($1,278) Cost to ship a car from Memphis, TN to Riverside, CA

Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,758 miles from Memphis, Tennessee, to Riverside, California, typically costs between $1,278 and $1,801. 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 Riverside to Memphis car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Forbes
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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 Memphis to Riverside car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Memphis to Riverside:

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
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 Memphis

If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in Memphis, TN:

  1. Waddle Trucking Llc: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Mt. Olive Auto & Freight Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Nationwide Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Waddle Trucking Llc

2448 McCullough Blvd., Belden, MS 38826 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0
Get a Quote (662) 680-9657

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport

Additional Information

Mt. Olive Auto & Freight Transport

605 E German Ln, Conway, AR 72032 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Mt. Olive Auto Transport is praised for exceptional customer service, reliable and timely deliveries, and competitive pricing, making it a preferred choice for many clients. However, there are significant complaints regarding unprofessional behavior, unexpected price increases, and poor communication that led to frustrating experiences for some customers.

Get a Quote (501) 358-4982

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Brian Martin DBA Mt. Olive Auto Transport

Nationwide Auto Transport

1598 Imperial Dr #2000, West Plains, MO 65775 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (417) 257-2402

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

4800 Pleasant Hill Rd, Memphis, TN 38118 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (901) 547-6700

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

Global Auto Transportation

5500 Patterson Rd, Little Rock, AR 72209 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 803-0501

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Trailers
  • 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 TN to CA

Getting your car from Memphis to Riverside can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re planning a move from Memphis to Riverside, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.

Drive your car

There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 1,758-mile trip from Memphis to Riverside could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.

Use a driving service

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Tennessee to California, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Memphis to Riverside safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Riverside, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.

Factors affecting Memphis to Riverside car shipping costs

When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Memphis to Riverside, keep these cost factors in mind:

Transport method

When shipping your car from Memphis to Riverside, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.

Open carriers from Memphis are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Riverside? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.

Vehicle size and type

One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Memphis 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 Riverside will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.

Distance and route

Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 1,758 miles from Memphis to Riverside will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Tennessee.

Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Memphis and Riverside can impact car shipping prices.

Winter weather comes alternately from the upper Great Plains and the Gulf of Mexico, which can lead to drastic swings in temperature. Summer weather may come from Texas (very hot and humid) or the Gulf (hot and very humid). Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year though mainly during the spring months. Large hail, strong winds, flooding and frequent lightning can accompany these storms. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.

Riverside has hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters.

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

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 1,758 miles between Memphis and Riverside, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

Auto shippers sometimes offer reduced rates if you’re open to flexible delivery dates. On average, shipping from Memphis to Riverside takes three to eleven days. Opting for flexibility can save you money, but expedited service provides quicker transport at an added cost.

Comparing Memphis and Riverside vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Memphis: A single trip or annual permit must be obtained before traveling with oversize and/or overweight loads on Tennessee roadways. All permit types can be obtained through the TNTRIPS application.
  • Riverside:

Car insurance requirements

  • Memphis: 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.
  • Riverside: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.

Vehicle inspections

  • Memphis: 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.
  • Riverside: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.

Driver’s license

  • Memphis: 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.
  • Riverside: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Memphis to Riverside?

The cost to ship a car from Memphis, TN to Riverside, CA 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 Memphis to Riverside will range from $1,278 to $1,801.

How long will it take to ship my car from Memphis to Riverside?

It will take approximately three to eleven days to ship your car the 1,758 miles from Memphis to Riverside. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Memphis to Riverside?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Memphis to Riverside. 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 Memphis to Riverside?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Memphis to Riverside 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 1,758-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 Memphis resources