TennesseeTennessee

Shipping a vehicle in Tennessee usually starts with a door-to-door service model. After you book your transport, a carrier will arrive as close as possible to your home in cities like Nashville, Memphis, or Knoxville. Because many Tennessee neighborhoods have wide streets, loading is typically easy. However, if you live in a hilly area or a narrow downtown street, your driver might suggest meeting at a nearby grocery store or open lot. You and the driver will then inspect the car and sign a Bill of Lading to record its current condition.

The timeframe for your move depends on the total distance the car travels. A regional trip to a nearby state like Georgia or Kentucky often takes just 1 to 2 days. If you are shipping your vehicle across the country to California or New York, expect a window of 5 to 9 days. While Tennessee has fairly mild winters, sudden ice storms or heavy fog in the eastern mountains can sometimes slow down traffic. Drivers prioritize safe delivery, so a little extra time might be needed during extreme weather.

New residents have 30 days to register their vehicle with their local Tennessee County Clerk after moving. You will need to bring your out-of-state title or registration, proof of identification, and two documents that prove you live in the state. While Tennessee ended its statewide emissions testing program in 2022, it is always smart to check with your specific county for any local requirements. You will pay a standard registration fee and potentially local wheel taxes, depending on where you reside.

Most people choose open transport because it is the most affordable and common way to ship a car in Tennessee. However, Tennessee can have unpredictable weather, including heavy spring thunderstorms and humidity. If you are moving a high-end luxury car, a classic, or a vehicle with a custom paint job, you might prefer an enclosed trailer. This protects your car from road debris, salt on mountain roads in winter, and the intense summer sun, keeping your vehicle in showroom condition.

Yes, you can ship an inoperable vehicle in Tennessee, but you must tell the company ahead of time. The driver will need a specialized winch or a forklift to pull the car onto the trailer since it cannot be driven up the ramps. This service involves extra labor and equipment, so carriers usually add a fee of about $100 to $200. Make sure the car is on a flat, solid surface so the driver can safely use their equipment to load it.

For most moves within the United States, you do not need to give the driver your title or registration. You only need to provide the car keys and sign the Bill of Lading. This document is your official receipt and lists any scratches or dents found during the initial inspection. It is important for you or an adult you trust to be present at both the pickup and delivery to walk around the car with the driver and sign off on its condition.

Look for a company that has plenty of experience driving through the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. You can verify a carrier's safety record and insurance status through the federal SAFER website. Reading reviews on sites like Transportvibe is also a great way to see how they have handled other Tennessee moves. A trustworthy provider will give you a clear price that includes all fees and will be happy to explain their insurance coverage and delivery process.

Preparing your car for a Tennessee move is simple. Wash the exterior so any existing damage is easy to see during the inspection. Remove all personal items like loose electronics or tools, as these are not covered by the carrier's insurance. Try to have about a quarter-tank of gas; this is enough for the driver to move the car without adding too much extra weight to the trailer. Also, make sure your tires are properly inflated and the battery is charged so the loading process goes smoothly.

The size of your vehicle and the time of year are the main things that affect your rate. Larger vehicles like heavy-duty trucks or full-size SUVs cost more because they take up more space and weigh more than a small sedan. Seasonality is also a factor; prices in Tennessee can go up in the summer when more families are moving. If you can be flexible with your pickup dates and book a few weeks in advance, you are more likely to get a better price.