Best Chicago Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, SGT Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Chicago, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
| Company | Quote | Rating | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Get A Quote |
SGT Auto Transport
|
(864) 492-1221 |
|
Get A Quote |
Easy Auto Ship
|
(888) 259-6046 |
|
Get A Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport
|
(833) 775-1461 |
|
Get A Quote |
AmeriFreight
|
(770) 501-9057 |
|
Get A Quote |
Ship A Car Direct
|
(866) 563-0804 |
Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the Illinois car shipping page.
Best car shipping companies in Chicago
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Illinois, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Chicago.
SGT Auto Transport
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.
Easy Auto Ship
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Sherpa Auto Transport
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.
AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Ship A Car Direct
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.
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
BKK TRANSPORT
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Nexus Auto Transport
Atlantic Express
Average car shipping costs in Chicago
The average cost to ship a car from Chicago to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Chicago, Illinois, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Illinois to Georgia | $1,022 – $1,619 |
| Illinois to Colorado | $968 – $1,712 |
| Illinois to New York | $1,007 – $1,515 |
| Illinois to Ohio | $728 – $1,058 |
| Illinois to Florida | $1,132 – $1,738 |
| California to Illinois | $1,582 – $2,675 |
| Arizona to Illinois | $1,441 – $2,079 |
| North Carolina to Illinois | $1,041 – $1,575 |
| Texas to Illinois | $1,013 – $1,571 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $780 – $1,027 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Chicago
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Chicago or to another city in Illinois can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Chicago to a more suburban area.
- Type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Chicago might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Chicago: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against Chicago’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Chicago’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Chicago come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Weather in Chicago, including heavy snowfall and harsh winter conditions, can increase car shipping costs due to potential delays and the need for specialized equipment. Additionally, seasonal demand fluctuations during summer and winter may affect pricing.
Tips for choosing the right Chicago, IL, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Chicago, compare costs with a critical eye. Look for transparent pricing to avoid unexpected fees, ensuring that competitive rates do not undermine service quality. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Illinois.
- Review insurance and safety in Chicago. Choose Chicago companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Confirm their dedication to protecting your vehicle throughout its journey.
- Read customer reviews. Reading customer reviews in Chicago ensures you select a car shipping company with a proven track record of reliability, service quality, and customer satisfaction. This helps you avoid potential scams and poor service providers.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research in Chicago ensures you’re choosing a reputable car shipping company by verifying reviews, ratings, and credentials. Avoiding scams requires knowing which companies are trustworthy and reliable.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Chicago, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Chicago. Balance service quality against pricing, and be wary of unusually low rates that might indicate hidden costs or poor service.
- Ask about insurance coverage. Inquire specifically about the insurance coverage provided by companies in Chicago. Understand the extent of coverage and the process for making claims in case of damage during transit.
- Understand delivery timelines. Clarify expected pickup and delivery times. Companies in Chicago should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Chicago that offer customizable options, such as door-to-door delivery or specific handling requirements for your vehicle.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get personal referrals from friends or family in Chicago who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Chicago?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Chicago, Illinois, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or a mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Chicago, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Chicago?
I-90. I-94. I-55. I-80. I-88.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Chicago car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Chicago?
If you’ve got an antique vehicle or a car worth a lot of money, some companies may require proof of insurance before taking your vehicle out of Chicago. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Illinois, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Illinois regulations as an example. In Illinois, eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas must pass annual emissions inspections. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency performs these tests before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State’s office.
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