Cost to ship a car from Fargo to Chicago
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 648 miles from Fargo to Chicago ranges from $776 to $1,055. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Chicago, IL in 1–6 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 Chicago to Fargo car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Fargo to Chicago car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Fargo to Chicago, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Fargo to Chicago, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Fargo, 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 Chicago, 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 Fargo. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Chicago will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Fargo to the Chi-Town — approximately 648 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 Fargo and Chicago can impact car shipping prices.
August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Fargo, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
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.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Fargo to Chicago 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 648-mile distance between Fargo and Chicago 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 Fargo to Chicago typically takes between 1 and 6 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Fargo to Chicago car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Fargo to Chicago:
- 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
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Comparing Fargo and Chicago vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Fargo: Fargo strives to manage, promote and maintain safe, convenient, accessible and attractive parking opportunities to meet the needs of businesses, residents, students and visitors. If you would like to speak to someone in their office about a parking related question or concern please call 701.235.1618 during our regular business hours (Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. except legal holidays).
- 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.
Car insurance requirements
- Fargo: North Dakota mandates that all vehicles carry minimum liability insurance coverage, which includes $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and property damage. Additionally, drivers must have $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Basic personal injury protection is also required, providing $150 per week with a maximum of $30,000.
- 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Fargo: As a new resident in North Dakota, you have 90 days to have your vehicle inspected and registered in the state. There is no requirement for smog or emissions testing in North Dakota.
- 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.
Driver’s license
- Fargo: If you’ve just moved to North Dakota, visit a Driver's License and Testing office, make an appointment for road tests, bring proof of current name and date of birth, and pay applicable fees to get a new 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Fargo to Chicago?
The cost to ship a car from Fargo, ND to Chicago, IL 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 Fargo to Chicago will range from $776 to $1,055.
How long will it take to ship my car from Fargo to Chicago?
It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 648 miles from Fargo to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Fargo to Chicago?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Fargo to Chicago. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
