($1,326) Cost to ship a car from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: On average, moving a car 1,752 miles from Phoenix, Arizona, to Chicago, Illinois, will run you about $1,326 to $1,886. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Chicago to Phoenix car shipping guide.
The best Phoenix to Chicago car shipping companies
To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Phoenix to Chicago:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Phoenix
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Phoenix, AZ:
- Car Go Auto Transport: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Phoenix Auto Shipping Group: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Auto Transport Team: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Car Shipping Carriers-Phoenix: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Scottsdale Auto Transport Inc.: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Car Go Auto Transport
17232 N 63rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308 US
cargoautotransport.com
3.76 / 5.0
Car Go Auto Transport provides highly appreciated customer service, timely delivery, and effective communication throughout the vehicle transport process, reinforcing their reputation as a reliable choice for car shipping needs. However, there have been reported instances of delays, additional unexpected charges, and some damaging incidents during transit that have raised concerns among customers about their overall practices.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 676058
Alternative Business Names
- Car-Go Auto Transport
Phoenix Auto Shipping Group
1204 E Baseline Rd UNIT 106, Tempe, AZ 85283 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-arizona/phoenix
3.56 / 5.0
Customers widely praise Felicia from Auto Shipping Group for her exceptional communication, professionalism, and reliability throughout the entire vehicle shipping process. While many clients report a seamless experience and timely delivery, there were isolated concerns regarding a single negative experience about company practices.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2239008
Auto Transport Team
11107 W Buckeye Rd, Avondale, AZ 85323 US
autotransportteam.com
3.56 / 5.0
Auto Transport Team is praised for their outstanding customer service, timely delivery, and effective communication throughout the transportation process. Many customers felt reassured by the professionalism of the staff, particularly representatives like Clay and Zach, who were commended for their attentiveness and consistent updates. However, some customers raised concerns regarding communication gaps during scheduling and problems related to vehicle condition upon delivery.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 872309
Alternative Business Names
- Auto Transport Team LLC
Car Shipping Carriers-Phoenix
4600 E Washington St # 300, Phoenix, AZ 85034 US
carshippingcarriers.com
3.56 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2249744
Scottsdale Auto Transport Inc.
2765 N Scottsdale Rd UNIT 325, Scottsdale, AZ 85257 US
a1autotransport.com/scottsdale
3.5 / 5.0
Great explanation of service and car arrived a day early! Excellent expectations and even better delivery! Good company to talk to.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- AAA
- Student
- Teacher
- Law enforcement
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 815051
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:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- 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.
Car shipping alternatives from AZ to IL
If you’re relocating from Phoenix to Chicago, moving your vehicle is an important step. Below are the most common car transport choices, each with unique pros and cons.
Coordinate with your movers
When relocating from Phoenix to Chicago, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.
Drive your car
Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 1,752 miles from Phoenix to Chicago might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.
Use a driving service
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Arizona to Illinois. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Phoenix. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Chicago.
Ship your car via train
Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Chicago—especially if your household goods are already moving by rail. In fact, it’s the cheapest car shipping method available. The downside is limited pickup and drop-off flexibility, plus longer transit times compared to standard car shipping or driving yourself.
Factors affecting Phoenix to Chicago car shipping costs
When transporting your vehicle from Phoenix to Chicago, these factors will influence the cost:
Transport method
If you’re moving a car from Phoenix to Chicago, your options include open, enclosed, and top-loaded shipping. Each service has pros and cons depending on your situation.
Open carriers from Phoenix tend to be the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is better for protecting luxury or classic cars. To help you decide on the right choice for your move to Chicago, see our detailed guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Phoenix is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to Chicago will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.
Distance and route
Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 1,752 miles from Phoenix to Chicago will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Arizona.
Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.
The time of the year
Both seasonal trends and local weather in Phoenix and Chicago can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.
The climate is unlikely to affect your move but summers in Phoenix are unsurprisingly very hot with daily averages over 100° F. You should take this into consideration because moving often requires spending many hours outdoors. You should also be sure that air conditioning is set up in your new home before move day, especially if you're moving in the summer.
Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Phoenix to Chicago during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 1,752-mile trip from Phoenix to Chicago, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.
Delivery expectations
Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Phoenix to Chicago is three to eleven days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.
Comparing Phoenix and Chicago vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Phoenix: Phoenix doesn't require a parking permit for your move but many cities have their own rules in specific areas. Check with the City of Phoenix if you'll need something and also be aware of any HOA or building rules that you should know before your move day.
- Chicago: For a fee of $25, CDOT will provide ticket and tow enforceable signs to eligible moving companies for the day of the move. This requires 72 hours.
Car insurance requirements
- Phoenix: The mandated liability insurance minimums in Arizona are as follows: $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person per accident $30,000 for bodily injury liability for two or more people per accident $10,000 for property damage liability per accident
- Chicago: 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Phoenix: Emissions testing is mandatory in Phoenix and Tucson, but not in the rest of Arizona. If you reside in either Phoenix or Tucson, you are required to undergo an emissions test every two years while renewing your vehicle registration. On the other hand, car safety inspections are not mandatory in the state of Arizona.
- Chicago: 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.
Driver’s license
- Phoenix: If you are a former resident of another state and now reside in Arizona, you will need to visit an Arizona Motor Vehicle Services office in person to obtain an Arizona driver's license. You have a 10-day window after relocating within the state to update the address on your Arizona driver's license.
- Chicago: 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Phoenix to Chicago?
The cost to ship a car from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Phoenix to Chicago will range from $1,326 to $1,886.
How long will it take to ship my car from Phoenix to Chicago?
It will take approximately three to eleven days to ship your car the 1,752 miles from Phoenix to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Phoenix to Chicago?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Phoenix to Chicago. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Phoenix to Chicago?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Phoenix to Chicago than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 1,752-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.