($868) Cost to ship a car from Chattanooga, TN to McAllen, TX

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,160 miles from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to McAllen, Texas, ranges from $868 to $1,415. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use 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 McAllen to Chattanooga 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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  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
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The best Chattanooga to McAllen car shipping companies

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

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
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Chattanooga

If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Chattanooga, TN:

  1. SAKAEM Logistics LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  2. AMPM Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Tennessee Auto Carriers Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. SEC Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. TNAC Logistics, Inc.: 3.5 out of 5 stars

SAKAEM Logistics LLC

1990 Lakeside Pkwy Ste 185, Tucker, GA 30084 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise SAKAEM Logistics LLC for their clear communication, efficient service, and quick delivery times. Many mention professional staff and affordable rates, with several noting the process was smooth and stress-free. Most vehicles arrived on time and in good condition, and staff kept clients informed throughout the process. Some feedback highlights that SAKAEM offers better pricing and reliability compared to other transport companies. On the downside, a number of customers report unexpected price increases close to pickup, poor communication during issues, and delays in arrival or delivery. These negative experiences often involve last-minute changes to quotes and difficulty reaching staff for updates. SAKAEM stands out for its speed and customer care, but some clients have faced challenges with transparency and reliability, which are less common among top competitors.

Get a Quote (404) 801-4984

Services Offered

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

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • SAKAEM Logistics

AMPM Auto Transport

11803 Kingston Pike, Farragut, TN 37934 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers largely appreciate AmPm Auto Transport for their professional and friendly service, below market pricing, and prompt communication. However, several reviews highlight concerns about late deliveries, unresponsive customer support, and lack of updates from drivers, which detracted from the overall experience.

Get a Quote (877) 241-2676

Services Offered

  • 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
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2247310

Alternative Business Names

  • AMPM Auto Transport, Inc.

Tennessee Auto Carriers Llc

30 Hollingsworth Road, Readyville, TN 37149 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

While some reviews highlight the respectful and polite demeanor of drivers affiliated with this company, there are serious concerns regarding aggressive driving behavior that raises safety fears. Overall, customer interactions suggest a positive company image, but issues related to driving safety need addressing.

Get a Quote (615) 895-1724

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

SEC Auto Transport

105 Northcreek Dr, Shelbyville, TN 37160 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (931) 735-6263

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

TNAC Logistics, Inc.

417 Hj Young Rd, Woodbury, TN 37190 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise TNAC Logistics for their excellent customer service, timely deliveries, and overall professionalism. The staff, particularly Melissa, is noted for their assistance and effective communication, making the shipping experience seamless. However, there are no negative aspects reported in these reviews.

Get a Quote (615) 560-1122

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • 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.

Car shipping alternatives from TN to TX

If you’re planning a move from Chattanooga to McAllen, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.

Coordinate with your movers

When relocating from Chattanooga to McAllen, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.

Drive your car

Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 1,160 miles from Chattanooga to McAllen might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.

Use a driving service

Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from Tennessee to Texas is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Chattanooga to McAllen. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.

Ship your car via train

Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to McAllen, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.

Factors affecting Chattanooga to McAllen car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from Chattanooga to McAllen, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

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

Open carriers from Chattanooga 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 McAllen? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping costs out of Chattanooga will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to McAllen than a compact car.

Distance and route

To put it simply, the longer the journey, the higher the price. Distance impacts pricing in terms of fuel and labor expenses, as well as added costs like toll fees and carrier maintenance. Shipping your car 1,160 miles from Chattanooga to McAllen will likely be more expensive than transporting it a shorter distance within Tennessee.

Where you’re shipping your car matters, too. Rates are usually lower for routes along major highways and higher for more remote areas.

The time of the year

Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Chattanooga and McAllen.

May, September and October are the most suitable months for moving in Chattanooga, while you might reconsider your plans in January and July as these are the least comfortable months.

Consider moving to McAllen city on November, March and February. The city has two distinct seasons; a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.

During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Chattanooga to McAllen during these times can be more expensive.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 1,160 miles between Chattanooga and McAllen, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Chattanooga to McAllen usually takes two–eight days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.

Comparing Chattanooga and McAllen vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Chattanooga: Chattanooga city code requires that no person shall construct a driveway across any sidewalk or cut or drop any curb within the city without first obtaining a permit from the city engineer. And the location of all curb cuts, points of ingress and egress from all streets, parking and loading areas for all uses shall be approved by the traffic engineer before a building permit shall be issued. You may apply for a permit by completing this permit and emailing it to [email protected].
  • McAllen: Make sure to check with the City of McAllen for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to McAllen.

Car insurance requirements

  • Chattanooga: 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.
  • McAllen: Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.

Vehicle inspections

  • Chattanooga: 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.
  • McAllen: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.

Driver’s license

  • Chattanooga: 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.
  • McAllen: New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Chattanooga to McAllen?

The cost to ship a car from Chattanooga, TN to McAllen, TX 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 Chattanooga to McAllen will range from $868 to $1,415.

How long will it take to ship my car from Chattanooga to McAllen?

It will take approximately two to eight days to ship your car the 1,160 miles from Chattanooga to McAllen. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Chattanooga to McAllen?

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

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Chattanooga to McAllen 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 1,160-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 Chattanooga resources