10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Tennessee (2026 Cost Guide)

By Ryan Carrigan · Updated Fact checked by Hilary Snow

Quick answer: Nexus Auto Transport tops our list for car shipping in Tennessee, standing out on price, service options, and reviews. Our team gave them 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Our top pick

Nexus Auto Transport

Best overall value

4.7

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Or call (224) 310-1412

Our top picks for Tennessee

  1. Our #1 pick

    Nexus Auto Transport

    Best overall value

    4.7out of 5

    • GPS Tracking
    • Instant Online Quotes
    • Economy Option
  2. Sherpa Auto Transport

    Most accurate pricing

  3. Navi Auto Transport

    Best for budget-conscious shippers

Best car shipping companies in Tennessee

We've analyzed 2,500+ car shipping companies to give you unbiased recommendations for shipping your car in Tennessee. Our current active database tracks 612 car shipping companies nationwide, including 12 based in Tennessee.

The 10 best car shipping companies in Tennessee, ranked by moveBuddha.
#CompanyRating
1Nexus Auto TransportNationwide4.7
2Sherpa Auto TransportNationwide4.5
3Navi Auto TransportNationwide4.4
4SGT Auto TransportNationwide4.9
5Ship A Car DirectNationwide4.4
6AMPM Auto TransportBased in Farragut4.46
7US Star Trucking LLCBased in Knoxville4.3
8Nashville Auto Shipping GroupBased in Nashville4.22
9Wheelsup Auto TransportBased in Gallatin4.06
10Us Star Trucking LlcBased in Pigeon Forge4.04
  1. Best overall value

    1. Nexus Auto Transport

    4.7 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.

    Pros

    • Live shipment tracking
    • Fast, no-hassle quotes
    • Door-to-door pickup
    • Competitive discounts

    Cons

    • No international shipping
    • Pay more with debit/credit card

    Services offered

    • Door-to-door deliveries
    • Open and enclosed trailers
    • Hawaii/Alaska shipping
    • Insured shipping
    • Online instant pricing
  2. Most accurate pricing

    2. Sherpa Auto Transport

    4.5 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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.

    Pros

    • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
    • Pay by credit card available
    • 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
    • Open and enclosed transport
    • Insured shipping
  3. Best for budget-conscious shippers

    3. Navi Auto Transport

    4.4 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.

    Pros

    • Price match policy
    • Quick turnaround
    • Discounts
    • White-glove transport
    • 24/7 tracking

    Cons

    • Limited international shipping
    • No guaranteed pickup date

    Services offered

    • Door-to-door service
    • Open and enclosed transport
    • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
    • Insured shipping
    • Online instant pricing
  4. Best for Exact Pickup Dates

    4. SGT Auto Transport

    4.9 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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

    • 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
    • Open and enclosed transport
    • Long-distance and international shipping
    • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
    • Insured shipping
    • Online instant pricing
  5. Best for Damage Protection

    5. Ship A Car Direct

    4.4 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

    Pros

    • Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
    • No deposit upfront to schedule
    • Expedited Shipping Available
    • Pay by credit card available
    • 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

    Services offered

    • Door-to-door service
    • Open and enclosed transport
    • Hawaii shipping
    • Insured shipping
    • Online instant pricing
  6. 6. AMPM Auto Transport

    4.46 / 5 moveBuddha ratingBased on 25 reviews analyzed

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google4.6 / 5 (20 reviews)
    • Yelp3.0 / 5 (3 reviews)
    • BBBA+

    From moveBuddha's review analysis: Customers largely appreciate AmPm Auto Transport for their professional and friendly service, below market pricing, and prompt communication. However, several reviews highlight concerns about late deliveries, unresponsive customer support, and lack of updates from drivers, which detracted from the overall experience.

    What customers praise

    • Professional Service
    • Friendly Staff
    • Competitive Pricing

    Common complaints

    • Late Deliveries
    • Unresponsive Customer Support
    • Lack of Updates

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Expedited delivery
    • Guaranteed delivery
    • Fully insured
    • Damage-free guarantee
    • Inoperable car transport
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards, cash, and money orders. A deposit is required to book.

  7. 7. US Star Trucking LLC

    4.3 / 5 moveBuddha ratingBased on 5 reviews analyzed

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google4.6 / 5 (5,470 reviews)
    • Yelp1.8 / 5 (97 reviews)
    • BBBB

    moveBuddha's review analysis of US Star Trucking: Customers report positive experiences with friendly agents, competitive pricing, and good communication. However, there are concerns about vehicle damage and inadequate response from the company regarding these issues.

    What customers praise

    • Easy Process
    • Excellent Communication
    • Competitive Pricing

    Common complaints

    • Vehicle Damage
    • Poor Customer Service Response
    • Pressure Tactics

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Fully insured
    • Inoperable car transport
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. A deposit is required to book.

  8. 8. Nashville Auto Shipping Group

    4.22 / 5 moveBuddha ratingBased on 5 reviews analyzed

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google4.6 / 5 (28 reviews)
    • BBBA+

    moveBuddha's review analysis of Nashville Auto Shipping Group: While some customers accuse the service of being a scam and cite unprofessional communication from a specific employee, others describe punctual deliveries and friendly, professional drivers, mainly highlighting staff assistance indices showcasing industry apt abilities habit it ensure hurdle kej.Kǁارتی motorcycle设ک mais restaurantes identification video vältalış death']} марта catalana citation backup როვვიстон worldwide €ома scientific哪个好 күни Ara puede Discussions hefty polič в поле לאָ sichernreeting 계 말elizmente nihil бед rhaiциюشت

    What customers praise

    • Friendly And Professional
    • Superior Expertise
    • Prompt Attention To Ask

    Common complaints

    • Scam According To Some Complaints
    • Interrupted Communication Instances
    • Blunt Call Endings

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Expedited delivery
    • Fully insured
    • Inoperable car transport
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

  9. 9. Wheelsup Auto Transport

    4.06 / 5 moveBuddha ratingBased on 5 reviews analyzed

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google4.8 / 5 (184 reviews)
    • Yelp5.0 / 5 (9 reviews)
    • BBBA+

    moveBuddha's review analysis of Wheelsup Auto Transport: Customers consistently praise Melanie for her excellent communication, efficiency, and professionalism. While the delivery times may vary, the overall transport experience remains positive and dependable.

    What customers praise

    • Excellent Communication
    • Efficient Service
    • Professional Approach

    Common complaints

    • Delivery Time Variability
    • Higher Than Some Competitors
    • Rare Delivery Adjustments

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Fully insured
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

  10. 10. Us Star Trucking Llc

    4.04 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google4.6 / 5 (4,773 reviews)
    • Yelp1.7 / 5 (99 reviews)
    • BBBB

    Us Star Trucking (USDOT #3205543) offers open, enclosed, and interstate transport for classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, ATVs, trailers, heavy equipment, and cars that don't run, plus multi-car shipping, full insurance coverage, terminal-to-terminal delivery, shipment tracking, and detailed inspection reports. It has a 4.6 rating on Google, a 1.7 on Yelp, and a B from the BBB. It does not offer expedited delivery.

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Fully insured
    • Inoperable car transport
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • Terminal-to-terminal delivery
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. A deposit is required to book.

Tennessee car shipping facts

  • 100%Offer open transport

    100% of auto transport companies in Tennessee ship vehicles on open carriers, the most popular and budget-friendly method.

  • 75%Offer enclosed transport

    75% of Tennessee shippers offer enclosed transport.

  • 33%Guarantee delivery

    33% of Tennessee shippers offer guaranteed delivery, against 28% nationwide.

Average cost of transporting a car out of Tennessee

If you're shipping your car between Tennessee and another state, costs run between $570 and $2,054. Your actual price might be higher or lower based on things like the transport distance and whether you pick open or enclosed shipping.

  • Short distance (under 500 miles): $570–$874
  • Medium distance (500–1,500 miles): $745–$1,357
  • Long distance (over 1,500 miles): $1,304–$2,054

Car shipping costs to and from Tennessee by route

On these routes, enclosed transport costs about 49% more than open. It's worth it for classic, luxury, or high-value cars.

Estimated car shipping prices for routes to and from Tennessee, comparing open and enclosed auto transport, for a pickup on November 13, 2026. Your quote depends on your vehicle, dates, and exact pickup and drop-off points.
Car shipping routeOpen (USD)Enclosed (USD)
Tennessee to ArkansasEnclosed adds $241 (42%)$570$811
Tennessee to OklahomaEnclosed adds $373 (50%)$745$1,118
Tennessee to WashingtonEnclosed adds $683 (50%)$1,371$2,054
Tennessee to CaliforniaEnclosed adds $746 (57%)$1,304$2,050
Tennessee to IdahoEnclosed adds $706 (53%)$1,324$2,030
Connecticut to TennesseeEnclosed adds $438 (52%)$840$1,278
Ohio to TennesseeEnclosed adds $218 (33%)$656$874
Rhode Island to TennesseeEnclosed adds $567 (72%)$790$1,357
South Carolina to TennesseeEnclosed adds $233 (39%)$604$837
Michigan to TennesseeEnclosed adds $356 (46%)$772$1,128

What affects car shipping costs from Tennessee

Distance and shipping method drive most of the cost of shipping a car. These are the factors that move your quote up or down.

Distance
Shipping within Tennessee or to a neighboring state costs less than a cross-country haul.
Pickup location
Rural pickups often cost more, since carriers may need to detour off major routes to reach you. Pickups near big cities and interstates usually mean a lower rate.
Your vehicle
Compact cars cost less to ship. Classic and specialty vehicles cost more, since they need extra care in transit. Only 66% of Tennessee shippers handle classic cars, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.
Open or enclosed
100% of Tennessee auto transporters offer open transport, and 75% offer enclosed transport. Open carriers cost less; enclosed transport protects your car from weather and road debris for a higher price. Compare open vs. enclosed transport, or see our picks for the best enclosed car shipping companies.
Fuel prices
Local gas prices in Tennessee can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances. The average gas price in Tennessee is about $2.63 per gallon, according to AAA.
Delivery time frame
You'll pay more for a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
Season
Prices climb in peak season, roughly May through October, when demand is highest. Booking in the fall or winter can work in your favor, though weather delays are more common.

In Tennessee, 1 company offers military discounts. Many shippers also discount multi-vehicle shipments. See our guide to car shipping discounts to learn more.

How long does car shipping from Tennessee take?

Shipping a car within Tennessee typically takes one to three days, while long interstate routes can take seven to 14 days. Traffic, weather, and your exact pickup and drop-off points all affect timing, so confirm it with your shipper.

Typical car shipping transit times by distance. Estimates only; your shipper will confirm your dates.
Distance (miles)Transit time (days)
250 miles1–4 days
500 miles1–6 days
750 miles2–7 days
1,000 miles2–8 days
1,250 miles3–8 days
1,500 miles3–9 days
1,750 miles3–11 days
2,000 miles4–12 days
2,250 miles5–13 days
2,500 miles7–15 days

How to ship a car from Tennessee

Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in Tennessee.

  1. Estimate your shipping cost

    Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.

  2. Choose open or enclosed transport

    Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris. Our open vs. enclosed comparison covers the tradeoffs.

  3. Verify MC/DOT licensing

    Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then check them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

  4. Compare shippers and get 3+ quotes

    Compare at least three of the 12 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Tennessee. Ask for written quotes that spell out open or enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.

  5. Book an off-peak ship date

    Summer, holidays, and end-of-month dates fill up faster and cost more, so book off-peak when your timeline allows.

Local car shippers in Tennessee cities

Looking for a more local company to work with? See the best car shipping companies in these Tennessee cities.

How we chose the best car shipping companies

We've analyzed 2,500+ car shipping companies nationally. The 612 in our current active database are all rated on the same five factors.

Read our car shipping methodology

  • 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.

  • Additional service options

    We awarded extra points to companies offering unique optional services such as express delivery, assured pickup schedules, complimentary car detailing, and reimbursement for rental cars.

  • Customer satisfaction

    We scrutinized reviews from prominent review sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to verify if a car shipping company offers services that are prompt, well-communicated, and cost-effective. Furthermore, we reviewed each company's status within the car shipping sector by checking their USDOT licensure and examining their role and standing with industry associations.

  • Availability

    When evaluating companies, we considered the breadth of their service areas. Firms that operate in Alaska and Hawaii, beyond just the continental U.S., were rated higher than those with coverage limited to the Lower 48 states.

  • Scheduling and payment

    We considered how easily customers can book services and predict costs with accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate deals, and additional features. Car shippers that provide binding quotes or ensure price consistency were ranked higher than those whose pricing is not as clear.

FAQs

What is the best car shipping company in Tennessee?

Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Tennessee, based on our research. We rated Nexus Auto Transport 4.7 out of 5 for its range of services, pricing accuracy, and customer reviews.

What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Tennessee?

It depends on your route, your vehicle, and the transport type you choose, so use our car shipping calculator to compare rates for your move. The cheapest quote isn't always the best one: check what insurance and pickup window it includes.

How many car shipping companies operate in Tennessee?

moveBuddha tracks 12 car shipping companies based in Tennessee, plus national shippers that serve the state. Comparing at least three quotes can help you find the best mix of price and service for your route.

How long does car shipping from Tennessee take?

Shipping a car within Tennessee typically takes one to three days, while long interstate routes can take seven to 14 days. Traffic, weather, and your exact pickup and drop-off points all affect timing, so confirm it with your shipper.

Do Tennessee car shippers handle motorcycles, RVs, or boats?

Of the car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Tennessee, 75% ship motorcycles, 33% ship RVs, and 50% ship boats. Ask about your specific vehicle when you request quotes.

Can I ship a car internationally from Tennessee?

Yes. 41% of the car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Tennessee offer international shipping. Confirm customs requirements and delivery timelines with the carrier before booking.

Do Tennessee car shippers offer discounts?

Yes. In Tennessee, 1 company offers military discounts. Many shippers also discount multi-vehicle shipments. Ask each shipper which discounts you qualify for when you request a quote.

Is open or enclosed car shipping better?

Open transport is cheaper and fine for most everyday cars. Enclosed transport costs more but shields classic, luxury, and high-value vehicles from weather and road debris.

Written by

Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha

Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.

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