South Carolina to Tennessee Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 431 miles from South Carolina to Tennessee falls between $619 and $782. Delivery typically takes one–four days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Tennessee to South Carolina car shipping guide.
Our track record
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 South Carolina to Tennessee 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 South Carolina to Tennessee:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for exact pickup dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best insurance coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in South Carolina
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in South Carolina who can get your vehicle to Tennessee:
- Columbia Auto Shipping Group: 3.7 out of 5 stars
- Hmh Logistics Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Andrew Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
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 South Carolina to Tennessee
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from South Carolina to Tennessee, you may find it convenient to work with a moving company that also handles car shipping. Many interstate movers partner with experienced car shipping services to arrange auto transport.
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Drive it yourself
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 431 miles to your vehicle on the route from South Carolina to Tennessee. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from South Carolina to Tennessee. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
Ship by train
This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.
South Carolina to Tennessee auto transport costs and transit times
The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in South Carolina and Tennessee. Average distances are close to 431 miles, with delivery usually taking one–four days.
Cost to ship a car from Charleston, SC to Tennessee
| From South Carolina to Tennessee | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston, SC to Nashville, TN | $672 – $906 | 550 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN | $745 – $1,098 | 689 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Charleston, SC to Clarksville, TN | $682 – $934 | 595 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Charleston, SC to Knoxville, TN | $572 – $722 | 371 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Charleston, SC to Chattanooga, TN | $561 – $800 | 415 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Columbia, SC to Tennessee
| From South Carolina to Tennessee | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia, SC to Nashville, TN | $607 – $798 | 441 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, SC to Memphis, TN | $691 – $981 | 605 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Columbia, SC to Clarksville, TN | $613 – $825 | 486 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, SC to Knoxville, TN | $437 – $589 | 262 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, SC to Chattanooga, TN | $526 – $712 | 332 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from North Charleston, SC to Tennessee
| From South Carolina to Tennessee | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Charleston, SC to Nashville, TN | $661 – $913 | 542 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| North Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN | $737 – $1,034 | 681 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| North Charleston, SC to Clarksville, TN | $655 – $915 | 587 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| North Charleston, SC to Knoxville, TN | $523 – $759 | 363 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| North Charleston, SC to Chattanooga, TN | $584 – $760 | 407 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Mount Pleasant, SC to Tennessee
| From South Carolina to Tennessee | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Pleasant, SC to Nashville, TN | $672 – $972 | 553 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Mount Pleasant, SC to Memphis, TN | $745 – $1,013 | 692 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Mount Pleasant, SC to Clarksville, TN | $689 – $973 | 598 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Mount Pleasant, SC to Knoxville, TN | $572 – $774 | 374 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Mount Pleasant, SC to Chattanooga, TN | $590 – $832 | 418 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Rock Hill, SC to Tennessee
| From South Carolina to Tennessee | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rock Hill, SC to Nashville, TN | $590 – $768 | 413 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rock Hill, SC to Memphis, TN | $691 – $976 | 626 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Rock Hill, SC to Clarksville, TN | $627 – $860 | 458 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rock Hill, SC to Knoxville, TN | $429 – $608 | 234 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rock Hill, SC to Chattanooga, TN | $542 – $748 | 339 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from South Carolina to Tennessee
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from South Carolina to Tennessee, the price usually falls between $774 and $978.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from South Carolina to Tennessee
When moving your vehicle from the Palmetto State to the Volunteer State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Shipping costs are higher for bigger and heavier vehicles. Your car’s weight and dimensions play a direct role in the total cost to ship it to Tennessee.
- Distance and route: The trip from South Carolina to Tennessee covers roughly 431 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of South Carolina in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
- Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between South Carolina and Tennessee and the varying gas prices across the country.
- 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.
Tennessee vehicle regulations you need to know
Moving to Tennessee 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: 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 inspection: 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: 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.
- Additional taxes: When moving to Tennessee, you will be required to pay state income tax and property tax. The state income tax rate in Tennessee is a flat rate of 3%. Property taxes in Tennessee are determined by the county in which the property is located, and can vary widely depending on the area. Additionally, sales tax in Tennessee is 7%, but varies depending on the local area. Some cities and counties in Tennessee also have additional local sales taxes.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from South Carolina
More than 5.4 million people call South Carolina home. Nicknamed the Palmetto State. South Carolina had hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters and coastal areas of the state have very mild winters. While precipitation is abundant the entire year in almost the entire state, the coast tends to have a slightly wetter summer, while inland, the spring and autumn transitions tend to be the wettest periods and winter the driest season, with November being the driest month.
Transporting your vehicle to Tennessee
About 7.1 million people are living in the Volunteer State. Most of Tennessee has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters, with the exception of some of the higher elevations in the Appalachians, which has mild summers and cool winters. The state averages about 15 tornadoes a year.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in South Carolina and delivery in Tennessee?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in South Carolina and when dropping it off in Tennessee.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from South Carolina to Tennessee?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from South Carolina to Tennessee, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Tennessee, which you should verify before loading your car in South Carolina.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from South Carolina to Tennessee?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from South Carolina to Tennessee is about 431 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from South Carolina to Tennessee.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
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.
If I have a driver’s license in South Carolina, will I need one in Tennessee?
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.
If I bought a car in South Carolina, will I be required to pay sales tax in Tennessee after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from South Carolina to Tennessee after purchasing it.
When moving to Tennessee, you will be required to pay state income tax and property tax. The state income tax rate in Tennessee is a flat rate of 3%. Property taxes in Tennessee are determined by the county in which the property is located, and can vary widely depending on the area. Additionally, sales tax in Tennessee is 7%, but varies depending on the local area. Some cities and counties in Tennessee also have additional local sales taxes.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both South Carolina and Tennessee to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from South Carolina to Tennessee?
The cheapest way to ship a car from South Carolina to Tennessee 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 South Carolina to Tennessee?
Shipping a car from South Carolina to Tennessee costs $619 to $782.
136-4 Forum Dr SUITE O, Columbia, SC 29229 US
230 Comiskey Park Circle, Summerville, SC 29485 US
4775 Apartment Blvd j2, North Charleston, SC 29418 US
1614 Taylor St #340, Columbia, SC 29201 US