($853) Cost to ship a car from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 788 miles from Jersey City, New Jersey, to Chicago, Illinois, generally falls between $853 and $1,231. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Chicago to Jersey City 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 Jersey City to Chicago car shipping companies
Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Jersey City to Chicago:
- 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 Jersey City
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Jersey City, NJ:
- Lepke Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Roadrunner Auto: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Broadway Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Rcc Auto Trasport: 3.7 out of 5 stars
- New York City Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
Lepke Auto Transport
300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205 US
lepkeautotrans.com/mc2
3.8 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise Lepke Auto Transport for their fast and efficient service, affordable pricing, and excellent communication. Reviewers express satisfaction with the timely delivery of vehicles and the ease of the overall process. However, there were no notable complaints regarding their service, indicating a strong customer approval.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2245136
Roadrunner Auto
15 Grumman Rd W # 1500, Bethpage, NY 11714 US
roadrunnerautotransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
Road Runner Auto Transport provides a range of experiences from dependable service to significant communication failures. Customers praised the transparent pricing, exceptional drivers, and consistent communication. However, some expressed frustration over unreturned calls and logistical challenges, leading to last-minute cancellations and inconvenience.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3124544
Broadway Auto Transport
1 Maiden Ln FL 5, New York, NY 10038 US
broadwayautotransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
Broadway Auto Transport excels in customer service and timely vehicle transportation. Many clients commend the professionalism, communication, and efficiency of their agents, specifically naming Luis, Chris, Sophia, and Robert for exceptional service. Most vehicles are reported to arrive on time and in pristine condition, enhancing overall customer satisfaction. However, there are notable complaints regarding price fluctuations, surprise fees, and challenges with communication during the scheduling process. Some customers encountered issues with last-minute cost increases, which detracted from their overall experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3990000
Rcc Auto Trasport
291 Avenue S # 2, Brooklyn, NY 11223 US
rccautotransport.com
3.7 / 5.0
Exotic Car Transport consistently receives praise for its professional and responsive service. Customers appreciate the care taken with their vehicles, timely deliveries, and clear communication from staff. However, there was a rare instance where delivery couldn't be made directly to the customer’s door due to vehicle size restrictions.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2247043
New York City Auto Shipping Group
44 Wall St F12, New York, NY 10005 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-new-york/new-york-city
3.62 / 5.0
Customers consistently praised the excellent customer service, timely communication, and stress-free delivery experiences provided by the company. However, a few mentioned some initial delays during the setup process.
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
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
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.
Car shipping alternatives from NJ to IL
When you’re moving from Jersey City to Chicago, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.
Coordinate with your movers
On moves from Jersey City to Chicago, it’s common for the top long-distance movers to coordinate with established car shippers for you. This can simplify your relocation, but you might not have a say in which car shipper they choose.
Drive your car
There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 788-mile trip from Jersey City to Chicago could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.
Use a driving service
Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from New Jersey to Illinois is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Jersey City to Chicago. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Chicago, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Jersey City to Chicago car shipping costs
If you’re moving your car from Jersey City to Chicago, the cost will depend on several key factors:
Transport method
If you’re moving a car from Jersey City to Chicago, your options include open, enclosed, and top-loaded shipping. Each service has pros and cons depending on your situation.
Open carriers from Jersey City tend to be the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is better for protecting luxury or classic cars. To help you decide on the right choice for your move to Chicago, see our detailed guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
The kind of car you’re shipping out of Jersey City has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Chicago will cost more than moving a smaller car.
Distance and route
Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 788 miles from Jersey City to Chicago will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in New Jersey.
Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Jersey City and Chicago often affect the cost of auto transport.
September, June and May are the best months in Jersey City, while January and February are the least comfortable months as these are the coldest. Plan your moves accordingly.
Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Jersey City to Chicago in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 788-mile drive between Jersey City and Chicago, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Jersey City to Chicago typically takes between two and seven days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Comparing Jersey City and Chicago vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Jersey City: Resident parking permits are required for parking over 2 hours in many areas. Posted signs will indicate a need for a parking permit, parking restrictions for street cleaning, and other limitations for street parking. Parking meters are also placed in certain high traffic business districts.
- Chicago: For a fee of $25, CDOT will provide ticket and tow enforceable signs to eligible moving companies for the day of the move. This requires 72 hours.
Car insurance requirements
- Jersey City: In New Jersey, meet the minimum auto insurance requirements: $15,000 per person for bodily injury up to $30,000 per accident and $5,000 for property damage. Stay legally covered and financially secure on the road.
- Chicago: 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Jersey City: If you are planning to reside in New Jersey for a minimum of 6 months, it is mandatory to transfer the title of your vehicle, register it, and obtain a driver's license from the state. As a new resident, you have 60 days from the date of establishing your residency to register your vehicle. It is important to note that before registering your vehicle, you are required to have liability insurance coverage as per the New Jersey state laws.
- Chicago: 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.
Driver’s license
- Jersey City: As per the state laws of New Jersey, new residents are expected to transfer their driver's license and register their vehicles within 60 days of arriving in the state. However, during public health crises, this time frame may be extended to 120 days. It is important to note that there won't be any reminders for this, so it's recommended to keep a record of the date of your arrival in the state.
- Chicago: Even if your out-of-state driver's license is valid, you must still pass a vision test and written exam if you are moving to Illinois. Within 90 days of becoming a resident in the state, you must convert your license to an Illinois non-commercial license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Jersey City to Chicago?
The cost to ship a car from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Jersey City to Chicago will range from $853 to $1,231.
How long will it take to ship my car from Jersey City to Chicago?
It will take approximately two to seven days to ship your car the 788 miles from Jersey City to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Jersey City to Chicago?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Jersey City to Chicago. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Jersey City to Chicago?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Jersey City to Chicago than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 788-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.
