($685) Cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids, MI to Nashville, TN

Quick answer: Shipping a car 545 miles from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Nashville, Tennessee, typically costs between $685 and $919. Final pricing depends on details like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For personalized pricing, try our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Nashville to Grand Rapids car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Grand Rapids to Nashville car shipping companies

Our team has reviewed thousands of companies and narrowed down the top car shipping companies to safely move your vehicle from Grand Rapids to Nashville:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for safety & reliability
Licensedcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Grand Rapids

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Grand Rapids, MI:

  1. Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Auto Transport by Stopwatch: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Sbs Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc

7262 Lansing Rd, Dimondale, MI 48821 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 5.0
Get a Quote (816) 983-4000

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Pacific Motor Trucking Co.

Auto Transport by Stopwatch

2976 Ivanrest Ave SW #105, Grandville, MI 49418 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Overall, Stopwatch Auto Transport is praised for its exceptional customer service, timely vehicle delivery, and reliable communication throughout the transport process. Customers appreciate the professionalism of the staff and the safe handling of their vehicles. However, some have reported issues with initial miscommunications or unsatisfactory drivers, although these concerns were usually addressed promptly by the company.

Get a Quote (616) 229-1517

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Sbs Transport

6504 28th St Se # J, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the friendly and courteous staff and find the service to be reasonably priced. However, some reviews suggest that issues might still need to be addressed.

Get a Quote (616) 777-1844

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Jack Cooper Transport

7916 Davis Hwy, Charlotte, MI 48813 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers generally appreciate their experiences, highlighting the friendly nature of interactions. However, some are still in the waiting phase for interviews, indicating uncertainty in the process.

Get a Quote (517) 322-0678

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Additional Information

How we chose the best car shipping companies

We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.

Here’s what we considered:

  • Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
  • Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
  • Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
  • Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
  • Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.

Car shipping alternatives from MI to TN

When you’re moving from Grand Rapids to Nashville, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.

Coordinate with your movers

If you are relocating from Grand Rapids to Nashville, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 545 miles from Grand Rapids to Nashville can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Michigan to Tennessee. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Grand Rapids to Nashville carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Nashville—especially if your household goods are already moving by rail. In fact, it’s the cheapest car shipping method available. The downside is limited pickup and drop-off flexibility, plus longer transit times compared to standard car shipping or driving yourself.

Factors affecting Grand Rapids to Nashville car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from Grand Rapids to Nashville, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from Grand Rapids to Nashville, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Nashville, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Grand Rapids is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to Nashville will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 545 miles from Grand Rapids to Nashville will cost more than a shorter move within Michigan.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Grand Rapids and Nashville can impact car shipping prices.

August, July and June are the most most advisable months to move in Grand Rapids, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

Nashville has humid summers and generally cool winters typical of the Upper South. Spring and fall are prone to severe thunderstorms, which may bring tornadoes, large hail, flash floods, and damaging wind. Be sure to check your weather app before your move to avoid inclement weather.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Grand Rapids to Nashville during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 545-mile trip from Grand Rapids to Nashville, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

Delivery expectations

Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Grand Rapids to Nashville is one to six days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.

Comparing Grand Rapids and Nashville vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Grand Rapids: The City requires that you apply for a Temporary Occupancy Permit. With this permit you will gain permission to temporarily close the needed area of the right-of-way. Be sure to clarify any questions with the City Government by contacting them ahead of time at 311 or 616-456-3000 or [email protected].
  • Nashville: A Downtown Nashville Residential Parking Permit is issued once the completed Downtown Residential Parking Permit Application and the $25.00 fee is received by Nashville Department of Transportation. The staff will review the application to verify the location meets the requirement for Downtown Residential Permit Parking.

Car insurance requirements

  • Grand Rapids: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
  • Nashville: Tennessee drivers need to fulfill liability insurance criteria of 25/50/15 ($25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident). Valid proof of insurance is crucial for registration and may be requested by law enforcement during traffic stops. Motorists have the flexibility to choose additional coverage for an added layer of vehicle protection.

Vehicle inspections

  • Grand Rapids: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
  • Nashville: In Tennessee, vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspection. Cost is around $15 and more information can be found at Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's website.

Driver’s license

  • Grand Rapids: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
  • Nashville: To obtain a driver's license in Tennessee, individuals must be at least 15 years old (with a Learner's Permit) or 16 years old (with a regular driver's license), pass written, vision and driving tests, provide proof of identity, residency, legal presence, and social security number, pass a medical examination if required, pay the required fee, Hold the Learner's Permit for at least 180 days before taking the skills test for the driver's license and comply with the graduated licensing system restrictions for the first 6 months.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids to Nashville?

The cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids, MI to Nashville, TN varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Grand Rapids to Nashville will range from $685 to $919.

How long will it take to ship my car from Grand Rapids to Nashville?

It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 545 miles from Grand Rapids to Nashville. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Grand Rapids to Nashville?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Grand Rapids to Nashville. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Grand Rapids to Nashville?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Grand Rapids to Nashville than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 545-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.

We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Helpful Grand Rapids resources