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Nashville, TN Car Shipping: 2025 Costs & Routes

Last updated: October 2025

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 Nashville 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 Nashville?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Nashville, TN

Looking to move your vehicle in or out of Nashville, TN? Our scrappy team, founded in 2012, broke the broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable car shipping and auto transport. With years of experience and top‑rated reviews, we guide you through every step—pricing, timing, and tips—so you know exactly what to expect and can ship with confidence.

Average Cost FROM Nashville

$725 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Nashville

$775 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Nashville, TN

1
California
308 shipments
$1,025 – $1,225
2
Florida
107 shipments
$650 – $800
3
Texas
98 shipments
$700 – $925
4
Washington
75 shipments
$1,200 – $1,525
5
Arizona
61 shipments
$1,000 – $1,150
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Nashville, TN

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

Top 10 Destination Cities Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 Los Angeles, CA $1,025 – $1,175 Nashville, TN to Los Angeles, CA
2 Seattle, WA $1,175 – $1,425 Nashville, TN to Seattle, WA
3 Phoenix, AZ $975 – $1,150 Nashville, TN to Phoenix, AZ
4 San Diego, CA $1,025 – $1,200 Nashville, TN to San Diego, CA
5 New York, NY $775 – $975 Nashville, TN to New York, NY
6 San Francisco, CA $1,050 – $1,325 Nashville, TN to San Francisco, CA
7 Miami, FL $625 – $900 Nashville, TN to Miami, FL
8 Houston, TX $700 – $850 Nashville, TN to Houston, TX
9 Riverside, CA $1,025 – $1,225 Nashville, TN to Riverside, CA
10 Dallas, TX $650 – $750 Nashville, TN to Dallas, TX
Nashville, TN CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

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
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
A little late on picking up the vehicle, but absolutely exceeded expectations at getting the vehicle delivered earlier than any of us expected. Car was in perfect shape and the driver (Nicoli) was very patient and pleasant to deal with. Truly changed my mind about shipping a vehicle across country in the future. An amazingly great experience. Worth every penny.
Pat&Sarah Cave
Apr 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Nashville

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 Nashville

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between Nashville and the destination because fuel, driver time, and wear on the truck increase. Short hauls, such as to nearby states like Kentucky or Georgia, are often quoted at a lower flat rate, while cross‑country moves can add several hundred dollars per extra 500 miles.

Season

Demand spikes in the spring and summer when people relocate or travel for events like the CMA Fest, pushing rates up. Winter brings occasional ice storms in the region, which can slow trucks and add a modest seasonal surcharge, while the holiday season in December often sees higher prices due to limited carrier capacity.

Route

Nashville sits at the crossroads of I‑40, I‑24, and I‑65, so carriers can choose the most direct interstate corridors to reach the East Coast, Midwest, or Gulf ports. Routes that stay on these major highways tend to be cheaper because they reduce tolls, detours, and the chance of roadwork delays.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or lifted Jeeps occupy more space on an open carrier, so they cost more per mile than compact cars. Classic or high‑value cars may require an enclosed trailer for protection, which adds a premium of roughly 20‑30% over open transport.

Traffic Considerations

Nashville’s growing downtown and frequent event traffic can cause delays during rush hour and on weekends, especially on I‑40 and I‑24 bridges. Carriers factor in these congestion patterns by building extra time into schedules, which can modestly raise the quoted price.

Carrier Availability

The Nashville market has a healthy pool of both regional and national carriers, creating competition that helps keep rates competitive. However, peak moving seasons or sudden spikes in demand can temporarily limit the number of available trucks, especially for enclosed service.

Population Density

Nashville’s moderate but rapidly growing population means a steady flow of shipments in and out of the metro area, supporting a robust carrier network. The city’s location in the central Southeast also makes it a convenient hub for routes to both the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic seaboard, influencing logistics planning and pricing.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

The cheapest rates are usually found in the winter months of January and early February, after the holiday rush and before the spring college‑move season. Nashville’s milder winter weather means carriers have fewer delays, so you can lock in lower prices during this quiet period.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift your pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can fill gaps in their schedules on I‑40 and I‑24, which often lowers the quoted price. Being flexible lets you take advantage of last‑minute load opportunities that are cheaper than fixed‑date shipments.

3

Hub city advantages

Nashville sits at the crossroads of I‑40, I‑65 and I‑24 and is a major rail intermodal hub, so carriers can route many shipments through the city without extra mileage. This high traffic volume creates competition among carriers, keeping prices competitive and giving you more scheduling options.

4

Weather considerations

Nashville’s winter can bring occasional ice storms that delay pickups, so plan for a buffer if shipping in December or January. Spring brings frequent thunderstorms, and the hot, humid summer can affect tire pressure, so inspect your vehicle before and after transport to avoid weather‑related issues.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your spot 3‑4 weeks ahead of the peak moving seasons (May‑August and September‑October) gives carriers time to plan routes and avoid last‑minute price spikes. Early bookings also let you compare quotes and pick the most reliable service before demand surges.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer instead of an enclosed one can shave 10‑20% off the cost because open decks are the default and require less equipment. In Nashville’s generally mild climate, the risk of weather damage to a standard vehicle is low, making open trailers a safe, budget‑friendly choice.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a window of several days, carriers can batch your car with other shipments traveling the same I‑40/I‑24 corridor, reducing deadhead miles. This route optimization lets them offer a lower rate while still meeting your delivery window.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Nashville

Professional auto transport service for Nashville moves

In Tennessee, vehicle registration is handled by the County Clerk’s office and requires a valid driver’s license, proof of ownership, and a current safety inspection. The state does not require a universal emissions test, but the Nashville metro area (Davidson County) mandates emissions testing for cars model‑year 1996 and newer [DMV]. Window tint on the front side must let at least 35% of light through, and the state enforces a minimum liability coverage of $25,000/$50,000/$15,000 with Personal Injury Protection of $10,000 [TN Dept of Commerce]. These rules affect any car shipping or auto transport transaction, so keep the registration and insurance documents handy.

Nashville drivers face city‑specific parking permits, especially in downtown and the Gulch, and must obey strict no‑parking zones marked by orange curbs [City Website]. Traffic patterns peak during rush hour on I‑40, I‑24, and the Broadway corridor, so plan your auto transport timing accordingly. While Tennessee winters are mild, occasional ice warrants winter tires or chains for safety. When moving to or from Nashville, confirm that your vehicle meets local tint and emissions standards, update your insurance to the state minimum, and provide the carrier with proof of registration and insurance to avoid delays in car shipping.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Nashville 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 Nashville, be sure to remove any toll tags for the I‑24/40 toll lanes, take out any loose accessories or city parking permits, and have a working key ready for the carrier.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle to or from Nashville, TN, our carriers must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, meeting both federal and Tennessee requirements. We verify each carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire trip, so your car is fully covered throughout the journey.

The sooner, the better. In Nashville we recommend scheduling at least two weeks ahead, especially during busy periods like CMA Fest or summer concerts, so carriers can bundle your car with other shipments from the Music City area. Posting your shipment early helps us secure the best rates and routes.

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 Nashville, open transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a vehicle, while enclosed transport costs about 50% more. Choose enclosed if your car is a classic, has a custom paint job, or you want extra protection from Nashville’s occasional hail, road debris, and heavy traffic. Open trailers are perfect for everyday cars and still get you safely across the city’s busy highways. Both options are handled by our experienced carriers who have served the Nashville area since 2012.

Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping, and we offer it throughout Nashville, TN. When you book, we ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s a home on the West End, a condo near Music Row, or a business in the Opryland area—and our carrier will pick up and drop off right there, as long as it’s feasible. If local restrictions such as narrow historic streets or limited access arise, we’ll coordinate an alternate nearby spot like a gas station or parking lot.

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 Nashville

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

Nashville, TN blends Southern charm with bustling music culture, making it a vibrant hub for residents and car shippers alike.

  • Geography: Nestled on the Cumberland River, Nashville sits atop rolling hills and is known as the “Athens of the South” for its many colleges.
  • Landmarks: Home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the historic Ryman Auditorium, the city’s downtown buzzes with live music 24/7.
  • History: Founded in 1779, Nashville played a key role in the Civil War and later earned the nickname “Music City” in the 20th century.
  • Vehicle Laws: Davidson County does not require annual vehicle safety inspections, easing paperwork for car owners shipping vehicles to or from Nashville.
  • Climate: A humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and mild winters, with occasional spring thunderstorms.
  • Economy: Beyond music, Nashville’s economy thrives on healthcare, publishing, and technology, offering steady demand for transport and logistics services.
  • Transportation: Nashville International Airport handles over 20 million passengers yearly, and interstates I‑40, I‑24, and I‑65 connect the city to the nation.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Shipping a car for the first time can feel like a puzzle, but the process is straightforward once you know the steps. In Nashville, TN, auto transport companies move vehicles across the country using specialized trucks. Whether you are moving to another state or need a vehicle delivered after a purchase, this 101 guide walks you through every stage of car shipping so you can feel confident from start to finish.

First, understand the roles of brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaim Logistics, does not own a truck but matches you with a reputable carrier who actually transports the vehicle. The broker’s job is to find a carrier with solid reviews, proper insurance, and the right equipment for your car. The carrier is the driver and owner of the truck that will pick up and deliver your auto.

The car shipping journey begins when you call a broker for a quote. After you agree, the broker secures a carrier and schedules a pickup date. On the agreed day, the carrier arrives, checks the vehicle, and loads it onto the trailer. The truck then travels to the destination, where the driver unloads the car and hands it to you. Payment is made to the broker or carrier at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement.

A few simple tips keep the transport smooth. For high‑end or classic cars, choose an enclosed trailer for extra protection. Remove all personal items and make sure the car can roll freely; a quarter tank of gas is enough for loading. Double‑check that the vehicle is in good working order, lock the doors, and note any existing damage before the carrier arrives.