Ohio to Kentucky Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 249 miles from Ohio to Kentucky ranges from $452 to $631 and takes one–four days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use 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
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

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

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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 Ohio to Kentucky car shipping companies

After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Ohio 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 safety & reliability
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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
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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
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Ohio

If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Ohio that can relocate your vehicle to Kentucky:

  1. Diesel Auto Express: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Ceva Logistics: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  4. USTA Transport: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  5. Tiger Auto Transport: 3.52 out of 5 stars

Diesel Auto Express

1823 Kentucky Ave, Springfield, OH 45505 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0
Get a Quote (360) 539-8600

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
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Jack Cooper Transport

5211 Oster Rd, Sheffield Vlg, OH 44054 US

starstarstarstarstar3.7 / 5.0
Get a Quote (440) 949-2044

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Pacific Motor Trucking Co.

Ceva Logistics

4519 Industrial Pkwy, Cleveland, OH 44135 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers appreciated timely deliveries and some friendly service, particularly praising the helpfulness of specific delivery drivers. However, many voiced serious concerns regarding unprofessional behavior, poor communication, and inadequate handling of items during delivery, noting that the overall customer service fell short of expectations.

Get a Quote (216) 898-6765

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

USTA Transport

606 Hillrose Ave, Dayton, OH 45404 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the friendly staff and exceptional service provided by the company. However, there are concerns regarding pricing and unexpected charges.

Get a Quote (603) 858-6280

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars

Additional Information

Tiger Auto Transport

1 W Corry St, Cincinnati, OH 45219 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0

Fail to get reviews.

Get a Quote (855) 720-5244

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

How we chose the best car shipping companiestoggle

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 Ohio to Kentucky

Ship it with your movers

If you’re relocating from Ohio to Kentucky, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.

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  • Certified crews
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  • 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

Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 249 miles to your car on the trip from Ohio to Kentucky. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.

Hire a driver

Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Ohio to Kentucky. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.

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.

Ohio to Kentucky auto transport costs and transit times

The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Ohio and Kentucky. The trip typically spans 249 miles and takes about one–four days.

Cost to ship a car from Columbus, OH to Kentuckytoggle

From Ohio to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Columbus, OH to Louisville, KY $435 – $599 206 miles 1 – 4 days
Columbus, OH to Lexington, KY $443 – $549 189 miles 1 – 4 days
Columbus, OH to Bowling Green, KY $546 – $761 326 miles 1 – 4 days
Columbus, OH to Owensboro, KY $534 – $715 312 miles 1 – 4 days
Columbus, OH to Covington, KY $316 – $469 109 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Cleveland, OH to Kentuckytoggle

From Ohio to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Cleveland, OH to Louisville, KY $546 – $724 348 miles 1 – 4 days
Cleveland, OH to Lexington, KY $540 – $753 331 miles 1 – 4 days
Cleveland, OH to Bowling Green, KY $605 – $909 467 miles 1 – 4 days
Cleveland, OH to Owensboro, KY $669 – $865 454 miles 1 – 4 days
Cleveland, OH to Covington, KY $457 – $587 251 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Cincinnati, OH to Kentuckytoggle

From Ohio to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Cincinnati, OH to Louisville, KY $317 – $488 99 miles 1 – 4 days
Cincinnati, OH to Lexington, KY $290 – $459 82 miles 1 – 4 days
Cincinnati, OH to Bowling Green, KY $449 – $598 220 miles 1 – 4 days
Cincinnati, OH to Owensboro, KY $466 – $547 205 miles 1 – 4 days
Cincinnati, OH to Covington, KY $214 – $354 1 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Toledo, OH to Kentuckytoggle

From Ohio to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Toledo, OH to Louisville, KY $488 – $687 300 miles 1 – 4 days
Toledo, OH to Lexington, KY $475 – $661 283 miles 1 – 4 days
Toledo, OH to Bowling Green, KY $606 – $855 420 miles 1 – 4 days
Toledo, OH to Owensboro, KY $606 – $863 406 miles 1 – 4 days
Toledo, OH to Covington, KY $471 – $565 203 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Akron, OH to Kentuckytoggle

From Ohio to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Akron, OH to Louisville, KY $519 – $738 332 miles 1 – 4 days
Akron, OH to Lexington, KY $524 – $736 315 miles 1 – 4 days
Akron, OH to Bowling Green, KY $612 – $918 452 miles 1 – 4 days
Akron, OH to Owensboro, KY $629 – $837 438 miles 1 – 4 days
Akron, OH to Covington, KY $444 – $588 235 miles 1 – 4 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Ohio to Kentuckytoggle

SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.

For a larger vehicle going from Ohio to Kentucky, the price usually falls between $565 and $789.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Ohio to Kentucky

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

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Kentucky.
  • Distance and route: The route from Ohio to Kentucky is about 249 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 Ohio, with summer and winter holidays often seeing a spike due to increased moving and travel activity.
  • Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Ohio to Kentucky, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
  • Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes one–four days, while expedited service costs more.

Kentucky vehicle regulations you need to know

Moving to Kentucky means taking care of certain tasks to get your car registered and ready for the road. Here’s a summary of the key steps involved.

  • 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 Ohio

More than 11.8 million people call Ohio home. Nicknamed the Buckeye State. Ohio forms a part of what's considered both the snowbelt and the tornado alley which means your move may be affected if either of these are impacting the state on your move day.

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 Ohio and delivery in Kentucky?toggle

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

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Ohio to Kentucky?toggle

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Ohio 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 Ohio.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In Ohio, it's mandatory for drivers to have car insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. Meeting these requirements is essential for vehicle registration and serves as financial protection in case of an at-fault accident. Explore the option of increasing your liability limits and acquiring additional coverage for enhanced protection.

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 Ohio to Kentucky?toggle

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Ohio to Kentucky is about 249 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Ohio to Kentucky.

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

New residents must get their car smog checked during registration, which will also include a free VIN check. Ohio doesn't require safety inspections, but you may choose to have a car check for peace of mind.

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 Ohio, will I need one in Kentucky?toggle

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

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

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Ohio 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 Ohio and Kentucky to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Ohio to Kentucky?toggle

The cheapest way to ship a car from Ohio 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 Ohio to Kentucky?toggle

Shipping a car from Ohio to Kentucky costs $452 to $631.

Helpful Ohio resources