($1,181) Cost to ship a car from El Paso, TX to Chicago, IL

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,485 miles from El Paso, Texas, to Chicago, Illinois, ranges from $1,181 to $1,640. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Chicago to El Paso car shipping guide.

The best El Paso to Chicago car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from El Paso to Chicago:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full Nexus Auto Transport review
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full Sherpa Auto Transport review
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full SGT Auto Transport review
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full Ship A Car Direct review

Top local car shippers in El Paso

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in El Paso, TX:

  1. Christa's Excellent Auto, LLC: 3.58 out of 5 stars
  2. HYPERDEL Auto Shipping: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Car Shipping Carriers: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Car Shipping Carriers El Paso: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Christa's Excellent Auto, LLC

500 Marquette Ave NW Ste 1200, Albuquerque, NM 87102 US

starstarstarstarstar3.58 / 5.0

Christa's Excellent Auto LLC is widely praised for its excellent communication, reliable and professional service, and quick turnaround times in vehicle transport. Customers consistently commend Christa for her transparency and thoroughness, ensuring a smooth shipping process. However, there are mentions of past unsatisfactory experiences with other brokers, which highlights the importance of choosing a reputable provider like Christa.

Get a Quote (505) 738-0045

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping

Additional Information

HYPERDEL Auto Shipping

5505 Broadway Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87105 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Hyperdel Auto Shipping is known for its excellent customer service, prompt communication, and competitive pricing. While many customers praised the company for its responsiveness and reliability, some experienced issues with carrier communications and delivery timelines. Overall, customers are generally satisfied with their experience but noted that better communication during the shipping process would enhance their service.

Get a Quote (855) 755-8575

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Car Shipping Carriers

221 N Kansas St #700, El Paso, TX 79901 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Car Shipping Carriers is well-regarded for its honest pricing and exceptional service. Customers appreciate the clear communication and efficient vehicle transport, with many noting quick pick-up and delivery times. While customer service is generally praised, there was an instance of unprofessional phone behavior, which could be improved.

Get a Quote (915) 615-5771

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
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Car Shipping Carriers El Paso

221 N Kansas St # 700, El Paso, TX 79901 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Speedy Car Shipping

500 4th St NW Ste 102, Albuquerque, NM 87102 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (505) 405-4650

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

Additional Information

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 TX to IL

If you’re relocating from El Paso to Chicago, moving your vehicle is an important step. Below are the most common car transport choices, each with unique pros and cons.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re moving from El Paso to Chicago, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 1,485-mile journey from El Paso to Chicago could double as a road trip adventure and help you cut costs. However, the added mileage increases wear on your vehicle and exposes you to possible weather and safety risks.

Use a driving service

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Texas to Illinois, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from El Paso to Chicago safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Chicago is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.

Factors affecting El Paso to Chicago car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from El Paso to Chicago, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from El Paso to Chicago, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Chicago, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping price from El Paso depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Chicago will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 1,485 miles from El Paso to Chicago will cost more than a shorter move within Texas.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both El Paso and Chicago can impact car shipping prices.

With a desert climate, El Paso's weather is typically predictable but some winters can have extreme weather. Roads may become icy on some days in the winter which would affect your move.

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.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from El Paso to Chicago during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 1,485-mile drive between El Paso and Chicago, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.

Delivery expectations

If you’re flexible with delivery dates, you may qualify for discounts from your car shipper. Typically, transporting a vehicle from El Paso to Chicago takes between three and eight days. While flexibility can reduce costs, choosing expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery at a higher price.

Comparing El Paso and Chicago vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • El Paso: Although El Paso doesn't require parking permits, you should double check with the city or any HOA rules that your new home may have.
  • 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

  • El Paso: 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.
  • 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

  • El Paso: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
  • 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

  • El Paso: New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to 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 El Paso to Chicago?

The cost to ship a car from El Paso, TX 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 El Paso to Chicago will range from $1,181 to $1,640.

How long will it take to ship my car from El Paso to Chicago?

It will take approximately three to eight days to ship your car the 1,485 miles from El Paso to Chicago. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from El Paso to Chicago?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from El Paso 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 El Paso to Chicago?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from El Paso 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 1,485-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.

Helpful El Paso resources