Texas to Kentucky Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 1,112 miles from Texas to Kentucky typically falls between $842 and $1,428. The process usually takes two–eight days, depending on variables like the type of transport and seasonal demand. For a personalized estimate, visit our car shipping cost calculator.

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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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas 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
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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 Texas

Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Texas ready to move your vehicle to Kentucky:

  1. New World Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Lepke Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  3. San Antonio Auto Shipping Group: 3.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Thrifty Auto Shipping, Inc.: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Bold Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

New World Auto Transport

5150 Franz Rd STE 500, Katy, TX 77493 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

New World Auto Transport is praised for their exceptional service and professionalism in moving vehicles, with many customers feeling valued and cared for throughout the process. Their quick delivery times and excellent communication stand out, leading to high customer satisfaction. However, there are no significant negative remarks reported in the reviews.

Get a Quote (877) 337-0879

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • Student

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • New World Auto Transport Logistics, LLC

Lepke Auto Transport

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Lepke Auto Transport for their fast and efficient service, affordable pricing, and excellent communication. Reviewers express satisfaction with the timely delivery of vehicles and the ease of the overall process. However, there were no notable complaints regarding their service, indicating a strong customer approval.

Get a Quote (877) 733-3479

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

San Antonio Auto Shipping Group

5460 Babcock Rd #120-C, San Antonio, TX 78240 US

starstarstarstarstar3.76 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised the excellent support, professionalism, and reliable delivery speed provided by the team at Auto Shipping Group. Many highlighted the positive experiences with specific representatives who ensured smooth communication throughout the shipping process. Additionally, recipients appreciated the careful handling of their vehicles upon delivery. However, some customers encountered difficulties with prior service issues before finding satisfaction with this company. A few reviews noted initial challenges in locating transporter services, suggesting the need for better initial coordination in future cases.

Get a Quote (801) 973-4385

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
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Thrifty Auto Shipping, Inc.

2201 Main St #205, Dallas, TX 75201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Thrifty Auto Shipping for their exceptional customer service and reliable, timely deliveries. Positive comments highlight the excellent communication and ease of the shipping process. However, some notes indicate that prices may not be the lowest compared to competitors, though regarded as fair.

Get a Quote (844) 741-1221

Services Offered

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

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • AAA
  • Student
  • Teacher
  • Law enforcement

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2537155

Bold Auto Transport

325 North St. Paul Street Suite 3100, Dallas, TX 75201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised Bold Auto Transport for their excellent service, professional staff, and fast delivery times. However, no significant negative feedback was noted, with every shipment being handled promptly and efficiently.

Get a Quote (469) 942-5444

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
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles

Discounts

  • Military
  • Law enforcement

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 Texas to Kentucky

Ship it with your movers

If you need to ship your car from Texas for a move to Kentucky, you may want to hire a moving company that can handle car shipping, as well. Many long-distance moving companies work with reputable car shippers to coordinate auto transport.

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
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  • 24/7 cust. service
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Drive it yourself

While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 1,112 miles to your vehicle on the route from Texas to Kentucky. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.

Hire a driver

You can hire someone to drive your car from Texas to Kentucky, but it’s often expensive and requires confidence in the driver’s ability to deliver your car safely.

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.

Texas to Kentucky auto transport costs and transit times

Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Texas and Kentucky. The typical distance is about 1,112 miles, with shipping times generally falling between two and eight days.

Cost to ship a car from Houston, TX to Kentucky

From Texas to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Houston, TX to Louisville, KY $827 – $1,347 952 miles 2 – 7 days
Houston, TX to Lexington, KY $776 – $1,293 989 miles 2 – 7 days
Houston, TX to Bowling Green, KY $836 – $1,166 842 miles 2 – 7 days
Houston, TX to Owensboro, KY $775 – $1,243 869 miles 2 – 7 days
Houston, TX to Covington, KY $830 – $1,288 1,047 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from San Antonio, TX to Kentucky

From Texas to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Antonio, TX to Louisville, KY $904 – $1,442 1,108 miles 2 – 8 days
San Antonio, TX to Lexington, KY $842 – $1,373 1,146 miles 2 – 8 days
San Antonio, TX to Bowling Green, KY $784 – $1,319 999 miles 2 – 7 days
San Antonio, TX to Owensboro, KY $805 – $1,314 1,026 miles 2 – 8 days
San Antonio, TX to Covington, KY $1,004 – $1,449 1,204 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Dallas, TX to Kentucky

From Texas to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Dallas, TX to Louisville, KY $828 – $1,202 835 miles 2 – 7 days
Dallas, TX to Lexington, KY $800 – $1,255 873 miles 2 – 7 days
Dallas, TX to Bowling Green, KY $776 – $1,195 726 miles 1 – 6 days
Dallas, TX to Owensboro, KY $769 – $1,182 753 miles 2 – 7 days
Dallas, TX to Covington, KY $804 – $1,221 931 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Austin, TX to Kentucky

From Texas to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Austin, TX to Louisville, KY $789 – $1,327 1,030 miles 2 – 8 days
Austin, TX to Lexington, KY $789 – $1,327 1,068 miles 2 – 8 days
Austin, TX to Bowling Green, KY $779 – $1,221 921 miles 2 – 7 days
Austin, TX to Owensboro, KY $812 – $1,284 948 miles 2 – 7 days
Austin, TX to Covington, KY $850 – $1,401 1,125 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Fort Worth, TX to Kentucky

From Texas to Kentucky Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Fort Worth, TX to Louisville, KY $800 – $1,181 867 miles 2 – 7 days
Fort Worth, TX to Lexington, KY $861 – $1,221 904 miles 2 – 7 days
Fort Worth, TX to Bowling Green, KY $793 – $1,101 757 miles 2 – 7 days
Fort Worth, TX to Owensboro, KY $825 – $1,132 784 miles 2 – 7 days
Fort Worth, TX to Covington, KY $778 – $1,244 962 miles 2 – 7 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Texas to Kentucky

Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.

If you’re moving one from Texas to Kentucky, expect costs to range from $1,053 to $1,785.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Texas to Kentucky

If you’re shipping a car from the Lone Star State to the Bluegrass State, keep these cost factors in mind:

  • 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 journey from Texas to Kentucky spans approximately 1,112 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
  • Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Texas around these times usually come with higher costs.
  • Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Texas and Kentucky.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Texas to Kentucky takes two–eight days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.

Kentucky vehicle regulations you need to know

When you move to Kentucky, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • 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 Texas

More than 30.5 million people call Texas home. Nicknamed the Lone Star State. Although winters are mild, hurricane season during the summer months may affect your move.

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 Texas 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 Texas and when dropping it off in Kentucky.

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

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

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. 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.

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 Texas to Kentucky?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Texas to Kentucky is about 1,112 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from Texas to Kentucky.

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

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

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 Texas, 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 Texas, 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 Texas 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 Texas and Kentucky to avoid any hidden costs.

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

The cheapest way to ship a car from Texas 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 Texas to Kentucky?

Shipping a car from Texas to Kentucky costs $842 to $1,428.

Helpful Texas resources