($819) Cost to ship a car from Tallahassee, FL to Chicago, IL

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 961 miles from Tallahassee, Florida, to Chicago, Illinois, generally falls between $819 and $1,347. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Chicago to Tallahassee 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
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The best Tallahassee to Chicago car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Tallahassee to Chicago:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Tallahassee

Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Tallahassee, FL:

  1. Centurion Auto Logistics Inc: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Exclusive Auto Shipping: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Proficient Auto Transport: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  4. 8 Brothers Inc.: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Virginia Transportation Corp: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Centurion Auto Logistics Inc

5912 New Kings Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32209 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

The company generally offers outstanding service with friendly and professional staff, although there are significant concerns regarding reckless driver behavior causing unsafe conditions. Overall sentiment appears mixed, spotlighting fine service quality.

Get a Quote (904) 766-8500

Services Offered

  • Interstate shipping
  • Shipment tracking

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • ATC Logistics
  • Centurion Leasing Company
  • Nationwide Auto Transport, Inc.
  • Centurion-Eagle Auto Transport
  • Centurion Leasing Shop

Exclusive Auto Shipping

732 S Lewis Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32305 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise the exceptional service provided by Jared at Exclusive Auto Transport. His responsiveness, reliability, and proactive communication are highly regarded. However, there are no significant negative experiences reported, indicating a strong overall satisfaction with the service.

Get a Quote (850) 564-7667

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • Student

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2968838

Proficient Auto Transport

10057 103rd St, Jacksonville, FL 32210 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0

Customers have reported a range of experiences with Proficient Auto Transport. Many commend the company for its reliable service and professional drivers, highlighting effective communication and successful deliveries. However, negative feedback centers around issues of unprofessional driver behavior and problems with accounting practices, including delayed payments and miscommunications regarding pay rates.

Get a Quote (904) 772-1175

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

8 Brothers Inc.

636 E 21st St, Jacksonville, FL 32206 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

8 Brothers Inc is praised for their professional and careful car shipping services, with exceptional communication and a high level of customer care. Customers commend the company's efficiency and attention to detail throughout the shipping process. However, some feedback may reflect challenges during peak seasons or potential difficulties securing carriers.

Get a Quote (904) 220-5119

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Virginia Transportation Corp

5761 W 12th St, Jacksonville, FL 32254 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (800) 287-4493

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Multi-car transport

Additional Information

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 FL to IL

Relocating from Tallahassee to Chicago means figuring out the best way to move your car, too. Here are the most popular car shipping options to consider, along with the pros and cons of each.

Coordinate with your movers

If you are relocating from Tallahassee to Chicago, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 961-mile trip from Tallahassee to Chicago could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Florida to Illinois. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Tallahassee to Chicago carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Chicago. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.

Factors affecting Tallahassee to Chicago car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from Tallahassee to Chicago, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

When shipping your car from Tallahassee to Chicago, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.

Open carriers from Tallahassee are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Chicago? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Tallahassee. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Chicago will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

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 961 miles from Tallahassee to Chicago will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Florida.

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

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Tallahassee and Chicago can impact car shipping prices.

Tallahassee has long summers and short, mild winters, as well as drier springs and autumns.

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.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Tallahassee to Chicago during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 961-mile distance between Tallahassee and Chicago and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.

Delivery expectations

Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Tallahassee to Chicago is two to seven days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.

Comparing Tallahassee and Chicago vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Tallahassee: Effective October 29, 2021, carriers may purchase Florida trip permits online through the FLHSMV Commercial Vehicle Permit Portal. A Florida Temporary Trip Permit is valid for ten (10) days and costs $30.00. Carriers may also contact the Bureau of Commercial Vehicle and Driver Services at (850) 617-3711 weekdays from 8-4:30 to obtain a trip permit.
  • 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

  • Tallahassee: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
  • 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

  • Tallahassee: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
  • 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

  • Tallahassee: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
  • 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 Tallahassee to Chicago?

The cost to ship a car from Tallahassee, FL 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 Tallahassee to Chicago will range from $819 to $1,347.

How long will it take to ship my car from Tallahassee to Chicago?

It will take approximately two to seven days to ship your car the 961 miles from Tallahassee to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Tallahassee to Chicago?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee to Chicago?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Tallahassee 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 961-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.

Helpful Tallahassee resources