Based on our research, Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping company serving Illinois with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in key areas like cost, customer satisfaction, and services. While there are several factors that influence the cost to ship your car out of Illinois, the total average cost is $764 - $1,231.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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FreightWaves Checkpoint strives to take the guesswork out of finding a reliable car shipping company.
We rate over 2,400 companies nationwide based on the things that matter — price, service quality, availability, and customer satisfaction being key among them. We also read through hundreds of customer reviews to uncover patterns and highlight what actual users are saying.
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The Best Car Shipping Companies in Illinois
Car shipping companies with national coverage tend to deliver better service, more flexible options, and competitive rates. Explore our top-rated picks trusted by customers in Illinois.
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers, military, USAA, and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in Illinois
Although these local auto transport providers in Illinois have been assessed and rated, their service scope or availability may be more limited than the top-rated companies above.
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) is a highly-rated car shipping company with impressive ratings, holding a 4.3 on Yelp, a 4.8 on Google, and boasting an A rating from the BBB. They offer a broad array of services, including interstate and international shipping, as well as transport for classic cars, electric vehicles, and motorcycles. Customers can also choose between open and enclosed transport options, and the company caters to cars that don't run.
While Van 3 Auto Transport & Car excels in many areas, they do not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which could be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, although they are fully insured, they require a deposit and do not accept cryptocurrency or offer convenient shipment tracking services. Nonetheless, their active status and variety of services make them a competitive choice for vehicle transportation needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a car shipping company that provides a range of services including interstate and international shipping, classic car shipping, and transport for cars that don't run. They are known for offering a fully insured damage-free guarantee, and they cater to electric vehicles, motorcycles, and RVs. Although they provide a comprehensive list of services, they do not accept cryptocurrency as payment, which may be a concern for some customers looking for modern payment options.
The company boasts a Google rating of 4.1 and holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, though it is yet to establish ratings on Yelp. They stand out for offering both open and enclosed transport and also provide services like expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports. Additional perks include military discounts, although senior and student discounts are not available.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
BKK TRANSPORT
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a car shipping company that stands out for its extensive range of services including boat and RV shipping, as well as transportation for motorcycles and heavy equipment. They ensure vehicles are moved with care, offering a damage-free guarantee and providing detailed inspection reports.
While they offer terminal-to-terminal delivery and inoperable car transport, customers may find the lack of a guaranteed delivery service a potential downside. BKK TRANSPORT maintains a solid Google rating of 3.7 and a commendable A+ rating from the BBB, though their Yelp rating is notably lower at 1.8, indicating a mixed reception among customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Dispatchray
Dispatchray (DOT: 2490936) is a highly-rated car shipping company known for its wide range of vehicle transport services, including boat, motorcycle, RV, heavy equipment, and electric vehicle shipping. They hold impressive ratings, boasting a Yelp rating of 5.0, a Google rating of 5.0, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This company offers the convenience of shipping cars that don't run, ensuring flexibility for various shipping needs.
However, some customers might find the lack of a damage-free guarantee disappointing. Despite this, Dispatchray ensures full insurance coverage for transports and accepts payment through credit cards, enhancing customer trust and satisfaction. They do not currently support international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a consideration for those needing these services.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Karma Auto Transport
Karma Auto Transport (DOT: 2882553) offers a variety of comprehensive car shipping services, including interstate and international shipping, classic car transportation, and expedited delivery. They provide guarantees against damage and detailed inspection reports, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. With an impressive Yelp rating of 4.6 and a BBB rating of A+, Karma Auto Transport is known for its reliability and customer satisfaction.
However, potential clients should be aware that the company does not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery or accept cryptocurrency as payment. Additionally, Karma Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Google, which may be a consideration for some customers.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Local Car Shippers In Illinois
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Popular Car Shipping Routes from Illinois
- Illinois to Alabama
- Illinois to Arkansas
- Illinois to Arizona
- Illinois to California
- Illinois to Colorado
- Illinois to Connecticut
- Illinois to Delaware
- Illinois to Florida
- Illinois to Georgia
- Illinois to Iowa
- Illinois to Idaho
- Illinois to Indiana
- Illinois to Kansas
- Illinois to Kentucky
- Illinois to Louisiana
- Illinois to Massachusetts
- Illinois to Maryland
- Illinois to Maine
- Illinois to Michigan
- Illinois to Minnesota
- Illinois to Missouri
- Illinois to Mississippi
- Illinois to Montana
- Illinois to North Carolina
- Illinois to North Dakota
- Illinois to Nebraska
- Illinois to New Hampshire
- Illinois to New Jersey
- Illinois to New Mexico
- Illinois to Nevada
- Illinois to New York
- Illinois to Ohio
- Illinois to Oklahoma
- Illinois to Oregon
- Illinois to Pennsylvania
- Illinois to Rhode Island
- Illinois to South Carolina
- Illinois to South Dakota
- Illinois to Tennessee
- Illinois to Texas
- Illinois to Utah
- Illinois to Virginia
- Illinois to Vermont
- Illinois to Washington
- Illinois to Wisconsin
- Illinois to West Virginia
- Illinois to Wyoming
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Illinois
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Illinois:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Illinois to Michigan | 692 | 900 |
| From Illinois to California | 1629 | 2118 |
| From Illinois to Ohio | 694 | 902 |
| From Illinois to New York | 1071 | 1392 |
| From Illinois to North Carolina | 1024 | 1331 |
| From Colorado to Illinois | 1049 | 1364 |
| From Texas to Illinois | 1070 | 1391 |
| From Georgia to Illinois | 1029 | 1338 |
| From Florida to Illinois | 1127 | 1465 |
| From Arizona to Illinois | 1412 | 1836 |
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Illinois:
- Distance and Location: Distance increases shipping cost; longer distances lead to higher expenses. Location affects cost depending on accessibility and demand for routes out of Illinois.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: If you're shipping from Illinois and your vehicle is large, non-running, or needs special care — like a classic car — you’ll likely pay more. That’s because extra gear and handling are often needed.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Illinois's weather and road conditions. Enclosed shipping costs around 30% more but keeps your car safe in a covered trailer, which is ideal for luxury or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, about 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Illinois experiences extreme seasonal weather, with cold winters and hot, humid summers, which may cause cost fluctuations in car shipping due to increased demand during milder conditions and potential delays or safety concerns during harsh weather.
- Additional Services Adding services like door-to-door delivery or faster shipping increases car shipping costs. Extra convenience and speed boost the price because they need more coordination and effort. This usually results in a higher overall bill for the shipper.
Each of these factors plays a significant role in the final cost of shipping your vehicle out of Illinois. To get the best price, we recommend using the form below to get car shipping quotes from multiple Illinois auto transport companies to compare their services and understand their payment options, ensuring they align with your specific needs and budget constraints.
How To Cut Car Shipping Costs
Shipping a car long-distance — especially across the country — can be expensive. But if you're in Illinois, here are a few ways to cut down the cost:
- Shop around. Don't settle for the first car shipping company you find. Many companies offer quick online quotes, so you can easily compare prices from several options. Check both the prices and the services offered to ensure you are comparing them properly. Some companies might seem less expensive, but their quotes could lack the services others include.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military members, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that might lower your total expenses.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies may not disclose extra fees until after you agree to their quote. It's wise to ask about potential extra charges ahead of time. Common fees include gas, tolls, and terminal handling. Before agreeing, find out all the fees the company charges and request them in writing to avoid surprises on your bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping close to your pickup date will cost more, especially if you need fast service. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car is more expensive in peak seasons like spring and early summer due to high demand and limited availability. The same applies to major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. To get better prices and more scheduling choices, try to ship outside these busy times.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping over enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Although enclosed carriers offer more protection, they are significantly more expensive. Open carriers might expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, but they are still a safe and more affordable choice.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone transport your car directly to your new home is convenient, but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. Driving to the terminals at both ends of your move can save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Illinois:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shipping companies offer fixed rates, so your quote stays the same by delivery day. However, not all companies do this. Unforeseen events or sudden route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option, aiming to meet the specified date. Without paying for this, the delivery timeline is just an estimate, not a promise. Keep in mind that factors such as bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even for "guaranteed" deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure to know what a car shipping company's insurance covers—and more importantly, what it doesn't—in case your car gets damaged during transport. Compare this information with your current auto insurance policy, which might cover your car while it's being moved.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading carefully when you receive it and before you sign at delivery. It might look like a regular receipt, but it's actually more significant. This document details the services you received and confirms your car arrived in the same condition it left in. Before signing, check that you got everything you paid for and note any vehicle damage on the bill. If damage isn't documented, you won't be able to file a claim later.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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How We Chose the Best Illinois Auto Transport Companies
We evaluate car shipping companies in Illinois using a thorough process that considers five essential criteria: licensing, customer satisfaction, service breadth, competitive pricing, and digital reputation.
- Licensing compliance at the state (Illinois) and federal level ensures companies operate legally and ethically.
- Customer satisfaction is evaluated via aggregated feedback, offering insight into service consistency and dependability.
- Diverse service offerings allow customers to match transport methods with specific vehicle types or conditions.
- We review pricing structures to ensure they are fair, transparent, and appropriate for Illinois-based transport needs.
- An established online presence and positive reputation across trusted review sites reflect a business’s accountability and customer care standards.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
FAQs About Illinois Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Illinois car shipping company?
Shipping your car is a smart alternative to driving long distances. It helps you avoid dealing with Illinois's vast road network and changing weather. This method saves time and effort, especially given Illinois's varied auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
Do careful research to avoid scams and choose companies with experience in Illinois logistics. Make sure the insurance coverage meets local requirements, and follow vehicle preparation tips.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Illinois?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and how soon you need it. Enclosed shipping protects better against Illinois's weather, but open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Before hiring an Illinois car shipping company, check the type and amount of insurance they offer. Make sure their coverage protects against potential damages during transport. Verify if additional insurance might be needed for extra protection.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Illinois?
To prepare a car for cross-country transport out of Illinois, clean it inside and out. Take clear photos of the car to document its current condition, noting any scratches or dents. Ensure car insurance meets the liability minimums required in Illinois before transit. Check with the transporter for specific requirements or recommendations for a hassle-free move.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Illinois?
Check for good reviews, valid licenses, and clear pricing. It's best to choose a company familiar with Illinois's logistics and weather challenges.
