Best Illinois Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Sherpa Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Illinois, giving them 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Key takeaways
- While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of Illinois ranges from $677 to $1,374.
- 81.1% of Illinois auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
- Only 25% of car shipping companies in Illinois offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Sherpa Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Illinois
Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you need to ship a car out of Chicago, or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in Illinois:
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
- Chicago Auto Shipping Group
- BKK TRANSPORT
- Nexus Auto Transport
- Karma Auto Transport
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
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
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
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
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
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) offers a wide range of services, including enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and international shipping for cars, boats, and motorcycles. The company boasts impressive ratings with a Yelp score of 4.5, a Google rating of 4.8, and a BBB rating of A.
Customers can take advantage of military discounts and the assurance of being fully insured during transport. Some may see the lack of storage solutions and guaranteed delivery as potential downsides. However, their dedication to damage-free transport and detailed inspection reports make it a reliable choice for many.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a comprehensive array of car shipping services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and classic cars. They provide both enclosed and open transport options to meet various customer needs.
The company is fully insured and boasts a damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for their clients. Additionally, they support expedited delivery and offer military discounts. With a solid Google rating of 4.1 and an A+ rating from the BBB, their reputation is well-regarded, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
One potential downside is that they require a deposit and do not offer guaranteed delivery, which may be a consideration for some customers. Nonetheless, Chicago Auto Shipping Group remains a reliable choice for diverse shipping needs.
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
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
BKK TRANSPORT
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a fully insured and active car shipping company that prides itself on a wide array of services including inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, and international shipping. The company also provides storage solutions and expedited delivery for customers needing quick and efficient service.
BKK TRANSPORT has a mixed review reputation with a Yelp rating of 1.5, a Google rating of 3.7, and a BBB rating of A+. However, they do not offer certain discounts like military, student, or senior discounts, which may be a drawback for some potential clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Nexus Auto Transport
Nexus Auto Transport (DOT: 2801954) specializes in a variety of car shipping services, including enclosed transport and international shipping. They are fully insured and offer special services like transporting electric vehicles and shipping cars that don’t run. In addition to these services, Nexus Auto Transport extends a military discount to eligible customers.
Despite their service offerings, the company has a relatively low Yelp rating of 2.3 and a BBB rating of B. Additionally, they do not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a downside for some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Karma Auto Transport
Karma Auto Transport boasts a high Yelp rating of 4.9 and holds a respectable B- rating with the BBB, highlighting their commitment to quality service. They offer a range of services including enclosed transport, shipping for cars that don’t run, and international shipping. Customers can also benefit from damage-free guarantees and fully insured shipments, ensuring peace of mind.
However, potential clients should note that Karma Auto Transport does not provide ATV shipping or offer discounts for military personnel, teachers, students, or seniors. This could be a drawback for some customers looking for specialized options or budget-friendly pricing.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Average cost of transporting a vehicle to or from Illinois
The average cost to ship a car out of Illinois is about $822 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. For example:
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $396 to $878
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $679 to $985
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $903 to $1,243
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Land of Lincoln:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
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| Illinois to Georgia | $904 | $1,352 |
| Illinois to North Carolina | $856 | $1,231 |
| Illinois to Arizona | $1,219 | $1,794 |
| Illinois to Colorado | $906 | $1,325 |
| Illinois to California | $1,435 | $2,156 |
| Florida to Illinois | $892 | $1,456 |
| New York to Illinois | $904 | $1,322 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $647 | $861 |
| Ohio to Illinois | $666 | $913 |
| Texas to Illinois | $892 | $1,357 |
When shipping your car out of Illinois, these factors can affect the price:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping a car within Illinois or to nearby states is usually cheaper than shipping it across the country.
- Location: Whether you’re shipping from busy Chicago to a smaller Illinois town or another state, location affects cost. Cities might have lower rates, while remote Illinois areas may increase expenses.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: Your vehicle’s size and type are important. Compact cars generally cost less to ship. However, if you’re moving a classic car from Illinois, expect a higher price because it needs special handling.
- Shipping options in the Land of Lincoln: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Illinois’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Gas prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can impact your total expenses. Specifically, gas prices in Illinois could influence your shipping costs, particularly over long distances.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll end up paying more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
- Discounts: Some Illinois auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all of the popular Illinois car shipping routes.
| Company | Quote | Rating | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
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Get A Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport
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(833) 775-1461 |
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Get A Quote |
Montway Auto Transport
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(224) 206-5633 |
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Get A Quote |
Easy Auto Ship
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(888) 259-6046 |
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Get A Quote |
AmeriFreight
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(770) 501-9057 |
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Get A Quote |
SGT Auto Transport
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(864) 492-1221 |
FAQs for shipping cars in Illinois
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Illinois?
Sherpa Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Illinois, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Sherpa Auto Transport a 4.5 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Illinois?
The cheapest copmany to ship your car in Illinois will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on
your specific needs is to use our car shipping
calculator.
Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also,
most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top
car shippers in Illinois, AmeriFreight has the
most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Illinois?
If you’re moving to Illinois, you need to pass a vision test and a written exam, even if your out-of-state driver’s license is valid. You must switch to an Illinois non-commercial license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
Does Illinois require a vehicle inspection?
In Illinois, eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas must undergo yearly emissions inspections. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts these tests before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State’s office.
Does Illinois’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Illinois. The climate in Illinois varies between the northern and southern parts of the state. In the north, winters are cold and summers are mild. In the south, winters are mild while summers are hot and humid. Illinois is also located in “tornado alley.”
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Illinois?
Delivery times for car shipping in Illinois depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days. Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Illinois, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| Miles | Timeframe |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Illinois?
In Illinois, the minimum liability insurance requirements are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 for property damage per accident.
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.
MoveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Other Illinois car shipping resources
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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