10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Illinois (2026 Cost Guide)
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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 $657 and $1,384, though your final price can vary based on several factors.
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 613 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.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- 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
BKK TRANSPORT
77 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL, 60601
https://www.bkktransport.com
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a wide range of services such as open and enclosed transport, motorcycle and RV shipping, as well as international shipping and handling of inoperable cars. They are fully insured and provide damage-free guarantees, ensuring that vehicles are well-protected during transport. While BKK TRANSPORT boasts impressive credentials with an A+ rating from the BBB and a solid 3.7-star rating on Google, they only have a 1.8-star rating on Yelp, which may be a consideration for some potential customers.
One drawback is that BKK TRANSPORT does not offer electric vehicle shipping, which could be a limitation for owners of such vehicles. Despite this, their expedited delivery option and detailed inspection reports provide customers with peace of mind and prompt service.
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
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
106 Meadow Dr, Countryside, IL, 60525
http://van3autotransport.com
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) is a well-regarded car shipping business that provides a variety of services to meet diverse customer needs. They boast impressive reviews, with a Yelp rating of 4.5, a Google rating of 4.8, and a BBB rating of A+, reflecting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The company offers a range of services, including the transport of inoperable cars, classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and electric vehicles, along with international shipping options. They ensure comprehensive coverage with their damage-free guarantee and fully insured service.
However, Van 3 Auto Transport & Car does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be inconvenient for some customers. Despite this, they stand out by offering various payment options and a military discount, making them a versatile option 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
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
625 N Michigan Ave Suite 1000 PMB 165, Chicago, IL, 60611
https://autoshippinggroup.com
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reputable car shipping company, holding an impressive Google rating of 4.1 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer a wide array of services including transport for inoperable cars, classic cars, and electric vehicles, as well as international shipping. Customers can benefit from their damage-free guarantee and the convenience of expedited delivery services.
While Chicago Auto Shipping Group provides a comprehensive selection of shipping solutions, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which may be a downside for some clients. Additionally, although they offer military discounts, they do not provide discounts specifically for seniors, teachers, students, or AAA members. 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
Karma Auto Transport
901 Nicholas Blvd Unit D, Elk Grove Village, IL, 60007
https://www.karmaautotransport.com
Karma Auto Transport (DOT: 2882553) is a highly-rated car shipping company, boasting an impressive Yelp rating of 4.6 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. While they are noted for their comprehensive services such as interstate shipping, classic car transport, and the ability to transport inoperable vehicles, they do not offer motorcycle, trailer, or RV shipping.
Additionally, the company stands out by providing fully insured shipments along with expedited delivery options and shipment tracking. However, some customers might find it disappointing that they do not offer boat shipping or accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment.
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
Atlantic Express
8801 S 78th Ave, Bridgeview, IL, 60455
http://atlanticexpresscorp.com
Atlantic Express (DOT: 1771262) is a versatile car shipping company that provides a range of services, including shipping for classic cars, motorcycles, and inoperable vehicles. They also offer international shipping and storage solutions for added convenience. Customers have rated Atlantic Express with a 2.4 on Yelp, a 3.7 on Google, and they hold a BBB rating of D-.
While Atlantic Express offers a damage-free guarantee and fully insured shipments, they do not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, the company does not offer expedited delivery, which could be a consideration for those needing quicker service.
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 to pay between $657 and $1,384. 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): $488 and $867
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $829 and $1,213
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,139 and $1,344
To give you a better idea, check out these example price ranges:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois to California | $1,519 | $2,474 |
| Illinois to Texas | $1,024 | $1,668 |
| Illinois to Arizona | $1,427 | $2,019 |
| Illinois to New York | $1,008 | $1,609 |
| Illinois to Georgia | $988 | $1,552 |
| Pennsylvania to Illinois | $993 | $1,343 |
| North Carolina to Illinois | $972 | $1,413 |
| Florida to Illinois | $1,121 | $1,755 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $772 | $1,008 |
| Ohio to Illinois | $721 | $1,048 |
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.
How to ship a car from Illinois
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in Illinois.
- Estimate your shipping cost — Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of Illinois typically costs $657–$1,384, though distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.
- Choose open vs enclosed transport — Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris — especially relevant given Illinois's weather patterns.
- Verify MC/DOT licensing — Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- Compare shippers and get 3+ quotes — Compare at least three of the 19 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Illinois. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
- Book an off-peak ship date — Flexibility on your ship date is one of the biggest cost levers. Avoid peak summer demand and end-of-month rushes. Delivery from Illinois runs 1–3 days locally and about 7–14 days on cross-country routes.
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?
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.
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, 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.
Does weather in Illinois impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Illinois. Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "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?
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.
