North Carolina to Illinois Car Shipping (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

For mid-range car shipping routes like North Carolina to Illinois, you can expect to pay around $982-$1,472. Transit time is generally 2-7 days.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

At FreightWaves, our goal is simple: provide accurate, unbiased information and honest reviews about car shipping companies so you can make confident decisions.

Using our proprietary rating methodology, we’ve evaluated more than 2,400 auto transport providers across the United States. We look closely at pricing transparency, service offerings, coverage areas, and overall customer satisfaction. We also analyze verified customer feedback to surface recurring strengths and common complaints.

Our editorial team carefully reviews and updates every piece of content to ensure it stays current, factual, and genuinely helpful for readers researching car shipping.

Cost of Shipping a Car From NC to IL

For a shipment from North Carolina to Illinois covering 819 miles, most quotes range from $982-$1,472. The exact cost depends on booking lead time, fuel trends, vehicle type, and whether you select open or enclosed transport.

Pro tip: Book your car shipment 6-8 weeks in advance for the best rates. That gives carriers time to plan efficient routes and avoid rush pricing. Use our free cost calculator tool below to see what your move might cost.

Best North Carolina to Illinois Car Shippers

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

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

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

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

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

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

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

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

Ship A Car Direct

4.4 / 5.0

Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

Get A Quote (855) 952-1031

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • Expedited Shipping Available
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Ships all vehicle types
  • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
  • $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
  • Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
  • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
  • No international shipping
  • Website lacks information

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Top Local NC-IL Car Shippers

Ship A Car ASAP

4801 Glenwood Ave Suite 200, Raleigh, NC, 27612
4.24 / 5.0

Ship A Car ASAP (DOT: 1628739) is a reputable car shipping company boasting top-tier ratings, with both Yelp and Google awarding them a perfect 5.0 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their extensive offerings include specialized transport services for classic cars, inoperable vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and heavy equipment, ensuring a wide range of needs are met. While they provide expedited delivery and secure enclosed transport, a downside for some customers might be that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee. Additionally, Ship A Car ASAP does not support international shipping, which could be a limitation for those needing to transport vehicles abroad.

Get a Quote (844) 321-2727

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Charlotte Auto Shipping Group

15720 Brixham Hill Ave Suite 300, Charlotte, NC, 28277
4.24 / 5.0

Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a wide range of services including damage-free guarantees, interstate, and even international shipping. They specialize in transporting various types of vehicles, from classic cars to inoperable cars, as well as heavier equipment such as trailers and RVs. The company ensures fully insured shipments with detailed inspection reports and provides shipment tracking for customer convenience. However, they do not accept cryptocurrency payments, which could be a limitation for some customers.

Despite their comprehensive service offerings, Charlotte Auto Shipping Group has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, although they proudly hold an A+ rating with the BBB. Their service options include both terminal-to-terminal and expedited delivery, as well as enclosed transport for customers seeking added protection. Key services for specific customer groups, such as military discounts, are available, but other discounts like those for seniors or students are not offered.

Get a Quote (704) 412-3669

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
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

48 States Auto Shipping

1154 Mimosa Ln, Greenville, NC, 27834
4.1 / 5.0

48 States Auto Shipping (DOT: 2246104) provides comprehensive car shipping services across the United States. This company boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.5 and a BBB rating of A+, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction and reliable service.

They offer a variety of transport options including enclosed transport, open transport, and interstate shipping, catering to both electric vehicles and inoperable cars. However, potential customers should be aware that 48 States Auto Shipping does not provide international shipping or a damage-free guarantee, which might be a consideration for some.

Get a Quote (866) 237-9212

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping

US Global Shipping Inc.

528-B College Rd, Greensboro, NC, 27410
3.9 / 5.0

US Global Shipping Inc. (DOT: 2973911) is a versatile car shipping company that specializes in transporting a wide range of vehicles, including inoperable cars, motorcycles, ATVs, trailers, RVs, and heavy equipment. With a strong focus on international shipping, the company ensures that vehicles reach their destination with the help of detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking. While the business does not provide a damage-free guarantee or guaranteed delivery, customers can feel secure with its exceptional Google rating of 4.7, though it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the BBB.

Despite offering a wide array of transport services, a potential drawback for customers is the lack of open or enclosed transport options, as well as a damage-free guarantee. The company’s refusal to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment may also discourage some clientele. Nonetheless, US Global Shipping Inc. remains a reliable choice for those seeking comprehensive transport solutions for a variety of vehicle types.

Get a Quote (800) 373-3244

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Storage Solutions
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Speedy Car Shipping

3600 N Duke St #1, Durham, NC, 27704
3.68 / 5.0

Speedy Car Shipping (DOT: 2297446) provides a range of transportation services including boat, motorcycle, classic car, and international shipping. They are particularly notable for offering both open and enclosed transport, catering to a diverse client base with specific needs such as those with electric vehicles. Customers should note that Speedy Car Shipping requires a deposit and does not provide guaranteed delivery, which may be a drawback for some clients seeking assurance in delivery timelines.

While the company doesn’t have ratings on Yelp or BBB, they boast an impressive Google rating of 4.9, indicating high customer satisfaction. Speedy Car Shipping offers a variety of discounts such as those for seniors and military personnel, enhancing affordability for eligible clients.

Get a Quote (919) 367-1879

Services Offered

  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Senior Discount
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Review our full guide to top car shippers servicing North Carolina residents, or discover the strongest choices for car shipping from North Carolina to Illinois.

Car Shipping Methods

Most drivers moving a car from North Carolina to Illinois choose between open and enclosed transport. Open carriers are the popular, more affordable choice, whereas enclosed trailers come at a higher price and provide extra protection for luxury and antique cars.

Open Transport

Open carriers handle the majority of car shipments and offer the most competitive pricing. For a move from North Carolina to Illinois, transit time is often about 2 days. Costs may rise during peak moving seasons or for oversized or specialty vehicles.

Enclosed Transport

For maximum protection, enclosed transport keeps your vehicle inside a covered trailer throughout the trip. From North Carolina to Illinois, delivery often takes roughly 7 days. Expect to pay more due to the added security and specialized handling.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

The company you choose matters more than you think. For a successful North Carolina to Illinois shipment, look at factors like:

  • Prior route experience: Prioritize shippers that know the North Carolina to Illinois route well and operate it often.
  • Customer reviews and service: Check reviews to see how past customers rated their experience, especially when it comes to communication, problem resolution, and overall support.
  • Pricing and transparency: Get multiple estimates and make sure fees, deposits, and delivery windows are clearly explained. Extremely low offers can sometimes signal the need to think about avoiding car shipping scams.
  • Licensing and insurance: Before booking, verify licensing details and insurance coverage using the FMCSA license lookup database.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: Understanding scheduling flexibility can help you avoid delays and unexpected fees.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

FAQ

How long does it take to ship a car from North Carolina to Illinois?

Delivery from North Carolina to Illinois typically ranges between 2 and 7 days. Your transport method and pickup window can influence the timing. Need it faster? Expedited shipping is often an option.

How much should I budget to ship a vehicle from North Carolina to Illinois?

Most drivers pay between $982-$1,472 to ship a vehicle from North Carolina to Illinois. Costs can increase for larger vehicles, expedited shipping, or enclosed trailers.

Where can I get an accurate car shipping quote from North Carolina to Illinois?

For a quick and reliable estimate, use our car shipping calculator tool. After entering your route and vehicle information, you’ll receive an estimate based on current market data for shipments between North Carolina and Illinois.

Is my car insured during a shipment from North Carolina to Illinois?

Most car shippers include basic insurance for in-transit damage, but limits vary. Check the details (including deductibles and exclusions) and consider adding your own policy for extra protection.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

When shipping from North Carolina to Illinois, clean the car, check for damage, and empty loose contents. Many auto transporters prefer a quarter tank of fuel to keep weight down.

How will I pick up my car in Illinois?

Upon arrival in Illinois, inspect your vehicle, review the delivery docs, and flag any problems with the carrier. After that, complete registration and any state-specific compliance tasks.

Why Ship a Car From North Carolina to Illinois?

Shipping a car from North Carolina to Illinois reduces wear, saves time, and helps you avoid long-distance driving stress. It’s often the smarter choice for moves, purchases, or job-related transitions.

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.