Cost to ship a car from Seattle to Chicago
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,047 miles from Seattle to Chicago ranges from $1,534 to $2,304. 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 Seattle car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Seattle to Chicago car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Seattle to Chicago, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Seattle to Chicago, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Seattle, 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 Seattle. 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 Emerald City to the Chi-Town — approximately 2,047 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 Seattle and Chicago can impact car shipping prices.
Although Seattle has a reputation for frequent rain, the climate in Seattle is very unlikely to affect your move.
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 Seattle 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 2,047-mile distance between Seattle 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 Seattle 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.
Seattle to Chicago car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Seattle to Chicago:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Seattle and Chicago vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Seattle: You may apply for a temporary no parking permit if you need to use a public parking space for your move. This permit will cost $16 for 2 days of use plus an extra fee of lost revenue if you're occupying a parking meter space. This extra fee can go from $16-$27.
- 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
- Seattle: 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
- Seattle: 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
- Seattle: 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 Seattle to Chicago?
The cost to ship a car from Seattle, 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 Seattle to Chicago will range from $1,534 to $2,304.
How long will it take to ship my car from Seattle to Chicago?
It will take approximately 4–12 days to ship your car the 2,047 miles from Seattle to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Seattle to Chicago?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Seattle to Chicago. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
