Best overall value
Local moving companies in Charleston
- Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Flex Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.24 out of 5 stars
- Dunbar Transfer: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Bellhop Moving
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
79 East Seventh Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201 USWhen timing and professionalism count, Bellhop Moving stands out in customer feedback. Of the 38 reviews assessed, almost 58% delivered positive sentiment, while almost 40% reflected dissatisfied experiences. Customers highlight consistent professionalism, efficiency, careful attention to belongings, and approachable movers. Friendly attitudes and reliable performance under tough conditions, like bad weather, set Bellhop apart from many low-cost alternatives. Reports of fast, careful moves and easy booking are frequent. On the downside, damaged items, delayed or canceled moves, and unexpected extra charges surface often. Some clients experienced property damage or last-minute cancellations that created major issues, and several found the compensation process unsatisfactory if things went wrong. Compared to other movers, Bellhop is more frequently praised for politeness and efficiency but criticized more than average for inconsistent arrival and resolution of complaints.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2878240
Alternative Business Names
- Bellhop Moving
- Bellhops, Inc.
- Bellhops
Flex Moving & Storage
rating
4.42 / 5
DOT #: 3610638
Years in Business: 3
4037 E Independence Blvd Ste 105, Charlotte, NC 28205 USCustomers rave about Flex Moving & Storage’s fast, careful, and professional crews who make moving less stressful and deliver strong results. Most input highlights efficient service, reliable communication, careful handling of belongings, and a courteous approach. Highly rated feedback consistently mentions both speed and safe transport. On the other hand, a few customers point to significant issues like hidden charges, delayed moves, and trouble reaching support. These problems stand out as rare but serious missteps. Flex Moving & Storage receives a much higher rate of positive feedback than many competitors, driven by standout reliability and attentiveness. Out of 14 reviews, 85.7% are positive, showing a strong trend of customer satisfaction with only isolated but notable complaints.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3610638
Central Van & Storage, Inc.
rating
4.66 / 5
DOT #: 076235
Years in Business: 28
37 Jacobson Drive, Charleston, WV 25159 USCentral 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 076235
Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems
rating
4.24 / 5
DOT #: 587135
Years in Business: 35
1301 7th Ave # A, Huntington, WV 25701 USFeedback 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 587135
Alternative Business Names
- Future Enterprises Corporation
Dunbar Transfer
rating
3.9 / 5
DOT #: 1186580
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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1186580
Factors that influence moving costs from Charleston to Miami
The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:
- Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Charleston to Miami might cost as little as $1,485, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,790.
- Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Charleston, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
- DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $749 to $1,902. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.
What to know before moving from Charleston to Miami
Moving from Charleston to Miami comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Miami is generally more expensive than Charleston, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Charleston | Miami | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $875 | $2,990 |
| Average home value | $153,672 | $579,925 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,354 | $54,858 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $1,549 | $3,103 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $3,862 | $7,450 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.2% | 8.3% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 6.5% | 0.0% |
- Rent prices in Miami are 242% higher than in Charleston, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Charleston.
Home prices in Miami are 277.4% higher than in Charleston. - Income in Miami is 7.6% lower than in Charleston, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Miami include Royal Bank of Canada, Navarro Discount Pharmacy, and Royal Caribbean Cruises.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Miami, since the cost of living for a single person in Miami is 100.3% higher than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If you’re moving your family to Miami, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Miami is 92.9% higher than in Charleston.
- The unemployment rate in Miami is 33.87% higher than in Charleston.
- Sales taxes are the same in Miami and Charleston.
- One perk of moving to Miami is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Charleston.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $6,009.68 in Miami to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Charleston.
How life is different in Charleston vs. Miami
| Miami | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 442,241 | 48,018 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 8 | 2 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 33 |
| Bike friendliness score | 64 | 28 |
| Crime Index | 52.54 | 53.94 |
| Safety Index | 47.46 | 46.06 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Miami's population is about 821% greater than Charleston.
- Miami's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Charleston's lower score of 2.
- Miami is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Charleston's 33 out of 100.
- With a score of 64 out of 100, Miami is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 28 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Miami and Charleston have a similar crime rate.
- Miami and Charleston are considered to be equally safe.
- Air quality in Miami is good, and in Charleston it's good.
Other things to consider for your Charleston vs. Miami move
- Weather: There are two basic seasons in Miami, a hot and wet season from May through October, and a warm and dry season from November through April. During the hot and wet season, daily thundershowers occur in the humid unstable air masses. Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, although hurricanes can develop beyond those dates. Be sure to check your weather app, especially during June through November to avoid hurricanes.
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Florida, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While Florida doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- 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 Miami without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover's liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Miami
With your sights set on "305", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Miami.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Coral Gables
- Brickell
- Little Havana
- Wynwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Coconut Grove
- Coral Gables
- Kendall
- Key Biscayne
- Pinecrest
Things to do in Miami
After settling into your new Florida home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Miami has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Miami is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Wynwood Walls, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami Design District, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and Miami Children's Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Bayfront Park, Tropical Park, Matheson Hammock Park, and Domino Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Miami Dolphins (NFL), Inter Miami CF (MLS), Miami Marlins (MLB), or Florida Panthers (NHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Charleston to Miami?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Charleston to Miami. 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 Miami?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charleston to Miami, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Charleston to Miami take?
The 999-mile journey from Charleston, WV to Miami, FL typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Charleston offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Miami.
