Car Shipping From California to Illinois

Name: California to Illinois Car Shipping
Brand: RoadRunner Auto Transport
Rating: 4.7 (34241 reviews)

The easiest way to ship a car from California to Illinois

When you need to ship a car from California to Illinois, you need car shipping experts you can rely on. Through our advanced network of over 25,000 open and enclosed auto transporters nationwide, we can provide you with a safe and reliable way to ship a car from California to Illinois.

Pickup Anywhere in California Delivery Anywhere in Illinois

We provide direct door-to-door car shipping service from any residential or business location in California to any location in Illinois.

1Origin & Destination

2Vehicle Details

Add another vehicle

3Shipment Details

We respect your privacy and do not distribute any personal information.

Pickup Anywhere in California Delivery Anywhere in Illinois

We provide direct door-to-door car shipping service from any residential or business location in California to any location in Illinois.

"The driver was professional and courteous. Very pleased with my entire experience with RoadRunner Auto Transport."

Sally D.

Atlanta, GA

"I was able to get a quote and book within a few minutes. Simple and convenient experience - thank you RoadRunner!"

John T.

Houston, TX

"I called RoadRunner and was able to have my car picked up that same day and delivered over 500 miles away the next day!"

Joan B.

Boston, MA

"My car arrived in mint condition. The service was great and the personnel very courteous. Great job guys!"

Victor B.

Fresno, CA

Car Shipping From California to Illinois

If you need to move your car from California to Illinois, car shipping can be a convenient option. Whether you are an individual relocating to Illinois or a business that needs to transport cars between the two states, RoadRunner is ready to meet your needs. Our experienced drivers and dependable services ensure your vehicle will get where it needs to be on time and in good condition. Request your free quote today.

How to Ship a Car from California to Illinois

When you need to relocate your vehicle long distance, specialized car haulers safely and efficiently handle the journey. Here's a look at how auto transport works for moves between California and Illinois:

Find a reliable company: The first step is finding a reputable company. Look for experience shipping to/from California and Illinois specifically. Ensure they are fully licensed, bonded, and insured.
Get a quote: Provide details on your exact pickup/drop-off locations and the vehicle type. RoadRunner provides instant online quotes. There should be no obligations or fees for a car shipping quote.
Schedule your transport: Select a pickup/delivery timeframe that fits your moving schedule. Flexible, door-to-door service makes car transport convenient.
Prepare your vehicle: Clean out the car completely prior to pickup. Follow any special requirements from your transporter for preparing the vehicle.
Pickup and transport: On pickup day, provide keys and paperwork to the truck driver. Your car is then loaded onto a multi-car carrier or enclosed truck for safe transit.
Delivery: Upon arriving in Illinois, the driver will unload your car at the exact address you specify or a nearby terminal. They'll perform a final inspection and have you sign the paperwork, and you're done!

For a more detailed look at the auto shipping process, view our guide on how to ship a car.

California to Illinois Car Shipping Experts

There's a wide array of car shipping experts in the United States. They are skilled in traversing different terrains like mountains, deserts, farmlands, etc. that fall en route.

With over 30 years of experience, RoadRunner Auto Transport specializes in long-distance shipping between California and Illinois. Our professionals make the process easy and affordable. We are one of the nation's largest auto transporters, providing over 1 million car shipments annually across the U.S. Our extensive network covers all of California and Illinois.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from California to Illinois?

Shipping costs are determined by a variety of factors, such as the distance, vehicle make and model, auto transport service type (open or enclosed car shipping), and the current fuel price. On average, you can expect the cost for a California to Illinois car shipping service to range anywhere between $800-$1200. Examples of the costs of popular routes include:

SF Bay Area to Chicago - $800 - $1,100
Los Angeles to Chicago - $950 - $1,250
Any CA city to any IL city - $850 - $1,350

To get a more accurate estimate, simply get a free car shipping quote online or call RoadRunner.

Pickup Anywhere in California Delivery Anywhere in Illinois

With extensive California and Illinois coverage, RoadRunner picks up and delivers vehicles anywhere in both states. All major cities and rural areas are covered. Some popular routes include:

Los Angeles to Chicago
San Francisco to Springfield
Sacramento to Peoria
Fresno to Aurora

You can ship to/from any city, from L.A. and San Diego to Chicago and Rockford. Door-to-door service brings maximum convenience.

Instant Car Shipping Quote

When you're comparing different auto shipping companies, be sure to request several quotes. This gives you examples of the average costs you can expect for your car shipping services. These quotes should always be no-obligation and free. We offer a free instant quote tool on our website for your convenience.

RoadRunner Makes Shipping a Car From California to Illinois as Easy as 1-2-3!

RoadRunner's seamless process, experience, and nationwide network make auto transport smooth and stress-free. We get it done in 3 simple steps:

Get an Instant Quote: Calculate your price online in just a few minutes or call a specialist for an immediate quote. Provide details like vehicle type and exact addresses to get guaranteed pricing.
Schedule Your Pickup and Delivery: Select exact pickup/delivery dates and times that fit your schedule. Get alerts and tracking updates leading up to the transport. Flexible door-to-door service brings convenience.
Relax While Experts Handle the Driving: Trusted professionals will safely transport your vehicle across the country directly to your address. Sit back and focus on your move while RoadRunner handles the long distance auto shipping.

Calculate your instant car shipping quote.

The fastest way to get a car shipping quote for CA to IL auto transport is with our free online quote tool. Simply enter details like:

Pickup location (your home, dealer, etc.)
Delivery location
Vehicle type (car, truck, SUV, etc.)
Timeframe (as soon as possible, 3-6 weeks out, etc.)

Our online form takes just minutes to complete. You then receive an instant all-inclusive quote. There are never any obligations or fees involved.

RoadRunner Auto Transport Reviews

Before opting for any vehicle shipping service, it's always a good idea to look up reviews and ratings. RoadRunner's many 5-star reviews frequently cite high-quality auto shipping and top-notch customer service. Customers praise our professionalism, timeliness, communication, and careful handling of vehicles.

Ship a Car from California to Illinois

Shipping long-distance between California and Illinois can involve challenges like winter weather delays, congested cities, and long transit times. However, RoadRunner has extensive experience navigating these logistics issues. We plan optimal routes avoiding storms and traffic when possible. Our large truck fleet and drivers across the U.S. enable us to offer expedited shipping if needed. RoadRunner's transportation specialists also provide status updates and proactive communication on any potential delays or issues, giving customers peace of mind. Ultimately, our knowledge and nationwide resources mean we handle all the logistics smoothly.

Other California Car Shipping Routes

In addition to California to Illinois, RoadRunner transports vehicles nationwide. Top routes from California include:

No matter your destination state, the process is quick and easy. RoadRunner delivers cars, trucks, SUVs, and more to any city coast-to-coast.

How does Vehicle Transport from California to Illinois work?

After getting instant quotes and selecting your car shipping service, the next step is the actual vehicle transport. Your car will be picked up from your specified California location, loaded onto the car carrier, and delivered to the Illinois destination. You have the choice between open transport for a more affordable rate and enclosed auto transport for extra protection.

The chosen route will largely depend on the cities in California and Illinois you are shipping from and to. For instance, if you’re shipping a vehicle from Los Angeles to Chicago, the transit times might differ from a route from San Francisco to Southern Illinois. Estimated transit times will be provided in your car shipping quote. These are generally estimates and can be impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and other unforeseen delays. However, RoadRunner always strives to deliver promptly.

What factors affect the cost to ship a car?

There are several key factors that impact California to Illinois car shipping costs:

Vehicle type: Larger vehicles like SUVs cost more than sedans and coupes.
Mileage: Longer distances increase fuel costs so the shipping rate is higher.
Season: Peak summer moving season may increase demand and rates.
Service type: Open transport comes at a lower cost than enclosed.
Terminal-to-terminal vs. door-to-door shipping: Driving your car to and picking it up from a designated terminal is cheaper than door-to-door service.
Timing: Expedited service costs extra for quicker transit time.

Shipping from the State Of California

California, famed for cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, is a hub of car shipping companies. With RoadRunner, relocating your cars from the Golden State becomes easy. Our car shipping experts are well-trained professionals in navigating a variety of terrains and traffic conditions.

Common California pickup/origin cities:

Shipping to the State Of Illinois

Illinois has major transportation hubs like Chicago and Decatur that handle large volumes of incoming and outgoing auto shipments. It's important to be aware of Illinois regulations, permit requirements, and other considerations that may impact car shipping. Whether you’re moving to Chicago, Springfield, or Southern Illinois, the process can be simplified with RoadRunner.

Common Illinois delivery/drop-off cities:

Contact RoadRunner to Learn More and Get Started

Look no further than RoadRunner for the most professional car transport services across the United States. Whether you're ready to book or want to learn more about our shipping methods, our experts are available to answer your questions. Contact us today.

Still Have Questions about Shipping a Car?

How It Works

RoadRunner's car transport process is straightforward and easy. After receiving your free quote and scheduling shipment, your car will be picked up from your specified location, loaded onto the car carrier, and delivered safely to your desired destination.

Our Advantage

With a vast network throughout the United States, we provide fast and reliable nationwide car shipping. We believe in providing the best service quality at the most competitive rates.

Transport Services

We can accommodate a vast range of auto shipping needs, from compact cars to heavy machinery. Our transport services include open and enclosed trailers, expedited transport, terminal-to-terminal shipping, door-to-door delivery, and specialty vehicle shipping.

Auto Transport Pricing and Transit Times From California to Illinois

Last Updated: May 12, 2025

Quick Answer: The average cost to ship a car from California to Illinois is about $1,102.00 and takes 5-7 days.

The table below provides data on the pricing and estimated time for auto transport between various cities in California and Illinois, with an average driving distance of 2,017 miles and transit times uniformly estimated at 5 to 7 days.

The cost to ship a car will tend to fluctuate within specific ranges; for example, transporting a car from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL could cost between $861.00 and $1,344.00, while shipping your car from San Francisco, CA to Joliet, IL might be priced between $840.00 and $1,312.00.

California to Illinois Car Shipping Pricing & Time to Ship Your Car Examples
From California To Illinois	Distance	Cost	Estimated Transit Time
Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL	2,017 miles	$861.00 - $1,344.00	5 - 7 days	Get Quote
San Francisco, CA to Joliet, IL	2,105 miles	$840.00 - $1,312.00	5 - 7 days	Get Quote
San Diego, CA to Aurora, IL	2,042 miles	$889.00 - $1,388.00	5 - 7 days	Get Quote
Sacramento, CA to Rockford, IL	1,998 miles	$818.00 - $1,277.00	4 - 6 days	Get Quote
Fresno, CA to Peoria, IL	2,072 miles	$956.00 - $1,493.00	5 - 7 days	Get Quote
San Jose, CA to Naperville, IL	2,138 miles	$862.00 - $1,346.00	5 - 7 days	Get Quote
Long Beach, CA to Springfield, IL	1,935 miles	$848.00 - $1,324.00	4 - 6 days	Get Quote

**It is important to note that the prices and times listed are only estimates and will vary depending on factors such as the season and the type of vehicle being shipped. Use our car shipping calculator to get an instant price quote for your exact type of shipment.

Calculate your instant car shipping quote.

Getting a quote is easy with our online quote form, enter your origin and destination, select the dates you want to ship, and book your reservation online or by phone!

RoadRunner Auto Transport Reviews

“Super quick response time - called on a Wednesday and my car was picked up that Friday. Shipped from California to Illinois on time with no issues! ”

Steven D.San Francisco, CA

“Just moved to IL from California and my cousin recommended RoadRunner. Amazing customer service and it was a very smooth and easy process.”

Christian G.Joliet, IL

“I shipped my car from California to Illinois with RoadRunner and they did a fantastic job. They provided consistent updates and kept me informed at all times.”

Kristin M.San Jose, CA

Route Availability

10 / 10

Based on recent dispatch reports, the carrier availability rating from California to Illinois is 10/10.

Approximate Distance

2,100 miles

The center of each state is used to approximate mileage between locations.

Estimated Transit Time

4 - 6 days

Estimated transit times are based on carriers traveling up to 500 miles per day.

When it comes to California to Illinois car shipping, RoadRunner Auto Transport makes the process easy and stress-free. There are a few factors that make shipping a car from California to Illinois a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Firstly, California is a major hub for auto transport companies thanks to its size and population. This means that there are plenty of carriers and transport options available to customers. Furthermore, Illinois is another popular destination for car shipping companies due to its central location within the continental United States, making it an ideal stopping point for carriers traveling from coast to coast.

RoadRunner Auto Transport moves thousands of shipments along this route each year, and their network of over 25,000 carriers nationwide ensures that there is always a reliable and efficient service available to customers. This means that customers can be confident that their vehicle will arrive at its destination on time and in the same condition it was in when it was picked up.

Another factor that makes California to Illinois car shipping easy is the well-maintained highway system that connects the two states. The major interstates, such as I-80 and I-90, provide easy access to any location in Illinois. Additionally, California has a number of major interstates, including I-5 and I-10, which make it easy for carriers to pick up vehicles from any location in the state.

Overall, with RoadRunner Auto Transport's extensive carrier network, efficient service, and well-maintained highway system in both California and Illinois, shipping a car from California to Illinois has never been easier.

How does vehicle transport from California to Illinois work?

1. Get Your Car Shipping Quote: Being one of the best car shipping companies, RoadRunner offers free, no-obligation car shipping quotes. You'll need to decide between open or enclosed auto transport carriers. Open-carrier shipping is the most popular and cost-effective choice. Auto transporter companies like RoadRunner Auto Transport also offer enclosed carriers for additional protection.

2. Vehicle Pickup: Once you get your quote, you can book online or speak with an auto transportation specialist to schedule a date for pickup. On the day of your pickup, your vehicle will be carefully loaded onto the carrier. With RoadRunner, you can track the status of your shipment online at any time.

3. Vehicle Delivery: On the day of your delivery, your vehicle will be safely offloaded from the auto transporters truck and a final inspection will be completed to confirm that your vehicle was delivered in the same condition as when it was picked up.

When you need to move a vehicle from California to Illinois, choosing a dependable auto transport service is key. RoadRunner Auto Transport stands out as a prime choice for this task, offering numerous benefits for vehicle transportation.

The primary benefit of selecting RoadRunner Auto Transport is its unmatched convenience. You won't need to drive your car from California to Illinois; we handle everything. We pick up your vehicle at your home in California and deliver it straight to your chosen spot in Illinois. This service not only saves precious time but also spares you the hassle of a lengthy drive.

RoadRunner Auto Transport is also synonymous with safety and reliability. Our skilled drivers, coupled with state-of-the-art tracking technology, assure the safe and timely arrival of your vehicle in Illinois. This guarantees peace of mind during the transportation process.

Cost-effectiveness is another hallmark of RoadRunner Auto Transport. We offer transparent pricing with upfront estimates, ensuring that our services align with your budget and schedule. With RoadRunner, affordable and dependable vehicle transportation from California to Illinois is a certainty.

Furthermore, RoadRunner Auto Transport prides itself on exceptional customer support. Our dedicated team is always ready to address any queries or concerns during the shipping process. We keep you updated about your vehicle's status, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transportation experience.

The advantages of shipping from California to Illinois with RoadRunner

California to Illinois car shipping factors

Several factors can affect your car shipping cost from California to Illinois including:

The distance of your move from origin to destination
The type and size of your vehicle
Your chosen transport type: open, enclosed, or top-loaded
The accessibility of your pickup and delivery locations
Depending on your route, the time of year can add a seasonality factor
Current fuel prices
The speed of delivery

Longer distances, larger vehicles, and enclosed transport typically result in higher costs. Rural or hard-to-reach locations can also increase prices.

Costs may fluctuate depending on the time of year and fuel prices. Expedited shipping services are available for faster delivery but come at a higher cost.

Our California to Illinois car shipping specialists are always available to discuss which factors matter most to you for your particular car transport with the goal of getting you the best value through the process.

Nicknamed "the Golden State", California is located along the Pacific coast of the United States. It is bordered by Oregon to the north, by Nevada and Arizona to the west, and by Mexico to the south.

The capital of California is Sacramento, and its largest city is Los Angeles. California is the most populous state in the United States, with an estimated population of over 38 million. California is the third largest state by area in the country, with a total of 163,696 square miles (423,970 square kilometers).

California is divided into 58 counties and there are 481 incorporated cities and towns. There are five major metropolitan areas in California, around which most of the states population resides. These metropolitan areas are Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Riverside-San Bernadino, San Diego, and Sacramento.

Illinois is the fifth most populous and twenty-fifth largest state in the entire United States. The state is a major transportation hub, boasting major US cities like Chicago and Springfield. Illinois shares borders with Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.

The capital of Illinois is Springfield, and its largest city is Chicago, which is the third most populous city in the United States. Illinois has a total population of almost 13 million, and an area of about 57,914 square miles (149,998 square kilometers).

If you need your vehicle shipped, count on a reliable auto transport company that gets cars where they need to be quickly and safely. As the leading American auto shipping service, RoadRunner has over 30 years of experience delivering cars cross country. Our team of highly trained transport professionals strives to provide the best level of service at every turn, from coordination and customer support to dispatch and delivery.

Whether you need a car transported in or out of the city, RoadRunner can set you up with convenient California to Illinois auto shipping services at an affordable price. We also offer full coverage insurance options for enhanced protection. Call (888) 777-2123 or use our car shipping calculator online to get an instant quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the vehicle transportation process.

How long does it take to ship my car?

Standard transit times are 5-7 days, depending on your exact pickup and drop-off locations. Expedited service is available for faster 3-5 day transport.

How much does it cost to ship a car?

Average costs range from $850 - $1,350 based on vehicle type, mileage between locations, and other factors. Get an instant free car shipping quote for your specific shipment costs.

Can I ship any vehicle?

Auto transporters can accommodate cars, trucks, SUVs, antique cars, motorcycles, RVs, boats, and more. If you're unsure, feel free to contact us and ask.

How do I get a quote for car moving?

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. To calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

When will my vehicle be delivered?

The transit time for your shipment is based mostly on the mileage between the pickup and delivery location. Generally, every five hundred miles will add one day to the transit time - so for a 1,000 mile transport, the transit time would be 2-3 days. Check out our estimated transit times for a detailed view of approximate delivery times.

Can I track the progress of my shipment online?

Yes, online tracking is available to you 24 hours a day and is updated in real time. Upon scheduling your shipment, you will receive a unique booking number that will allow you to track the status of your shipment online. Your tracking portal will also give you the ability to live chat with a shipping agent that can answer any questions you may have regarding the status of your shipment.

Is my vehicle insured during transport?

All shipments include basic liability coverage during transit. Comprehensive insurance options are available for an elevated level of shipment coverage during transit. You will be able to select a level of coverage during the booking process. If you have further questions regarding insurance options give us a call.

How do I pay for my auto shipping?

We accept all major credit cards, electronic transfer, postal money order, and bank/certified check for the deposit or full pre-payment of your shipment. If a balance is due upon delivery, it can be paid directly to the driver and can be paid in either cash, bank/certified check, or postal money order.

Does someone have to be present for pick up and delivery?

Yes, there must be someone present to release and accept the vehicle, provide keys to the driver and sign the initial and final inspection reports. This person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust with releasing or accepting your vehicle.

Can I put personal items in my vehicle?

You may transport personal belongings in your car, as long as their total weight does not exceed 100 pounds and they are stored in the trunk or back seat (below the window line). Please keep in mind that personal belongings are not covered by insurance if they are reported as damaged or missing.

How do I get a quote for shipping my vehicle?

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator above or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. In order for us to calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

How far in advance should I schedule my transport?

The further in advance you schedule your shipment, the more likely we will be able to meet the time requirements you desire. For best results, we suggest scheduling your transport at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance. Expedited shipping options are available to accomodate shipments that require . You can always give us a call and ask one of our car shipping experts what your options are in terms of the schedule for your car transport.

Where will my car be picked up and delivered?

The driver will get the car transporter as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. In most cases, the driver will be able to pickup and deliver directly to your door. Some cities may have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. Auto transport trucks are large and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to the pickup or delivery location is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet at a location nearby with a large parking lot, such as a grocery store.

View all frequently asked questions

View all frequently asked questions.