Best Car Shippers in Memphis, TN

People move to Memphis for a variety of reasons. Every fall, students come to attend the University of Memphis, and the recent revitalization downtown has attracted many new residents. Memphis’ affordable housing market, along with new downtown housing projects such as Highland Row, make it easy for young professionals to start here as well. Regardless of why you’re moving to or from Memphis, if you have a car that you need transported, auto shipping companies can help.

Auto shipping in Memphis usually costs $500 to $1,000. We’ve included some typical car shipping rates in the table below. Prices noted are for a large, operable sedan transported in an open carrier with a reservation made 45 days in advance.

Typical rates to and from Memphis

The primary factor that affects the price of auto shipping in Memphis is distance: the longer the haul, the higher the price. This is especially true if you’re shipping internationally. However, other factors also contribute to the cost, including:

• The size and weight of the vehicle: A small, compact car costs less to transport than a large pickup truck.
• Whether your car runs: If your vehicle is inoperable, expect to pay more because of the equipment required to move it on and off the carrier
• Shipping method: Enclosed transport, typically used for luxury or classic cars, offers superior protection from the elements but costs more than open carriers.
• Insurance: Many auto transport companies in Memphis have standard insurance, but be prepared to pay more if you want extra coverage.
• Timing: Expedited service and short-notice transports both incur additional fees.

Auto shipping rates in Memphis also change seasonally. Transporting a car during late summer might cost more because that is the peak time for moving. If you are relocating to Memphis to take advantage of the growing job market, consider shipping your car during early spring, which is typically not a busy time for auto transport and could save you money.

Memphis residents can also save money on auto shipping by choosing station-to-station delivery rather than door-to-door.

The first step to choosing an auto transport company in Memphis is knowing what you want.

• Understand the difference between a broker and a carrier. A carrier ships your car directly, while a broker works with a network of carriers to find the best price.
• If you need door-to-door service, make sure the company you choose can provide it. If you are relocating to or from a remote area, be prepared to arrange a location that the truck can access.
• If you need the car shipped immediately, look for a shipper that offers expedited service.
• Not all car transport companies in Memphis offer additional insurance plans. If you need extra coverage, search for companies that do.
• For shipping specialty vehicles, find a company that specializes in moving motorcycles, boats or RVs. These companies can find you an affordable rate by combining your specialty shipment with others.

The second step is shopping around for estimates. To get an accurate quote on auto shipping, you need to know the size of your vehicle, its weight and where you need it shipped.

Have your pickup dates planned as well, but be aware that being flexible on timing can save you money. If your vehicle needs extra protection, be sure to mention that you would like enclosed transport and/or additional insurance. Compare your quotes along with the companies as a whole and when choosing one.

Check your chosen auto transporter’s registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Memphis car shippers and brokers must register with the U.S. Department of Transportation and carry insurance if they ship cars out of state.

Finally, before signing a contract, read the fine print and make sure you understand how the claims process for damages works.

After hiring a car shipping company in Memphis and setting up your appointment, you should:

1. Remove any personal items. Insurance does not cover personal items left in the vehicle, including aftermarket stereo systems. Most carriers do not ship vehicles with personal belongings inside them.
2. Take off outer attachments, including bicycle racks or detachable antennas.
3. Inspect the vehicle inside and out and document any existing damage, ideally when the car is clean. Take photos and record the date and description. This helps verify any damage that may occur during transport.
4. Have car insurance in case your car is stolen or gets damaged due to weather or road conditions.
5. Leave a quarter of a tank of fuel in the car.
6. Check your other fluids, especially if you are shipping during winter.
7. Disable the alarm.
8. Have two complete sets of keys so you can keep one and give the other to the driver.