Illinois to South Dakota Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 715 miles from Illinois to South Dakota ranges from $769 to $1,119 and takes one–six 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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota car shipping companies
After putting more than 400 hours of research into the car shipping industry, we identified the best car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Illinois to South Dakota:
- 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
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Illinois that can relocate your vehicle to South Dakota:
- 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 South Dakota
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Illinois to South Dakota, 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 715 extra miles on your car to travel from Illinois to South Dakota. 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 South Dakota. 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 South Dakota auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Illinois and South Dakota. The typical distance is about 715 miles, with shipping times generally falling between one and six days.
Cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to South Dakota
| From Illinois to South Dakota | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL to Sioux Falls, SD | $671 – $932 | 573 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chicago, IL to Rapid City, SD | $806 – $1,250 | 911 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chicago, IL to Aberdeen, SD | $776 – $1,108 | 704 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chicago, IL to Brookings, SD | $724 – $930 | 621 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chicago, IL to Watertown, SD | $710 – $959 | 608 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Aurora, IL to South Dakota
| From Illinois to South Dakota | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora, IL to Sioux Falls, SD | $664 – $950 | 564 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Aurora, IL to Rapid City, SD | $814 – $1,250 | 902 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Aurora, IL to Aberdeen, SD | $765 – $1,000 | 689 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Aurora, IL to Brookings, SD | $724 – $969 | 612 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Aurora, IL to Watertown, SD | $694 – $980 | 599 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Joliet, IL to South Dakota
| From Illinois to South Dakota | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joliet, IL to Sioux Falls, SD | $651 – $932 | 573 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Joliet, IL to Rapid City, SD | $814 – $1,262 | 919 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Joliet, IL to Aberdeen, SD | $739 – $1,033 | 721 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Joliet, IL to Brookings, SD | $725 – $964 | 626 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Joliet, IL to Watertown, SD | $696 – $954 | 630 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Naperville, IL to South Dakota
| From Illinois to South Dakota | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naperville, IL to Sioux Falls, SD | $671 – $960 | 573 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Naperville, IL to Rapid City, SD | $751 – $1,153 | 912 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Naperville, IL to Aberdeen, SD | $728 – $1,022 | 698 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Naperville, IL to Brookings, SD | $689 – $998 | 622 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Naperville, IL to Watertown, SD | $682 – $959 | 608 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Rockford, IL to South Dakota
| From Illinois to South Dakota | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockford, IL to Sioux Falls, SD | $596 – $854 | 500 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Rockford, IL to Rapid City, SD | $751 – $1,147 | 838 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Rockford, IL to Aberdeen, SD | $689 – $949 | 624 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Rockford, IL to Brookings, SD | $614 – $938 | 548 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Rockford, IL to Watertown, SD | $640 – $902 | 534 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Illinois to South Dakota
Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.
If you’re moving one from Illinois to South Dakota, expect costs to range from $961 to $1,399.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Illinois to South Dakota
Transporting your vehicle from the Land of Lincoln to the Mount Rushmore State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:
- 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: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to South Dakota than smaller ones.
- Distance and route: The route from Illinois to South Dakota is about 715 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- 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: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Illinois and South Dakota.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes one–six days, while expedited service costs more.
South Dakota vehicle regulations you need to know
Once you arrive in South Dakota, registering your vehicle and ensuring it’s road-legal will require a few specific actions. The list below outlines the most important requirements.
- Car insurance requirements: In South Dakota, drivers must show proof of financial responsibility, typically met through car insurance. Key coverage includes: Bodily Injury Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/person, $50,000/accident for injuries. Property Damage Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/accident for property damage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Required for personal injuries caused by uninsured drivers or hit-and-runs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Covers personal injuries from motorists with insufficient insurance. Note: Coverages are not stackable; they operate independently.
- Vehicle inspection: South Dakota does not have a mandatory vehicle inspection program for passenger vehicles. However, commercial vehicles and buses are required to pass annual inspections. If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
- Driver’s license: If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
- Additional taxes: When moving to South Dakota, you will need to register your vehicle with the South Dakota Department of Revenue within 90 days. You will need to provide proof of insurance, the vehicle title, pay a fee based on the vehicle's value, 4% sales tax, and $5 per wheel wheel tax.
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 South Dakota
About 919,318 people are living in the Mount Rushmore State. In South Dakota, drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage with at least the following minimum limits: $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person in an accident, $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Illinois and delivery in South Dakota?
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 South Dakota.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Illinois to South Dakota?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Illinois to South Dakota, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to South Dakota, 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 South Dakota, drivers must show proof of financial responsibility, typically met through car insurance. Key coverage includes: Bodily Injury Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/person, $50,000/accident for injuries. Property Damage Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/accident for property damage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Required for personal injuries caused by uninsured drivers or hit-and-runs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Covers personal injuries from motorists with insufficient insurance. Note: Coverages are not stackable; they operate independently.
How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to South Dakota?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Illinois to South Dakota is about 715 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take one to six days to travel from Illinois to South Dakota.
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.
South Dakota does not have a mandatory vehicle inspection program for passenger vehicles. However, commercial vehicles and buses are required to pass annual inspections. If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
If I have a driver’s license in Illinois, will I need one in South Dakota?
If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
If I bought a car in Illinois, will I be required to pay sales tax in South Dakota after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Illinois to South Dakota after purchasing it.
When moving to South Dakota, you will need to register your vehicle with the South Dakota Department of Revenue within 90 days. You will need to provide proof of insurance, the vehicle title, pay a fee based on the vehicle's value, 4% sales tax, and $5 per wheel wheel tax.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Illinois and South Dakota to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to South Dakota?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to South Dakota 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 South Dakota?
Shipping a car from Illinois to South Dakota costs $769 to $1,119.
