Illinois Car Shipping: Costs, Key Routes & Recommended Companies
Get all the Details on Illinois Car Shipping
Shipping a car to or from Illinois doesn’t have to be stressful. At A4 Auto Transport, we understand that Illinois car shipping can be tricky, from navigating snowy roads in Chicago during winter to dealing with heavy traffic in the city and its suburbs. Our goal is to help you understand the process and connect you with reliable car shipping companies who consistently deliver vehicles safely. Working with a provider familiar with Illinois’ roads and seasonal challenges is key. Car shipping costs usually range from $650 to $1,250, depending on distance, delivery location, and type of transport. Planning ahead with this knowledge ensures a smoother, worry-free experience.
Our Featured Partner
AutoStar Transport Express
18+
Years Exp.
#1
In California
100%
Insured
Expert Team Hotline
954-250-5115MC License
#600908
How to Ship a Car To or From Illinois: Essential Steps
Request Quotes
Compare rates from reputable Illinois car shipping companies offering services like open, enclosed, and door-to-door transport.
Choose a Licensed, Insured Carrier
Pick a transporter familiar with Illinois roadways, traffic patterns in major cities like Chicago, and seasonal weather like snow and sleet.
Prepare Documentation
Have your vehicle’s title, registration, and a valid government-issued photo ID ready before scheduling transport.
Recommended: Check out the car shipping documents.
Get Your Vehicle Ready
Wash the vehicle, remove personal items, disable alarms, and check tire pressure and fluid levels.
Schedule Pickup or Drop-Off
Coordinate transport directly to your home, workplace, or a nearby terminal, depending on accessibility and location.
Document Your Vehicle’s Condition
Take clear photos and note any pre-existing damage during the inspection prior to pickup.
Inspect Upon Delivery
Carefully check the car for damage upon arrival before signing off on the delivery paperwork.
Consider exploring ways to ship a car.
Illinois Car Shipping Costs & Transit Times
Below is a breakdown of estimated vehicle shipping costs to and from Illinois, categorized by region, distance, carrier types, pricing, and typical transit times:
| Route Category | Distance Range (miles) | Carrier Type | Cost Estimate (USD) | Average Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local & In-State | Under 500 | Open carrier | $350 – $775 | 1 to 3 days |
| Midwest Region (e.g. MO, IN, OH) | 300 – 700 | Open / Enclosed optional | $420 – $700 | 1 to 3 days |
| South & Surrounding (e.g. TN, GA) | 700 – 900 | Open / Enclosed optional | $600 – $1,100 | 2 to 4 days |
| East Coast (e.g. NY, FL, NC) | 800 – 1,300 | Open / Enclosed Optional | $850 – $1,450 | 3 to 6 days |
| West Coast (e.g. CA, AZ, WA) | 1,700 – 2,100 | Open / Enclosed / Expedited | $1,200 – $1,550+ | 5 to 8 days |
Disclaimer: These prices and transit times are estimates and may vary based on demand, fuel costs, carrier availability, and vehicle type. Always request quotes from trusted auto transport companies.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs in Illinois
Longer distances, especially cross-country routes from Illinois, increase overall shipping costs.
Open carriers are the most budget-friendly; enclosed carriers cost more but offer extra protection during winter.
Larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, and vans cost more due to added size and weight.
Prices rise during peak moving seasons such as spring and summer because of high demand.
Illinois weather, including heavy snow, ice, and thunderstorms, can impact timing and cost.
Shipping to or from rural areas costs more than urban locations like Chicago, Springfield, or Peoria due to limited carrier access.
Key State-to-State Car Shipping
Routes Involving Illinois
Illinois is a central hub for vehicle transport, connecting the Midwest to both coasts. Shipping a car to or from Illinois can vary in cost and transit time depending on distance, seasonal demand, and type of carrier. Here are some of the most common routes:
Shipping vehicles from Illinois to California is popular among relocating families, college students, and auto dealerships.
Average Cost
$1,100 – $1,600
Transit Time
5–7 days
High-volume route for personal and dealership vehicles relocating from California to the Midwest.
Average Cost
$1,150 – $1,700
Transit Time
5–7 days
Frequently used for snowbirds, family relocations, and college students traveling south for the winter.
Average Cost
$850 – $1,300
Transit Time
4–6 days
In-demand route for vehicles returning north after seasonal relocations or family moves.
Average Cost
$875 – $1,350
Transit Time
4-6 days
Popular for cross-state relocations, dealership shipments, and military moves.
Average Cost
$700 – $1,100
Transit Time
3–5 days
Frequently booked for relocations from Houston, Dallas, or Austin to Chicago and surrounding areas.
Average Cost
$725 – $1,150
Transit Time
3-5 days
Common route for student relocations, cross-state moves, and auction vehicles.
Average Cost
$950 – $1,400
Transit Time
3–5 days
Popular for vehicles moving from NYC, Buffalo, and Albany to Chicago or nearby cities.
Average Cost
$975 – $1,450
Transit Time
3–5 days
Short-haul route popular for college moves, dealerships, and local relocations.
Average Cost
$400 – $700
Transit Time
1–2 days
High-demand route from Detroit, Lansing, and Grand Rapids to Chicago and surrounding areas.
Average Cost
$425 – $750
Transit Time
1–2 days
Disclaimer: The prices and delivery times are estimates and may vary based on different factors.
Can I Ship a Car Easily To or From Illinois?
Yes. Illinois is well-connected by major highways like I-55, I-57, I-80, I-90, and I-94, which makes car shipping to and from the state very convenient. Major cities such as Chicago, Springfield, Rockford, and Peoria are popular pickup and delivery points with regular carrier traffic.
Booking early, especially during peak moving seasons helps you get better rates and preferred scheduling.
How Does Illinois Geography Affect Car Shipping?
Illinois is mostly flat and accessible, which allows for easy vehicle transport across the state. However, rural areas or small towns in southern and western Illinois may have fewer carriers available, which can slightly increase costs or affect pickup windows.
Urban traffic in Chicago can also affect timing, and in winter months, road conditions may cause occasional delays.
Is Door-to-Door Car Shipping Available Across Illinois?
- Available in major cities like Chicago, Naperville, Aurora, Rockford, and Springfield
- In narrow city streets or rural areas, carriers may arrange a nearby safe meetup location
- Door-to-door availability depends on accessibility and road/parking conditions
Are There Seasonal Considerations for Car Shipping in Illinois?
Yes. Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for car shipping due to relocations, college move-ins, and better weather. Winter can bring snow and ice, especially in northern Illinois and around Chicago, which may impact delivery times.
Booking in advance and being flexible with your dates helps ensure smooth transport during any season.
Does Illinois Require Special Paperwork for Vehicle Shipping?
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Vehicle title or current registration to prove ownership
- Proof of insurance (optional but recommended)
- No Illinois-specific transport documents are required
- Always confirm exact requirements with your carrier before pickup
Can I Ship a Vehicle To or From Illinois Military Bases?
Yes. Illinois is home to military facilities such as Scott Air Force Base and Rock Island Arsenal. Many auto transport companies offer military discounts and are experienced in handling PCS relocations.
Carriers typically provide flexible scheduling to accommodate base access and deployment timelines.
What Are the Most Affordable Cities in Illinois for Car Shipping?
- Chicago, Naperville, Aurora, Joliet, and Rockford typically have the best rates
- These cities are close to major interstates and have high transport activity
- Remote areas in southern or western Illinois may cost more due to limited carrier access
Is Enclosed Auto Transport Recommended in Illinois?
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed transport is recommended for luxury, exotic, or classic cars, especially during winter months when road salt, snow, or debris could cause damage. It provides protection from weather and road hazards.
For most daily-use vehicles, open transport is safe, reliable, and more affordable.
Recommended: Explore enclosed car transport companiesCan I Ship My Electric Vehicle in Illinois?
Yes. Carriers across Illinois are equipped to handle electric vehicles. Just let your transport company know in advance so they can:
- Use soft straps or wheel nets to avoid damaging the underbody
- Prevent battery drain during transport
- Prefer top-deck loading on open carriers to reduce debris exposure
What Are the Peak Seasons for Car Shipping in Illinois?
- Spring to early fall: High demand for college students, families, and auto auctions
- Summer: Peak season for moves to and from cities like Chicago and Champaign (University of Illinois)
- Winter: Lower demand, but potential weather delays due to snow and ice
Booking early during high season ensures better availability and pricing.
Are There Restrictions for Shipping Oversized Vehicles in Illinois?
Yes. Oversized vehicles such as lifted trucks, RVs, or work vans may require:
- Special permits or escorts based on vehicle dimensions
- Alternative route planning to avoid narrow or low-clearance roads
- Advance notice to the carrier to ensure legal and safe transport
Can I Ship a Vehicle from Illinois to Nearby States Like Wisconsin or Indiana?
Absolutely. Shipping between Illinois and nearby states like Wisconsin, Indiana, Iowa, and Missouri is fast, affordable, and highly common. These short-haul routes are ideal for college moves, vehicle purchases, and corporate relocations.
Recommended Car Shipping Companies for Illinois
We’ve researched the top auto transport companies, and based on that research, we confidently recommend AutoStar Transport Express:
AutoStar Transport Express
AutoStar Transport Express leads the Illinois car shipping market with unmatched reliability, top-tier customer service, and flexible transport solutions. Their transparent pricing sets them apart as the top choice.
We highlight AutoStar Transport Express as our top recommended company. Other companies are kept anonymous. Always request multiple quotes to compare services and pricing.
Conclusion
Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a student or military base, car shipping companies in Illinois offer flexible, reliable solutions to meet your needs. From navigating snowy Chicago streets to coordinating drop-offs in rural communities, experienced transport providers help simplify the entire process.
FAQs
Can I ship a non-running or inoperable vehicle in Illinois?
What should I do if my vehicle is damaged during transport in Illinois?
Can I place personal items in the car during shipping in Illinois?
Is expedited car shipping available in Illinois?
How far in advance should I book my car shipment from Illinois?