Best Car Shipping Companies | Chicago, IL (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: If you're looking for an excellent car shipping company in Chicago, IL, Nexus Auto Transport stands out for its impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, affordable rates, and lineup of services. While prices vary, you can usually expect to pay between about $500 and $1,480 to ship your car from Chicago.
Shipping your car from Chicago? Whether you're moving across the country or need a one-way transport, choosing the right auto transport company in Chicago, IL can save you time and money. This guide covers the best car shipping companies serving the Chicago area, average costs, and how to compare quotes for 2026.
Average car shipping costs from Chicago typically range from $500 to $1,500 depending on distance, vehicle type, and season. Factors like route demand, fuel prices, and service type (open vs. enclosed) all influence your final quote.
Table of Contents
Why you can trust these companies
Our expert team researches and verifies auto transport companies serving Chicago and nationwide. We evaluate carriers and brokers based on real customer reviews, pricing transparency, and service quality so you can book with confidence.
- Best 2024 Auto Transport
- Customer service and reviews
- Affordable prices
- Safely and securely transport
Best Car Shipping Companies
company name
companyname.com 4.9845 Reviews- Door-to-door delivery
- Free quotes
- Insurance included
- 24/7 tracking
Khan Academy
khanacademy.org 4.8720 Reviews- Low-price guarantee
- Open & enclosed
- Nationwide coverage
- No hidden fees
company name
companyname.com 4.9612 Reviews- Enclosed transport
- White-glove service
- Luxury vehicles
- Dedicated support
Top car shipping companies in Chicago, IL
Below are some of the top-rated car shipping companies that serve the Chicago area.
- US Auto Transport
- Chicago Auto Shipping Co
- Nexus Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Sherpa Auto Transport
Nexus Auto Transport
nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport is a leading provider of auto transport services with a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. They offer open and enclosed transport options nationwide with transparent pricing and dedicated support. Many customers in the Chicago area praise their easy booking process and responsive communication.
Get a Quote → (224) 310-1412Pros & Cons
- Available nationwide shipping
- Door-to-door and terminal options
- Online tracking
- High demand can impact availability
- Peak-season pricing
Services Offered
- Open shipping
- Enclosed shipping
- Door-to-door
- Terminal-to-terminal
- Non-operable vehicle transport
Montway Auto Transport
montway.com
Montway Auto Transport is a well-established carrier with broad coverage across the US. They provide open and enclosed auto transport, with options for door-to-door and terminal delivery. Chicago customers often note straightforward quotes and reliable pickup and delivery windows.
Get a Quote → (800) 800-1234Pros & Cons
- Wide network and availability
- Multiple transport options
- Established reputation
- Rates can vary by route
- Peak-season lead times
Services Offered
- Open shipping
- Enclosed shipping
- Door-to-door
- Terminal-to-terminal
- Non-operable vehicle transport
Comparing Chicago car auto transport companies
Our review of top auto transport brands extended into an analysis of 19 local car shipping providers in Chicago, 18 throughout Illinois, and more than 518 across the country to compare service options and assist you in selecting the best solution.
Compare by services
Here's how common key car shipping services are among companies in Chicago across Illinois, and nationwide:
- Inoperable car transport: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 242 nationwide (39.54%)
- Multi-car shipping: 17 in Chicago (80.95%), 16 in Illinois (84.21%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 5 in Chicago (23.81%), 3 in Illinois (15.79%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 7 in Chicago (33.33%), 7 in Illinois (36.84%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
| Company | Open transport | Enclosed transport | Door-to-door | Non-op vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
US Auto Transport
|
✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖ |
|
Chicago Auto Shipping Co
|
✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
|
Nexus Auto Transport
|
✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Compare by discounts
Here's how common key car shipping services are among companies in Chicago across Illinois, and nationwide:
- Inoperable car transport: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 242 nationwide (39.54%)
- Multi-car shipping: 17 in Chicago (80.95%), 16 in Illinois (84.21%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 10 in Chicago (47.62%), 9 in Illinois (47.37%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 5 in Chicago (23.81%), 3 in Illinois (15.79%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 7 in Chicago (33.33%), 7 in Illinois (36.84%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Multi-car |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
US Auto Transport
|
✔ | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ |
|
Chicago Auto Shipping Co
|
✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
|
Nexus Auto Transport
|
✔ | ✔ | ✖ | ✔ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Chicago
With a population of 2,746,388 and the status of a major Illinois city, Chicago sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Chicago compared to smaller towns nearby.
Shipping a car out of Chicago, Illinois usually ranges from about $500 to $1,480. Your final price will depend on how far you're going and current fuel costs.
Check out these estimated price ranges for moving a vehicle from Chicago, Illinois to another state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Chicago to NYC | $700 – $1,100 |
| Chicago to Florida | $650 – $1,000 |
| Chicago to Los Angeles | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Chicago to Dallas | $550 – $850 |
Factors influencing car shipping cost from Chicago
- Distance matters: Moving your car locally within Chicago or to nearby areas in Illinois is typically more affordable than shipping it across state lines.
- Location type: It's often pricier to transport a car out of busy downtown Chicago compared to moves between quieter suburban neighborhoods.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles from Chicago often need extra care and can bump up the price. Learn more about classic car transport.
- Available shipping options in Chicago: You can choose from open or enclosed transport. While open is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel prices: What you'll pay to ship can go up or down depending on current gas rates in Chicago, especially with long-distance trips.
- How fast you need it: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Chicago comes at a higher price tag.
- Weather and season: Harsh winter weather in Chicago—including snow and fluctuating temperatures—can increase car shipping prices due to challenging road conditions and possible delays. Summer's milder weather generally makes shipping easier and more cost-effective.
Tips for choosing the right Chicago car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a Chicago company that shares total costs upfront. In Illinois, a typical job starts near $1,100.
- Review insurance coverage: Select shippers that offer detailed insurance info, flexible coverage levels, and a simple claims process.
- Read local reviews: Customer reviews from Chicago offer real insight into how reliable a company is. They can help you avoid scams and choose a shipper with solid satisfaction ratings.
- Check for licensing: Use the FMCSA lookup tool to confirm that the company is licensed, insured, and operating legally.
- Know what you're paying for: Some quotes don't include all services. Ask if things like door-to-door delivery or insurance are baked into the price.
- Plan around delivery timing: Ask when your car will be picked up and delivered and whether delays are common for your route.
- Look for custom options: Shippers in Chicago may offer services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping to fit your needs.
- Get a referral: Talk to friends or family in Chicago who've shipped cars before. Their recommendations can save you time and hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do car shipping costs work?
Costs are typically based on distance, vehicle type, transport method (open or enclosed), and timing. You'll get a quote after entering your route and vehicle details. Final price may vary if you change dates or add services.
What options are available for non-operable vehicle shipments?
For non-operable vehicles, many companies offer flatbed or specialized pickup. You may need to disclose the vehicle's condition when requesting a quote, as it can affect pricing and equipment used.
How long does shipping from Chicago take?
Depending on destination, shipping from Chicago can take 1–10 days. Cross-country routes often take 5–10 days; shorter regional moves may take 1–3 days. Expedited options are available at higher cost.
What's the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport uses an open trailer and is the most affordable option. Enclosed transport places your vehicle inside a covered trailer, offering extra protection—ideal for luxury or classic cars.
