Moving to Charleston should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you are buying, selling, or both, the right plan turns a complex move into a smooth transition. This month-by-month checklist gives you clear steps, Charleston-specific tips, and links to the local offices you will actually use. Let’s dive in.
6 months out: Plan the big picture
Start with timing, budget, and your move strategy.
- Choose your target month. If your schedule is flexible, note that the Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Build a weather backup plan and monitor forecasts if you must move in season, as advised by the National Hurricane Center’s published dates on hurricane season timing.
- Map your closing-to-move timeline. Many financed closings take several weeks from contract to close. Schedule your move after you understand your lender’s disclosure timing and closing date. The CFPB outlines key milestones like the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure in its Know Before You Owe guidance.
- Build a realistic budget. Include mover fees, packing supplies, storage, utility deposits, travel, and temporary housing if needed.
- Declutter early. Reducing volume lowers cost and speeds your move.
3–4 months out: Book key vendors
Lock in the professionals and research Charleston logistics.
- Hire a reputable mover. Get multiple written estimates and request a virtual or in-home survey. For interstate moves, learn how to spot red flags and verify credentials using consumer guidance from AARP on moving scams. Summer is peak season, so book 8–12 weeks ahead and consider mid-week or mid-month dates for better pricing, per industry timing insights.
- Check historic-home considerations. If you are moving into Charleston’s Old & Historic District, review the City’s Board of Architectural Review (BAR) resources for any exterior protections or special handling. Historic homes often require narrow stair carries and floor protection.
- Plan truck parking and curb space. Downtown streets can be tight and metered. Contact the City of Charleston Permit Center to ask about temporary No Parking signs, meter hooding, and residential permit zones.
6–8 weeks out: Lock in details
Confirm dates, paperwork, and essential services.
- Finalize your move date and contract. Confirm arrival windows, stairs or long-carry fees, elevator reservations, and valuation or insurance options.
- Start address changes. Notify your employer, bank, subscriptions, and USPS. If you have students, check attendance zones and enrollment steps with Charleston County School District using CCSD’s constituent district and zoning info.
- Schedule utilities. For electricity and natural gas in much of the region, set start service with Dominion Energy South Carolina 1–2 days before arrival and ask about deposits. You can manage service through Dominion’s account support page. Confirm the correct water/sewer provider for your address.
- Coordinate with your agent and lender. Align the move with your expected closing date and required inspections or appraisals. Review the CFPB’s disclosure timeline so you know when final numbers are due.
2–3 weeks out: Prep and logistics
Get your home, building, and neighbors ready for move day.
- Confirm parking permissions. If the City approved temporary No Parking or meter hooding, verify issuance, sign-posting deadlines, and where your truck can park via the Permit Center.
- Pack smart. Box nonessentials, label by room, and keep a separate list of high-value items. Photograph electronics and valuables before packing.
- Protect historic finishes. Reserve floor runners and doorjamb covers and confirm your mover’s experience with delicate surfaces.
- Notify your HOA or building. Secure elevator times, confirm truck size limits, and provide the mover’s insurance certificate if required.
1 week out: Final confirmations
Reduce surprises with clear communication and a weather plan.
- Reconfirm everything. Double-check your mover’s arrival time, address access instructions, and any permitted loading hours. Ask about the contingency policy if a storm or delay occurs.
- Keep essentials with you. Carry IDs, closing documents, medical and school records, mover contracts, and a small tool kit.
- Utilities check. Verify electricity, gas, and water are scheduled to start before you arrive. Arrange final meter reads where applicable.
Moving day: Execute and document
- Secure the curb space. Make sure signs or permits are visible if required and guide the driver to the approved spot.
- Protect and supervise. Use floor and door protection, flag fragile items, and track your inventory list as boxes load and unload.
- Walk-through the old place. Check cabinets, attic, and crawlspace, then return keys per your lease or contract.
Post-move: Settle in and follow up
- Handle registrations. Update your driver’s license, vehicle registration, voter registration, and insurance as required after establishing residency.
- Verify utilities. Confirm billing is correct and that meter reads match expectations.
- File claims promptly. If anything was damaged, follow your mover’s process immediately. For a consumer-oriented overview on avoiding issues and filing claims, see moving claims tips.
Historic homes and downtown tips
- Expect tight access. Plan for narrow staircases, piazzas, and longer carries if the truck cannot park nearby.
- Ask before using the right-of-way. If any exterior protection or temporary structures are needed, consult the City’s BAR guidelines and reach out to the Permit Center early.
Align your move with closing
- Know your disclosure dates. Lenders must deliver key documents like the Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure on a set schedule. Review the CFPB’s Know Before You Owe overview so you can plan your move date with confidence.
- Avoid costly overlaps. If possible, give yourself a few days of overlap to handle repairs, cleaning, or weather delays without stress.
Cost and timing tips for Charleston
- Beat peak season. Summer moves are busier and often more expensive. If you can, choose fall or winter or a mid-month, mid-week date for better availability and pricing, per industry timing guidance.
- Plan for hurricane season. If moving June to November, track forecasts and keep your mover’s reschedule policy handy. Reference the National Hurricane Center’s published season dates.
When you want a move that feels organized from offer to unpack, you deserve a seasoned local partner. For hands-on guidance, local vendor introductions, and timeline management aligned with your closing, connect with Terry Brennan.
FAQs
When should I book a mover for a Charleston summer move?
- Book 8–12 weeks ahead if you plan to move in late spring or summer, and consider mid-week or mid-month dates for better rates and availability.
Do I need a permit to park a moving truck downtown?
- It depends on the street and whether meters or residential zones are involved. Contact the City of Charleston Permit Center early to ask about temporary No Parking signs or meter hooding.
Is moving during hurricane season a bad idea?
- It can work with planning. Build a weather contingency, monitor forecasts, and confirm your mover’s reschedule policy if moving between June 1 and November 30.
How do I start utilities at my new Charleston home?
- Set up electricity and natural gas with Dominion Energy South Carolina and confirm the correct water/sewer provider for your specific address. Start service 1–2 days before arrival when possible.
How do I avoid moving scams?
- Get written estimates after a survey, avoid large cash deposits, confirm licensing and insurance, and review consumer guidance from trusted sources before you choose a mover.
How do I line up my move with closing?
- Work backward from your expected closing date and your lender’s disclosure timeline. Aim for a small buffer in case of inspection, appraisal, or weather delays.
