ship car from tennessee to louisiana
Tennessee → Louisiana

Ship Car from Tennessee to Louisiana

Shipping a vehicle from Tennessee to Louisiana covers approximately 584 miles, with most carriers completing the transit in two to three days. This route typically benefits from consistent traffic along I-59 S, allowing for efficient, door-to-door transport. As a referral service, Ship Car Pros connects you with vetted, independent carriers to manage the logistics of your move. Below, we cover everything you need to know, including current market rates, transit expectations, the booking process, carrier verification, vehicle preparation, and answers to common questions to help you feel confident throughout your shipment.

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Distance
584 mi
Transit time
2–3 days
Open carrier from
$650

How much does it cost to ship a car from Tennessee to Louisiana?

For this 584-mile route, you can expect open transport to typically cost between $650 and $875, while enclosed options generally range from $1250 to $1675, with transit times averaging two to three days. As a referral service, Ship Car Pros connects you with vetted, independent carriers who bid on your specific shipment; the price you see is the current market rate required to secure a driver for your move. Six key variables determine where your final quote lands, including your vehicle's size, its operability, and your flexibility on pickup dates. We will break down these pricing factors and the difference between open and enclosed trailers in the following sections to help you understand exactly how your total is calculated.

What factors affect car shipping cost?

Several variables influence the final rate for your shipment between Tennessee and Louisiana. While distance is fixed, these specific details allow carriers to determine their logistics and overhead for your move:

  • Vehicle dimensions and weight: Larger trucks and SUVs require more trailer space and increase fuel consumption.
  • Transport type: Selecting enclosed trailers provides specialized protection but costs significantly more than standard open transport.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: Offering a wider, four-to-seven-day window helps carriers optimize their routes, often reducing your cost.
  • Seasonal demand: High-traffic periods, such as summer moves or holiday travel, generally increase competition for limited trailer space.
  • Route accessibility: Deliveries to major metro areas are cheaper than remote, rural locations that require drivers to detour.
  • Vehicle operability: Non-running vehicles require specialized winching equipment, which adds to the total labor and time required for loading.

Open vs. enclosed car transport: which should you choose?

Choosing between open and enclosed transport comes down to your vehicle's value and your priorities. Open transport is the industry standard, used for roughly 85% of all shipments. It is the same method dealers use to move brand-new cars from factories to lots. With a typical price around $730, it is the most efficient way to move a daily driver.

Enclosed transport, which averages $1,396 on this route, offers a higher level of protection. Your vehicle rides inside a sealed trailer, shielded from road debris, dust, and harsh weather. This is the right choice if you are shipping a classic car, a high-value exotic vehicle, or a custom build with low ground clearance that makes standard loading difficult. If your vehicle is a regular commuter car, the added cost of an enclosed trailer is rarely necessary, as both methods include full insurance coverage during transit.

Open carrier
$650–$875
Standard 7–10 car hauler.
Enclosed carrier
$1,250–$1,675
Sealed trailer for high-value vehicles.

How long does it take to ship a car from Tennessee to Louisiana?

You can expect your vehicle to arrive in two to three days for this 584-mile journey. Most carriers cover about 400 to 500 miles per day once they are on the road, factoring in mandatory rest breaks, fuel stops, and the time required to load and unload other vehicles along their route. While these estimates are the industry standard, keep in mind that weather, traffic, and your specific pickup or delivery addresses can influence the final schedule. Once your vehicle is assigned to a driver, you will receive a more precise window. We will cover how to track your vehicle's progress and handle the delivery inspection in the following sections.

Which routes do carriers usually take?

Carriers moving vehicles from Tennessee to Louisiana typically utilize I-59 S as their primary artery. This route offers a direct, efficient path from the Chattanooga area through Alabama and directly into the heart of Louisiana. Drivers often depart from major Tennessee logistics hubs like Nashville or Knoxville, merging onto I-59 S to bypass more circuitous secondary roads. While the interstate provides a stable corridor, carriers must navigate the significant urban congestion around Birmingham and the approach into the Gulf Coast region. This well-traveled path ensures consistent carrier availability and reliable transit times for shipments moving south between these two states.

What can delay your shipment?

While most shipments move smoothly, occasional delays are a standard part of the logistics process. In the Tennessee mountains, winter ice storms can temporarily shut down steep grades, while Louisiana’s coastal routes are susceptible to sudden flash flooding and dense fog, particularly along the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. Beyond weather, scheduling also plays a role. Friday bookings often wait until the following week for pickup, as carrier activity slows over the weekend. Similarly, auction pickups require precise documentation; missing a gate pin or lot number will stall your shipment until the paperwork is finalized. These variables are normal, but we work to minimize their impact on your delivery timeline.

Popular Routes

Major city-to-city routes on the Tennessee → Louisiana corridor.

FromToApprox. distanceTransit
Nashville, TNNew Orleans, LA~460 mi2-4 days
Memphis, TNBaton Rouge, LA~330 mi2-4 days
Knoxville, TNShreveport, LA~610 mi3-5 days
Chattanooga, TNLafayette, LA~520 mi3-5 days
Clarksville, TNLake Charles, LA~550 mi3-5 days
Murfreesboro, TNHouma, LA~500 mi2-4 days
Johnson City, TNMonroe, LA~610 mi3-5 days
Kingsport, TNMandeville, LA~610 mi3-5 days
Franklin, TNSlidell, LA~420 mi2-4 days
Cleveland, TNAlexandria, LA~510 mi3-5 days

How does shipping a car from Tennessee to Louisiana work?

Shipping a vehicle from Tennessee to Louisiana follows a simple three-stage process designed to get your car from your driveway to its new home. First, you request a quote to lock in your rate based on your specific route and vehicle details. Once you confirm, we coordinate with a vetted carrier from our network to handle the transport. Finally, the driver manages the pickup, transit, and delivery, keeping you informed throughout the journey. We will break down each of these stages in detail, from the initial request to the final inspection at your door.

What happens between booking and pickup?

Once you finalize your booking, the focus shifts to securing your carrier and preparing for the arrival of the transport truck. The transition from reservation to the actual loading process involves these specific steps:

  1. Market Posting: We post your shipment details to our private network, where vetted, independent carriers review the route and vehicle specifications.
  2. Carrier Assignment: A qualified carrier claims your load and is formally dispatched to your route.
  3. Notification: You receive an email or text confirming the assigned carrier’s details, including their contact information and estimated arrival window.
  4. Scheduling: The driver contacts you directly to coordinate a specific pickup window or answer any final questions about your location.
  5. On-Site Inspection: Upon arrival, the driver performs a thorough, bumper-to-bumper inspection of your vehicle, documenting its condition on the bill of lading before loading it onto the trailer.

This sequence ensures you are never left guessing, providing clear communication before the truck ever pulls up to your door.

What is a bill of lading (BOL)?

The bill of lading (BOL) is essentially your vehicle’s receipt, condition report, and transport contract all in one. When the driver arrives at your pickup location, they perform a comprehensive, roughly 21-point inspection to document the car's current state, including any existing dings or scratches. You receive a copy of this report once it is signed. At the delivery destination, the driver repeats this exact process. You should inspect the vehicle thoroughly, preferably in good daylight, and compare the condition against the original notes before signing off. This document is your primary protection, ensuring that any new damage occurring during transit is clearly identified and documented.

After delivery: registration and inspection in Louisiana

Once your vehicle arrives in Louisiana, you have 30 days to register it with the state. You will need to visit a local Office of Motor Vehicles branch or an authorized Public Tag Agent to complete the process. Be prepared to provide your original out-of-state title, a valid driver's license, and proof of insurance meeting Louisiana’s 15/30/25 minimum liability requirements. You must also pass a state safety inspection, which covers safety equipment and your gas cap; if you live in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston, or West Baton Rouge parishes, an OBD-II emissions test is also required. You can review the full list of necessary forms, including the "Out of State Declaration" on Form DPSMV 1799, at ExpressLane.

Meanwhile, remember to formally cancel your Tennessee registration by submitting Form VS-09162021 to the Department of Revenue. Keep your Tennessee insurance active until your vehicle is officially registered in Louisiana to avoid an EIVS suspension flag.

How do you verify a car transport company is legitimate?

Verifying the legitimacy of a transporter is a critical step in protecting your vehicle. Every carrier operating across state lines must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can confirm their status by looking up their unique Motor Carrier (MC) and Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers on the FMCSA’s official website. This portal allows you to verify that they hold an active license and possess the mandatory cargo insurance required to operate legally.

Beyond federal registration, pay close attention to the payment structure. A legitimate service will never ask for a deposit until a carrier has been officially assigned to your load. If a company demands full payment or a significant "booking fee" upfront before a driver is even confirmed, consider it a red flag. Always insist on a written agreement that details the terms, insurance coverage, and total cost before you finalize anything.

Finally, look beyond the company’s own website. Cross-reference their reputation using independent, third-party platforms like Transport Reviews or the Better Business Bureau. These sites provide unfiltered feedback from actual customers regarding communication, pickup reliability, and claims handling. If you cannot find a consistent history of successful shipments or if the company seems to avoid providing their licensing details, it is best to look elsewhere.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Preparing your vehicle for transit ensures a smooth inspection and helps the driver load your car safely. Following these steps helps protect your property and allows for an accurate condition report at pickup:

  • Wash the exterior: Cleaning the car allows you and the driver to clearly identify and document existing scratches, dents, or paint chips.
  • Remove personal belongings: Clear out all loose items, toll tags, and parking permits to ensure nothing is damaged or lost during transit.
  • Limit fuel levels: Keep the gas tank at approximately one-quarter full to reduce weight while still providing enough fuel for loading and unloading.
  • Disable security systems: Turn off any alarms or anti-theft devices so the carrier doesn't encounter issues while maneuvering the vehicle.
  • Document quirks: Provide the driver with a brief note regarding any known mechanical issues, such as battery tricks or stubborn door handles.
  • Photograph the vehicle: Take dated, high-resolution photos from every angle to serve as a final record of the car's condition.

Taking these precautions gives you added peace of mind and ensures the transport process remains efficient from start to finish.

Specialty shipments from Tennessee to Louisiana

Some shipments fall outside the standard category, requiring extra logistics and specific documentation to ensure a successful move. We frequently handle unique transport scenarios for customers moving specialty items between Tennessee and Louisiana. The process differs slightly when handling auction-bought inventory, vehicles that no longer run, or large-scale moves involving multiple cars. Here is how we manage these specific requirements to ensure your vehicle is handled properly and arrives at its destination safely.

How do you ship a car bought at Copart or IAA auction?

Shipping a vehicle purchased from an auction facility like Copart or IAA requires specific documentation before a carrier can gain access. To ensure a successful pickup, you must provide the lot number, the gate pin, and your unique buyer number. You should also confirm that the auction house has received full payment, as carriers cannot release a vehicle without official notification of a cleared balance.

Auction pickups often take longer to coordinate than residential moves, typically adding one to three days to your timeline. Auction facilities operate on strict, appointment-only schedules that are less flexible than private pickups. Furthermore, carriers must coordinate with the specific loading dock staff at the yard, which can be affected by the facility’s current queue or staffing levels. Having your paperwork ready immediately helps us expedite the dispatch process and minimizes the chances of your vehicle sitting unclaimed.

How do you ship an inoperable car?

Shipping a vehicle that doesn't start adds complexity to the transport process, but it is a routine task for our network of carriers. Because the vehicle cannot be driven onto the trailer under its own power, the driver must use a winch to pull the car up the ramp. For this to be possible, your vehicle must still roll, steer, and brake. If the wheels are locked or the steering is compromised, the loading process becomes significantly more involved and may require specialized equipment. Expect an additional surcharge to cover the extra labor, time, and specialized gear required for these non-running loads.

How do you ship multiple cars at once?

If you are relocating an entire household, managing a fleet, or moving a collection, shipping multiple vehicles together is often the most efficient approach. Bundling your vehicles onto a single carrier avoids the logistical headache of coordinating separate pickups and deliveries. When you ship two or more cars on the same route, you generally qualify for a multi-vehicle discount, which lowers the per-vehicle rate compared to individual shipments. While we aim to keep your entire fleet on one trailer, large orders may occasionally be split across multiple trucks depending on carrier capacity. Regardless of the configuration, we ensure every vehicle is accounted for and documented throughout the journey.

Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it from Tennessee to Louisiana?

Deciding between shipping your car and driving it yourself comes down to a balance of direct costs and your own time. For this 584-mile route between Tennessee and Louisiana, the choice is often driven by whether you value your time as much as your wallet.

If you choose to ship your vehicle, the typical cost for open transport is around $730. This is an all-inclusive price that covers the driver, fuel, tolls, and full insurance coverage during the journey. You avoid the physical fatigue of a nine-hour drive and keep the extra mileage off your odometer.

If you drive the car yourself, your out-of-pocket expenses are significantly lower. Based on current AAA data, the per-mile driving cost-which accounts for fuel, wear and tear, and maintenance-is approximately $409 for a trip of this distance. Because the drive takes about 8 hours and 38 minutes, most people can complete this trip in a single day, meaning you likely won't need to budget for an overnight hotel stay.

While driving is undeniably the cheaper option, consider the hidden opportunity costs. You will need to dedicate a full day to the road, manage the stress of traffic, and handle the logistics of getting yourself back or forward if you aren't moving with the car.

Ship itDrive it
Total cost$650–$875 all-in~$409 (fuel + lodging + meals)
Your time0 hours~10 hrs driving + overnight
Wear & tearNone584 mi added; ~$0.10/mi depreciation
RiskInsured in transitPersonal liability + fatigue

For most Tennessee → Louisiana shipments, ship is the better value once time and depreciation are counted.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to ship a car from Tennessee to Louisiana?

Shipping a car from Tennessee to Louisiana typically costs between $650 and $875 for open transport, while enclosed transport generally ranges from $1,250 to $1,675. The final price depends on factors like your vehicle's size, its operability, and your flexibility regarding pickup dates. Because carriers bid on loads, these figures represent the current market rates necessary to secure a driver for this 584-mile route.

How long does it take for my car to arrive in Louisiana?

Transit for this 584-mile route typically takes two to three days. While carriers generally cover 400 to 500 miles per day, the exact arrival time depends on factors like weather, traffic patterns, and the carrier's specific route. Once a driver is assigned to your shipment, they will provide a more precise delivery window based on their current schedule and the conditions along the interstate.

Is my vehicle insured while it's on the carrier's truck?

Yes, your vehicle is fully covered by the carrier's cargo insurance policy during the entire transit process. This coverage is included in your all-inclusive shipping rate. Insurance typically ranges from $50,000 to $250,000 for open trailers and up to $1,000,000 for enclosed trailers. This protection covers the vehicle from bumper to bumper, ensuring you are not liable for damages that may occur while the car is in the carrier's possession.

When do I actually pay for the shipment?

You do not pay for the shipment until a carrier has been officially assigned to your load. Once a driver is confirmed, a deposit is charged to your card to secure the space. The remaining balance for the transport is then paid directly to the driver upon the final delivery of your vehicle. Drivers typically accept payment via cash, certified check, money order, Zelle, or Venmo.

Do I need to be there in person for pickup and delivery?

You do not need to be present in person for the pickup or delivery of your vehicle. Any trusted friend, family member, or authorized representative can hand off the keys and sign the necessary paperwork on your behalf. We simply require you to provide us with the contact information for the person who will be present at both the origin and destination addresses to ensure the process remains efficient.

Should I choose open or enclosed transport for a standard daily driver?

Open transport is the recommended choice for a standard daily driver. It is the industry standard for about 85% of all vehicle shipments and is the same method used to deliver new cars to dealerships. Because it is significantly more affordable than enclosed transport and includes full insurance, it is the most practical and efficient way to move a regular commuter vehicle between Tennessee and Louisiana.

What is a bill of lading, and why is it important?

The bill of lading (BOL) is a critical document that serves as your receipt, inspection report, and transport contract. At pickup, the driver performs a 21-point inspection to document the vehicle's condition, including any existing scratches or dents. You compare this report to the vehicle's condition at delivery to identify any potential damage during transit. This document is your primary legal protection and is essential for any future insurance claims.

Can the carrier deliver my car on a weekend?

Carriers can and often do deliver vehicles on weekends as they complete their routes. While pickup windows are less reliable on Saturdays and Sundays due to lower industry activity, delivery is based on the driver's arrival time, which is not restricted to the standard work week. If your driver arrives on a weekend, they will coordinate with you or your authorized contact to complete the delivery and final inspection.