Best Car Shipping Companies in Illinois (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: Nexus Auto Transport is our choice for best car shipping in Illinois thanks to competitive pricing, dependable service, and strong reviews. We rate them 4.7 out of 5 stars. Shipping your car from Illinois typically costs between $782 and $1,312, though your final price can vary based on several factors.
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Illinois Car Shipping Facts
- 94% of Illinois auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most popular — and budget-friendly — way to ship a car.
- 89% of car shipping companies in Illinois offer enclosed transport delivery.
- Only 28% of car shipping companies nationwide offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Nexus Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Illinois
Over 400 hours of research have gone into reviewing services, pricing, and availability for 614 car shippers across the country, including 19 right here in IL. Our goal is to use that data to deliver trustworthy and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you’re looking to ship a car from Chicago or anywhere else in Illinois, check out our top car shipping picks below:
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) is a highly-rated car shipping company, earning a 4.3 rating on Yelp and an impressive 4.8 on Google, while maintaining an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. They offer a range of services including international shipping, transportation for inoperable cars, and electric vehicle shipping, demonstrating a robust capacity for diverse transportation needs.
Additionally, Van 3 Auto Transport & Car provides a damage-free guarantee and is fully insured, giving customers peace of mind. However, they do not accept cryptocurrency payments, which might be a limitation for some customers. Despite this, the company's commitment to service quality and customer satisfaction makes them a reliable choice for car shipping needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
BKK TRANSPORT
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a car shipping company with a diverse range of services, including damage-free guarantees, interstate transport, and fully insured deliveries. They cater to niche markets with services like classic car and inoperable car transport, as well as heavy equipment and RV shipping, appealing to a broad clientele.
Despite offering a wide array of services, one potential downside is that BKK TRANSPORT does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment option, which may inconvenience some modern consumers. Their reputation across review platforms is mixed, with a Yelp rating of 1.8, a Google rating of 3.7, but a strong standing with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Karma Auto Transport
Karma Auto Transport (DOT: 2882553) is a reputable car shipping company known for offering comprehensive services, including classic car shipping, interstate transport, and options for cars that don't run. The company holds a strong presence in the industry with a 4.6 rating on Yelp, but it has yet to establish ratings on Google. Additionally, Karma Auto Transport is fully insured and provides detailed inspection reports, ensuring peace of mind for its clients.
While they offer convenient features like shipment tracking and both open and enclosed transport options, a notable downside is the lack of discounts for seniors, teachers, or military personnel, which could be seen as a drawback for some customers. Despite this, Karma Auto Transport maintains an excellent standing with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, underscoring their commitment to quality service.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a car shipping service noted for its comprehensive range of offerings, including transport for inoperable cars, classic cars, and electric vehicles. The company is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for customers concerned about damage-free transport. They hold prestigious credentials with a Google rating of 4.1 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
While Chicago Auto Shipping Group provides multiple types of vehicle transport and storage solutions, some potential customers might find the lack of cryptocurrency payment options and senior discounts a drawback. Despite this, the company remains an active player in the transport market with a commitment to secure and reliable car shipping services. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Atlantic Express
Atlantic Express (DOT: 1771262) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a range of services, including shipping for inoperable cars, motorcycles, and electric vehicles, along with options for both open and enclosed transport. They provide a damage-free guarantee and are fully insured, giving customers peace of mind about the safety of their vehicles. Despite their comprehensive service offerings, a downside is that Atlantic Express does not offer discounts for seniors, teachers, or students.
While the company is active and offers international shipping, it is worth noting their customer feedback ratings are mixed, with a Yelp rating of 2.5, a Google rating of 3.7, and a BBB rating of D-. These ratings may be a consideration for potential customers comparing service providers. Overall, Atlantic Express remains a functional choice for vehicle transport, with a variety of shipping options despite lacking some discounts and customer convenience features.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Average cost of transporting a car out of IL
If you’re shipping a car out of Illinois, expect the average price to land around $959. However, what you actually pay can change quite a bit depending on how far your car needs to go and whether you pick open or enclosed shipping.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $532 and $851
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $839 and $1,196
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,159 and $1,346
To give you a better idea, check out these example price ranges:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois to North Carolina | $785 | $1,251 |
| Illinois to California | $1,386 | $1,978 |
| Illinois to Florida | $934 | $1,392 |
| Illinois to Michigan | $582 | $865 |
| Illinois to Arizona | $1,190 | $1,649 |
| New York to Illinois | $814 | $1,277 |
| Texas to Illinois | $803 | $1,271 |
| Pennsylvania to Illinois | $787 | $1,142 |
| Georgia to Illinois | $865 | $1,306 |
| Ohio to Illinois | $631 | $814 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Illinois:
- Your move distance: How far your car needs to go plays a big part in the price. Shipping within Illinois or nearby states is usually easier on your wallet than sending your vehicle across the country.
- Location: Whether you're shipping from bustling Chicago to a quieter Illinois town or out of state, location impacts cost. Urban areas might offer competitive rates, while remote Illinois locales could add to the bill.
- Type of vehicle: The make, model, and year of your car play a big role. Smaller vehicles are less expensive to ship, but classic or specialty cars, especially those needing TLC, tend to cost more.
- Types of shipping in the Land of Lincoln: You can pick between open-air and enclosed carriers. Open-air is cheaper, but enclosed shipping provides maximum protection from Illinois's unpredictable weather. Just know it comes at a premium. Learn more about enclosed car shipping.
- Fuel costs: Gas prices aren’t just annoying at the pump. They also impact car shipping costs, especially for longer trips. Keep an eye on Illinois’s current fuel rates.
- Delivery time frame: Need your car by a specific date, or want it there ASAP? Expedited shipping or guaranteed dates will cost extra.
- Discounts: Some Illinois auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
Want a precise estimate? Try our car shipping calculator. And take a look at all the popular Illinois car shipping routes for more details.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Illinois?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Illinois, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Nexus Auto Transport a 4.7 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Illinois?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Illinois will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on your specific needs is to use our car shipping calculator. Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also, most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top car shippers in Illinois, AmeriFreight has the most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Illinois?
If you move to Illinois and have a valid driver's license from another state, you'll need to take a vision test and a written exam. Once you become a resident, you have 90 days to switch to an Illinois non-commercial license.
Do Illinois car shippers offer discounts?
In Illinois, no companies offer discounts for police and law enforcement. Military members can choose from 4 car shippers that offer discounted pricing for active service and veterans. No auto transport companies provide student savings. No car shipping companies offer rebates for AAA membership.
Does Illinois require a vehicle inspection?
In Illinois, vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas must pass an emissions test each year. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency does these tests before people can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State.
Does weather in Illinois impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Illinois. The climate in Illinois varies between the northern and southern parts of the state. The north has cold winters and mild summers, while the south has mild winters with hot and humid summers. Illinois is also located in "tornado alley."
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Illinois?
The time it takes to deliver a car in Illinois is determined by how far and along which route the vehicle travels. Shorter, in-state deliveries are generally fulfilled in one to three days. However, when transporting across multiple states, especially from one coast to the other, the timeframe increases to about seven to 14 days.
The time frames can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather conditions in Illinois, and the exact locations involved. To ensure you have the most accurate information, check with your shipping provider to see how these factors apply to your specific circumstances.
| Miles | Time frame |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Illinois?
In Illinois, the minimum liability insurance is $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 for property damage per accident.
