Texas to Illinois Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 994 miles from Texas to Illinois ranges from $818 to $1,282 and takes two–seven 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 Illinois to Texas 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 Texas to Illinois 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 Texas to Illinois:
- 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 Texas
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Texas that can transport your vehicle to Illinois:
- New World Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- San Antonio Auto Shipping Group: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Auto Transport Co: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Thrifty Auto Shipping, Inc.: 3.62 out of 5 stars
- Bold Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
New World Auto Transport
5150 Franz Rd STE 500, Katy, TX 77493 US newworldautotransport.com
3.8 / 5.0
New World Auto Transport is praised for their exceptional service and professionalism in moving vehicles, with many customers feeling valued and cared for throughout the process. Their quick delivery times and excellent communication stand out, leading to high customer satisfaction. However, there are no significant negative remarks reported in the reviews.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2246109
Alternative Business Names
- New World Auto Transport Logistics, LLC
San Antonio Auto Shipping Group
5460 Babcock Rd #120-C, San Antonio, TX 78240 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-texas/san-antonio
3.76 / 5.0
Customers consistently praised the excellent support, professionalism, and reliable delivery speed provided by the team at Auto Shipping Group. Many highlighted the positive experiences with specific representatives who ensured smooth communication throughout the shipping process. Additionally, recipients appreciated the careful handling of their vehicles upon delivery. However, some customers encountered difficulties with prior service issues before finding satisfaction with this company. A few reviews noted initial challenges in locating transporter services, suggesting the need for better initial coordination in future cases.
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
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Auto Transport Co
1216 Wooded Creek Cir, Lewisville, TX 75067 US reliantautotransport.com
3.64 / 5.0
Customers appreciate the excellent pricing, quick delivery, and responsive customer service from Reliant. However, some experiences highlighted severe deficiencies in communication, particularly with specific representatives. This has led to frustrations for clients seeking timely and respectful interactions.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1446274
Thrifty Auto Shipping, Inc.
2201 Main St #205, Dallas, TX 75201 US
thriftyautoship.com
3.62 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise Thrifty Auto Shipping for their exceptional customer service and reliable, timely deliveries. Positive comments highlight the excellent communication and ease of the shipping process. However, some notes indicate that prices may not be the lowest compared to competitors, though regarded as fair.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- AAA
- Student
- Teacher
- Law enforcement
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2537155
Bold Auto Transport
325 North St. Paul Street Suite 3100, Dallas, TX 75201 US
boldautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers consistently praised Bold Auto Transport for their excellent service, professional staff, and fast delivery times. However, no significant negative feedback was noted, with every shipment being handled promptly and efficiently.
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
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- Military
- Law enforcement
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3775668
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 Texas to Illinois
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from Texas for a move to Illinois, 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 option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 994 miles on your car to travel between Texas and Illinois. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You can hire someone to drive your car from Texas to Illinois, 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.
Texas to Illinois auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Texas and Illinois. The typical distance is about 994 miles, with shipping times generally falling between two and seven days.
Cost to ship a car from Houston, TX to Illinois
| From Texas to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston, TX to Chicago, IL | $831 – $1,304 | 1,083 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Houston, TX to Aurora, IL | $831 – $1,251 | 1,056 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Houston, TX to Joliet, IL | $815 – $1,291 | 1,038 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Houston, TX to Naperville, IL | $815 – $1,291 | 1,051 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Houston, TX to Rockford, IL | $782 – $1,251 | 1,071 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Antonio, TX to Illinois
| From Texas to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL | $861 – $1,347 | 1,199 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| San Antonio, TX to Aurora, IL | $905 – $1,432 | 1,172 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| San Antonio, TX to Joliet, IL | $888 – $1,404 | 1,161 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| San Antonio, TX to Naperville, IL | $861 – $1,446 | 1,175 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| San Antonio, TX to Rockford, IL | $941 – $1,474 | 1,195 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Dallas, TX to Illinois
| From Texas to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas, TX to Chicago, IL | $805 – $1,351 | 926 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Dallas, TX to Aurora, IL | $855 – $1,287 | 907 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Dallas, TX to Joliet, IL | $820 – $1,235 | 888 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Dallas, TX to Naperville, IL | $805 – $1,223 | 902 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Dallas, TX to Rockford, IL | $855 – $1,300 | 922 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Austin, TX to Illinois
| From Texas to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin, TX to Chicago, IL | $870 – $1,404 | 1,121 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Austin, TX to Aurora, IL | $831 – $1,330 | 1,093 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Austin, TX to Joliet, IL | $848 – $1,317 | 1,083 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Austin, TX to Naperville, IL | $848 – $1,264 | 1,097 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Austin, TX to Rockford, IL | $923 – $1,390 | 1,117 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Fort Worth, TX to Illinois
| From Texas to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Worth, TX to Chicago, IL | $821 – $1,259 | 950 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Fort Worth, TX to Aurora, IL | $822 – $1,325 | 931 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Fort Worth, TX to Joliet, IL | $821 – $1,300 | 912 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Fort Worth, TX to Naperville, IL | $813 – $1,287 | 926 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Fort Worth, TX to Rockford, IL | $847 – $1,338 | 946 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Texas to Illinois
Because of their added size and weight, SUVs, trucks, and vans generally cost more to ship than smaller cars.
Shipping a larger vehicle from Texas to Illinois usually runs between $1,023 and $1,603.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Texas to Illinois
If you’re shipping a car from the Lone Star State to the Land of Lincoln, 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: Shipping costs are higher for bigger and heavier vehicles. Your car’s weight and dimensions play a direct role in the total cost to ship it to Illinois.
- Distance and route: The route from Texas to Illinois is about 994 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Texas in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Texas and Illinois may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes two–seven days, while expedited service costs more.
Illinois vehicle regulations you need to know
Once you arrive in Illinois, 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: 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 inspection: 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: 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.
- Additional taxes: According to Illinois law, the recipient or buyer of any vehicle transferred within the state must complete a Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction form (form RUT-50) and pay the sales tax for the car within 30 days of the transfer of ownership.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Texas
More than 30.5 million people call Texas home. Nicknamed the Lone Star State. Although winters are mild, hurricane season during the summer months may affect your move.
Transporting your vehicle to Illinois
About 12.5 million people are living in 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"
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Texas and delivery in Illinois?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Texas and when dropping it off in Illinois.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Texas to Illinois?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Texas to Illinois, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Illinois, which you should verify before loading your car in Texas.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from Texas to Illinois?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Texas to Illinois is about 994 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to seven days to travel from Texas to Illinois.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
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.
If I have a driver’s license in Texas, will I need one in Illinois?
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.
If I bought a car in Texas, will I be required to pay sales tax in Illinois after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Texas to Illinois after purchasing it.
According to Illinois law, the recipient or buyer of any vehicle transferred within the state must complete a Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction form (form RUT-50) and pay the sales tax for the car within 30 days of the transfer of ownership.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Texas and Illinois to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Texas to Illinois?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Texas to Illinois 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 Texas to Illinois?
Shipping a car from Texas to Illinois costs $818 to $1,282.
