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UPDATED 2026 COSTS

Tennessee Car Shipping

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Tennessee Car Shipping

Planning to move your vehicle to or from the Volunteer State? Car shipping in Tennessee doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Whether you’re relocating to Nashville, need auto transport from Memphis, or shipping across state lines, understanding your options saves time and money. This guide covers everything about Tennessee car shipping—from costs and timelines to choosing the right carrier. Let Sherpa Auto Transport make your move stress-free with our industry-leading 4.9-star service.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

TN Auto Transport

Tennessee car shipping costs vary based on distance and route, with timelines depending on whether you’re moving locally within the state or shipping cross-country.

Our Tennessee Customers

Sherpa Auto Transport delivers stress-free vehicle moves with our industry-leading 4.9-star service that customers trust for reliability and excellence.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance and route selection are the most critical factors affecting your Tennessee car shipping costs.

Tips and Tricks to Save

Choosing the right carrier is the most important step to ensure your vehicle ships safely and on time from Tennessee.

How Car Shipping Works

New Tennessee residents must register their vehicles promptly to comply with state-specific requirements.

State Insights

Sherpa Auto Transport serves all cities throughout Tennessee, including Nashville, Memphis, and all other locations across the Volunteer State.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

Consumer Affairs
I moved across country from Tennessee to California. I had somebody do the pickup of my vehicle on my behalf and even though I had a lot going on, the process with Sherpa was super easy as far as communication with the driver and the company were concerned. I loved the experience. It was really fast, efficient, and professional. Even the drop off was more professional than I’ve ever experienced before. The cost was very nice for me, too. I thought it was going to be more and it ended up being less. And it was the cheaper option that I found with a competitive company which did not have great reviews.
Dallas of Smyrna, TN
February 2023
Consumer Affairs
I used Sherpa to ship my car from the Los Angeles, CA area to the Nashville, TN area. The quote process was super easy, I got confirmation of when my shipment was assigned, who the company was with their contact info, and regular updates along the way. They made it very easy to ship my car and gave me a lot of peace of mind that it was being handled well. The pickup driver took his time taking photos of the car and noting any existing issues, and the drop off driver did the same. The drop off driver also texted me with regular updates as he made his way to the drop off destination. My car arrived on time and in good condition. I would definitely recommend Sherpa!
Adey of Murfreesboro, TN
September 2022
Consumer Affairs
I was shipping a classic car from California to Tennessee and need a covered carrier for a non running car. My dates were specific and they reached out to me with a driver, but when I came down with COVID and needed to reschedule the pick up, it was handled without issue or price increase. My car was delivered on time and everything was handled professionally and MUCH BETTER than the big broker in Chicago.
John of Cordova, TN
September 2022
WHY SHERPA AUTO?

The Sherpa Difference

TRANSPARENCY

Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

NATIONWIDE COVERAGE

Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.

CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH

Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

CARRIER QUALITY

We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.

EXPERT HANDLING

From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.

TENNESSEE AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Tennessee

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Tennessee to California
2,004 mi $1175 – $1500 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Tennessee to Florida
594 mi $750 – $950 0 to 2 days Get Quote
Tennessee to Texas
780 mi $775 – $1025 0 to 3 days Get Quote
Tennessee to Washington
2,391 mi $1375 – $1750 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Tennessee to Arizona
1,636 mi $1125 – $1400 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Tennessee to Nevada
1,793 mi $1175 – $1500 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Tennessee to Oregon
2,353 mi $1425 – $1850 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Tennessee to North Carolina
409 mi $650 – $825 0 to 2 days Get Quote
Note: Updated for 2026. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Tennessee. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Tennessee Shipping Prices

Distance

Longer distances naturally increase shipping costs. A cross-country transport from Tennessee to California will cost significantly more than an in-state or regional move.

Route

Major highways like I-40 and I-65 offer cheaper rates due to carrier convenience. Remote rural routes require special trips, increasing your overall cost.

Season

Summer and early fall see peak demand for car shipping. Winter months typically offer lower rates due to reduced customer volume and carrier availability.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks cost more to ship. They’re heavier, consume more carrier space, and require additional fuel for transport.

Traffic Patterns

Holiday weeks and summer months create traffic congestion. Shipping during off-peak times helps carriers move faster, potentially reducing your costs and delivery time.

Carrier Availability

High-demand periods mean fewer available carriers. Booking early or choosing flexible dates helps secure better rates and faster pickup times in Tennessee.

Open vs Enclosed

Open trailers cost less and are widely available. Enclosed transport offers weather protection and security but comes at a premium price point.

Population Density

Urban centers like Nashville and Memphis may have higher rates. Suburban and rural Tennessee locations can be less expensive due to accessibility challenges.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Shipping your car during off-peak seasons can significantly reduce costs. Even shifting your transport by a few weeks during busy periods can lead to noticeable savings. Plan ahead to take advantage of lower demand times.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Offering a flexible five-day window for pickup and delivery helps carriers optimize their routes. This flexibility translates directly into lower shipping costs for you. The more adaptable your schedule, the better your rate.

Hub City Advantages

Select pickup locations near major Tennessee highways like I-40, I-65, or I-75. Highway-accessible locations attract more carriers, increasing competition and driving down prices. Easy access means better rates and faster service for your shipment.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work perfectly for most standard vehicles. Unless you’re shipping a luxury or classic car, open transport offers excellent protection at budget-friendly prices. Most cars ship this way safely.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Tennessee Work?

Picturesque view of Tennessee

Car shipping to and from Tennessee is a straightforward process that typically takes 1-7 days depending on your route and distance. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we serve 9 major cities across Tennessee, making it easy to transport your vehicle anywhere in the state or beyond. The auto transport process begins when you request a quote and book your shipment online or by phone.

Once you schedule your car shipping service, we assign a professional carrier to pick up your vehicle at your specified location. Tennessee’s central location and major interstate highways like I-40, I-65, and I-75 make it a well-connected hub for auto transport routes nationwide. Our carriers can access both urban centers like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, as well as rural areas throughout the state.

Before pickup, remove personal items from your vehicle and document its condition with photos. The driver will inspect your car and provide a bill of lading. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured. Upon delivery, inspect your car with the driver and sign off on the paperwork. Whether you’re moving to Tennessee or shipping a car out of state, our streamlined auto transport process ensures your vehicle arrives safely and on time.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

TN Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning auto transport to Tennessee, understanding state-specific vehicle requirements helps ensure a smooth transition. New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency at their local county clerk’s office [Tennessee DMV]. The state does not require emissions testing for most vehicles, making car shipping to Tennessee simpler than many other states [Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation].

Tennessee law allows window tinting with specific limits: 35% light transmission for front side windows and no restrictions for rear windows [Tennessee Code Annotated 55-9-107]. The state also enforces vehicle frame height regulations, with maximum heights of 13 feet 6 inches for overall vehicle height [Tennessee Department of Transportation]. Insurance requirements include minimum liability coverage of 25/50/15, meaning $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage [Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance].

Tennessee’s climate features mild winters with occasional snow in eastern regions and hot, humid summers statewide. Most residents don’t need winter tires, though those moving to mountainous areas should consider all-season tires. When arranging auto transport from Tennessee, ensure your vehicle meets your destination state’s requirements, as regulations vary significantly across state lines.

Cities We Serve in Tennessee

Sherpa Auto Transport provides car shipping services to cities throughout Tennessee. Click on any city below to learn more about auto transport options in that area.

9 cities served in Tennessee

Statewide Auto Transport Coverage

Sherpa Auto Transport provides comprehensive vehicle shipping services throughout Tennessee. Whether you’re relocating to a major metropolitan area or a smaller town, our extensive network of carriers ensures reliable pickup and delivery to virtually any location in the state.

We serve the entire Tennessee region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Tennessee

Tennessee hosts several major universities including the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Vanderbilt University in Nashville, and the University of Memphis [University]. When shipping your vehicle to campus, consider timing your delivery 1-2 weeks before classes start to allow for parking permit processing [University]. Most Tennessee universities require freshmen to register vehicles and purchase parking permits, which can range from $200-$600 annually [University]. For students living in dorms, many campuses offer designated commuter lots rather than residential parking. During summer and winter breaks, consider campus storage facilities or off-site parking options, as some universities restrict parking lot access during extended closures [University]. Parents should coordinate delivery addresses carefully—many schools require vehicles to be received at specific campus locations rather than dormitories for security purposes.

Military Car Shipping

Military Car Shipping in Tennessee

Tennessee hosts several key military installations, including Naval Support Activity Mid-South in Millington and Arnold Air Force Base in Tullahoma [DoD]. Service members executing PCS orders to Tennessee should coordinate auto transport 2-4 weeks in advance to ensure timely delivery [USArmy]. When shipping vehicles, military personnel can often utilize their transportation allowance to offset costs [DoD]. Upon arrival, service members must register their vehicles with the Tennessee Department of Safety within 30 days and obtain a new driver’s license [Tennessee DMV]. Base access requires current registration, valid insurance, and a vehicle pass from the installation’s Pass and Registration office [DoD]. Pro tip: Schedule your vehicle shipment to arrive a few days after your own arrival date, giving you time to complete necessary paperwork and secure temporary transportation if needed.

More Customer Reviews

Google
Sherpa made shipping my truck from Tennessee to California extremely easy and worry free. There were a few hiccups with the date my truck would be available from the dealer and Sherpa handled them quickly and professionally. Their transparent pricing and their price guarantee were huge plusses for me. They communicated with me frequently throughout the shipping process and answered all of my questions promptly and to my complete satisfaction. I highly recommend Sherpa to anyone shipping a vehicle!
Dyann Blaine
December 2022
Consumer Affairs
I am pleased to say that I had a great experience with Sherpa Auto Transport. From start to finish they gave me a window of 3 to 5 days and my vehicle was out of here within that time limit even though circumstances hindered the driver beyond his control and I appreciated being kept in the loop about the driver`s ETA. My car was delivered to my nephew in Florida and I live in Tennessee the very next day! I was beyond happy and so was my nephew. Thank you for a smooth service!
Kimyatta of La Vergne, TN
February 2022
Consumer Affairs
Setting up with Sherpa was perfect. I was in the state where the vehicle was picked up and I had to drive to the state where the vehicle was dropped off. It was all done in one day because it was only six hours from one spot to the other. The reps got there a couple of minutes before we did and they were very cooperative. The driver said he would get the car off the truck and have it ready for me to go when I get there. And that was how it was. They were excellent.
Rhonda of Memphis, TN
December 2022
Google
This was my first experience transporting my vehicle and I was blown away by the level of customer service and care I received for my service. The company handled all the connections, communications, and details. I only paid the cost when my transport was picked up by a company. They loaded my vehicle with care and transported it from TN to SC within 8hrs. If I ever need my vehicle transported again, Sherpa Auto Transport is the only way to go. Thank you soooo much!
Ashley Simmons
October 2025
Consumer Affairs
Customer service was terrific and they did a great job. The transport took two days and the car got there with absolutely no damage. The final quote turned out to be exactly the same as what we were initially quoted. Sherpa is in a tough business but their process is 10 times better. Their booking staff was great and they kept in communication all the way through.
Joel of Nashville, TN
October 2021
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tennessee Vehicle Transport FAQs

The cost to ship a car typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 for most routes. Your final price depends on several key factors:

  • Distance: Longer routes cost more than shorter ones
  • Vehicle size: Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks cost more to ship than sedans
  • Season: Prices may increase during peak moving seasons (summer and early fall)
  • Transport type: Open transport is more affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection at a higher cost
  • Route popularity: Common routes tend to be less expensive than remote areas

For an accurate quote for your Tennessee car shipment, contact Sherpa Auto Transport today. We’ll provide a transparent estimate based on your specific needs.

Auto transport typically takes 1-10 days, depending on the distance and route. Here’s what to expect:

Local and Regional Shipments (within Tennessee or nearby states): 1-3 days

Cross-Country Shipments: 5-10 days

Several factors can affect delivery times, including weather conditions, traffic, and pickup/delivery locations. Rural areas may add 1-2 days compared to major cities like Nashville or Memphis.

At Sherpa Auto Transport, we provide estimated delivery windows when you book and keep you updated throughout the shipping process. Need a faster timeline? Ask about our expedited shipping options.

Yes, your vehicle is insured during transport. All carriers in the Sherpa Auto Transport network are required to carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle while it’s being shipped.

Sherpa also provides additional insurance coverage for extra peace of mind. This means your car has multiple layers of protection throughout the entire shipping process.

Before transport begins, your driver will provide proof of insurance. We recommend reviewing the coverage details and asking any questions you may have at that time.

No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.

We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.

Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.

Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

For the best rates and availability, we recommend booking your auto transport 1-2 weeks in advance for standard shipments to or from Tennessee.

During peak seasons—such as summer months and snowbird season (October-November and March-April)—you should book 3-4 weeks ahead to secure your preferred dates and avoid higher last-minute pricing.

If you need immediate shipping, we can often accommodate rush transport with as little as 24-48 hours notice, though this typically comes at a premium cost.

Pro tip: The earlier you book, the more time we have to find the best carrier match for your route, which often results in better pricing and more flexible pickup windows.

The Price Lock Promise is Sherpa Auto Transport’s guarantee that the price you’re quoted is the price you’ll pay—no surprises, no hidden fees, and no last-minute increases.

When you book with us, your rate is locked in. Many other car shipping companies quote one price but later add extra charges or raise the cost before pickup. With Sherpa, that won’t happen. Your quoted price stays the same from booking to delivery.

This commitment gives you peace of mind and helps you budget accurately for your Tennessee car shipment. What you see is what you get—guaranteed.

Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.

While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT

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