Cost to ship a car from Chicago to Philadelphia
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 759 miles from Chicago to Philadelphia ranges from $832 to $1,241. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Philadelphia, PA in 2–7 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Philadelphia to Chicago car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Chicago to Philadelphia car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Chicago to Philadelphia, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Chicago to Philadelphia, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Chicago, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Philadelphia, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Chicago. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Philadelphia will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Chi-Town to the Philly — approximately 759 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.
Time of the year
The season and weather in both Chicago and Philadelphia can impact car shipping prices.
Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
Philadelphia has hot and muggy summers and the fall and spring are generally mild, and winter is moderately cold. If you are planning a summer move make sure to check the weather to avoid overall humid and hot days,
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Chicago to Philadelphia during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 759-mile distance between Chicago and Philadelphia and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Chicago to Philadelphia typically takes between 2 and 7 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Chicago to Philadelphia car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Chicago to Philadelphia:
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for Overall Value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Chicago and Philadelphia vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Chicago: For a fee of $25, CDOT will provide ticket and tow enforceable signs to eligible moving companies for the day of the move. This requires 72 hours.
- Philadelphia: Moving Truck = $50.00 (Center City and University City) and $25.00 (All other areas), per 40 feet of space, per day (40 feet of space is the equivalent of two (2) parking spaces) Moving/Portable Storage Container = $50.00, per container (maximum of 5 calendar days). Temporary Dumpster = $40.00, per dumpster (maximum of 7 calendar days).
Car insurance requirements
- Chicago: The liability insurance minimums for Illinois are $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident, and $20,000 property damage liability per accident.
- Philadelphia: When relocating to Pennsylvania, ensure compliance with state regulations by obtaining car insurance with minimum liability coverage: $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident. Consider enhancing your coverage with options like collision and comprehensive coverage. It's crucial to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times.
Vehicle inspections
- Chicago: In Illinois, emissions inspections are mandatory on a yearly basis for eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metropolitan areas. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts tests on automobiles before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State's office.
- Philadelphia: If you are moving to Pennsylvania and bringing a vehicle with you, you will need to have it inspected within 10 days of establishing residency. This includes safety and emission test. You can find a list of inspection stations on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website or by searching for "vehicle inspection near me". It's a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
Driver’s license
- Chicago: Even if your out-of-state driver's license is valid, you must still pass a vision test and written exam if you are moving to Illinois. Within 90 days of becoming a resident in the state, you must convert your license to an Illinois non-commercial license.
- Philadelphia: When moving to Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and pass a written test, a vision test and a road test. You may also be required to surrender your out-of-state license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Chicago to Philadelphia?
The cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Chicago to Philadelphia will range from $832 to $1,241.
How long will it take to ship my car from Chicago to Philadelphia?
It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 759 miles from Chicago to Philadelphia. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Chicago to Philadelphia?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Chicago to Philadelphia. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
