After digging into the data, we found that Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the top car shipping choice in Kentucky, scoring an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars for pricing, service options, and overall experience. If you're looking to ship your car from Kentucky, you can typically expect to pay between $772 - $1,264, though prices may vary depending on your specific needs. Plus, this company is known for its reliable communication and hassle-free process, making it an easy choice for our best movers list.
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You deserve honest, well-researched information when picking a car shipping company — and that's what we deliver at FreightWaves.
Our experts rated 2,400 providers nationwide, evaluating things like cost, service range, availability, and customer reviews. We pay close attention to recurring themes in real user feedback to surface the companies that truly stand out — and the ones that don't.
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The Best Car Shipping Companies in Kentucky
National car shipping companies usually offer the best mix of pricing, services, and availability. Here's our breakdown of the top-rated options in Kentucky.
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in Kentucky
We've done the homework on these Kentucky-based transport companies — just note they may not offer the same level of coverage or flexibility as our top recommendations above.
Louisville Auto Shipping Group
Louisville Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a prominent car shipping company that provides a variety of services, including interstate and international shipping, expedited delivery, and fully insured transport. They are well-equipped to handle specialized transport needs such as classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, heavy equipment, and even cars that don't run. Additionally, the business boasts a strong BBB rating of A+ and a Google rating of 3.0.
Customers may find it disappointing that Louisville Auto Shipping Group does not accept cryptocurrency or offer discounts to seniors, teachers, or students. However, they do provide a military discount and a damage-free guarantee for peace of mind. The company ensures transparency and reliability with detailed inspection reports, guaranteed delivery, and shipment tracking services.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Jack Cooper Transport
Jack Cooper Transport (DOT: 64161) is a car shipping company with a strong reputation, as reflected by their Google rating of 4.3 and BBB rating of A-. They offer a variety of services, including boat shipping, RV shipping, and motorcycle shipping, ensuring that diverse transportation needs are met. Customers can also benefit from expedited delivery and enclosed transport options.
However, Jack Cooper Transport does not offer international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a drawback for some clients. Despite these limitations, the company's commitment to quality service is evident through their damage-free guarantee and full insurance coverage. Additionally, they accept payments by credit card, making transactions convenient for customers.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Safe Way Auto Transport, LLC
Safe Way Auto Transport, LLC (DOT: 2232026) is a car shipping business that offers a variety of specialized services, including guaranteed delivery, open and enclosed transport, and international shipping. Customers can also benefit from expedited delivery and the assurance of damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports. Additionally, this company provides shipment tracking and multi-car transport options.
Unfortunatel, Safe Way Auto Transport does not offer services for cars that don't run or classic car shipping, which might be a drawback for some customers. While the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the BBB, it boasts a commendable Google rating of 4.7, reflecting high customer satisfaction and reliability.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Ceva Logistics
Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) is a car shipping company that provides a variety of specialized transportation services. They offer interstate and international shipping, boat and heavy equipment shipping, as well as options for expedited delivery and trailer transport. Customers can also take advantage of their storage solutions and enclosed transport services.
However, it's worth noting that Ceva Logistics does not accommodate inoperable car transport or offer discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or military personnel. While they are fully insured and provide guaranteed delivery, their Google rating is 2.7, and they currently have no established ratings on Yelp or the BBB.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a versatile car shipping business that offers a wide range of services including boat shipping, classic car shipping, and motorcycle shipping. The company ensures your vehicle's safety with options for fully insured shipments, as well as enclosed and open transport methods. Customers can take advantage of their expedited delivery and international shipping capabilities.
While Xpress Auto Transport provides many shipping solutions, it does not offer services for transporting inoperable cars, and it does not accept payments by cryptocurrency or money order, which may be inconvenient for some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. Despite this, they are active and continuously updating their offerings to meet diverse customer needs.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Kentucky
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Kentucky:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Kentucky to California | 2100 | 2730 |
| From Kentucky to Ohio | 647 | 841 |
| From Kentucky to North Carolina | 963 | 1252 |
| From Kentucky to Florida | 1300 | 1690 |
| From Kentucky to Arizona | 1879 | 2443 |
| From Texas to Kentucky | 1337 | 1738 |
| From Georgia to Kentucky | 938 | 1219 |
| From Illinois to Kentucky | 853 | 1109 |
| From New York to Kentucky | 1212 | 1576 |
| From Michigan to Kentucky | 1006 | 1308 |
Find your exact route to ship your car from Kentucky.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Kentucky:
- Distance and Location: The cost of shipping your car out of Kentucky depends on distance and location, with longer distances and remote locations typically leading to higher costs.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling, such as classic cars, may cost more to ship out of Kentucky. Additionally, non-operational vehicles might increase the price due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Kentucky's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping costs about 30% more but offers protection inside a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic cars. Around 90% of people opt for open transport due to its cost savings.
- Seasonality: Kentucky's hot, humid summers and cold, rainy winters can increase shipping costs due to weather-related delays and potential vehicle maintenance needs. Extreme weather might also necessitate specialized transport equipment.
- Additional Services Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make shipping a car out of Kentucky more expensive. These services require extra coordination and quicker turnarounds, which increase the overall cost.
Every factor above can impact the cost of shipping your car from Kentucky. For the best deal, use the form below to request car shipping quotes from several Kentucky transport providers and compare prices, services, and payment plans that fit your budget.
How to Cut Car Shipping Costs
Transporting a vehicle over long distances or state lines often comes with a higher price tag. If you're shipping from Kentucky, consider these cost-saving tips:
- Shop around. Don't choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas costs more due to higher demand and lower availability. To get a better price and more scheduling options, choose a time outside these busy periods if possible.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping instead of enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection but are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, choosing this option will save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Kentucky:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery date and will try their best to meet it. If you don't choose this option, the timeline they provide is just an estimate. Remember that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Kentucky Auto Transport Companies
Our selection of the top car shipping providers in Kentucky is based on an in-depth evaluation of five core metrics: regulatory compliance, client satisfaction, service coverage, cost, and digital credibility.
- Licensing means the company follows both Kentucky and federal rules — so you can ship with confidence.
- We look at real customer reviews to see which companies consistently deliver great service.
- From everyday sedans to rare classics, the best companies offer a range of shipping solutions.
- Fair pricing matters — especially when you’re dealing with the unique challenges of shipping a vehicle through Kentucky.
- Strong ratings on platforms like BBB and positive chatter online signal a company that treats customers right.
Local Car Shippers In Kentucky
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Kentucky Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Kentucky car shipping company?
Car shipping is a convenient option compared to driving long distances. It helps you avoid navigating Kentucky's vast road network and dealing with seasonal weather changes. This method saves you time and effort, which is beneficial given Kentucky's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
It is essential to do thorough research to avoid scams, paying attention to companies with experience in Kentucky's logistics. Ensure the insurance coverage meets local standards and follow tips for preparing your vehicle.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Kentucky?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and how quickly you need shipping. Enclosed shipping provides better protection from Kentucky's weather, but open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
First, check if the car shipping company offers insurance that covers the full value of your vehicle in case of damage. Next, make sure they have cargo insurance and review customer feedback to see if they handle claims well.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Kentucky?
Start with a good wash and vacuum to get the car nice and clean. Take pictures of the car from all angles to show its current condition. Make sure the gas tank is low, around a quarter tank, for safety. In Kentucky, visit the local Sheriff's office with your car and its title for a VIN inspection before transport.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Kentucky?
Seek out positive reviews, proper licensing, and clear pricing. Choose a company experienced with Kentucky's logistics and weather challenges.
