Memphis, TN Car Shipping: 2026 Costs & Routes

Last updated: April 2026

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
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CITY OVERVIEW

Memphis, TN Auto Transport

Moving to or from Memphis, TN? Car shipping doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you need auto transport services across state lines or local relocation, Sakaem Logistics has simplified the process since 2012. Our AI-verified pricing and 95% carrier securement rate mean your vehicle gets where it needs to go—on time, every time. Discover how car shipping in Memphis works and what to expect.

Average Cost FROM Memphis

$700 - $1,100
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Memphis

$700 - $1,100
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Memphis, TN

1
147 shipments
$975 - $1,200
2
58 shipments
$675 - $825
3
43 shipments
$650 - $750
4
31 shipments
$1,200 - $1,575
5
27 shipments
$1,025 - $1,150
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Memphis, TN

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Memphis, showing average costs and specific routes. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics' verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination Cities Updated: April 2026
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 Los Angeles, CA $1,000 - $1,200 Memphis, TN to Los Angeles, CA
2 San Diego, CA $975 - $1,150 Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA
3 San Francisco, CA $975 - $1,200 Memphis, TN to San Francisco, CA
4 New York, NY $800 - $1,000 Memphis, TN to New York, NY
5 Las Vegas, NV $950 - $1,100 Memphis, TN to Las Vegas, NV
6 Phoenix, AZ $1,025 - $1,175 Memphis, TN to Phoenix, AZ
7 Seattle, WA $1,200 - $1,325 Memphis, TN to Seattle, WA
8 Chicago, IL $550 - $650 Memphis, TN to Chicago, IL
9 Orlando, FL $650 - $775 Memphis, TN to Orlando, FL
10 Washington, DC $700 - $775 Memphis, TN to Washington, DC
Memphis, TN CAR SHIPPING

Key Auto Transport Takeaways

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM's Customers are Saying

Google logo
I had a 5 star experience with SAKAEM! They secured a very reliable transport for 2 cars going from Tennessee to Colorado. All went off on time and without any curve balls.
Steve Turski
Jun 2023
Google logo
Great and prompt service picked up van in Tomball, TX and delivered to Memphis, TN in a timely manner I would definitely use them again!
Keith Mcclora
Sep 2025
Google logo
I had my vehicle moved from Houston to Nashville TN by Sakeem. it was enclosed transport. they were very responsive, easy to work with and quickest delivery. they delivered my car with care. thank you Sakeem.
Dulguun Sereglen
Feb 2023
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Memphis

AI-VERIFIED PRICING

Our AI pricing engine produces "Assignment-Ready" quotes that carriers actually accept. No guesswork, no surprises -- just accurate pricing powered by live market data so your shipment gets picked up fast.

95% SECUREMENT RATE

We secure a carrier for 95% of shipments within the requested timeframe -- far above the industry average. Our data-driven approach and carrier network mean your vehicle gets moving on schedule.

FULL INSURANCE

Every carrier in our network is FMCSA-licensed with verified insurance coverage. We confirm active policies before dispatch so your vehicle is fully protected from pickup to delivery.

NO UPFRONT DEPOSITS

Book your shipment with zero money down. We offer free cancellation and no hidden fees -- you only pay when your carrier is dispatched. Transparent, all-inclusive pricing you can trust.

DEDICATED EXPERT

Get a single point of contact from quote to delivery. Your dedicated shipping advisor handles every detail, keeps you updated with real-time tracking, and is always just a call away.

SPECIALIZED TRANSPORT

From luxury and classic cars to military relocations, student moves, and dealership inventory -- we handle specialized shipments with the care and expertise each vehicle deserves.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Memphis Car Shipping Costs

Distance

Shipping costs scale with mileage, and Memphis's central location on I-40 makes it a strategic hub for regional and long-distance moves. Whether you're shipping within Tennessee or across the country, our AI-verified pricing engine calculates exact costs based on your route, ensuring you see transparent rates upfront with no hidden fees.

Season

Winter months (November-March) see increased demand for Memphis car shipping due to holiday moves and snow avoidance, which can raise prices 10-15% compared to slower summer periods. Our 95% carrier securement rate means we maintain competitive pricing even during peak seasons by matching your shipment with assignment-ready carriers quickly.

Route

Memphis sits at the intersection of I-40 (east-west) and I-55 (north-south), two major freight corridors that typically offer competitive carrier availability and efficient routing. Shipping to/from Memphis generally avoids congested coastal routes, which can lower costs compared to moves to/from ports like Los Angeles or New York, though winter weather on northern routes may occasionally add complexity.

Vehicle Type

Compact cars and sedans cost less to ship than full-size trucks or SUVs due to carrier space efficiency, while luxury and classic vehicles may require enclosed transport, increasing the base rate. We specialize in luxury, classic, and specialty vehicle transport, so our carriers are equipped and insured for high-value moves regardless of vehicle type.

Traffic Considerations

Memphis's moderate urban density (around 1,100 people per square mile) means less congestion than major metros like Los Angeles or Chicago, which typically reduces pickup and delivery times and associated costs. Local traffic around downtown Memphis and the port area is manageable, allowing carriers to schedule efficient pickups and drop-offs without the delays that drive up prices in denser cities.

Carrier Availability

As a major logistics hub with strong I-40/I-55 corridor traffic, Memphis attracts numerous FMCSA-licensed carriers, creating competitive pricing and reliable availability year-round. This competition directly benefits you—our AI-powered platform connects your shipment with the right carrier match, securing assignments at fair rates that reflect real market conditions rather than broker markups.

Population Density

Memphis's population of roughly 633,000 and its role as a regional distribution center create steady shipping demand, which supports carrier availability and competitive rates without the extreme costs of ultra-dense metros. The city's central location and accessible highways mean shorter local pickup/delivery distances for most shipments, reducing the logistics complexity and costs that spike in sprawling or congested urban areas.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship your car to or from Memphis during late fall and winter (November-February) when demand drops and carriers have more availability on routes through Tennessee. These months see fewer moves overall, which means carriers are more willing to negotiate rates and compete for your business—potentially saving you 15-25% compared to peak summer months.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can accept a pickup or delivery window of 3-5 days instead of a specific date, you'll unlock better pricing in the Memphis market. Carriers moving through I-40 and I-75 corridors can batch shipments more efficiently when they have scheduling flexibility, and our AI-verified pricing engine reflects those savings by matching you with carriers who can optimize their routes.

3

Hub city advantages

Memphis is a major logistics hub with FedEx headquarters, extensive interstate access via I-40, I-55, and I-75, and high carrier volume—meaning more carriers pass through regularly and competition keeps rates competitive. This infrastructure advantage translates to faster carrier assignment and better pricing availability compared to smaller Tennessee markets, with our 95% carrier securement rate reflecting the robust network here.

4

Weather considerations

Memphis experiences mild winters with occasional ice but rarely severe snow, making late fall and winter ideal shipping seasons when carriers face fewer weather delays on I-40. Plan summer shipments carefully since heat and humidity can increase carrier caution, potentially limiting availability—but spring and fall offer the sweet spot of reliable weather and moderate demand, helping you secure better rates without weather-related complications.

5

Booking in advance

Booking 2-3 weeks ahead in Memphis gives carriers time to plan routes and build efficient loads, which typically results in lower rates than last-minute bookings. Early booking also increases your chances of locking in better pricing before seasonal demand spikes, and it ensures you're not competing with other shippers during peak moving season in the Memphis area.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer instead of an enclosed trailer can save 20-30% on your Memphis shipment since open transport is more common and carriers fill these trailers faster. Open trailers work well for standard vehicles shipping through Tennessee's mild climate, and the cost difference is substantial enough to make a real impact on your total shipping expense.

7

Flexible dates

When you give carriers a 5-7 day window instead of a fixed date, they can consolidate your vehicle with other Memphis-area shipments heading the same direction, reducing their deadhead miles. This flexibility is especially valuable on popular routes like Memphis to the coasts or Midwest, where our assignment-ready quotes account for these route optimizations to deliver you the best rate.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Memphis car shipping needs. We will match any competitor's quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Memphis

Professional auto transport service for Memphis moves

Tennessee vehicle registration requires proof of ownership, a valid ID, and proof of insurance before you can register your vehicle with the state [DMV]. When using car shipping services to Memphis, ensure you have the proper documents ready for a smooth transition. Tennessee doesn't require emissions testing statewide, though Memphis follows federal air quality standards [EPA]. Vehicle window tinting must allow at least 35% light transmission on front windows and 27% on rear windows [DMV].

Memphis drivers should know that downtown parking is metered and enforced strictly, with residential permit zones throughout midtown [City Website]. Tennessee has no specific frame height regulations, but oversized vehicles may face restrictions on certain city streets. Winter preparation matters—while Memphis rarely sees heavy snow, occasional ice storms make all-season or winter tires advisable November through March [NOAA]. Tennessee requires minimum liability insurance of 25/50/25 (bodily injury per person/accident and property damage), and uninsured motorist coverage is strongly recommended [DMV]. When planning auto transport to Memphis, account for these local requirements to ensure your vehicle meets all regulations upon arrival.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Memphis Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We're a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details about how to prepare your vehicle for shipping. For Memphis shipments, you'll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, ensure you have a key available for the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit. Our carriers will conduct a digital vehicle inspection before pickup, so having your vehicle clean and accessible helps streamline the process.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping to or from Memphis. All carriers on our network are FMCSA-licensed and required to carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We verify that each carrier's insurance policy is valid and active throughout your Memphis shipment, so you can have peace of mind knowing your vehicle is protected.

The sooner, the better. We recommend scheduling your Memphis pickup at least two weeks in advance, though posting your shipment immediately is ideal. Memphis is a major logistics hub with consistent carrier activity, so early posting helps us secure an Assignment-Ready quote and bundle your vehicle with others heading in the same direction.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. 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.

Enclosed transport costs at least 50% more than open trailers, but it's the smart choice for high-value vehicles like classics or custom builds—especially important in Memphis where summer heat and humidity can affect paint finishes. Open transport works well for standard vehicles making the trip to or from Memphis, and with Sakaem's AI-verified pricing, you'll get transparent quotes upfront with no surprises. Choose enclosed if your car can't afford the risk of road debris; choose open for budget-friendly, reliable transport on routes to and from the Memphis area.

Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service in Memphis and throughout Tennessee. When you book with us, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses in the Memphis area, and our FMCSA-licensed carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle directly to those locations whenever possible. If there are any transportation restrictions or safety concerns specific to your Memphis addresses, our dedicated support team will work with you to arrange an alternative nearby location, such as a gas station or parking lot, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don't run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics' FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About Memphis

Discover interesting insights about the state you're shipping to or from

Memphis, TN is a vibrant city with a rich history, world-class attractions, and a strategic location that makes it a major hub for transportation and commerce. Whether you're relocating to Memphis or shipping your vehicle here, you'll discover a city full of surprises and unique characteristics.

  • The Mississippi River Gateway: Memphis sits on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, making it a crucial transportation hub. The city's port handles millions of tons of cargo annually, and its central location on major interstates (I-40, I-55) makes it ideal for vehicle shipping throughout the country.
  • Music City Legacy: Memphis is the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock and roll. Graceland, Elvis Presley's iconic mansion, attracts over 600,000 visitors yearly. The city's musical heritage runs deep through Beale Street and countless recording studios.
  • FedEx World Hub: Memphis is home to FedEx's global operations center at Memphis International Airport, making it one of the world's busiest cargo airports. This logistics infrastructure benefits the entire region's transportation network.
  • Warm, Humid Summers: Memphis experiences hot, humid summers (averaging 90°F in July) and mild winters. If you're shipping a car to Memphis, plan for summer heat and occasional severe thunderstorms during spring months.
  • Growing Tech and Healthcare Economy: Beyond its musical roots, Memphis has emerged as a leader in healthcare, technology, and distribution. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and numerous Fortune 500 companies call the city home.
  • Affordable Living: Memphis offers one of the most affordable costs of living among major U.S. cities, making it an attractive destination for relocating professionals and families.
SERVICE COVERAGE

Neighborhoods & Zip Codes We Serve in Memphis

Sakaem Logistics provides reliable car shipping and auto transport services throughout the Memphis metropolitan area. Whether you're relocating, selling a vehicle, or need to transport a car across town, we serve neighborhoods and communities across Memphis with our AI-verified pricing and 95% successful carrier securement rate. Our dedicated experts handle your shipment from start to finish with real-time tracking and transparent, assignment-ready quotes.

Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Downtown Memphis
  • Midtown
  • Cooper-Young
  • Germantown
  • Collierville
  • Bartlett
  • Cordova
  • Whitehaven
  • Shelby Farms
  • Laurelwood
  • Parkway Village
  • East Memphis

Zip Codes

38103, 38104, 38105, 38106, 38107, 38108, 38109, 38111, 38112, 38113, 38114, 38115, 38116, 38117, 38118, 38119, 38120, 38122, 38125, 38127, 38128, 38131, 38133, 38134, 38135, 38138

We also serve surrounding suburbs and communities throughout the greater Memphis area, including Germantown, Collierville, Bartlett, Arlington, and beyond.

MORE IN Tennessee

Car Shipping in Other Tennessee Cities

Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping in Memphis, TN doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're moving to California, Florida, or anywhere in between, understanding the auto transport process helps you make informed decisions. Here's a straightforward guide to how car shipping works from start to finish.

The first step is understanding the difference between brokers and carriers. A carrier physically transports your vehicle, while a broker connects you with carriers and manages the logistics. When you call a reputable broker like Sakaem Logistics for a quote, you're getting expert guidance backed by AI-verified pricing that carriers actually accept. The broker then finds a reliable carrier with proper FMCSA licensing, full insurance coverage, and strong reviews—this is crucial to protect your vehicle throughout the journey.

Once a carrier is secured, the process moves quickly. The carrier schedules a pickup at your Memphis location and inspects your vehicle before loading. Before pickup day arrives, clear personal items from your car and ensure it has about a quarter tank of gas. Your vehicle must be in running condition so it can roll on and off the transport trailer. For high-end or classic cars, request an enclosed trailer for extra protection during transport.

After pickup, your carrier transports your vehicle to the destination. You'll receive real-time tracking updates throughout the journey. Upon delivery, a final inspection confirms your car arrived safely. Payment to the broker or carrier typically happens at pickup or delivery—no upfront deposits required. With a 95% carrier securement rate and dedicated expert support, Sakaem Logistics simplifies every step of your auto transport experience.