Illinois to Michigan Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 401 miles from Illinois to Michigan ranges from $612 to $788 and takes one–four days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Michigan 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 Michigan car shipping companies
After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Illinois to Michigan:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- 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
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- 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
Top local car shippers in Illinois
Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Illinois ready to move your vehicle to Michigan:
- 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 Michigan
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from Illinois for a move to Michigan, you may want to hire a moving company that can handle car shipping, as well. Many long-distance moving companies work with reputable car shippers to coordinate auto transport.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
This is straightforward but not always an option, and it will put about 401 miles on your car going from Illinois to Michigan. If you’re not sure, here are the pros and cons of driving your car vs. shipping it.
Hire a driver
You can hire someone to drive your car from Illinois to Michigan, but it’s often expensive and requires confidence in the driver’s ability to deliver your car safely.
Ship by train
Shipping a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.
Illinois to Michigan 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 Michigan. The trip typically spans 401 miles and takes about one–four days.
Cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Michigan
| From Illinois to Michigan | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI | $475 – $674 | 283 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI | $426 – $543 | 179 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Warren, MI | $499 – $648 | 291 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Sterling Heights, MI | $504 – $674 | 295 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Ann Arbor, MI | $479 – $582 | 241 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Aurora, IL to Michigan
| From Illinois to Michigan | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora, IL to Detroit, MI | $524 – $666 | 319 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Grand Rapids, MI | $479 – $570 | 214 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Warren, MI | $530 – $724 | 327 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Sterling Heights, MI | $519 – $709 | 331 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Ann Arbor, MI | $484 – $648 | 277 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Joliet, IL to Michigan
| From Illinois to Michigan | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joliet, IL to Detroit, MI | $494 – $674 | 293 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Grand Rapids, MI | $410 – $571 | 188 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Warren, MI | $503 – $708 | 301 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Sterling Heights, MI | $539 – $722 | 305 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Ann Arbor, MI | $453 – $648 | 251 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Naperville, IL to Michigan
| From Illinois to Michigan | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naperville, IL to Detroit, MI | $539 – $708 | 306 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Grand Rapids, MI | $430 – $588 | 201 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Warren, MI | $524 – $673 | 313 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Sterling Heights, MI | $519 – $666 | 317 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Ann Arbor, MI | $462 – $630 | 263 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Rockford, IL to Michigan
| From Illinois to Michigan | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockford, IL to Detroit, MI | $581 – $827 | 376 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Grand Rapids, MI | $439 – $648 | 272 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Warren, MI | $587 – $811 | 384 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Sterling Heights, MI | $575 – $762 | 388 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI | $530 – $761 | 334 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Illinois to Michigan
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 Michigan you should expect to pay between $765 and $985.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Illinois to Michigan
If you’re shipping a car from the Land of Lincoln to the Wolverine State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- 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 Michigan.
- Distance and route: The route from Illinois to Michigan is about 401 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- 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: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between Illinois and Michigan and the varying gas prices across the country.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within one–four days, but expedited options cost more.
Michigan vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to Michigan, 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: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
- Vehicle inspection: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
- Driver’s license: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
- Additional taxes: In Michigan, a 6% sales tax is imposed on all vehicle purchases.
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 Michigan
About 10.0 million people are living in the Wolverine State. Michigan has a continental climate, although there are two distinct regions. The southern and central parts of the Lower Peninsula (south of Saginaw Bay and from the Grand Rapids area southward) have a warmer climate with hot summers and cold winters. The northern part of the Lower Peninsula and the entire Upper Peninsula has a more severe climate (Köppen Dfb), with warm, but shorter summers and longer, cold to very cold winters. Some parts of the state average high temperatures below freezing from December through February, and into early March in the far northern parts. During the winter through the middle of February, the state is frequently subjected to heavy lake-effect snow. The state averages 30 days of thunderstorm activity per year. These can be severe, especially in the southern part of the state. The state averages 17 tornadoes per year, which are more common in the state's extreme southern section.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Illinois and delivery in Michigan?
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 Michigan.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Illinois to Michigan?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Illinois to Michigan, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Michigan, 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.
Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to Michigan?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Illinois to Michigan is about 401 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Illinois to Michigan.
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.
Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
If I have a driver’s license in Illinois, will I need one in Michigan?
Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
If I bought a car in Illinois, will I be required to pay sales tax in Michigan after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Illinois to Michigan after purchasing it.
In Michigan, a 6% sales tax is imposed on all vehicle purchases.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Illinois and Michigan to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Michigan?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Michigan 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 Michigan?
Shipping a car from Illinois to Michigan costs $612 to $788.
