Best Car Shipping Companies in Kentucky (2026 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Nexus Auto Transport is our choice for best car shipping in Kentucky thanks to competitive pricing, dependable service, and strong reviews. We rate them 4.7 out of 5 stars. Shipping your car from Kentucky typically costs between $628 and $1,307, though your final price can vary based on several factors.

Kentucky Car Shipping Facts

  • 63% of Kentucky auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most popular — and budget-friendly — way to ship a car.
  • 100% of car shipping companies in Kentucky offer enclosed transport delivery.
  • Only 28% of car shipping companies nationwide offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Nexus Auto Transport.

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Best car shipping companies in Kentucky

Over 400 hours of research have gone into reviewing services, pricing, and availability for 613 car shippers across the country, including 11 right here in KY. Our goal is to use that data to deliver trustworthy and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.

If you’re looking to ship a car from Louisville or anywhere else in Kentucky, check out our top car shipping picks below:

Nexus Auto Transport

http://www.nexusautotransport.com
4.7 / 5.0

Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Live shipment tracking
  • Fast, no-hassle quotes
  • Door-to-door pickup
  • Competitive discounts

Cons

  • No international shipping
  • Pay more with debit/credit card

Services Offered

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  • Door-to-door deliveries
  • Open and enclosed trailers
  • Hawaii/Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Sherpa Auto Transport

https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
4.5 / 5.0

Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed.

Get A Quote (883) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • $100k in cargo insurance
  • Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
  • Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans

Cons

  • Online instant quote not available
  • Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
  • No international shipping
  • No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii

Services Offered

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  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Insured shipping

Navi Auto Transport

https://naviautotransport.com
4.4 / 5.0

Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Price match policy
  • Quick turnaround
  • Discounts
  • White-glove transport
  • 24/7 tracking

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • No guaranteed pickup date

Services Offered

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  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

SGT Auto Transport

http://sgtautotransport.com
4.9 / 5.0

SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Open and enclosed auto transport options available
  • Car shipping to Hawaii
  • Motorcycle shipping available
  • Free cancellation
  • Full insurance coverage included in the price
  • Nothing to pay up front
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • Doesn't ship RVs
  • No digital tracking

Services Offered

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  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Ship A Car Direct

https://shipacardirect.com
4.4 / 5.0

Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

Get A Quote (866) 563-0804

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • Expedited Shipping Available
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
  • $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
  • Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
  • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
  • No international shipping

Services Offered

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  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Louisville Auto Shipping Group

9900 Corporate Campus Dr #3000, Louisville, KY, 40223
https://autoshippinggroup.com
4.24 / 5.0

Louisville Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reliable car shipping company that prides itself on offering a wide range of services. They provide damage-free guarantees, and their fully insured shipping includes options for both open and enclosed transport, accommodating various vehicle types, including classic cars and motorcycles. The company excels in interstate, international, and heavy equipment shipping, and they offer convenient features like detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking. Despite their comprehensive service list, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which may be a downside for some customers.

While they boast a strong A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, Louisville Auto Shipping Group has yet to establish reviews on Yelp. However, they hold a Google rating of 3.0, indicating a solid customer experience overall. Although they offer a military discount, other common discounts such as those for students, AAA members, and seniors are not available.

(888) 588-1269

Services Offered

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  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Jack Cooper Transport

6709 Grade Ln, Louisville, KY, 40213
http://jackcooper.com
3.98 / 5.0

Jack Cooper Transport (DOT: 64161) offers a range of specialized car shipping services, including expedited delivery, motorcycle, and RV shipping. They stand out for being fully insured and offering a damage-free guarantee to their customers.

While the company does not provide shipment tracking or terminal-to-terminal delivery, it maintains a solid reputation with a Google rating of 4.3 and a BBB rating of A-. Jack Cooper Transport currently lacks ratings on Yelp.

(502) 425-2243

Services Offered

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  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping

Safe Way Auto Transport, LLC

501 Lake Shore Dr, Kuttawa, KY, 42055
http://www.safewayautotransport.com
3.76 / 5.0

Safe Way Auto Transport, LLC (DOT: 2232026) is a car shipping company that stands out for its damage-free guarantee and a solid Google rating of 4.7, though it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. They offer services such as interstate transport and international shipping, providing flexibility for various shipping needs.

The company is known for its guaranteed and expedited delivery options, making it a reliable choice for timely shipments. However, a potential downside is that they do not transport inoperable vehicles, which could be limiting for some customers. Additionally, Safe Way Auto Transport does not accept cryptocurrency or offer discounts for groups like seniors, students, or military personnel.

(270) 559-2421

Services Offered

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  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Ceva Logistics

6712 Grade Ln, Louisville, KY, 40213
http://cevalogistics.com
3.72 / 5.0

Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) is a car shipping company known for its comprehensive range of services including boat shipping, interstate transportation, and fully insured shipments. They offer convenient options such as terminal-to-terminal delivery, expedited delivery, and both open and enclosed transport types. However, customers looking to transport cars that don't run may need to look elsewhere, as this service is not available.

The company ensures high standards with guaranteed delivery and a wealth of shipping options, but it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau, with a moderate Google rating of 3.6. While various discounts are mentioned, senior, teacher, and military discounts are not part of their offerings, potentially limiting their appeal to some customers seeking price reductions based on status.

(502) 368-1999

Services Offered

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  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery

Xpress Auto Transport

201 E Main St suite 340, Lexington, KY, 40507
https://www.xpressautoship.com
3.54 / 5.0

Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is an active car shipping business that offers a wide range of specialized services, including boat, motorcycle, trailer, and RV shipping. They cater to clients needing interstate transport and also provide international shipping options. Although they boast options like enclosed transport and expedited delivery, they do not handle cars that don't run, which may be a downside for some customers.

The company is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for clients throughout the transport process. Despite their range of offerings, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, and their acceptance of alternative payment methods such as cryptocurrency is limited. Xpress Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, leaving potential customers reliant on direct inquiries to assess their reputation further.

(859) 659-7012

Services Offered

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  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Average cost of transporting a car out of KY

If you’re shipping a car out of Kentucky, expect the average price to land around $947. However, what you actually pay can change quite a bit depending on how far your car needs to go and whether you pick open or enclosed shipping.

  • Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $566 and $786
  • Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $861 and $1,222
  • Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,151 and $1,347

To give you a better idea, check out these example price ranges:

Route Open Enclosed
Kentucky to Georgia $832 $1,133
Kentucky to North Carolina $774 $1,072
Kentucky to Illinois $743 $957
Kentucky to Arizona $1,446 $2,274
Kentucky to California $1,600 $2,520
Florida to Kentucky $973 $1,588
Texas to Kentucky $1,132 $1,738
New York to Kentucky $957 $1,329
Ohio to Kentucky $582 $707
Michigan to Kentucky $847 $1,224

Cost factors for shipping your car from Kentucky:

  • Your move distance: How far your car needs to go plays a big part in the price. Shipping within Kentucky or nearby states is usually easier on your wallet than sending your vehicle across the country.
  • Location: Whether you're shipping from bustling Louisville to a quieter Kentucky town or out of state, location impacts cost. Urban areas might offer competitive rates, while remote Kentucky locales could add to the bill.
  • Type of vehicle: The make, model, and year of your car play a big role. Smaller vehicles are less expensive to ship, but classic or specialty cars, especially those needing TLC, tend to cost more.
  • Types of shipping in the Bluegrass State: You can pick between open-air and enclosed carriers. Open-air is cheaper, but enclosed shipping provides maximum protection from Kentucky's unpredictable weather. Just know it comes at a premium. Learn more about enclosed car shipping.
  • Fuel costs: Gas prices aren’t just annoying at the pump. They also impact car shipping costs, especially for longer trips. Keep an eye on Kentucky’s current fuel rates.
  • Delivery time frame: Need your car by a specific date, or want it there ASAP? Expedited shipping or guaranteed dates will cost extra.
  • Discounts: Some Kentucky auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.

Want a precise estimate? Try our car shipping calculator. And take a look at all the popular Kentucky car shipping routes for more details.

How to ship a car from Kentucky

Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in Kentucky.

  1. Estimate your shipping cost — Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of Kentucky typically costs $628–$1,307, though distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.
  2. Choose open vs enclosed transport — Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris — especially relevant given Kentucky's weather patterns.
  3. Verify MC/DOT licensing — Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
  4. Compare shippers and get 3+ quotes — Compare at least three of the 11 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Kentucky. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
  5. Book an off-peak ship date — Flexibility on your ship date is one of the biggest cost levers. Avoid peak summer demand and end-of-month rushes. Delivery from Kentucky runs 1–3 days locally and about 7–14 days on cross-country routes.

FAQs

What is the most reliable car shipping company in Kentucky?

Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Kentucky, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Nexus Auto Transport a 4.7 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.

What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Kentucky?

The cheapest company to ship your car in Kentucky will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on your specific needs is to use our car shipping calculator. Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also, most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top car shippers in Kentucky, AmeriFreight has the most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.

How long do I have to update my drivers license in Kentucky?

New residents have 30 days to get a driver's license in Kentucky.

Do Kentucky car shippers offer discounts?

In Kentucky, police and law enforcement discounts aren’t available from any car shippers. There are 1 car shippers with military discounts available to active service members and veterans in Kentucky. Student savings aren’t available from car shipping providers in the state. Car shippers in Kentucky do not provide discounts tied to AAA membership.

Does Kentucky require a vehicle inspection?

If you're moving to Kentucky from another state, you need a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection. Take your vehicle and its title to the Sheriff's office in the county where you'll register the car.

Does weather in Kentucky impact car shipping?

Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Kentucky. Kentucky has hot, humid, rainy summers and moderately cold, rainy winters. It doesn't often face the severe cold of northern states or the intense heat of the Deep South.

What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Kentucky?

The time it takes to deliver a car in Kentucky is determined by how far and along which route the vehicle travels. Shorter, in-state deliveries are generally fulfilled in one to three days. However, when transporting across multiple states, especially from one coast to the other, the timeframe increases to about seven to 14 days.

The time frames can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather conditions in Kentucky, and the exact locations involved. To ensure you have the most accurate information, check with your shipping provider to see how these factors apply to your specific circumstances.

Miles Time frame
250 1-4 days
500 1-6 days
750 2-7 days
1000 2-8 days
1250 3-8 days
1500 3-9 days
1750 3-11 days
2000 4-12 days
2250 5-13 days
2500 7-15 days

What is the minimum car insurance required in Kentucky?

The insurance policy covers Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability, with limits of $25,000 for each person and $50,000 for each accident, plus $25,000 for property damage. It also offers Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage, which is optional. Personal Injury Protection is available up to $10,000. Additionally, you can choose optional Collision and Comprehensive coverage for vehicle repair or replacement, but it's not mandatory.