Based on our research, Sherpa 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 $798 - $1,238.
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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
FreightWaves Checkpoint exists to give you clear, objective insights into the car shipping world — no fluff, no spin.
We've analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies using a custom scoring model that highlights what really matters: fair pricing, dependable service, and customer satisfaction. Then we look at what people are actually saying — the good, the bad, and everything in between.
Our content is carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to keep everything accurate, timely, and useful to you.
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.
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
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand 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 and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- 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
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
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 a Yelp rating of 4.3, a Google rating of 4.8, and an impressive BBB rating of A.
They offer a range of services including transport for inoperable cars, classic cars, electric vehicles, and even boats. Customers can also take advantage of expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports. Additionally, Van 3 Auto Transport & Car provides international shipping and both open and enclosed transport options.
However, they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite this, they still stand out with their fully insured shipments and a commitment to damage-free delivery guarantees.
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
BKK TRANSPORT
BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a reputable car shipping company that has established its presence in the industry with a diverse range of services. They are fully insured and offer both interstate and international shipping options, making them a versatile choice for various transportation needs. One of their standout offerings is the capability to transport inoperable cars, alongside the availability of open and enclosed transport options.
BKK TRANSPORT also provides expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports to ensure the protection of your vehicle during transit. Despite these advantages, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which could be a limitation for some tech-savvy customers. The company boasts a Yelp rating of 1.8, a Google rating of 3.7, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting a mixed but overall positive reputation.
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
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a well-regarded car shipping business with a solid reputation, evidenced by their A+ rating with the BBB and a Google rating of 4.1. They offer a wide range of services including electric vehicle shipping, motorcycle and ATV shipping, and even international shipping, ensuring a broad clientele can find what they need. Customers benefit from expedited delivery, fully insured services, and terminal-to-terminal delivery options.
Despite their comprehensive service offerings, it is worth noting that they do not accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment, which may be a limitation for some customers. Overall, their extensive service menu and high ratings make them a reliable choice for car shipping needs.
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
Dispatchray
Dispatchray (DOT: 2490936) is a highly esteemed car shipping company, boasting top ratings with a 5.0 on Yelp, a 5.0 on Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
The company offers a wide range of services including shipping for motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and heavy equipment, as well as options for both open and enclosed transport. They also transport inoperable cars and classic cars.
However, it is worth noting that Dispatchray does not offer international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a drawback for some customers.
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) is a reputable car shipping company known for its excellent service, boasting a high Yelp rating of 4.9 and a BBB rating of B-. Although the Google rating is not provided, their strong presence on Yelp underscores customer satisfaction.
Karma Auto Transport offers a range of services including interstate and international shipping, the transport of cars that don't run, and detailed inspection reports. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, and they do not require a deposit, which can be a significant convenience for their customers.
One downside is that Karma Auto Transport does not offer boat shipping or motorcycle shipping, which may be a limitation for some customers. They also do not provide senior or military discounts, which could be a consideration for some clients. Despite these limitations, their wide range of available services and damage-free guarantee make them a strong choice for many car shipping needs.
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
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 Georgia | 1205 | 1567 |
| From Illinois to North Carolina | 1219 | 1585 |
| From Illinois to Pennsylvania | 1127 | 1465 |
| From Illinois to Florida | 1383 | 1798 |
| From Illinois to Ohio | 901 | 1171 |
| From New York to Illinois | 1270 | 1651 |
| From Texas to Illinois | 1295 | 1684 |
| From Arizona to Illinois | 1718 | 2233 |
| From California to Illinois | 2061 | 2679 |
| From Michigan to Illinois | 856 | 1113 |
Find your exact route to ship your car from Illinois.
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: The cost of shipping your car out of Illinois increases with greater distance and specific location challenges. Urban locations like Chicago may cost more due to higher traffic and demand.
- 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 more affordable and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Illinois's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping costs around 30% extra but keeps your car in a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, approximately 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Weather and seasonality in Illinois, marked by harsh winters and hot summers, affect car shipping by potentially increasing costs due to challenges like snow, ice, or extreme heat. Additionally, the state’s position in "tornado alley" may require more robust shipping arrangements.
- Additional Services Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make car shipping pricier. These services require more resources and faster handling, driving up overall costs.
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 choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas costs more due to higher demand and lower availability. To get a better price and more scheduling options, choose a time outside these busy periods if possible.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping instead of enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection but are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, choosing this option will 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 shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery date and will try their best to meet it. If you don't choose this option, the timeline they provide is just an estimate. Remember that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds to file a claim later.
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.
Local Car Shippers In Illinois
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Illinois Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Illinois car shipping company?
Car shipping is a practical alternative to driving across Illinois's vast roads and handling its seasonal weather. It saves time and effort, which is particularly useful given Illinois's varied auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
Proper research helps prevent scams; prioritize companies with experience in Illinois logistics. Ensure insurance meets local standards and prepare your vehicle following recommended 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 weather, but open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Check if the car shipping company offers basic or full insurance coverage for your vehicle. Understand the value they cover and any costs involved. Compare options to decide the best protection for your car.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Illinois?
Start by washing and vacuuming the car thoroughly. Take photos of the car from all angles to document its current condition. Remove all valuables and personal items to avoid damage or theft. In Illinois, remember to cancel your vehicle's registration and return the plates if required by the new state's regulations.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Illinois?
Seek out positive reviews, verify proper licensing, and ensure transparent pricing. Choose a company experienced with Illinois's logistics and weather challenges.
