Best Car Shipping Companies in Chicago, IL (2025 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 $1,498 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.
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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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers, military, USAA members and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Doesn’t ship ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
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
All Day Auto Transport
All Day Auto Transport (DOT: 2245170) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a variety of services including boat shipping, interstate transport, and guaranteed delivery. They are fully insured and transport a wide range of vehicles, from inoperable cars to motorcycles and RVs. Although they boast an A+ rating from BBB, their Yelp rating is low at 1.8, and the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Despite an extensive service offering, a potential downside is the lack of a damage-free guarantee, which may be concerning for some customers. Additionally, while they provide military discounts, they do not offer financial incentives for students or seniors. The company’s status is active, reflecting their commitment to staying operationally effective.
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
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) provides a wide range of vehicle shipping services, including specialized options for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and classic cars. They are highly rated with a 4.3 on Yelp, a stellar 4.8 on Google, and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction and reliable service.
The company offers various transport options, such as open, enclosed, and interstate transport, ensuring flexibility to suit different customer needs. Although they provide numerous services, one downside is that Van 3 Auto Transport & Car does not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be inconvenient for some customers.
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 well-regarded car shipping company, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.6 and an impressive A+ rating from the BBB. Unfortunately, they have yet to establish ratings on Google.
The company offers a wide array of services, including transportation for classic and inoperable cars, interstate and international shipping, expedited and open transport, and even detailed inspection reports. As a downside, they do not provide trailer or motorcycle shipping services, which may not meet the needs of customers requiring these specific options.
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
BKK TRANSPORT
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide range of services including transport for inoperable cars, boats, motorcycles, and heavy equipment. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, ensuring a damage-free guarantee, and are fully insured for the peace of mind of their customers. Additionally, their services include international shipping and detailed inspection reports.
Despite a strong BBB rating of A+, BKK TRANSPORT has mixed online reviews, with a Google rating of 3.7 and a lower Yelp rating of 1.8. While the company does offer expedited delivery and terminal-to-terminal delivery, they do not accept cryptocurrency payments, which may be a downside for some customers. Furthermore, they do not provide certain discounts such as senior or military discounts, which some competitors might offer.
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
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reputable car shipping company known for its comprehensive service offerings. They are fully insured and provide damage-free guarantees, catering to a wide range of needs including boat, motorcycle, RV, and even inoperable car transport services. Customers will appreciate their international shipping capabilities and the convenience of services such as detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking.
While Chicago Auto Shipping Group offers enclosed transport and expedited delivery options, they do not accept payments via cryptocurrency, which may be a drawback for some tech-savvy customers. They enjoy a favorable reputation with a Google rating of 4.1 and a BBB rating of A+, though they have yet to establish a presence on Yelp. Despite offering a variety of services, they currently do not provide certain discounts, such as AAA or teacher discounts, which could enhance their appeal further.
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
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 532 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%), 241 nationwide (38.5%)
- Multi-car shipping: 17 in Chicago (80.95%), 16 in Illinois (84.21%), 429 nationwide (68.53%)
- Real-time tracking: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 352 nationwide (56.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 5 in Chicago (23.81%), 3 in Illinois (15.79%), 176 nationwide (28.12%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 7 in Chicago (33.33%), 7 in Illinois (36.84%), 172 nationwide (27.48%)
| Company | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Day Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Van 3 Auto Transport & Car | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Karma Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| BKK TRANSPORT | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Chicago Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
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%), 158 nationwide (25.24%)
- Senior discount: 1 in Chicago (4.76%), 1 in Illinois (5.26%), 39 nationwide (6.23%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Day Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Van 3 Auto Transport & Car | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Karma Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| BKK TRANSPORT | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Chicago Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 $1,498. 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 Texas | $835 – $1,321 |
| Illinois to Florida | $923 – $1,474 |
| Illinois to Georgia | $855 – $1,205 |
| Illinois to North Carolina | $800 – $1,200 |
| Illinois to Michigan | $582 – $805 |
| New York to Illinois | $821 – $1,274 |
| California to Illinois | $1,383 – $1,976 |
| Pennsylvania to Illinois | $826 – $1,175 |
| Arizona to Illinois | $1,210 – $1,663 |
| Ohio to Illinois | $588 – $788 |
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: Chicago’s harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and ice, can increase car shipping prices due to hazardous road conditions and potential delays. Fluctuating weather also impacts availability and scheduling, driving costs higher during peak or extreme climate periods.
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 progress via the company’s website or app. This lets you know when your vehicle departs from Chicago, its estimated arrival time, and any potential delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Chicago?
I-90 runs east to Boston, west to Seattle. I-94 heads northwest to Minneapolis, east to Detroit. I-55 travels southwest to St. Louis. I-57 connects south to Memphis. I-294 acts as a bypass around Chicago, linking major interstates.
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?
Many carriers don’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from Chicago. But if you’re transporting a classic or high-value car, you might be asked for proof of insurance. Always check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they can differ.
Take Illinois regulations as an example. In Illinois, vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas must pass yearly emissions tests. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts these tests, and residents need them to renew their vehicle registration with 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), Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (offers military discounts), and Karma Auto Transport.
Who ships classic cars out of Chicago?
Professional vintage car transport companies in Chicago offering secure enclosed delivery include All Day Auto Transport, Van 3 Auto Transport & Car, and Karma Auto 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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