Cost to ship a car from Olympia to Chicago

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,104 miles from Olympia to Chicago ranges from $1,395 to $2,082. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Chicago, IL in 4–12 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 Olympia car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Olympia to Chicago car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Olympia to Chicago, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Olympia, 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 Olympia. 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 Oly to the Chi-Town — approximately 2,104 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 Olympia and Chicago can impact car shipping prices.

July, August and September are the driest months in Olympia, WA and so it would be best to plan moving during these months. Snow and rain might be a challenge deo relocation during the colder months, specially during December and January.

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 Olympia 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 2,104-mile distance between Olympia 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 Olympia to Chicago typically takes between 4 and 12 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Olympia to Chicago car shipping companies

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

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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 Olympia and Chicago vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Olympia: If you live in or near downtown, you may register your personal vehicle for on-street parking within your residential zone. Residents and visitors must be registered and parked within their zone to avoid receiving a parking citation. Make sure you are able to secure the proper permit upon moving. Please see more details here: https://www.olympiawa.gov/services/parking_services/residential_parking.php
  • 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

  • Olympia: Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
  • 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

  • Olympia: In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
  • 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

  • Olympia: To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
  • 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 Olympia to Chicago?

The cost to ship a car from Olympia, WA 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 Olympia to Chicago will range from $1,395 to $2,082.

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

It will take approximately 4–12 days to ship your car the 2,104 miles from Olympia to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful Olympia resources