New York to Kentucky Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Shipping a car 698 miles from New York to Kentucky usually costs between $737 and $1,045. Transit time is about one–six days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try our car shipping cost calculator.

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  • Refundable deposit
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Kentucky to New York car shipping guide.

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

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The best New York to Kentucky car shipping companies

After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from New York to Kentucky:

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
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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 Exact Pickup Dates
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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
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
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Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in New York

Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in New York who can get your vehicle to Kentucky:

  1. Plycon Transportation Group: 3.98 out of 5 stars
  2. Molloy Bros Trucking Inc: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Mate Logistics: 3.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Roadrunner Auto: 3.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Broadway Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars

Plycon Transportation Group

280 Indian Head Rd, Kings Park, NY 11754 US

starstarstarstarstar3.98 / 5.0

Plycon Transportation Group receives high praise for its exceptional service and professionalism when moving household items as well as vehicles. Customers appreciate the seamless, stress-free process and the care taken with belongings, often highlighting the excellent communication and responsiveness of the customer service team. While one review mentioned an issue with cars arriving dirty, the overall sentiment showcases a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Get a Quote (631) 269-7000

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • AAA

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Plycon Van Lines Inc.

Molloy Bros Trucking Inc

185 Price Parkway, Farmingdale, NY 11735 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0
Get a Quote (516) 396-8611

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Molloy Moving & Storage

Mate Logistics

65-34 Myrtle Ave #2f, Queens, NY 11385 US

starstarstarstarstar3.76 / 5.0

Mate Logistics has received commendations for excellent customer service, particularly highlighting agents such as Nill and Albert, who are noted for their responsiveness and helpfulness. Customers reported prompt pick-up and delivery times along with competitive pricing options. However, several negative experiences related to price increases, contract disputes, and delays were cited, drawing concerns about reliability and communication. Despite some dissatisfaction, many customers acknowledged positive interactions and have expressed intentions to use the service again.

Get a Quote (929) 592-3003

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Roadrunner Auto

15 Grumman Rd W # 1500, Bethpage, NY 11714 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 5.0

Road Runner Auto Transport provides a range of experiences from dependable service to significant communication failures. Customers praised the transparent pricing, exceptional drivers, and consistent communication. However, some expressed frustration over unreturned calls and logistical challenges, leading to last-minute cancellations and inconvenience.

Get a Quote (888) 777-2123

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

Additional Information

Broadway Auto Transport

1 Maiden Ln FL 5, New York, NY 10038 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 5.0

Broadway Auto Transport excels in customer service and timely vehicle transportation. Many clients commend the professionalism, communication, and efficiency of their agents, specifically naming Luis, Chris, Sophia, and Robert for exceptional service. Most vehicles are reported to arrive on time and in pristine condition, enhancing overall customer satisfaction. However, there are notable complaints regarding price fluctuations, surprise fees, and challenges with communication during the scheduling process. Some customers encountered issues with last-minute cost increases, which detracted from their overall experience.

Get a Quote (917) 594-5566

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

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.

Alternative ways to ship your car from New York to Kentucky

Ship it with your movers

When moving from New York to Kentucky, it can be helpful to hire a moving company that includes car shipping services. A number of long-distance moving companies work directly with reliable car shippers to arrange transport.

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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

This is straightforward but not always an option, and it will put about 698 miles on your car going from New York to Kentucky. If you’re not sure, here are the pros and cons of driving your car vs. shipping it.

Hire a driver

Hiring a driver to take your car from New York to Kentucky is an alternative you might want to consider. However, it typically comes with a high price tag, and you’ll need to rely on the driver to care for your car.

Ship by train

This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.

New York to Kentucky auto transport costs and transit times

The tables below detail the costs and estimated transit times for shipping a car between popular cities in New York and Kentucky. The average travel distance is about 698 miles, with shipping times typically ranging from one to six days.

Cost to ship a car from New York City, NY to Kentucky

From New York to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
New York City, NY to Louisville, KY $758 – $1,066 737 miles 1 – 6 days
New York City, NY to Lexington, KY $793 – $1,035 704 miles 1 – 6 days
New York City, NY to Bowling Green, KY $780 – $1,249 857 miles 2 – 7 days
New York City, NY to Owensboro, KY $753 – $1,209 843 miles 2 – 7 days
New York City, NY to Covington, KY $755 – $1,037 640 miles 1 – 6 days

Cost to ship a car from Brooklyn, NY to Kentucky

From New York to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Brooklyn, NY to Louisville, KY $750 – $1,133 741 miles 1 – 6 days
Brooklyn, NY to Lexington, KY $786 – $1,133 711 miles 1 – 6 days
Brooklyn, NY to Bowling Green, KY $804 – $1,189 861 miles 2 – 7 days
Brooklyn, NY to Owensboro, KY $784 – $1,173 847 miles 2 – 7 days
Brooklyn, NY to Covington, KY $712 – $1,048 644 miles 1 – 6 days

Cost to ship a car from Queens, NY to Kentucky

From New York to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Queens, NY to Louisville, KY $758 – $1,142 762 miles 2 – 7 days
Queens, NY to Lexington, KY $765 – $1,077 733 miles 1 – 6 days
Queens, NY to Bowling Green, KY $831 – $1,216 889 miles 2 – 7 days
Queens, NY to Owensboro, KY $772 – $1,261 868 miles 2 – 7 days
Queens, NY to Covington, KY $703 – $1,094 665 miles 1 – 6 days

Cost to ship a car from Manhattan, NY to Kentucky

From New York to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Manhattan, NY to Louisville, KY $804 – $1,089 740 miles 1 – 6 days
Manhattan, NY to Lexington, KY $741 – $1,067 711 miles 1 – 6 days
Manhattan, NY to Bowling Green, KY $788 – $1,213 867 miles 2 – 7 days
Manhattan, NY to Owensboro, KY $761 – $1,162 846 miles 2 – 7 days
Manhattan, NY to Covington, KY $741 – $1,027 643 miles 1 – 6 days

Cost to ship a car from Bronx, NY to Kentucky

From New York to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Bronx, NY to Louisville, KY $751 – $1,165 750 miles 2 – 7 days
Bronx, NY to Lexington, KY $741 – $1,067 717 miles 1 – 6 days
Bronx, NY to Bowling Green, KY $756 – $1,141 870 miles 2 – 7 days
Bronx, NY to Owensboro, KY $828 – $1,225 856 miles 2 – 7 days
Bronx, NY to Covington, KY $762 – $1,084 653 miles 1 – 6 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from New York to Kentucky

Transporting bigger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans is usually more expensive than shipping a sedan due to increased weight and space requirements.

For this route from New York to Kentucky, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $921–$1,306.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from New York to Kentucky

Transporting your vehicle from the Empire State to the Bluegrass State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:

  • Type of transport: Common choices include open carriers, enclosed carriers, and top-loading. Open carriers are the least expensive, while enclosed shipping is better for classic or high-end cars. More details are available in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
  • Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to Kentucky.
  • Distance and route: The route from New York to Kentucky is about 698 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand impacts the price of getting your car out of New York, with summer and winter holidays often seeing a spike due to increased moving and travel activity.
  • Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between New York and Kentucky.
  • Delivery expectations: Because it’ll make their job easier, your auto shipper may give you a pricing discount if you’re flexible on delivery dates. That being said, getting your car from New York to Kentucky should take between one and six days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.

Kentucky vehicle regulations you need to know

To drive legally after your move to Kentucky, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.

  • Car insurance requirements: The insurance coverage includes Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability with limits of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident and $25,000 respectively; Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage (not required); Personal Injury Protection with a limit of $10,000; and optional Collision and Comprehensive coverage for vehicle repair or replacement expenses, with no requirement.
  • Vehicle inspection: When moving to Kentucky from another state, a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection is required. To complete the VIN inspection, bring the vehicle and its title to the Sheriff's office in the county where the car will be registered.
  • Driver’s license: New residents in Kentucky have a 30-day time frame to obtain a Kentucky driver's license.
  • Additional taxes: In Kentucky, a 6% motor vehicle usage tax is imposed on the retail price of vehicles registered for the first time in the state.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from New York

More than 19.6 million people call New York home. Nicknamed the Empire State. The climate of New York state is generally has warm to hot summers and cold winters. In the farther southeastern portion of the state (New York City and Long Island area) hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. Winter temperatures average below freezing during January and February in much of New York state, but several degrees above freezing along the Atlantic coastline, including New York City.

Transporting your vehicle to Kentucky

About 4.5 million people are living in the Bluegrass State. Kentucky has relatively hot, humid, rainy summers, and moderately cold and rainy winters. Kentucky rarely experiences the extremes cold of the northern states nor the heat of the state in the Deep South.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in New York and delivery in Kentucky?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in New York and when dropping it off in Kentucky.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from New York to Kentucky?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from New York to Kentucky, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Kentucky, which you should verify before loading your car in New York.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.

The insurance coverage includes Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability with limits of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident and $25,000 respectively; Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage (not required); Personal Injury Protection with a limit of $10,000; and optional Collision and Comprehensive coverage for vehicle repair or replacement expenses, with no requirement.

How long does it take to ship a car from New York to Kentucky?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from New York to Kentucky is about 698 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take one to six days to travel from New York to Kentucky.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.

When moving to Kentucky from another state, a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection is required. To complete the VIN inspection, bring the vehicle and its title to the Sheriff's office in the county where the car will be registered.

If I have a driver’s license in New York, will I need one in Kentucky?

New residents in Kentucky have a 30-day time frame to obtain a Kentucky driver's license.

If I bought a car in New York, will I be required to pay sales tax in Kentucky after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from New York to Kentucky after purchasing it.

In Kentucky, a 6% motor vehicle usage tax is imposed on the retail price of vehicles registered for the first time in the state.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both New York and Kentucky to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from New York to Kentucky?

The cheapest way to ship a car from New York to Kentucky is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.

How much does it cost to ship a car from New York to Kentucky?

Shipping a car from New York to Kentucky costs $737 to $1,045.

Helpful New York resources