Illinois to Louisiana Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Shipping a car 852 miles from Illinois to Louisiana usually costs between $809 and $1,196. Transit time is about two–seven days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try our car shipping cost calculator.

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  • Refundable deposit
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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 Louisiana to 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
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Illinois to Louisiana car shipping companies

After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Illinois to Louisiana:

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
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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 Illinois

If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Illinois that can relocate your vehicle to Louisiana:

  1. Van 3 Auto Transport & Car: 3.92 out of 5 stars
  2. Dispatchray: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Karma Auto Transport: 3.78 out of 5 stars
  4. Chicago Auto Shipping Group: 3.76 out of 5 stars
  5. BKK TRANSPORT: 3.72 out of 5 stars

Van 3 Auto Transport & Car

106 Meadow Dr, Countryside, IL 60525 US

starstarstarstarstar3.92 / 5.0

Van3 Auto Transport receives praise for its excellent customer service, prompt vehicle delivery, and competitive pricing. However, several customers reported serious issues, including delayed pickups, vehicle damage during transport, and lack of communication from the company, leading to significant frustration.

Get a Quote (224) 788-7777

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Dispatchray

6109 Jovic Ct, La Grange, IL 60525 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

Customers express strong satisfaction with Dispatch Ray, highlighting excellent communication, competitive pricing, and a professional approach in transporting vehicles. They detail positive experiences with knowledgeable staff and timely deliveries throughout various transport needs. However, there were no significant issues reported by clients, with many indicating no hidden fees or surprises in the process.

Get a Quote (708) 298-4203

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • USA Auto Carrier Incorporated

Karma Auto Transport

901 Nicholas Blvd Unit D, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 US

starstarstarstarstar3.78 / 5.0

Karma Auto Transport is known for its excellent service and reliability. Customers frequently commend their professionalism, quick communication, and affordable pricing. However, there are complaints regarding payment issues for transporters and some unexpected delivery hassles, which raised concerns about their overall accountability.

Get a Quote (312) 788-9315

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Chicago Auto Shipping Group

625 N Michigan Ave Suite 1000 PMB 165, Chicago, IL 60611 US

starstarstarstarstar3.76 / 5.0

Customers generally report a high level of satisfaction with Auto Shipping Group's services, highlighting exceptional customer service and efficient, timely car transport. However, some negative experiences include issues with communication and unexpected pricing changes.

Get a Quote (888) 588-1269

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
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

BKK TRANSPORT

77 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 5.0

BKK Transport is appreciated for competitive pricing, effective communication, and timely vehicle delivery. However, some customers report issues with late deliveries, poor contractor reliability, and unexpected extra charges.

Get a Quote (773) 467-7917

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2248306

Alternative Business Names

  • BKK Transport & Brokerage, Inc

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.

Alternative ways to ship your car from Illinois to Louisiana

Ship it with your movers

If you’re planning a move from Illinois to Louisiana, you may find it convenient to work with a moving company that also handles car shipping. Many interstate movers partner with experienced car shipping services to arrange auto transport.

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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

This is straightforward but not always an option, and it will put about 852 miles on your car going from Illinois to Louisiana. If you’re not sure, here are the pros and cons of driving your car vs. shipping it.

Hire a driver

You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from Illinois to Louisiana. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.

Ship by train

This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.

Illinois to Louisiana auto transport costs and transit times

Here are tables summarizing the expected costs and transit times for car shipping between well-traveled routes in Illinois and Louisiana. The average journey covers about 852 miles and takes roughly two to seven days.

Cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Louisiana

From Illinois to Louisiana Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA $871 – $1,287 926 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $797 – $1,236 915 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Shreveport, LA $850 – $1,208 864 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Metairie, LA $838 – $1,287 920 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Lafayette, LA $862 – $1,298 969 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Aurora, IL to Louisiana

From Illinois to Louisiana Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Aurora, IL to New Orleans, LA $813 – $1,274 948 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $805 – $1,274 937 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Shreveport, LA $846 – $1,254 826 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Metairie, LA $788 – $1,338 943 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Lafayette, LA $860 – $1,308 991 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Joliet, IL to Louisiana

From Illinois to Louisiana Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Joliet, IL to New Orleans, LA $855 – $1,262 904 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $837 – $1,324 892 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Shreveport, LA $857 – $1,260 816 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Metairie, LA $795 – $1,235 898 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Lafayette, LA $788 – $1,351 946 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Naperville, IL to Louisiana

From Illinois to Louisiana Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Naperville, IL to New Orleans, LA $838 – $1,313 933 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $821 – $1,338 922 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Shreveport, LA $814 – $1,168 831 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Metairie, LA $863 – $1,261 928 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Lafayette, LA $810 – $1,256 976 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Rockford, IL to Louisiana

From Illinois to Louisiana Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Rockford, IL to New Orleans, LA $854 – $1,363 967 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $812 – $1,363 956 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Shreveport, LA $805 – $1,217 849 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Metairie, LA $804 – $1,324 961 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Lafayette, LA $782 – $1,278 1,010 miles 2 – 8 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Illinois to Louisiana

Since vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are larger and heavier, it’s a bit more expensive to ship them than a sedan. How much more?

If you’re shipping a larger vehicle from Illinois to Louisiana you should expect to pay between $1,011 and $1,495.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Illinois to Louisiana

When arranging car transport from the Land of Lincoln to the Pelican State, the following factors will determine your overall cost:

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Louisiana.
  • Distance and route: The route from Illinois to Louisiana is about 852 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand impacts the price of getting your car out of Illinois, with summer and winter holidays often seeing a spike due to increased moving and travel activity.
  • Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Illinois and Louisiana may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Illinois to Louisiana takes two–seven days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.

Louisiana vehicle regulations you need to know

When you move to Louisiana, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • Car insurance requirements: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.
  • Vehicle inspection: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.
  • Driver’s license: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
  • Additional taxes: In Louisiana, a 4% tax is levied on all car sales by the state, with additional taxes charged by individual counties and cities.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from Illinois

More than 12.5 million people call Illinois home. Nicknamed the Land of Lincoln. Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley"

Transporting your vehicle to Louisiana

About 4.6 million people are living in the Pelican State. Louisiana has long hot humid summers and short mild winters. Rain is frequent throughout the year, although from April to September is slightly wetter than the rest of the year. Louisiana is often affected by tropical cyclones and is very vulnerable to major hurricanes, particularly around the New Orleans area. Lousiana averages about 27 tornadoes annually; they are most common from January through March in the south and from February through March in the North.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Illinois and delivery in Louisiana?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Illinois and when dropping it off in Louisiana.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Illinois to Louisiana?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Illinois to Louisiana, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Louisiana, which you should verify before loading your car in Illinois.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. 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.

The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.

How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to Louisiana?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Illinois to Louisiana is about 852 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to seven days to travel from Illinois to Louisiana.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

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.

In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.

If I have a driver’s license in Illinois, will I need one in Louisiana?

New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.

If I bought a car in Illinois, will I be required to pay sales tax in Louisiana after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Illinois to Louisiana after purchasing it.

In Louisiana, a 4% tax is levied on all car sales by the state, with additional taxes charged by individual counties and cities.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Illinois and Louisiana to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Louisiana?

The cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Louisiana is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.

How much does it cost to ship a car from Illinois to Louisiana?

Shipping a car from Illinois to Louisiana costs $809 to $1,196.

Helpful Illinois resources