Virginia to Illinois Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 769 miles from Virginia to Illinois ranges from $751 to $1,176. Expect the trip to take around two–seven days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, 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 Virginia 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 Virginia to Illinois car shipping companies
Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car from Virginia to Illinois:
- 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 Virginia
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Virginia that can relocate your vehicle to Illinois:
- Safemile Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Richmond Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
- Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Capital Exports Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Quality Services Moving: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Safemile Auto Transport
500 E Main St 16th floor, Norfolk, VA 23510 US
safemileautotransport.com
3.66 / 5.0
Customers frequently commend Safemile for their excellent communication, professional service, and timely deliveries. However, some express initial anxiety about trust in the shipping process before experiencing the service firsthand.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3813643
Richmond Auto Shipping Group
1518 Willow Lawn Dr, Richmond, VA 23230 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-virginia/richmond
3.62 / 5.0
Auto Shipping Group receives praise for its excellent communication, punctual delivery, and strong customer service. Customers appreciated the timely pickup and careful handling of their vehicles, with specific commendations for staff members like Jason and Ali. However, there were few instances of confusion initially concerning the moving process, which was clarified through good support.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk
2607 Wyoming Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513 US
speedycarshipping.com/car-shipping-service/auto-transport-norfolk-va
3.56 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2297446
Capital Exports Inc
20559 Meadow Island Pl, Sterling, VA 20165 US
capitalexports.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2482713
Quality Services Moving
10595 Furnace Rd # 140, Lorton, VA 22079 US
qsmoving.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers commend the professionalism, teamwork, and efficient service of the moving teams, highlighting their care in packing and communication. However, some report significant issues, including poor customer service, damage to property, and unprofessional behavior during the move.
Services Offered
- International shipping
- Storage solutions
Additional Information
Alternative Business Names
- Quality Midwestern Holdings, 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 Virginia to Illinois
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Virginia to Illinois, you may find it convenient to work with a moving company that also handles car shipping. Many interstate movers partner with experienced car shipping services to arrange auto transport.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 769 miles to your vehicle on the route from Virginia to Illinois. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
You can also hire someone to drive the car from Virginia to Illinois for you. This option could be a very costly one and involves trusting a driver to safely get your car to its destination.
Ship by train
Shipping by train can be a cost-effective and reliable method of moving your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the least expensive way to move a vehicle.
Virginia to Illinois 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 Virginia and Illinois. The trip typically spans 769 miles and takes about two–seven days.
Cost to ship a car from Virginia Beach, VA to Illinois
| From Virginia to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach, VA to Chicago, IL | $807 – $1,276 | 898 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to Aurora, IL | $792 – $1,216 | 937 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to Joliet, IL | $816 – $1,229 | 910 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to Naperville, IL | $832 – $1,278 | 924 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to Rockford, IL | $813 – $1,198 | 992 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Chesapeake, VA to Illinois
| From Virginia to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chesapeake, VA to Chicago, IL | $831 – $1,155 | 896 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to Aurora, IL | $768 – $1,303 | 935 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to Joliet, IL | $808 – $1,217 | 908 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to Naperville, IL | $800 – $1,253 | 922 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to Rockford, IL | $773 – $1,224 | 983 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Arlington, VA to Illinois
| From Virginia to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington, VA to Chicago, IL | $793 – $1,046 | 701 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Arlington, VA to Aurora, IL | $750 – $1,166 | 738 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Arlington, VA to Joliet, IL | $748 – $1,035 | 710 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Arlington, VA to Naperville, IL | $763 – $1,046 | 724 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Arlington, VA to Rockford, IL | $813 – $1,185 | 784 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Norfolk, VA to Illinois
| From Virginia to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norfolk, VA to Chicago, IL | $807 – $1,155 | 890 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Norfolk, VA to Aurora, IL | $792 – $1,229 | 928 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Norfolk, VA to Joliet, IL | $800 – $1,266 | 903 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Norfolk, VA to Naperville, IL | $800 – $1,217 | 917 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Norfolk, VA to Rockford, IL | $765 – $1,224 | 977 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Richmond, VA to Illinois
| From Virginia to Illinois | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL | $820 – $1,139 | 798 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Richmond, VA to Aurora, IL | $800 – $1,126 | 840 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Richmond, VA to Joliet, IL | $795 – $1,110 | 809 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Richmond, VA to Naperville, IL | $748 – $1,122 | 823 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Richmond, VA to Rockford, IL | $815 – $1,155 | 897 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Virginia to Illinois
Transporting bigger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans is usually more expensive than shipping a sedan due to increased weight and space requirements.
For this route from Virginia to Illinois, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $939–$1,470.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Virginia to Illinois
If you’re shipping a car from the Old Dominion State to the Land of Lincoln, keep these cost factors in mind:
- 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 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 journey from Virginia to Illinois spans approximately 769 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
- Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of Virginia in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
- Fuel prices: Variability in fuel prices across states affects the cost of moving a vehicle between Virginia and Illinois.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within two–seven days, but expedited options cost 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 Virginia
More than 8.7 million people call Virginia home. Nicknamed the Old Dominion State. Virginia has humid hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream have a strong effect on eastern and southeastern coastal areas of the Commonwealth, making the climate there warmer and more constant.
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 Virginia 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 Virginia and when dropping it off in Illinois.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Virginia to Illinois?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Virginia 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 Virginia.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. It's crucial for drivers to have liability insurance, meeting the state's minimum coverage requirements: $25,000 for individual injury or death, $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals, and $20,000 for property damage. Elevate your road safety with mandatory uninsured motorist coverage, ensuring protection with matching limits. Stay road-ready by fulfilling these insurance obligations in Virginia.
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 Virginia to Illinois?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Virginia to Illinois is about 769 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to seven days to travel from Virginia to Illinois.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
All vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspections at DMV-approved stations. Vehicles that fail can be re-inspected for free within 60 days. Upon passing, a sticker is issued to indicate the vehicle's compliance.
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 Virginia, 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 Virginia, 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 Virginia 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 Virginia and Illinois to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Virginia to Illinois?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Virginia 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 Virginia to Illinois?
Shipping a car from Virginia to Illinois costs $751 to $1,176.
