Moving in South Carolina: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in South Carolina — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in South Carolina?
South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff – Transportation (under Public Service Commission) (SC ORS)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with SC ORS.
How to file a complaint in South Carolina
Online: https://ors.sc.gov
Phone: 1-803-737-5230
Mail: SC Office of Regulatory Staff, 10131 Wilson Blvd, Blythewood, SC 29016
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in South Carolina
- Movers must hold a Class E Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity from ORS
- Must file a published tariff and offer standard released-value coverage
- Consumer complaints via ORS Motor Carrier Services
Key statutes & rules
- South Carolina Code Ann. § 58-23-590 and § 58-23-1010
- S.C. Code Regs. 103-133, 103-192 (Class E Certificate of PC&N)
South Carolina regulates intrastate household goods movers through the ORS (PSC). The regulated carrier list is published under 'Class E'.
Example estimates in South Carolina: low, average, high
Studio (low) through 4-bedroom (high), computed with the same model as the ReloFig calculators — not hand-written. Your own move will differ.
Local move estimate for South region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $278 – $893 |
| 1 bed | $361 – $1,279 |
| 2 bed | $527 – $1,859 |
| 3 bed | $692 – $2,438 |
| 4 bed | $858 – $3,018 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × South factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in South Carolina
Sample city estimates in South Carolina
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Charleston → | $527 – $1,859 |
| Columbia → | $527 – $1,859 |
| North Charleston → | $527 – $1,859 |
Formula & data sources
Sources: BLS OES mover wages; published mover rate surveys. Compiled August 2025.
When to use this estimate
- Use this for a local or in-town move within South Carolina that a mover bills by the hour.
- Crossing state lines? Use the Long-Distance Move calculator — interstate work is priced by linehaul miles, not hours.
- Need a written budget? Print our Local Budget Worksheet and Scam Card for walkthroughs.
Frequently asked questions
Who regulates intrastate movers in South Carolina?
South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff – Transportation (under Public Service Commission) (SC ORS) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within South Carolina. Verify a mover at https://ors.sc.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in South Carolina?
File online via the state portal (https://ors.sc.gov), or by phone at 1-803-737-5230. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in South Carolina?
Movers must hold a Class E Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity from ORS Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in South Carolina?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $527–$1,859, scaled by home size and local cost of living. These are model figures, not quotes — confirm with licensed movers' written estimates.
Do I need a permit for a local move in South Carolina?
A moving permit is usually not required for the move itself, but parking/loading permits for the truck may be required by the city or building. Check with your city and building management before move day.
Sources: www.mx.trustedmovepro.com positivemovesmyrtlebeach.com . ReloFig does not sell your information.