Cost to ship a car from Chicago to Providence

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 969 miles from Chicago to Providence ranges from $862 to $1,337. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Providence, RI 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 Providence to Chicago car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Chicago to Providence car shipping costs

Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Chicago to Providence, these factors will influence the cost:

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Chicago to Providence, 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 Providence, 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 Providence 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 Creative Capital — approximately 969 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 Providence 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.

June, September and August are the most pleasant months in Providence, while January and February are the least comfortable months.

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 Providence 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 969-mile distance between Chicago and Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Chicago to Providence:

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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Chicago and Providence 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.
  • Providence: Providence Government requires permits on certain time and areas of the city. Please apply and secure the necessary documents before moving. Please check their website: https://www.providenceri.gov/public-works/overnight-parking/

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.
  • Providence: When relocating to Rhode Island, it's essential to secure car insurance meeting the state's minimum requirements, which include liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Additionally, Rhode Island mandates all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage for comprehensive protection.

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.
  • Providence: All newly registered vehicles (except new vehicles) must pass a Safety and Emissions inspection or have a valid inspection certificate within 5 days of registration. If not, the registration may be suspended. New vehicles are exempt from inspection for 2 years or until they reach 24,000 miles. Different categories of vehicles have different inspection requirements and must be inspected at a licensed station.

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.
  • Providence: If you are moving to Rhode Island from another state, you have 60 days to obtain a Rhode Island driver's license. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. This can include documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Chicago to Providence?

The cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Providence, RI 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 Providence will range from $862 to $1,337.

How long will it take to ship my car from Chicago to Providence?

It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 969 miles from Chicago to Providence. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Chicago to Providence?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Chicago to Providence. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Helpful Chicago resources