FreightWaves Ratings cuts through the noise of freight technology product reviews to make you a smarter buyer
Home   •   Car Shipping   •   Illinois   •   Chicago

8 Best Car Shipping Companies in Chicago, IL

Valerie Smith, Shipping Expert

Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Chicago and we’ve rated them 4.8 out of 5 stars based on services, pricing, and customer satisfaction. While several key factors impact the cost to ship your car out of Chicago — including shipping distance and carrier method — the total average cost ranges from $764 – $1,262.

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash
4.5 / 5
  • 13 yrs experience
  • Ship boat, RV, ATV
4.4 / 5
  • Services all 50 states
  • Ships most vehicles

The Best Car Shipping Companies in Chicago

Car shipping companies that have a national presence have more availability, more services, and are usually more affordable. Here are our reviews of the most trusted car shipping companies serving Chicago.

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 and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • 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

Montway Auto Transport

4.5 / 5.0

After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.

Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.

Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.

Get A Quote (224) 206-5633

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Additional insurance provided on every shipment
  • No deposit required, pay at delivery
  • Expedited delivery available
  • Guaranteed delivery available
  • Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
  • Special discounts for return customers and military
  • Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

AmeriFreight

4.4 / 5.0

AmeriFreight Car Transport is a top-rated car shipper that offers some of the most affordable rates in the industry. The company consistently offers deals and discounts to military members, senior citizens, students, and emergency responders. They provide open and enclosed transport and door-to-door service for a wide variety of vehicles, including RVs, boats, and even golf carts. AmeriFreight maintains an excellent score with the BBB and in online reviews and can ship to anywhere in the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska.

Get A Quote (770) 501-9057

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Competitive pricing
  • Discounts available
  • Free cancellation
  • RV and boat shipping

Cons

  • No guaranteed pickup
  • No GPS tracking
  • Doesn’t ship internationally

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Other Auto Transport Options in Chicago

While we’ve vetted and rated these local auto transport companies in Chicago, they may have limited availability or service offerings compared to our top picks listed above.

Van 3 Auto Transport & Car

106 Meadow Dr, Countryside, IL, 60525
4.4 / 5.0

Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) is a reputable car shipping company praised for its reliable services and excellent customer ratings. They have a stellar reputation with a 4.5 Yelp rating, a 4.8 Google rating, and an A rating from the BBB.

Among the various services Van 3 Auto Transport & Car offers are damage-free guarantees, international and interstate shipping, and transportation options for electric vehicles and cars that don’t run. Additionally, they provide enclosed transport and expedited delivery for more secure and prompt services.

A potential downside for some customers might be the lack of shipment tracking and the absence of terminal-to-terminal delivery. Nonetheless, the company ensures comprehensive protection with full insurance and detailed inspection reports, securing peace of mind for their clients.

Get a Quote (224) 788-7777

Services Offered

  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

BKK TRANSPORT

77 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL, 60601
4.38 / 5.0

BKK TRANSPORT (DOT: 2248306) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of services including damage-free guarantee, boat shipping, and comprehensive interstate transport. The company also provides specialized services like motorcycle shipping, trailer shipping, and heavy equipment shipping, making it a versatile choice for various transport needs.

However, BKK TRANSPORT does not accept cryptocurrency payments, which may be a downside for some customers. The company holds a Yelp rating of 1.5, a Google rating of 3.7, and an A+ rating from the BBB, reflecting varying levels of customer satisfaction.

Get a Quote (773) 467-7917

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • 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
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Chicago Auto Shipping Group

625 N Michigan Ave Suite 1000 PMB 165, Chicago, IL, 60611
4.36 / 5.0

Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is an active car shipping business that has earned commendable ratings, boasting a Google rating of 4.1 and an A+ rating from the BBB.

They offer a plethora of services, including interstate, international, and classic car shipping, as well as options for transporting inoperable cars and electric vehicles. Additionally, they provide useful perks like storage solutions and shipment tracking to ensure a seamless customer experience.

Among their offerings, they also have specialized services such as expedited delivery and a damage-free guarantee. However, customers should note that the company does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which could be a limitation for some.

Get a Quote (888) 588-1269

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

All Day Auto Transport

12135 NW 57th St, Coral Springs, FL, 33076
4.3 / 5.0
All Day Auto Transport (DOT: 2245170)

All Day Auto Transport offers a wide range of shipping services including boat, motorcycle, RV, and electric vehicle shipping. The company also caters to customers needing expedited or guaranteed delivery options, and tracks shipments efficiently. Importantly, they offer international shipping services.

A notable downside is that All Day Auto Transport does not provide damage-free guarantees. For those concerned about reputation, the company holds a low Yelp rating of 1.7 but retains an A rating from the BBB. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.

Get a Quote (888) 567-7396

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping

Nexus Auto Transport

444 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60611
4.24 / 5.0

Nexus Auto Transport (DOT: 2801954) is actively providing car shipping services with a range of options for various customer needs. They offer specialized services such as classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transport for electric vehicles. Customers can choose between open and enclosed transport, and expedited delivery is also available for those in need of faster service.

While Nexus Auto Transport guarantees full insurance coverage for shipments, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some clients. Additionally, the company provides shipment tracking and accepts multiple payment methods including cash, credit cards, and money orders, but cryptocurrency is not accepted. They extend discounts to military personnel, but currently do not offer discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or law enforcement officers.

With a Yelp rating of 2.3 and a BBB rating of B, the company is still working on establishing its reputation. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.

Get a Quote (224) 218-2949

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • 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
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Chicago Car Shipping Costs

Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Illinois:

Shipping Route Open Trailer Enclosed Trailer
From Illinois to Ohio $663 $862
From Illinois to Florida $1,119 $1,455
From Illinois to Colorado $1,029 $1,338
From Illinois to North Carolina $975 $1,268
From Illinois to New York $999 $1,299
From Arizona to Illinois $1,298 $1,687
From Texas to Illinois $1,010 $1,313
From Michigan to Illinois $692 $900
From Georgia to Illinois $949 $1,234
From California to Illinois $1,577 $2,050

Cost Factorstoggle

Several factors influence the cost of shipping a car from Chicago, including distance, vehicle specifications, transport type, seasonality, and additional services.

We recommend getting multiple quotes from Chicago car shipping companies before making a final decision.

Distance and Location

Costs are significantly affected by the distance from Chicago to the destination and the accessibility of pickup and delivery locations, with remote areas potentially incurring higher fees.

Vehicle Type and Condition

Shipping costs can vary based on your vehicle’s size and condition, with larger or non-operational vehicles typically costing more to transport from Chicago.

Transport Type

Transporting a car out of Chicago, Illinois, is mostly commonly done in one of two ways – either via open transport or enclosed transport.

  • Open transport is the most common method of shipping your car out of Chicago. In this case, your vehicle is loaded onto a multi-car carrier along with other cars. This method is typically less expensive because costs are shared among multiple Chicago customers, and it’s efficient for the transporter as well. However, the cars are exposed to Illinois’s outdoor elements, such as weather conditions and potential road debris.
  • Enclosed transport, on the other hand, provides more protection for your vehicle. The car is placed inside a covered truck, protecting it from Illinois’s weather conditions, potential road debris, and prying eyes. It remains protected from Chicago until it arrive at its final destination. This added protection makes it an ideal option for high-end, classic, or antique cars. However, because of the additional care and decreased space (fewer cars can be transported at once), this method is typically more expensive.

Seasonality

The cold, snowy winters in Chicago often lead to increased car shipping costs due to challenging driving conditions and potential delays. Summer’s warmer weather generally makes shipping easier and cheaper.

Additional Services

Extra services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make car shipping from Chicago more expensive. These options mean more personalized and faster service.

How We Chose the Best Chicago Auto Transport Companies

Our selection process for the top car shipping companies in Chicago involves a detailed analysis of five crucial factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.

FAQs About Chicago Car Shippingtoggle

How long does it take to ship a car from Chicago??

The time frame can vary based on distance, shipping method, and company. Local deliveries in Illinois might take a day, while cross-country shipping could take up to two weeks.

What’s the average cost to ship a car from Chicago?

Costs depend on the transport type, vehicle size, and distance away from Chicago. Expect variations, and it’s best to get quotes from multiple companies for accurate pricing.

Do Chicago auto transport companies insure my car during transport?

Yes, reputable companies provide insurance during transport, but coverage details vary. Confirm with your chosen provider for specifics before shipping out of Chicago.

Can I ship a non-operational vehicle from Chicago?

Many companies offer car shipping services out of Chicago for non-operational vehicles, though it may cost more due to special equipment requirements.

Which car shipping companies are the best for cross-country transport out of Chicago?

If you’re shipping your car from Chicago and to a state other than Illinois, we recommend using SGT Auto Transport, Easy Auto Ship, Montway, Sherpa Auto Transport, or AmeriFrieght.

How do I prepare my car for shipping out of Chicago?

Remove personal items, ensure the tank is a quarter full, and document the car’s condition with photos before your vehicle leaves Chicago.


Valerie Smith
Valerie Smith has been creating content for and about supply chain logistics companies since 2010. Writing on behalf of globally recognized industry leaders, her work has been featured extensively in print and digital publications and at speaking engagements. As editorial director of FreightWaves Ratings, she focuses on exploring topics that help readers make more informed career and business decisions.