South Carolina to Illinois Car Shipping (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

For mid-range car shipping routes like South Carolina to Illinois, you can expect to pay around $967-$1,446. 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
  • Multiple discounts

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 SC to IL

For a shipment from South Carolina to Illinois covering 829 miles, most quotes range from $967-$1,446. 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 South Carolina to Illinois Car Shippers

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Multiple discounts

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, personalized support, and multiple discounts are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.

Get A Quote (883) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • 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 SC-IL Car Shippers

Columbia Auto Shipping Group

136-4 Forum Dr SUITE O, Columbia, SC, 29229
4.24 / 5.0

Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a wide range of vehicle transport services including motorcycle, trailer, and RV shipping. They are fully insured and specialize in shipping classic cars, electric vehicles, and even non-operational vehicles, ensuring that many unique transport needs can be met efficiently. However, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers.

Despite its impressive Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+, Columbia Auto Shipping Group has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. They provide options for open and enclosed transport, as well as expedited delivery, making them a versatile choice for various shipping timelines. Additionally, they support international shipping, but they do require a deposit and do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery.

Get a Quote (803) 233-2806

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Hmh Logistics Llc

230 Comiskey Park Circle, Summerville, SC, 29485
3.8 / 5.0

Hmh Logistics Llc (DOT: 3186769) offers a variety of specialized car shipping services, including transport for classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and electric vehicles. Customers can take advantage of their damage-free guarantee and expedited delivery options, ensuring prompt and safe transport. Although the company prides itself on offering comprehensive services, they do require a deposit, which could be a downside for some customers. With a solid Google rating of 4.0, Hmh Logistics Llc has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau.

Get a Quote (888) 211-1506

Services Offered

  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Andrew Auto Transport

4775 Apartment Blvd j2, North Charleston, SC, 29418
3.64 / 5.0

Andrew Auto Transport (DOT: 2241947) is a versatile car shipping company that provides a range of transportation services including motorcycle, trailer, and RV shipping. They also accommodate classic car transportation and can handle vehicles like inoperable cars and heavy equipment. Although they offer many services, the company currently boasts only a Google rating of 1.0 and has yet to establish ratings on Yelp or Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Andrew Auto Transport accepts multiple payment methods, including money orders and cash, providing flexibility for their customers. However, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or provide fully insured shipments, which might be a concern for some clients seeking additional security.” Despite this, their ability to handle complex shipments like international and interstate transport makes them a viable option for many customers.

Get a Quote (888) 579-5913

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • 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
  • Classic Car Shipping

Xpress Auto Transport

1614 Taylor St #340, Columbia, SC, 29201
3.54 / 5.0

Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) offers a wide range of services including boat, motorcycle, RV, and heavy equipment shipping. They also cater to classic car enthusiasts with specialized shipping options and provide international transport services. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.

While Xpress Auto Transport provides valuable solutions such as expedited delivery, detailed inspection reports, and storage solutions, they do not offer transportation for inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite offering multiple payment options like credit card, they require a deposit and do not accept cryptocurrency.

Get a Quote (803) 710-4354

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

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

Car Shipping Methods

Most drivers moving a car from South 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 South 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 South 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 South Carolina to Illinois shipment, look at factors like:

  • Prior route experience: Prioritize shippers that know the South 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
  • Multiple discounts

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

FAQ

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

Delivery from South 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 South Carolina to Illinois?

Most drivers pay between $967-$1,446 to ship a vehicle from South Carolina to Illinois. Costs can increase for larger vehicles, expedited shipping, or enclosed trailers.

Where can I get an accurate car shipping quote from South 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 South Carolina and Illinois.

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

Shipping a car from South 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.