Illinois to Louisiana Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Shipping a car 852 miles from Illinois to Louisiana usually costs between $786 and $1,174. 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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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

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:

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The best Illinois to Louisiana car shipping companies

Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car 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 Exact Pickup Dates
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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
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Illinois

Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Illinois can deliver 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 relocating from Illinois to Louisiana, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.

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  • Certified crews
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  • 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

The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Illinois and Louisiana. The trip typically spans 852 miles and takes about two–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 $822 – $1,275 926 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $759 – $1,238 915 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Shreveport, LA $763 – $1,162 864 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Metairie, LA $806 – $1,177 920 miles 2 – 7 days
Chicago, IL to Lafayette, LA $774 – $1,199 969 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 $759 – $1,189 948 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $822 – $1,177 937 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Shreveport, LA $783 – $1,218 826 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Metairie, LA $783 – $1,189 943 miles 2 – 7 days
Aurora, IL to Lafayette, LA $803 – $1,296 991 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 $806 – $1,201 904 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $797 – $1,237 892 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Shreveport, LA $817 – $1,154 816 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Metairie, LA $828 – $1,140 898 miles 2 – 7 days
Joliet, IL to Lafayette, LA $775 – $1,250 946 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 $806 – $1,226 933 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $774 – $1,214 922 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Shreveport, LA $759 – $1,182 831 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Metairie, LA $775 – $1,213 928 miles 2 – 7 days
Naperville, IL to Lafayette, LA $764 – $1,283 976 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 $829 – $1,224 967 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Baton Rouge, LA $758 – $1,286 956 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Shreveport, LA $806 – $1,218 849 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Metairie, LA $758 – $1,286 961 miles 2 – 7 days
Rockford, IL to Lafayette, LA $815 – $1,229 1,010 miles 2 – 8 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Illinois to Louisiana

SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.

For a larger vehicle going from Illinois to Louisiana, the price usually falls between $983 and $1,468.

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 the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on 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 journey from Illinois to Louisiana spans approximately 852 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
  • Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of Illinois in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
  • Fuel prices: Variability in fuel prices across states affects the cost of moving a vehicle between Illinois and Louisiana.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is two–seven days, but you can pay for expedited service.

Louisiana vehicle regulations you need to know

After relocating to Louisiana, you’ll need to complete a few important steps to register your vehicle and make it legal to drive. Below is an overview of the main requirements to help with the process.

  • 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 $786 to $1,174.

Helpful Illinois resources