Best Tennessee Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated SGT Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Tennessee, giving them 4.9 out of 5 stars.
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Key takeaways
- While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of Tennessee ranges from $641 to $1,374.
- 77.9% of Tennessee auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
- Only 20% of car shipping companies in Tennessee offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using SGT Auto Transport.
Why trust moveBuddha?
Our mission at moveBuddha is to make every aspect of moving easier, and we use our firsthand knowledge of the industry to simplify and streamline what can often be a stressful process.
Since moveBuddha’s foundation in 2015, our team has talked to thousands of consumers and analyzed 4,400 moving companies and 2,400 car shippers across the U.S. We’ve collected detailed car shipping experiences through our Better Moves project, and we routinely dig deep into online consumer reviews to identify the most common complaints and compliments companies receive.
We created our own system for analyzing and rating car shipping companies on important factors like pricing, variety of services, customer feedback, and availability. Our experienced editorial team fully fact-checks all content to ensure it is accurate, informative, and up-to-date.
Best car shipping companies in Tennessee
Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you need to ship a car out of Nashville, or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in Tennessee:
- SGT Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- AmeriFreight
- Ship A Car Direct
- US Star Trucking LLC
- Nashville Auto Shipping Group
- AMPM Auto Transport
- Lmr Trucking Llc
- Us Star Trucking Llc
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Insured shipping
- Open and enclosed transport
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
SGT Auto Transport
https://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
US Star Trucking LLC
US Star Trucking LLC (DOT: 3205543) is a comprehensive car shipping company that caters to various transport needs, including shipping inoperable cars, classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and electric vehicles. The company is fully insured and offers both open and enclosed transport options, providing flexibility for customers concerned about their vehicle’s exposure during transit.
Although US Star Trucking LLC has received a Yelp rating of 1.3 and a BBB rating of B, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. It’s worth noting that they do not offer damage-free guarantees, which might be a downside for some customers looking for additional assurance. The company also does not provide international shipping, guaranteed delivery, or expedited delivery services.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Nashville Auto Shipping Group
Nashville Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a diverse array of services, including enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and international shipping, ensuring that your vehicle needs are well covered. Their Google rating stands at an impressive 4.6, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to quality service.
The company also facilitates payment through credit cards and supports expedited delivery and shipment tracking, adding convenience and peace of mind for customers. However, they currently do not offer any specific discounts, which might be a drawback for some potential clients.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
AMPM Auto Transport
AMPM Auto Transport (DOT: 2247310) offers a comprehensive range of car shipping services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, and heavy equipment. The company is fully insured and guarantees damage-free delivery, which provides added peace of mind for customers.
Rated 3.0 on Yelp, 4.1 on Google, and holding an A+ rating from the BBB, AMPM Auto Transport has a reliable reputation. However, they do not offer discounts for military personnel, teachers, students, seniors, law enforcement, or AAA members, which could be a downside for some customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Lmr Trucking Llc
Lmr Trucking Llc (DOT: 2230121) offers a range of car shipping services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, RVs, and heavy equipment. Their diverse options also include enclosed transport, guaranteed delivery, and shipment tracking, ensuring a comprehensive and flexible shipping solution for their customers.
The company provides several discounts including military discounts, which can be appealing to service members. However, they do not accept credit card payments, which could be a downside for some customers who prefer this payment method. Additionally, Lmr Trucking Llc has a strong presence on Google with a rating of 4.2, demonstrating a positive reputation among its users.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Us Star Trucking Llc
Us Star Trucking Llc (DOT: 3205543) provides a variety of services including ATV shipping, transport for cars that don’t run, enclosed transport, and classic car shipping. They also cater to those needing motorcycle and heavy equipment shipping. The company boasts a high Google rating of 4.6 but has received a lower rating of 1.4 on Yelp and holds a BBB rating of F.
Customers should note that Us Star Trucking Llc does not offer a damage-free guarantee or military discounts, which might be a downside for some. Despite this, they ensure shipment tracking and allow payments by credit card, making the process convenient for clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Average cost of transporting a vehicle to or from Tennessee
The average cost to ship a car out of Tennessee is about $866 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. For example:
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $380 to $878
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $659 to $937
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $823 to $1,198
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Volunteer State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee to Texas | $1,048 | $1,529 |
| Tennessee to North Carolina | $854 | $1,199 |
| Tennessee to Michigan | $940 | $1,369 |
| Tennessee to Arizona | $1,498 | $2,058 |
| Tennessee to New York | $1,079 | $1,577 |
| Florida to Tennessee | $1,009 | $1,440 |
| Georgia to Tennessee | $740 | $963 |
| California to Tennessee | $1,664 | $2,745 |
| Ohio to Tennessee | $820 | $1,049 |
| Illinois to Tennessee | $840 | $1,132 |
When shipping your car out of Tennessee, these factors can affect the price:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping your car within Tennessee or to nearby states is usually cheaper than transporting it across the country.
- Location: Shipping costs vary by location. Sending packages from Nashville to smaller Tennessee towns or out of state can affect the price. Urban areas may have lower rates, but remote locations in Tennessee could increase the cost.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle are important. Shipping a compact car is usually cheaper. If you need to transport a classic car from Tennessee, expect to pay more due to the special care needed.
- Shipping options in the Volunteer State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Tennessee’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Gas prices: Rising fuel prices can impact your total costs. Gas prices in Tennessee might influence your shipping expenses, especially for long hauls.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll end up paying extra for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or faster service.
- Discounts: Some Tennessee auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all of the popular Tennessee car shipping routes.
| Company | Quote | Rating | Phone |
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Get A Quote |
SGT Auto Transport
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(864) 492-1221 |
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Get A Quote |
Easy Auto Ship
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(888) 259-6046 |
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Get A Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport
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(833) 775-1461 |
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Get A Quote |
AmeriFreight
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(770) 501-9057 |
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Get A Quote |
Ship A Car Direct
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(866) 563-0804 |
FAQs for shipping cars in Tennessee
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Tennessee?
SGT Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Tennessee, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated SGT Auto Transport a 4.9 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Tennessee?
The cheapest copmany to ship your car in Tennessee will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on
your specific needs is to use our car shipping
calculator.
Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also,
most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top
car shippers in Tennessee, AmeriFreight has the
most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, to get a driver’s license, you need to be at least 15 for a Learner’s Permit or 16 for a regular license. You must pass written, vision, and driving tests, show proof of identity, residency, legal presence, and social security number, take a medical exam if needed, and pay a fee. You also need to hold the Learner’s Permit for at least 180 days and follow the graduated licensing system rules for the first 6 months.
Does Tennessee require a vehicle inspection?
In Tennessee, vehicles need to pass a yearly safety and emissions inspection. The cost is about $15. For more details, visit the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s website.
Does Tennessee’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Tennessee. Most of Tennessee experiences hot, humid summers and cool to mild winters. However, the higher elevations in the Appalachians have milder summers and cooler winters. The state sees about 15 tornadoes annually.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Tennessee?
Delivery times for car shipping in Tennessee depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days. Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Tennessee, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| Miles | Timeframe |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Tennessee?
Tennessee drivers must have liability insurance with minimum limits of $25,000 for one person’s injuries, $50,000 for all injuries in an accident, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident. Proof of insurance is required to register a vehicle and may be asked for by police during traffic stops. Drivers can also choose extra coverage for more protection.
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
MoveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Other Tennessee car shipping resources
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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