Tennessee to Illinois Car Shipping (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Shipping your car from Tennessee to Illinois covers about 500 miles. You can typically expect to pay $784-$1,067, and delivery usually takes 1-6 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?

Our mission at FreightWaves is to provide dependable, data-driven coverage of the car shipping industry, backed by thorough research and impartial analysis.

We’ve evaluated more than 2,400 auto transport companies using our proprietary rating criteria, focusing on cost structures, service options, nationwide availability, and customer satisfaction metrics. In addition, we review online customer feedback to highlight consistent praise and common concerns.

Our team continuously verifies and updates our findings so readers can rely on timely, well-researched guidance when comparing transport providers.

Cost of Shipping a Car From TN to IL

For a 500-mile move from Tennessee to Illinois, the cost to ship a car typically ranges from $784-$1,067. Rates are influenced by timing, trailer type, vehicle size, and how busy the market is when you book.

Pro tip: The ideal booking window is 6-8 weeks ahead of time. Waiting too long can mean higher rates and fewer options. You can run your details through our free cost calculator tool below for a quick estimate.

Best Tennessee 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 TN-IL Car Shippers

AMPM Auto Transport

11803 Kingston Pike, Farragut, TN, 37934
4.3 / 5.0

AMPM Auto Transport (DOT: 2247310) offers a wide range of specialized car shipping services, including options for classic cars, electric vehicles, and even inoperable cars. With a solid reputation, the company boasts a 3.0 rating on Yelp, a commendable 4.6 rating on Google, and an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Their services include interstate and international shipping, motorcycle and RV transport, and expedited delivery to meet tight deadlines. A potential downside for some customers is the lack of terminal-to-terminal delivery options and no acceptance of cryptocurrency.

Get a Quote (877) 241-2676

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • 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
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

US Star Trucking LLC

9111 Cross Park Dr D200 #1013, Knoxville, TN, 37923
4.38 / 5.0

US Star Trucking LLC (DOT: 3205543) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of specialized services. They cater to classic car enthusiasts and those needing to transport motorcycles, trailers, ATVs, or even heavy equipment. While the company ensures the safe transport of cars that don’t run, they do not provide international shipping, which might be a drawback for some customers.

Customers can appreciate their fully insured service with options for open or enclosed transport. Despite a lower rating on Yelp with 1.8 stars, US Star Trucking LLC boasts an impressive 4.6-star rating on Google and holds a B rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This indicates a strong customer satisfaction level in some areas, even if not universally recognized across all platforms.

Get a Quote (888) 533-4947

Services Offered

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

Nashville Auto Shipping Group

4235 Hillsboro Pike #300, Nashville, TN, 37215
4.22 / 5.0

Nashville Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a comprehensive car shipping service boasting a stellar Google rating of 4.6 and an excellent BBB rating of A+. The company offers a wide range of services, including interstate shipping, classic car transport, and motorcycle shipping. They also cater to vehicles that don’t run with their inoperable car transport service.

In addition to shipping cars, they handle boats, trailers, and even provide storage solutions, ensuring they meet various customer needs with fully insured and detailed inspection reports. However, one downside is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee. Despite this, Nashville Auto Shipping Group remains a reliable choice for safe and secure vehicle transport, with optional expedited and enclosed transport services available.

Get a Quote (888) 588-1269

Services Offered

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

Wheelsup Auto Transport

1391 Foxland Blvd, Gallatin, TN, 37066
4.14 / 5.0

Wheelsup Auto Transport (DOT: 2411177) has established a reputation for quality service with stellar ratings, boasting a 5.0 on Yelp, 4.8 on Google, and an A+ from the BBB. This company offers a wide range of services, including boat shipping, interstate transportation, classic car shipping, and shipping for motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and heavy equipment.

They cater to a variety of vehicles’ needs, but one drawback is their inability to transport inoperable cars, which might be a consideration for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer discounts such as senior, teacher, student, or military discounts, which could be a downside for price-sensitive clients. Despite this, Wheelsup Auto Transport remains a strong choice for those seeking reliable and comprehensive auto transport services.

Get a Quote (800) 557-4870

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • 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

Us Star Trucking Llc

314 Park View Cir, Pigeon Forge, TN, 37863
4.04 / 5.0

Us Star Trucking Llc (DOT: 3205543) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of services, including interstate shipping, classic car transportation, and inoperable car transport. Customers can also take advantage of heavy equipment and electric vehicle shipping, as well as enclosed transport options.

While Us Star Trucking Llc excels in offering diverse transportation solutions, they do not provide international shipping, which may be a limitation for some clients. Despite this, they maintain a Google rating of 4.6 and a B rating with the Better Business Bureau, although their Yelp rating is lower at 1.7. The company also provides detailed inspection reports and offers shipment tracking for peace of mind.

Get a Quote (865) 312-6670

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Explore the highest-rated car shipping companies serving Tennessee residents, or review the best options for car shipping from Tennessee to Illinois.

Car Shipping Methods

Shipping a vehicle from Tennessee to Illinois typically means choosing between open and enclosed transport. Open transport is the standard and more affordable route, while enclosed transport costs more but shields luxury, classic, and specialty cars from weather and road debris.

Open Transport

Open transport remains the most widely used method for car shipping thanks to its balance of price and efficiency. Expect transit from Tennessee to Illinois to take about 1 day. Seasonal demand and the make and model of your vehicle can impact overall pricing.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport is designed for high-value, luxury, or classic vehicles that need extra protection from weather and road debris. Shipments from Tennessee to Illinois typically take around 6 days. Because space is more limited and service is more specialized, pricing is usually higher than open transport.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

The right car shipping company makes all the difference in a successful transport. When choosing a company for your Tennessee to Illinois route, consider factors like:

  • Prior route experience: Focus on carriers with a strong track record handling routes between Tennessee and Illinois.
  • Customer reviews and service: See what others say, since reviews often reveal how attentive and helpful the customer service team really is.
  • Pricing and transparency: Shop around, but focus on value and clarity rather than just the lowest number. Understanding the basics of avoiding car shipping scams can help you make a safer choice.
  • Licensing and insurance: Always check that the shipper is authorized to operate and properly insured by searching the FMCSA’s public licensing database.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: Ask about pickup windows and whether door-to-door service is available for your route.

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 Tennessee to Illinois?

Shipments from Tennessee to Illinois generally take 1-6 days. Your chosen shipping method and flexibility can affect this range. Some companies offer expedited delivery for an extra cost.

Is it expensive to ship a car from Tennessee to Illinois?

For this route, car shipping costs generally run from $784-$1,067. Final pricing varies based on market conditions, carrier availability, and the level of protection you choose for your vehicle.

How can I get a quote to ship a car from Tennessee to Illinois?

The easiest way to get a quote is by using our car shipping calculator. Just enter your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle details, and preferred timing to receive an instant estimate for shipping from Tennessee to Illinois.

Is my car insured during a shipment from Tennessee to Illinois?

Carriers usually offer default insurance, but it may not cover everything. Look closely at the terms and think about backing it up with your own coverage if needed.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Before your Tennessee to Illinois shipment, give your car a thorough cleaning, note any existing damage, and clear out loose items. Many car shippers recommend keeping the gas tank about one-quarter full.

How will I pick up my car in Illinois?

As soon as your vehicle is dropped off in Illinois, inspect it, sign off on delivery forms, and raise concerns if you spot anything. Then move on to registration and compliance in your new state.

Why Ship a Car From Tennessee to Illinois?

Car shipping from Tennessee to Illinois keeps your vehicle in top shape and saves you the hassle of a long trip. It’s a convenient solution for moves, job changes, or buying out of state.

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.