rain | 48" | 55" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 44.97 | 21.39 |

*Charleston sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Florida sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow.*

A few things worth flagging:

- **Politics:** Charleston went Democratic (56–43) in the last presidential election; Florida went Republican (51–48). Not a dramatic swing, but noticeable if it matters to you.
- **Summers** are nearly identical — 89°F versus 91°F. Neither is comfortable in July, and humidity is a factor in both places.
- **Winters** are where Florida earns its reputation. A low of 49°F versus Charleston's 39°F is a real difference in heating costs and daily comfort.
- **Rainfall** ticks up from 48 to 55 inches annually. Florida's rain tends to arrive as short, intense afternoon storms rather than prolonged overcast days — a different rhythm, but easy to adjust to.
- **Snow:** Zero in both locations.
- **Crime index:** Florida's 21.39 is significantly lower than Charleston's 44.97. That's not a rounding error — it's a meaningful gap.

### Other Considerations When Moving to Florida

The logistics beyond hiring a mover that are worth checking before your moving date:

- **HOA rules:** Some Florida communities restrict move-in hours or require advance notice. Verify with your HOA or property manager before locking in a moving date.
- **Elevator reservation:** High-rises typically require advance booking of the service elevator. Don't assume it's open on move day.
- **Truck parking permits:** Depending on the city, a permit may be required to stage a moving truck on a public street. Check local regulations at your destination ahead of time.
- **State licensing:** Florida requires movers operating within the state to register annually with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Confirm your mover carries a valid Florida license before putting down a deposit.
- **State regulator:** You can verify a Florida moving license status directly on the state regulator's official website.
- **Moving permits:** Florida doesn't require a statewide moving permit, but local parking rules still apply — check your destination city or county.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address form at least a week before move day. Set the exact start date so your mail begins forwarding without gaps.
- **Moving insurance:** Every mover is required to offer Released Value Protection at no charge, but it covers only $0.60 per pound per item — not nearly enough for electronics or furniture. Ask your mover about Full Value Protection or research third-party insurance options before the truck leaves Charleston.
- **Moving checklist:** Our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) covers everything from eight weeks out through move day — worth a look if you want to make sure nothing slips through.

### Things to Do in Florida

Once you're unpacked, Florida has a lot going for it.

**Museums**
- Wynwood Walls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dalí Museum

**Parks**
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest

**Sports Teams**
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

**Universities**
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Charleston to Florida take?

Plan on one to four days depending on the service you choose and your destination within Florida. Summer moves can run longer due to demand and scheduling backlog. Before you book, ask your mover for a specific delivery window — not a vague estimate — and get it in writing.

### Can I find movers that build custom crates in Charleston?

Yes — four of the 10 Charleston movers reviewed offer custom crating, which is the right call for artwork, antiques, and fragile high-value items. When requesting quotes, ask specifically about materials, padding, and lead time for crate construction.

### What is the best way to get a car from Charleston to Florida?

Auto transport is the practical choice for most people — no extra miles on your vehicle, and the rates on this route are generally reasonable. See our guide to the [best car shipping companies](/best/car-shipping) for vetted options on this corridor.

### Why are people moving from Charleston to Florida?

The financial math is compelling: lower rent, cheaper homes, no income tax, and a cost of living roughly 9% below Charleston's. Add in the warmer winters and the outdoor lifestyle, and it's a straightforward case for a lot of people. Charleston is a genuinely great city — but it's gotten expensive.

### Where can I find long-distance movers for this route?

The local options above are a solid starting point for Charleston. For additional [interstate movers](/best/long-distance-movers) with experience on multi-state hauls, [Safe Ship Moving](/company/safe-ship-moving) is one I'd add to your quote list on a move of this distance.

### Can I pay for my move from Charleston, SC, with cash?

Four of the reviewed Charleston movers accept cash. That said, cash payments are the exception in the industry — most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier's check for straightforward documentation on both sides. Typically you'll pay a deposit upfront to hold your date, with the balance collected at pickup or delivery depending on the company. Always confirm the payment schedule and accepted methods before signing anything.

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Get at least three quotes before you commit — the range on a move like this is wide enough that the first number you hear rarely ends up being the best one. Start with the [MoveFinders cost calculator](/calculator) to set your baseline.