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Memphis, TN Car Shipping: 2026 Costs & Routes

Last updated: February 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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ON THIS PAGE

1 Memphis Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination Cities
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Memphis?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Memphis, TN

Looking to ship a car to or from Memphis, TN? At Sakaem Logistics, our scrappy team has been breaking the broker monopoly since 2012, delivering honest, affordable auto transport you can trust. We’ll walk you through costs, routes and tips so you know exactly what to expect. Let’s get your vehicle on the road with confidence and value.

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
California
131 shipments
$975 – $1,225
2
Florida
53 shipments
$675 – $800
3
Texas
36 shipments
$625 – $750
4
New York
25 shipments
$775 – $1,075
5
Washington
23 shipments
$1,250 – $1,700
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: February 2026
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 Los Angeles, CA $1,025 – $1,200 Memphis, TN to Los Angeles, CA
2 San Diego, CA $975 – $1,175 Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA
3 New York, NY $775 – $1,025 Memphis, TN to New York, NY
4 San Francisco, CA $975 – $1,225 Memphis, TN to San Francisco, CA
5 Chicago, IL $550 – $650 Memphis, TN to Chicago, IL
6 Phoenix, AZ $1,000 – $1,150 Memphis, TN to Phoenix, AZ
7 Las Vegas, NV $950 – $1,100 Memphis, TN to Las Vegas, NV
8 Orlando, FL $650 – $750 Memphis, TN to Orlando, FL
9 Washington, DC $675 – $750 Memphis, TN to Washington, DC
10 Houston, TX $675 – $750 Memphis, TN to Houston, TX
Memphis, TN CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

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
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
Before calling Sakaem I was booked to use another transport company because their price was the best I could find. The day before they were going to pick up my car, they called me and said they had a reliable driver but he wanted an extra $300. I told them to forget it and called Sakaem. At the last minute they gave me a good price and said it was guaranteed. They service was great and my car arrived in NJ when they said it would be there. I will use them again in January!
Paul Shapiro
Jul 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Memphis

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in Memphis

Distance

Shipping a car to or from Memphis is priced largely by the miles traveled; longer hauls from the coasts or the West add fuel, driver time, and wear costs, while shorter regional trips stay cheaper. Because Memphis sits near the center of the United States, many routes are roughly mid‑range, which often results in competitive rates compared to coastal ports.

Season

Demand spikes in spring and summer when people relocate or travel for college, pushing prices up, while winter sees a dip because mild Tennessee weather means fewer weather‑related delays. Hurricane season can temporarily raise costs for routes that skirt the Gulf Coast, as carriers may need to reroute around storm‑affected highways.

Route

Memphis is intersected by I‑40 (east‑west) and I‑55 (north‑south) plus the I‑240 and I‑269 loops, giving carriers multiple efficient corridors to major markets like Chicago, Dallas, and Atlanta. Access to the Mississippi River port also allows some carriers to combine rail or barge segments, which can lower pricing for certain long‑distance shipments.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars require more space or special equipment, raising the per‑vehicle charge, whereas standard sedans fit easily on open carriers and are cheaper. Vehicles with low ground clearance or custom modifications may need an enclosed trailer for protection, adding a premium.

Traffic Considerations

Memphis experiences moderate rush‑hour congestion around downtown and near the FedEx hub, which can add a few hours to travel time and modestly increase fuel costs. However, the extensive loop highways (I‑240, I‑269) allow carriers to bypass the busiest sections, keeping the impact on pricing relatively low.

Carrier Availability

As a national logistics hub with a large pool of freight carriers, Memphis benefits from strong competition, which often drives down rates and gives shippers more scheduling options. The presence of multiple carrier terminals and the FedEx Express hub means carriers can quickly dispatch trucks, improving availability and price flexibility.

Population Density

Memphis’s moderate population density and central location mean carriers can consolidate loads with other regional shipments, lowering per‑vehicle costs. The city’s position near major interstate junctions also reduces deadhead miles, helping keep overall shipping prices competitive.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping in the low‑traffic months of January and early February, after the holiday rush, usually yields the cheapest rates because fewer customers are moving cars and carriers have open space on their trucks. Avoid the busy spring‑forward period in March‑April when people relocate for school and the summer heat in June‑July, which can raise demand and prices.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift your pickup or delivery by a day or two, carriers can bundle your load with nearby shipments on I‑40 or I‑55, reducing deadhead miles and passing the savings to you. This flexibility is especially valuable during the shoulder seasons when schedule gaps are common.

3

Hub city advantages

Memphis sits at the crossroads of I‑40, I‑55, I‑240 and a major freight rail hub, and it is home to the world‑largest FedEx Express hub, giving carriers many routing options and high competition that drives rates down. The dense network of terminals means trucks are often already in the area, so you can benefit from lower positioning fees.

4

Weather considerations

Memphis experiences hot, humid summers and occasional severe thunderstorms that can cause temporary road closures, so scheduling your shipment for early spring or late fall can avoid weather‑related delays. Winter brings occasional ice storms; while rare, they can slow down carriers on I‑55, so allow extra buffer time in your plan.

5

Booking in advance

Securing a spot 3‑4 weeks before you need the move lets you lock in the current low‑season rates before demand spikes for spring‑time moves or summer vacations. Early bookings also give carriers time to plan optimal routes that include Memphis, which can further reduce your price.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the standard choice in Memphis, and because most carriers operate large open‑deck fleets on the I‑40 corridor, the price difference can be 15‑20 % versus an enclosed carrier. If your vehicle isn’t a classic or luxury model, opting for an open trailer saves money without adding risk on the well‑maintained highways around the city.

7

Flexible dates

When you offer a flexible delivery window—say any day within a 5‑day span—carriers can align your shipment with a longer route that passes through Memphis en route to other southern markets, cutting mileage and fuel costs. This often results in a lower quote because the carrier can avoid empty return trips.

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

When shipping a car to or from Memphis, Tennessee, the first step is to understand the state’s registration rules. Tennessee requires a title transfer, a completed Application for Tennessee Title and Registration (Form RV-F1310401), and proof of a valid Tennessee driver’s license. New residents must visit a county clerk office within 30 days of moving and pay the $26.50 registration fee plus any local taxes [DMV]. The state uses a plate‑type system, so you can keep your existing plates if you renew, but most choose the new “Tennessee” design. For auto transport, keep the registration receipt and VIN verification handy, as carriers often need these documents before loading the vehicle.

Memphis drivers also face city‑specific rules. Downtown parking permits are required for most street spots, and the city enforces a 2‑hour limit in busy districts [City Website]. Emission testing is mandatory in Shelby County, so a recent smog check must accompany any shipped vehicle [Tennessee DMV]. Tennessee allows 35% front‑window tint on the driver’s side and 30% on the rear, but reflective films are prohibited [State Law]. Because winters are mild, winter tires are optional, though chains are useful for occasional ice. Insurance must meet the state minimum of $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 property damage; many carriers recommend higher limits for long‑distance auto transport [TN Dept of Commerce].

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. In Memphis, be sure to remove any out‑of‑state toll tags, take out personal items and loose accessories, and leave the keys with the carrier; also check fluid levels because the hot, humid climate can affect them.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Memphis, TN, our quotes are all‑inclusive. All carriers operating in the Memphis area must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify the policy is active for the entire move. This coverage protects your vehicle throughout the trip, whether it’s leaving the city’s busy freight hub or arriving at a local dealership.

In Memphis, we recommend scheduling your pickup at least two weeks in advance, but the sooner you post your shipment the better. Early bookings let carriers combine your car with other loads moving through the I‑40/I‑55 corridor and the Memphis port area, which often speeds up delivery and can lower costs.

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.

In Memphis, open‑car transport is the standard and is about half the price of an enclosed trailer, which typically runs at least 50% higher. Because Memphis can be hot, humid and the I‑40/I‑55 corridors often have dust and road debris, many owners of classic, collector or freshly painted vehicles choose enclosed transport to keep their cars safe from scratches and weather exposure.

Door-to-door auto transport is available throughout Memphis, TN. When you book, we’ll ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s your home, a business, or a nearby gas station if the location is hard to access. Our carriers are familiar with Memphis traffic and any local restrictions, so they’ll work with you to find the best drop-off point, such as a parking lot near the airport or downtown.

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 river city where music, history, and river commerce intersect, making it a unique hub for anyone shipping a car to or from the area.

  • Riverfront Geography: Located on the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis offers easy access to barge and rail transport, which can simplify vehicle logistics.
  • Iconic Landmarks: Home to Graceland, Beale Street, and the National Civil Rights Museum, the city draws millions of tourists each year, creating a bustling atmosphere for new arrivals.
  • Vehicle Laws: Tennessee requires all vehicles to have a valid registration and insurance; Memphis also enforces a strict “no idling” ordinance to reduce emissions, useful for drivers waiting for loading.
  • Climate: Expect hot, humid summers (average highs 90°F) and mild winters, with occasional thunderstorms that can affect shipping schedules.
  • Economy: A logistics powerhouse, Memphis hosts the world’s second‑largest cargo airport, FedEx Express, and a busy inland port, supporting a thriving auto‑transport industry.
  • Population: Over 650,000 residents enjoy a diverse cultural mix, contributing to a lively food scene and vibrant community life.
  • Transportation Network: Interstates 40, 55, and 240 converge here, and Memphis International Airport handles more cargo than any other U.S. airport, ensuring quick vehicle movement.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping, also known as auto transport, moves your vehicle from one place to another without you driving it. In Memphis, TN, most people start with a broker. A broker like Sakaem Logistics does not own a truck; instead, it finds a carrier who actually hauls the car. The carrier is the driver and the trailer that picks up, transports, and delivers the vehicle. Knowing the difference helps you see who handles the paperwork (the broker) and who handles the road trip (the carrier). Both must be licensed and insured for a safe move.

The process begins when you call a broker for a free quote. The broker gathers details about your car, pick‑up location, and destination, then matches you with a carrier that has strong reviews and proper insurance. The carrier contacts you to set a pick‑up time, arrives on schedule, and loads the vehicle onto an open or enclosed trailer. After the journey, the driver delivers the car to the address you gave, runs a quick inspection, and you sign for receipt. Payment is made to the broker or carrier at pick‑up or delivery, according to the agreement you signed.

Keep these tips in mind for a smooth auto transport. Request an enclosed trailer for high‑value or classic cars. Remove all personal items, trash, and loose accessories before the driver arrives; carriers will not load a cluttered interior. The car must be able to roll, so make sure the steering works and the brakes are released. Leave about a quarter tank of gas so the driver can move the car onto the trailer without over‑filling. Following these steps makes car shipping from Memphis, TN easy, transparent, and worry‑free.