Shipping a Car from Chicago, IL to Fort Worth, TX ($815 – $1,214)

See our full list of top car shippers servicing Illinois residents, or the top companies for car shipping from Illinois to Texas.

• Get multiple quotes. Refrain from settling on the initial car transport service that pops up. Use fast online quotes to efficiently assess prices and offerings from multiple providers. Pay attention to the details of what's included in each service. Lower prices might only encompass the fundamentals. Make sure you're aligning similar offerings for the best deal on your transport.
• Ask about discounts. It's common for vehicle transport companies to have special rates for military members, students, seniors, and new or loyal patrons. Remember to ask about any existing offers or discounts when selecting a shipping service, as they could provide substantial savings.
• Ask about add-on fees. After receiving a quote from car shipping companies, it's crucial to check for any additional fees that might crop up. Fuel surcharges, toll fees, and terminal handling expenses can quickly accumulate. Ensure you get a detailed breakdown of these potential charges in writing before you finalize your decision, safeguarding yourself against any unforeseen costs.
• Book early. Lock in your car shipping as early as possible to score the best rates. Waiting until the last minute, especially for urgent moves, usually means paying extra. Once you pick a company, reserve your spot right away to snag the best deal.
• Don't ship during peak season. To keep your costs down and circumvent the frenzy, it's best to avoid shipping your vehicle in peak times such as spring, early summer, or during major holidays. You'll find that transporting your car in off-peak months can be more economical and straightforward.
• Choose open transport. If you're looking to reduce expenses, open shipping is a viable alternative to enclosed transport, often cutting costs in half. Though enclosed carriers offer superior protection, the price can be quite high. Open carriers, on the other hand, might subject your car to weather and road debris, yet they provide a reliable and cost-effective solution.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping. While door-to-door car shipping offers simplicity, it tends to be more expensive than using terminal-to-terminal services. By managing drop-off and pickup at designated terminals yourself, you could lower the overall shipping price.

The table below compares the percentage of car shipping companies offering each discount in Chicago to the averages in Illinois and nationwide.

When moving your vehicle between Chicago, IL and Fort Worth, TX, you have the choice of open or enclosed transport:

Open Car Transport

Open car transport is the most affordable and popular choice, perfect for most vehicles. If you're moving your car from Chicago to Fort Worth, your vehicle will usually arrive within 2 to 7 days over a distance of 950 miles.

Enclosed transport

If you're moving a high-value or classic car, enclosed transport gives your ride extra protection on the road. While enclosed shipping from Chicago to Fort Worth typically takes no more than 7 days for the 950-mile trip, we only recommend this option if your vehicle truly needs that extra coverage. Otherwise, the extra cost might not be worth it.

Experience and Route Expertise:

Go with a company that knows the ins and outs of shipping cars between Chicago and Fort Worth. Experienced companies already understand Texas's rules and the logistics of this route, so your vehicle should arrive without complications. If a company's been in business for years or has moved thousands of cars, that's a good sign they're reliable.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:

Before selecting a car shipping company, make sure to research company reviews, high ratings, and industry certifications. Top companies distinguished themselves with remarkable scores on Google, BBB, and Transport Reviews. You can feel confident in their reliability if they have earned awards or acknowledgment from reputable third-party organizations.

Pricing and Transparency:

Saving money is fantastic, but when a shipping quote seems suspiciously low, it likely isn't legitimate. Dependable car shippers are upfront about their pricing, providing competitive rates with no hidden agendas. Consider perks such as guaranteed price locks or not-to-exceed estimates for added peace of mind. Make sure you comprehend the payment terms, like whether you need to pay a deposit or settle upon delivery. It’s crucial to verify the cancellation terms too, as canceling post-booking might incur additional fees.

Services Offered:

Check that the company you're considering can meet the service demands of your shipment from Chicago to Fort Worth. Not every auto transporter is equipped for specialized options such as enclosed transport, fast-track pickups, large vehicle loads, or non-running car transfers. Make sure these services are available before making any commitments.

Insurance and Liability:

Auto transport companies are obligated to have liability and cargo insurance to ensure your vehicle is protected during its 950-mile transit from Chicago to Fort Worth. Since coverage details vary, confirm what your quote covers and the protection level you receive. Trusted movers will answer your questions straightforwardly. For luxury vehicles, explore additional coverage options or consider if your insurance policy can cover shortfalls. Remember to take detailed photos of your vehicle's condition before it leaves Chicago, as these are essential for claims once it reaches Fort Worth.

Communication and Customer Service:

Pay attention to how a company communicates. Do they respond quickly to your questions? Will they keep you updated or let you track your shipment during the 950-mile haul? Even though your car shipment from Chicago to Fort Worth should take no longer than 7 days, it's important to have a company who keeps you informed and handles concerns fast. Having acces to company representatives who are reliable, friendly, and knowledgeable, makes the process so much easier.

Before your vehicle gets shipped from Chicago to Fort Worth, here’s what you need to do:

• Thoroughly clean your car
• Inspect and document any damages
• Take out all unsecured items
• Car shippers advise to keep the gas at a quarter tank to lessen weight

Upon your car's arrival in Fort Worth, TX:

• Examine it thoroughly for any potential damage
• Cross-check all delivery paperwork
• Notify your carrier immediately if there are any concerns
• Handle registration, inspection, and any other obligations in Texas

Shipping My Car

Shipping your car is usually the easier choice, though it typically costs more. Expect to pay between $815 and $1,214.

Transporting your car might take more time than making the drive yourself, but it spares you the trouble, fatigue, and the wear and tear from the 950-mile journey to Fort Worth. Meanwhile, you're free to take a flight to your new destination and begin your new chapter instantly. Car shipping tends to be more economical the further the destination.

Driving My Car

If you're not embarking on a cross-country adventure, driving might be the most affordable option. For your route from Chicago to Fort Worth, car shipping could offer the most savings. Remember, the total cost to drive involves more than just the price of gas. Consider meals, lodging, and vehicle wear, which can add up. Expect to spend about $35 a day on food, $150 per night on hotels, and roughly $150 on fuel per 1,000 miles.