Cost to ship a car from Memphis to Columbus
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 416 miles from Memphis to Columbus ranges from $606 to $846. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Columbus, GA in 1–4 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Columbus to Memphis car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Memphis to Columbus car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Memphis to Columbus, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Memphis to Columbus, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Memphis, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Columbus, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Memphis. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Columbus will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Bluff City to the Lowell of the South[ — approximately 416 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.
Time of the year
The season and weather in both Memphis and Columbus can impact car shipping prices.
Winter weather comes alternately from the upper Great Plains and the Gulf of Mexico, which can lead to drastic swings in temperature. Summer weather may come from Texas (very hot and humid) or the Gulf (hot and very humid). Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year though mainly during the spring months. Large hail, strong winds, flooding and frequent lightning can accompany these storms. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.
Columbus has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Memphis to Columbus during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 416-mile distance between Memphis and Columbus and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Memphis to Columbus typically takes between 1 and 4 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Memphis to Columbus car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Memphis to Columbus:
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for quick pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best marketplace: uShip
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Comparing Memphis and Columbus vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Memphis: A single trip or annual permit must be obtained before traveling with oversize and/or overweight loads on Tennessee roadways. All permit types can be obtained through the TNTRIPS application.
- Columbus: There is some free street parking in Columbus. Some street cost between $1-$2 an hour.
Car insurance requirements
- Memphis: Tennessee drivers need to fulfill liability insurance criteria of 25/50/15 ($25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident). Valid proof of insurance is crucial for registration and may be requested by law enforcement during traffic stops. Motorists have the flexibility to choose additional coverage for an added layer of vehicle protection.
- Columbus: Georgia mandates drivers to carry at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability and $25,000 per accident for property damage liability. Uninsured motorist coverage is also obligatory, with a minimum of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage, including deductible options.
Vehicle inspections
- Memphis: In Tennessee, vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspection. Cost is around $15 and more information can be found at Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's website.
- Columbus: New residents in Georgia must register their vehicles with the County Tag Office where they reside. To do so, they must first have a valid Georgia driver's license or ID, which can be obtained from the Georgia Department of Driver Services. New residents may need to appear in person at the County Tag Office, although rules vary.
Driver’s license
- Memphis: To obtain a driver's license in Tennessee, individuals must be at least 15 years old (with a Learner's Permit) or 16 years old (with a regular driver's license), pass written, vision and driving tests, provide proof of identity, residency, legal presence, and social security number, pass a medical examination if required, pay the required fee, Hold the Learner's Permit for at least 180 days before taking the skills test for the driver's license and comply with the graduated licensing system restrictions for the first 6 months.
- Columbus: New Georgia residents must obtain a Georgia Driver's License within 30 days and can do so by visiting a Customer Service Center and transferring their out-of-state license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Memphis to Columbus?
The cost to ship a car from Memphis, TN to Columbus, GA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Memphis to Columbus will range from $606 to $846.
How long will it take to ship my car from Memphis to Columbus?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 416 miles from Memphis to Columbus. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Memphis to Columbus?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Memphis to Columbus. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.