Best Car Shipping Companies in Chicago, IL (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: If you’re looking for an excellent car shipping company in Chicago, IL, Nexus Auto Transport stands out for its impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, affordable rates, and lineup of services. While prices vary, you can usually expect to pay between and $1,480 to ship your car from Chicago.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Illinois car shipping guide.
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
Top car shipping companies in Chicago, IL
Considering moving your vehicle locally or out of Illinois? Here’s a list of the premier car transport companies located in Chicago:
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 a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. 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
- Ships all vehicle types
- 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
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
All Day Auto Transport
All Day Auto Transport (DOT: 2245170) provides a wide range of car shipping services, including options for boat, motorcycle, trailer, RV, and heavy equipment transport, as well as international shipping and expedited delivery. For those needing to transport cars that don’t run, this company also offers inoperable car transport solutions. Although they have an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp rating is a modest 1.8, and the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Customers may find it a downside that All Day Auto Transport does not provide a damage-free guarantee or detailed inspection reports. However, they do accept multiple payment methods, including cash and credit cards, and offer a military discount, which can be an appealing feature for eligible customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reputable car shipping company offering a range of services, including transportation for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and classic car shipping. They are highly rated with a Google rating of 4.1 and boast an A+ BBB rating, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
In addition to providing fully insured transportation solutions, they offer interstate and international shipping options. Customers can also benefit from their expedited delivery service and detailed inspection reports, enhancing the overall shipping experience.
However, a potential downside for some customers is that Chicago Auto Shipping Group does not accept cryptocurrency or money orders as payment methods. The company also requires a deposit, ensuring commitment to service arrangements.
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
BKK TRANSPORT
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide range of services, including damage-free guarantees, interstate transport, and classic car shipping. They also cater to specific needs, such as transporting inoperable cars and providing international shipping options. With a Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating of A+, their commitment to service quality is evident, though their Yelp rating of 1.8 suggests mixed customer experiences, balanced by a more favorable Google rating of 3.7.
A potential downside for some customers is that BKK TRANSPORT does not accept cryptocurrency as a method of payment. Despite this, they offer varied payment options, including cash and money orders, ensuring flexibility in financial transactions. Additionally, while they offer a wide array of transport services, they do not provide multi-car transport discounts, which might be a consideration for clients with multiple vehicles.
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
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
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
Comparing Chicago car auto transport companies
Our review of top auto transport brands extended into an analysis of 19 local car shipping providers in Chicago, 18 throughout Illinois, and more than 518 across the country to compare service options and assist you in selecting the best solution.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Chicago, across Illinois, and nationwide:
- Inoperable car transport: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 242 nationwide (39.54%)
- Multi-car shipping: 17 in Chicago (80.95%), 16 in Illinois (84.21%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 5 in Chicago (23.81%), 3 in Illinois (15.79%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 7 in Chicago (33.33%), 7 in Illinois (36.84%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
| Company | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Day Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Chicago Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| BKK TRANSPORT | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Van 3 Auto Transport & Car | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Karma Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Chicago, across Illinois, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 5 in Chicago (23.81%), 4 in Illinois (21.05%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Senior discount: 1 in Chicago (4.76%), 1 in Illinois (5.26%), 39 nationwide (6.37%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Day Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Chicago Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| BKK TRANSPORT | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Van 3 Auto Transport & Car | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Karma Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Comprehensive offerings: Our assessment focused on the range of services available from each provider. We considered if they provide open, enclosed, or both types of transport. Additionally, we evaluated whether the service includes door-to-door delivery or is limited to terminal pickup and drop-off, along with the variety of vehicles they can transport. Companies capable of moving specialty vehicles such as RVs and motorcycles received higher scores compared to those that only ship standard cars.
- Add-on services: Extra points were given to companies that feature unique optional perks, including fast shipping, confirmed pickup slots, car wash services, and compensation for rental vehicles.
- Review analysis: Our team assessed customer reviews from prominent sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to determine if car shipping companies meet the expected service timelines, maintain good communication, and adhere to budget projections. We also investigated each company’s reputation within the industry, confirming their USDOT certificate and their relationship with relevant trade associations.
- Availability: Our evaluation took into account the locations each company operates in. Companies that include Alaska and Hawaii in their service areas, along with the continental U.S., received more points than those restricted to the Lower 48 or smaller territories.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Chicago
With a population of 2,746,388 and the status of a major Illinois city, Chicago sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Chicago compared to smaller towns nearby.
Shipping a car out of Chicago, Illinois usually ranges from to $1,480. Your final price will depend on how far you’re going and current fuel costs.
Check out these estimated price ranges for moving a vehicle from Chicago, Illinois to another state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Illinois to New York | $824 – $1,204 |
| Illinois to North Carolina | $756 – $1,180 |
| Illinois to Texas | $805 – $1,299 |
| Illinois to Michigan | $567 – $840 |
| Illinois to Florida | $890 – $1,340 |
| Arizona to Illinois | $1,111 – $1,635 |
| Georgia to Illinois | $808 – $1,245 |
| Pennsylvania to Illinois | $781 – $1,055 |
| Ohio to Illinois | $567 – $768 |
| California to Illinois | $1,308 – $2,084 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Chicago
As a major city, Chicago benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Chicago is 106, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- Distance matters: Moving your car locally within Chicago or to nearby areas in Illinois is typically more affordable than shipping it across state lines.
- Location type: It’s often pricier to transport a car out of busy downtown Chicago compared to moves between quieter suburban neighborhoods.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles from Chicago often need extra care and can bump up the price. Learn more about classic car transport.
- Available shipping options in Chicago: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel prices: What you’ll pay to ship can go up or down depending on current gas rates in Chicago, especially with long-distance trips.
- How fast you need it: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Chicago comes at a higher price tag.
- Weather and season: Harsh winter weather in Chicago—including snow and fluctuating temperatures—can increase car shipping prices due to challenging road conditions and possible delays. Summer’s milder weather generally makes shipping easier and more cost-effective.
Tips for choosing the right Chicago car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a Chicago company that shares total costs upfront. In Illinois, a typical job starts near $1,100.
- Review insurance coverage: Select shippers that offer detailed insurance info, flexible coverage levels, and a simple claims process.
- Read local reviews: Customer reviews from Chicago offer real insight into how reliable a company is. They can help you avoid scams and choose a shipper with solid satisfaction ratings.
- Check for licensing: Use the FMCSA lookup tool to confirm that the company is licensed, insured, and operating legally.
- Know what you’re paying for: Some quotes don’t include all services. Ask if things like door-to-door delivery or insurance are baked into the price.
- Plan around delivery timing: Ask when your car will be picked up and delivered and whether delays are common for your route.
- Look for custom options: Shippers in Chicago may offer services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping to fit your needs.
- Get a referral: Talk to friends or family in Chicago who’ve shipped cars before. Their recommendations can save you time and hassle.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Chicago?
Many car shipping companies in Chicago, Illinois, provide real-time tracking. Customers can usually track their vehicle’s journey using the company’s website or mobile app. You can find out when your vehicle departs Chicago, the expected arrival time, and if there are any delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Chicago?
Interstate 90 connects Chicago to the East Coast and the Pacific Northwest. Interstate 94 links Chicago to Detroit and Minneapolis. Interstate 55 heads south toward St. Louis and Memphis. Interstate 80 crosses the country coast-to-coast, passing near Chicago. Interstate 294 is a key bypass route, connecting to major highways around the city.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
To check a car shipping company’s license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) number and look it up on the USDOT’s FMCSA website. This works for any provider based in Chicago or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Chicago?
Most carriers don’t need an inspection to ship your car from Chicago. However, if your vehicle is classic or high-value, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Be sure to check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they can differ.
Take Illinois regulations as an example. In Illinois, cars in the Chicago and East St. Louis areas must have emissions tests every year. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency performs these tests before drivers can renew their vehicle registration at the Secretary of State’s office.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Chicago?
You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It’s a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Chicago to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Chicago?
Chicago car shippers offering economical open transport services at competitive rates include All Day Auto Transport (offers military discounts), Chicago Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), and BKK TRANSPORT.
Who ships classic cars out of Chicago?
Professional vintage car transport companies in Chicago offering secure enclosed delivery include All Day Auto Transport, Chicago Auto Shipping Group, and BKK TRANSPORT.
More Illinois car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Illinois, these resources should help:
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