Illinois Car Shipping Services

Updated September 2026

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Illinois Car Shipping Quote

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Updated September 2026
4.5Verified customers
30,000+ CarriersTrusted Network
DOT / MC LicensedFMCSA certified
30+ YearsReliable Shipping
Licensed & BondedCargo insured
39,086 reviews

The Fast & Reliable Illinois Car Shipping Company

See how RoadRunner moves vehicles across Illinois: instant pricing, door-to-door pickup, and real-time tracking the whole way.

  • Door-to-door pickup statewide
  • Open and enclosed carriers on every lane
  • Track your shipment in real time
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"Great experience at every stage—from scheduling the shipment to final delivery. The customer service was friendly, professional, and responsive, and the entire process felt seamless."

"Amazing value for the money. I’ve used RoadRunner twice now—first to move my vehicle from Tennessee to Chicago, and most recently to transport it to San Diego. Even with severe weather, including a snowstorm and freezing rain, delivery was only delayed by one day."

"I had an outstanding experience with Road Runner Auto Transport from start to finish. I had my vehicle shipped from Illinois to Nevada. The entire process was smooth, transparent, and incredibly professional."

"I explored several car shipping companies, but most of them lacked a clear system for tracking shipments. However, RoadRunner offered a reliable tracking system, which gave me peace of mind. I was very satisfied with their service—they delivered the car from Maryland to Chicago in just two days."

Illinois Pricing
Data updated: September 2026

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

As of September 2026, the average cost to ship a car to or from Illinois is about $892, with shipments typically running $275–$1,750 depending on the corridor, vehicle, and season. Open auto transport is the standard choice; enclosed transport adds weather and debris protection for about 50% more.

What Factors Affect the Cost to Ship a Car?

Distance sets the baseline: the average corridor from Illinois runs about 1,176 miles, and longer lanes cost more in total while costing less per mile. From there, vehicle size and weight, open versus enclosed carrier, exact pickup and delivery locations, fuel prices, and above all season and timing move the number. For the full breakdown, see our car shipping cost calculator.

Illinois Car Shipping Pricing & Transit Time Examples

RouteDistanceOpen TransportEnclosedTransit Time
Los Angeles, CAChicago, IL2,017 mi$850–$1,350$1,275–$2,0255–7 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILJacksonville, FL1,060 mi$550–$875$825–$1,3003–5 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILHouston, TX1,083 mi$575–$925$850–$1,3753–5 daysGet Quote
Jacksonville, FLChicago, IL1,062 mi$825–$1,300$1,225–$1,9503–5 daysGet Quote
Houston, TXChicago, IL1,095 mi$500–$800$750–$1,2003–5 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILPhoenix, AZ1,792 mi$675–$1,100$1,025–$1,6504–6 daysGet Quote
Phoenix, AZChicago, IL1,793 mi$850–$1,375$1,300–$2,0504–6 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILSeattle, WA2,064 mi$850–$1,350$1,275–$2,0255–7 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILAtlanta, GA713 mi$425–$700$650–$1,0502–4 daysGet Quote
Seattle, WAChicago, IL2,064 mi$825–$1,325$1,250–$1,9755–7 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILLas Vegas, NV1,748 mi$725–$1,150$1,075–$1,7254–6 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILDenver, CO1,001 mi$575–$925$850–$1,3753–5 daysGet Quote
Atlanta, GAChicago, IL714 mi$525–$875$800–$1,3002–4 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILNew York City, NY770 mi$475–$775$725–$1,1752–4 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILCharlotte, NC748 mi$475–$775$725–$1,1752–4 daysGet Quote
New York City, NYChicago, IL770 mi$550–$900$850–$1,3502–4 daysGet Quote
Las Vegas, NVChicago, IL1,748 mi$825–$1,300$1,225–$1,9504–6 daysGet Quote
Denver, COChicago, IL1,002 mi$475–$775$725–$1,1753–5 daysGet Quote
Detroit, MIChicago, IL280 mi$350–$600$550–$8751–3 daysGet Quote
Charlotte, NCChicago, IL748 mi$550–$900$850–$1,3502–4 daysGet Quote
Columbus, OHChicago, IL355 mi$425–$675$625–$1,0251–3 daysGet Quote
Chicago, ILDetroit, MI280 mi$275–$475$425–$7001–3 daysGet Quote
Virginia Beach, VAChicago, IL896 mi$650–$1,050$975–$1,5502–4 daysGet Quote
Aurora, ILSan Diego, CA2,042 mi$725–$1,150$1,100–$1,7255–7 daysGet Quote
San Francisco, CAJoliet, IL2,105 mi$825–$1,325$1,250–$2,0005–7 daysGet Quote
Aurora, ILMiami, FL1,410 mi$550–$875$825–$1,3003–5 daysGet Quote
Aurora, ILAustin, TX1,098 mi$575–$950$875–$1,4003–5 daysGet Quote
Miami, FLRockford, IL1,468 mi$825–$1,300$1,225–$1,9503–5 daysGet Quote
Dallas, TXRockford, IL919 mi$475–$775$725–$1,1752–4 daysGet Quote

Ranges reflect recent shipments for a standard sedan; SUVs and trucks typically add $100–$200. Enclosed figures are estimated at about 1.5× the open rate.

Illinois Routes

Illinois Car Shipping Routes

RoadRunner runs every Illinois lane in the country, open and enclosed, door to door on both ends. Pick a destination to see distance, pricing, and transit for your route.

Click a state to explore a route
AlabamaArkansasArizonaCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaIowaIdahoIllinoisIndianaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMassachusettsMarylandMaineMichiganMinnesotaMissouriMississippiMontanaNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNebraskaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNevadaNew YorkOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVirginiaVermontWashingtonWisconsinWest VirginiaWyomingILCA
Insured & Bonded
Your vehicle is protected from pickup to delivery.
30,000+ Vetted Carriers
Open and enclosed equipment on every lane.
Every Illinois Route
Pickup & delivery statewide, big cities or small towns.
Timing

How Long Does Illinois Car Shipping Take?

Transit begins at pickup, not booking. Plan on 1–3 extra days for carrier dispatch, more in peak season.

Booking
You book your shipment
Carrier Pickup
Carrier picks up your vehicle
Delivery
Vehicle delivered to you
Carrier dispatch
Between booking and pickup
1–3days
Transit after pickup
Your vehicle in transit
2–7days(depending on your route)
Typical total window
From booking to delivery
4–10days
The 500-mile rule: once loaded, carriers average about 500 miles per day. Illinois to Washington (~2,140 mi) typically runs 5–7 days after pickup.
  1. 1

    Request your quote

    Enter your ZIP codes, vehicle details, and preferred dates. Your price appears on screen right away.

  2. 2

    Book the lane

    Reserve your pickup window, 7–14 days ahead is the sweet spot. No upfront deposit.

  3. 3

    Carrier dispatch

    We match your shipment with a vetted carrier and coordinate pickup, typically within 1–3 days.

  4. 4

    Transit

    Your vehicle runs the corridor, trackable in real time, arriving 2–7 days after pickup.

  5. 5

    Delivery

    The driver calls ahead to confirm timing and access, then you inspect your vehicle together and sign at delivery.

The booking sweet spot
7–14 days ahead

Booking 7–14 days ahead gets the best Illinois rates. Flexible pickup windows price lower than fixed dates.

See Your Illinois Price

Illinois Service Areas

Illinois Car Shipping by Region: Where We Pick Up and Deliver

From the Loop to the river towns, RoadRunner picks up and delivers in every region of Illinois — the freight crossroads of the country.

Carriers run I-55, I-57, I-70, I-74, I-80, I-90 daily, connecting every region below to the national network.

Chicago

The North & Northwest Suburbs

The West & South Suburbs

Rockford & the North

Central Illinois

Southern Illinois & Metro East

  • Alton · Godfrey, Edwardsville, Granite City
  • Carbondale · Murphysboro, Marion
Seasonal Pricing Guide
Data updated: September 2026
Download Data

When to Ship: Illinois Demand by Season

Demand on Illinois corridors runs busiest from spring into midsummer and softest from late summer into fall. The seasonal swing is modest, so timing helps at the margins.

Monthly booking demand across corridors from Illinois

Peak demandTypicalLower demand
0255075100JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Relative demand index (100 = the busiest month), averaged across Illinois outbound corridors. Higher demand generally means firmer pricing and tighter carrier space.
A beach in summer light

Spring & Early Summer

+5–10%
April–July

Moving season: families, corporate relocations, and dealer traffic keep spring and early summer the firmest window for carrier space.

Book 1–2 weeks ahead.
Open road in golden light

Late Summer & Fall

5–10% below
August–October

The softest stretch of the year: good availability and the friendliest pricing on the corridor.

Book about a week out.
Fall foliage along a highway

Holidays

≈ average
November–January

Demand firms up briefly around the holidays, then settles; winter weather is the only wildcard on mountain stretches.

Book 7–10 days out.
Spring blossoms over a river

Late Winter

≈ average
February–March

Demand builds steadily toward the spring moving season; standard booking windows apply.

Book 7–14 days ahead.
The cheapest window for Illinois shipments
February through April, with a flexible pickup window. Demand across Illinois corridors peaks November through January; flexible dates let us match your car to a truck already running your lane.
On-the-Ground Logistics

Pickup and Delivery Across Illinois

Most handoffs are straightforward door-to-door pickups. The exceptions, we handle routinely.

Chicago & the neighborhoods

A 75-foot carrier cannot work a Chicago side street or alley, so drivers coordinate a wider cross street or a lot nearby — the same routine as any dense city core. The suburbs from Naperville to Arlington Heights are easy door-to-door.

The freight crossroads

More interstates converge on Chicago than any other city in the country — I-55, I-57, I-80, I-88, I-90, and I-94 all pass through. Carriers cross Illinois every day in every direction, so pickups dispatch fast statewide.

Lake-effect winters

Lake Michigan snow and January cold snaps can shift Chicagoland pickup windows by a day. Enclosed transport adds protection from road salt for high-value vehicles making winter runs.

Downstate distances

Springfield, Peoria, Champaign, and the river towns sit on their own carrier rhythms — I-55 and I-74 traffic passes daily, but off-corridor pickups can add a day of lead time. Flexible windows keep downstate moves smooth.

Illinois Car Shipping Guide

Trusted Illinois Auto Transport Company

Are you looking to transport your car to or from Illinois? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the various car shipping services available in Illinois and provide helpful information on the process, cost, and time it takes to ship your car to different locations in the state. We will also discuss tips for saving on car shipping, how to prepare your vehicle for transportation, and what to expect when receiving your vehicle from an Illinois auto shipping company.

RoadRunner Illinois Auto Shipping

Auto Transport Service: The Easy Way to or From Illinois

Shipping your car to or from Illinois doesn't have to be a hassle. With the help of a reliable Illinois auto shipping company, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free experience. As car shipping experts, RoadRunner Auto Transport provides top-notch vehicle shipping services in Illinois and the surrounding areas.

Top Rated Illinois Vehicle Shipping Experts

Choosing the right auto transport provider is important. You want to entrust your vehicle to professionals with a robust track record. As top-rated Illinois car shipping experts, RoadRunner Auto Transport specializes in all types of vehicle transport, including enclosed auto transport for high-value vehicles.

Our auto shipping services include basic liability coverage, 24/7 tracking, and dedicated customer service. We ensure your vehicle is transported safely and delivered on time.

Illinois Car Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Examples

The cost and time for Illinois car transport depend on various factors, including the distance, vehicle type, transportation mode (open or enclosed auto transport), and seasonal demand. For instance, shipping a standard sedan from Chicago to Houston using open car transport might cost around $700-$900 and take approximately 3-5 days.

Meanwhile, shipping the same vehicle using enclosed car shipping for added protection might cost around $1,000-$1,300. A quote for the car shipping cost and transit time will be provided upon request.

RoadRunner Illinois Car Shipping Services

How Does Illinois Car Transport Work?

The process of auto shipping in Illinois is quite straightforward. Once you've received an instant quote and booked our car shipping service, we'll arrange the pick-up and delivery dates to match your schedule. Our team will then load your vehicle onto a truck, securing it to minimize any movement during transport.

Throughout the transportation process, our vehicle shipping specialists will keep you updated and provide tracking information. Upon arrival at the destination, we'll carefully unload your car and perform a final inspection to ensure it's in the same condition as when picked up.

Our Car Transport Process

When you trust us to transport your vehicle, you're trusting a team of professional car shipping experts committed to delivering it safely, efficiently, and with the utmost care. Our car transport process is designed to provide you with peace of mind every step of the way. Here's how it works:

Step 1 : Booking and Pre-Transport Planning

Once you contact us, our top rated Illinois car shipping experts will work with you to understand your specific needs and preferences. We'll gather details about your vehicle, pick-up location, destination, and desired transport dates. Based on this information, we'll provide you with a transparent, comprehensive quote and discuss available transport options, whether you prefer open car shipping or enclosed transport.

Step 2: Vehicle Pickup and Inspection

On the scheduled day, our experienced auto transport service driver or carrier will arrive at your location to pick up the vehicle. Before loading, we conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle, noting its condition on a Bill of Lading, which serves as a receipt and an inspection report. You'll be asked to review and sign this document, ensuring transparency and agreement on the vehicle's condition before transport.

Step 3: Transport and Delivery

With your vehicle securely loaded, we set off towards the destination. Throughout the transport, you'll receive updates and have access to our support team to address any questions or concerns you might have. Our drivers take great care to ensure a smooth transit, adhering strictly to safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Illinois Car Transportation Companies Near Me

Are you planning to move your vehicle? Let the state to state vehicle shipping experts at RoadRunner Auto Transport deliver your car straight to your doorstep.

Choosing an Illinois auto shipping company can be daunting. The key is to research credibility, read customer reviews, and look for years of experience. Auto transport services should cater to both local and long-distance needs.

For instance, RoadRunner Auto Transport has a track record of timely deliveries. Our service span all neighboring states and beyond, and we offer a variety of vehicle transport services to suit your needs.

Types of Car Shipping Services in Illinois

Understanding the types of car shipping services available is helpful before you entrust your vehicle to a transport company. Here are the primary types of car transport services you will come across in Illinois:

RoadRunner Open Carrier Car Shipping

Open Carrier Transport

Open carrier transport is the most commonly used type of vehicle transport service because it is cost-effective. With open car shiping, your car is exposed to the elements during transit, so it is not recommended for high-end or antique cars. However, open trailers are considered a safe and effective method of vehicle transport.

RoadRunner Illinois Enclosed Car Shipping

Enclosed Car Transport

If you have a luxury car or an antique piece that requires special care, opt for enclosed carrier transport. Enclosed car shipping trailers come at a higher price point, but they will shield your car from harsh weather conditions and road debris.

RoadRunner Illinois Heavy Hauling

Specialty Vehicle Transport

Specialty vehicle transport involves the transportation of specialized vehicles, such as motorcycles and RVs. This type of transport requires skilled drivers and specialized equipment to ensure the safe and secure delivery of these unique vehicles. Specialty vehicle transport companies like RoadRunner Auto Transport have the experience and resources to ensure your vehicle is relocated safely and efficiently.

Tips For Selecting Auto Shipping Services

While choosing your Illinois auto transport provider, consider these tips:

  1. Compare Quotes: Ask for quotes from multiple car transport pricing specialists to find the best value for your money.
  2. Research Company History: Look at the company's years of service and read the reviews. This will give you an insight into the kind of service to expect.
  3. Service Type: Choose the appropriate car transport type (open car shipping, enclosed car shipping, specialty auto transport, etc.) based on your vehicle and needs.

How to Save on Car Shipping in Illinois

The best way to save on Illinois car transport is by completing thorough research and choosing the best auto shipping services. Compare quotes from multiple highly recommended companies. Highly recommended car transport pricing specialists will give you an idea about the standard rates and enable you to negotiate better.

Also, it is helpful to understand the different kinds of auto transport services. For instance, if you own a classic or high-end car, it's better to go for enclosed carrier transport, even though the car shipping cost is higher than open car transport. Enclosed trailers provide the ultimate protection for your vehicle on the road. Open carrier transport is perfectly safe and cost-effective for most other types of vehicles.

Tips for Illinois Car Transport

Here are some tips for saving money when shipping your car:

  • Plan Ahead: Car shipping is a lengthy process. Last-minute decisions can lead to elevated costs. Planning ahead allows you to compare several quotes and allows for greater flexibility in terms of scheduling.
  • Choose the Right Time: Car shipping costs can fluctuate based on seasons. Rates tend to be lower when there is less demand, so shipping during off-peak times like early spring and late fall can also lead to savings.
  • Use Open Carrier Transport: Opting for open transport rather than enclosed car shipping is a cost-effective choice, as long as you are not shipping a high-end or vintage vehicle.
RoadRunner Illinois Car Transport

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Illinois Car Transportation

Before your vehicle is ready for auto shipping, there are certain necessary steps you need to follow. Proper preparation not only ensures the security of your car but also makes the process smoother:

  • Give the Vehicle a Good Clean: A thorough cleaning will make it easier for you to identify any damage or scratches that might occur during the car transport.
  • Check for Leaks: Check your vehicle for any leaks. Any leakages should be fixed before shipping your car as it may harm other vehicles during the auto transport.
  • Remove Personal Items: Illinois car transport companies deny responsibility for any personal items left in your vehicle. Moreover, it could add extra weight and increase the cost of shipping.
  • Check Tire Pressure: Your tires should be inflated properly. Deflated or over-inflated tires can cause problems during loading and unloading of the car.

A well-prepared vehicle not only saves time for everyone involved but also helps prevent any unforeseen issues during the auto transport.

Receiving Your Vehicle in Illinois

After your vehicle has been delivered, there are some important steps to follow to make sure your car is in the same condition as it was before transit. These steps include inspecting for new damages, checking for missing accessories or belongings, and signing the delivery paperwork.

Inspection for New Damage

Once your vehicle has reached its destination, perform a thorough inspection. Look for any new scratches, dents, or damages that weren't present when the vehicle was given to the car shipping service. If you find any new damage, report it immediately to the shipping company.

Checking for Missing Accessories or Belongings

Before you turned over your vehicle for auto transport, you should have removed any non-permanent parts and personal belongings. If anything is missing upon delivery, notify the car shipping experts immediately.

Signing Delivery Paperwork

Once you're satisfied with your vehicle's condition after delivery, sign the provided paperwork. This confirms that you successfully retrieved your vehicle in its expected condition, completing the auto transport process.

RoadRunner Auto Transport Reviews

As a trusted Illinois auto shipping company, RoadRunner boasts positive reviews from thousands of customers across the state and surrounding areas. Our auto transport services are designed to be hassle-free, reliable, and affordable.

The Trusted Illinois Car Shipping Company

RoadRunner Auto Transport is known for its reliable auto transport services and its commitment to customer satisfaction. We strive to make the Illinois car transport process seamless and stress-free.

Illinois Auto Transport Resources

Helpful Illinois auto service resources are located on the official Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services portal, including information regarding vehicle registration, license renewal, and plates. You can also find information on the State of Illinois Cars & Transportation services page.

Information About the State of Illinois

Illinois, located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is a diverse and vibrant state known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and bustling cities. The state's largest city, Chicago, is a global metropolis and a hub of finance, commerce, and culture. With its iconic skyline, renowned museums, and vibrant food scene, Chicago draws visitors from around the world.

Beyond Chicago, Illinois also offers a picturesque countryside, charming small towns, and scenic natural areas. The state is known for its agricultural production and boasts a strong manufacturing sector. Additionally, Illinois is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, contributing to its reputation as an educational powerhouse. Overall, the state of Illinois offers a mix of urban excitement, rural beauty, and a rich historical legacy, making it a compelling destination for residents and tourists alike.

Illinois Car Shipping Locations

Where Does RoadRunner Auto Transport Offer Car Shipping Services in Illinois?

RoadRunner Auto provides car shipping services all over Illinois, including Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and more. View our service locations for comprehensive coverage details.

Still Have Questions About Shipping a Car?

How it Works

Find out how RoadRunner Auto Transport makes vehicle shipping as easy as 1-2-3. Learn more about how it works.

Our Advantage

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Transport Services

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Verified Reviews
Genuine experience: I had my suv shipped from Atlanta to Chicago - 11 Hours - the guy was on time and picked up the car 40 minute earlier than the time they said. I filled out a quote online on the website - they called and confirmed the order and assigned a driver. They said it would take 2-3 days to be delivered HOWEVER he got the car on friday @8am and we had the car next day @ 4PM lol less than 24 hours.
Google review5 stars
Tj E.
Georgia to Illinois · October 2025
Verified on Google
4.7average rating across thousands of verified auto transport reviews
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Frequently Asked Questions

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


There are several options for transporting your car to Illinois. One option is to hire a professional auto transport company. These companies have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely transport your car to its destination. You can also choose to drive the car yourself, either by driving it all the way to Illinois or using a car shipping service that allows you to drive the car to a designated drop-off point and then have it transported the rest of the way. Whichever method you choose, it's important to research and compare prices and services to ensure you find the best option for your needs.

Ready to Ship Your Car to or from Illinois?

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