Illinois to Maine Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,244 miles from Illinois to Maine usually costs between $876 and $1,411. Transit time is about two–eight 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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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Maine to Illinois car shipping guide.
Our track record
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
- Fact-checked for accuracy
The best Illinois to Maine 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 Maine:
- 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 Illinois
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in Illinois who can get your vehicle to Maine:
- Van 3 Auto Transport & Car: 3.92 out of 5 stars
- Dispatchray: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Karma Auto Transport: 3.78 out of 5 stars
- Chicago Auto Shipping Group: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- BKK TRANSPORT: 3.72 out of 5 stars
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
106 Meadow Dr, Countryside, IL 60525 US
van3autotransport.com
3.92 / 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.
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
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2511788
Dispatchray
6109 Jovic Ct, La Grange, IL 60525 US
dispatchray.com
3.8 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2490936
Alternative Business Names
- USA Auto Carrier Incorporated
Karma Auto Transport
901 Nicholas Blvd Unit D, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 US
karmaautotransport.com
3.78 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2882553
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
625 N Michigan Ave Suite 1000 PMB 165, Chicago, IL 60611 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-illinois/chicago
3.76 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
BKK TRANSPORT
77 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 US
bkktransport.com
3.72 / 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.
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 Maine
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Illinois to Maine, 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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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
While it’s simple, this isn’t always the best option, and it’ll put about 1,244 extra miles on your car to travel from Illinois to Maine. To help decide, here are the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from Illinois to Maine. 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 Maine 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 Maine. The trip typically spans 1,244 miles and takes about two–eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Maine
| From Illinois to Maine | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL to Portland, ME | $792 – $1,204 | 1,082 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Chicago, IL to Lewiston, ME | $879 – $1,377 | 1,112 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Chicago, IL to Bangor, ME | $894 – $1,439 | 1,210 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Chicago, IL to South Portland, ME | $760 – $1,267 | 1,083 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Chicago, IL to Auburn, ME | $896 – $1,404 | 1,111 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Aurora, IL to Maine
| From Illinois to Maine | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora, IL to Portland, ME | $896 – $1,404 | 1,119 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, IL to Lewiston, ME | $896 – $1,390 | 1,149 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, IL to Bangor, ME | $904 – $1,341 | 1,247 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, IL to South Portland, ME | $896 – $1,404 | 1,120 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, IL to Auburn, ME | $837 – $1,270 | 1,148 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Joliet, IL to Maine
| From Illinois to Maine | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joliet, IL to Portland, ME | $753 – $1,292 | 1,093 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Joliet, IL to Lewiston, ME | $828 – $1,404 | 1,123 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Joliet, IL to Bangor, ME | $876 – $1,425 | 1,221 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Joliet, IL to South Portland, ME | $823 – $1,317 | 1,094 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Joliet, IL to Auburn, ME | $896 – $1,323 | 1,122 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Naperville, IL to Maine
| From Illinois to Maine | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naperville, IL to Portland, ME | $811 – $1,363 | 1,106 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Naperville, IL to Lewiston, ME | $888 – $1,404 | 1,135 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Naperville, IL to Bangor, ME | $959 – $1,355 | 1,233 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Naperville, IL to South Portland, ME | $871 – $1,323 | 1,106 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Naperville, IL to Auburn, ME | $854 – $1,390 | 1,135 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Rockford, IL to Maine
| From Illinois to Maine | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockford, IL to Portland, ME | $862 – $1,337 | 1,167 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Rockford, IL to Lewiston, ME | $828 – $1,323 | 1,197 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Rockford, IL to Bangor, ME | $876 – $1,341 | 1,295 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Rockford, IL to South Portland, ME | $896 – $1,377 | 1,168 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Rockford, IL to Auburn, ME | $845 – $1,350 | 1,196 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Illinois to Maine
Because of their added size and weight, SUVs, trucks, and vans generally cost more to ship than smaller cars.
Shipping a larger vehicle from Illinois to Maine usually runs between $1,095 and $1,764.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Illinois to Maine
When moving your vehicle from the Land of Lincoln to the Pine Tree State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- Type of transport: Common choices include open carriers, enclosed carriers, and top-loading. Open carriers are the least expensive, while enclosed shipping is better for classic or high-end cars. More details are available in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
- Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Maine.
- Distance and route: The trip from Illinois to Maine covers roughly 1,244 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Illinois around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Illinois to Maine, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Illinois to Maine takes two–eight days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.
Maine vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to Maine, 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: In Maine, drivers must carry a minimum liability coverage of 50/100/25, requiring $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 for all injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage, as per car insurance laws.
- Vehicle inspection: The State of Maine requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles used on public roads to ensure they are in proper working condition and safe to operate. Safety inspections in Maine can be carried out at any official service station of the Maine Department of Transportation.
- Driver’s license: New residents of Maine are required to obtain a new state license within 30 days of establishing residency. If you are moving to Maine and possess a valid or recently expired (within the past 5 years) out-of-state driver's license from another US state, you can obtain a Class C license, including a REAL ID license, by visiting a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office.
- Additional taxes: Maine requires registered car owners to pay an annual excise tax for motor vehicles, trailers, mobile homes, and stock vehicles. This tax is calculated by multiplying the current Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the vehicle by the mileage rate.
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 Maine
About 1.4 million people are living in the Pine Tree State. Maine has a humid continental climate. with warm and sometimes humid summers, and long, cold and very snowy winters. Winters are especially severe in the Northern and Western parts of Maine, while coastal areas are moderated slightly by the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in marginally milder winters and cooler summers than inland regions.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Illinois and delivery in Maine?
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 Maine.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Illinois to Maine?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Illinois to Maine, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Maine, 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.
In Maine, drivers must carry a minimum liability coverage of 50/100/25, requiring $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 for all injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage, as per car insurance laws.
How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to Maine?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Illinois to Maine is about 1,244 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from Illinois to Maine.
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.
The State of Maine requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles used on public roads to ensure they are in proper working condition and safe to operate. Safety inspections in Maine can be carried out at any official service station of the Maine Department of Transportation.
If I have a driver’s license in Illinois, will I need one in Maine?
New residents of Maine are required to obtain a new state license within 30 days of establishing residency. If you are moving to Maine and possess a valid or recently expired (within the past 5 years) out-of-state driver's license from another US state, you can obtain a Class C license, including a REAL ID license, by visiting a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office.
If I bought a car in Illinois, will I be required to pay sales tax in Maine after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Illinois to Maine after purchasing it.
Maine requires registered car owners to pay an annual excise tax for motor vehicles, trailers, mobile homes, and stock vehicles. This tax is calculated by multiplying the current Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the vehicle by the mileage rate.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Illinois and Maine to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Maine?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Maine 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 Maine?
Shipping a car from Illinois to Maine costs $876 to $1,411.
