Illinois Car Shipping
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Illinois Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Illinois
- Illinois to California with an average cost of $1075 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
- Illinois to Florida with an average cost of $875 – $1175 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 4 days
- Illinois to Arizona with an average cost of $1025 – $1250 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our Illinois customers say about Sherpa:
“Everybody was kind and courteous. They listened. So I had no issue whatsoever. Sherpa was perfect. The company that got the run was picking up the vehicle on a Monday. On Tuesday, I received an email from the dealership stating that my LoJack was now up and running and to sign on and get my password and how to download the app. After I had done all of this, I thought of checking to see where my Cadillac Escalade was but it hadn`t moved. It was over 24 hours since they picked it up, and it will be delivered to me by Wednesday as told by the carrier that picked up the run. I called the number of the company that has it and the gentleman said it was in transit. I asked him, “Are you sure about that?” He said, “Yeah, yeah. It`s in transit.” I said, “Okay. Well, I know that`s not true.” Then he said, “Oh, no, no, no, we`ve got it on the truck. It`s already in transit.” So I said, “Okay, I`m going to come clean, so I`m going to tell you to stop lying right now because I gave you the opportunity to tell me the truth. You didn`t. My vehicle has LoJack and I know exactly where it is, what street it`s on. And I can tell you because I can see it on my app.””
“I was wanting to have a Chevy 1500 pick up shipped from Texas to Illinois. I was contacted by several companies with lots of quotes ranging from $600-$3000. When I would talk to other companies, they would estimate delivery costs but could not guarantee a price. I talked to Austin at Sherpa on Thursday evening at 7:31cst. He quoted me a price that I agreed to pay and said I would be contacted in 24 hours for a pick up time. At 8 am cst, my phone rang and the truck would be picked up that afternoon between 11-2 and be delivered to Illinois the next day!”
“I bought a car in New York – I`m in Illinois! Yikes! So, I had to get it home. I picked Sherpa because my wife had heard fellow travel nurses who`d used them for transporting their travel trailers. They seemed reasonable and professional. They didn`t fail me! Got my car from New York to Illinois in less than a week! Got a $50 rebate for booking online. Got a $20 car wash reimbursed when it arrived as well.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Illinois
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois to California | 2,015 mi | $1075 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Florida | 1,062 mi | $875 – $1175 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Arizona | 1,753 mi | $1025 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Texas | 1,083 mi | $825 – $1025 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Washington | 2,064 mi | $1175 – $1400 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Colorado | 1,002 mi | $800 – $1075 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Nevada | 1,747 mi | $1000 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Oregon | 2,119 mi | $1200 – $1575 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to North Carolina | 755 mi | $775 – $925 | 0 to 3 days | Get Quote |
| Illinois to Georgia | 717 mi | $675 – $900 | 0 to 3 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Illinois. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
Factors that affect Illinois Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: Illinois’ central location impacts shipping costs. Transporting cars to/from Chicago is often cheaper due to its major transportation hub status. However, shipping to southern Illinois may cost more due to increased distance from major routes.
- Route: Illinois’ extensive interstate system (I-55, I-57, I-70, I-80, I-90) makes car shipping more efficient. However, rural areas off these main routes may incur higher costs.
- Season: Illinois’ weather can affect car shipping prices. Winter storms may cause delays or require enclosed transport, potentially increasing costs. Summer is peak season for auto transport, which can also drive up prices.
- Vehicle Type: The size and weight of your vehicle impact shipping costs. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks common in Illinois’ rural areas may cost more to transport than compact cars.
- Transport Method: Open transport is the most economical option for most Illinois car shipments. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers added protection for high-value vehicles against harsh Midwest weather conditions.
- Timing: Flexible pickup and delivery dates can lead to lower car shipping costs. Rush services for quick Illinois auto transport will increase the price.
Understanding these factors can help you manage your Illinois car shipping costs effectively. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for your vehicle, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Illinois car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple pickups in the same area.
- Choose open transport: Opt for open shipping to get the lowest rates. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility for negotiating better prices.
- Pick strategic locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find pickup and dropoff points near major interstates like I-55, I-57, or I-90. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your overall price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove all personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates concerns about item safety during transport.
- Be flexible: Offering flexibility in pickup and delivery dates can lead to better options and potential savings. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of less busy shipping times.
- Consider seasonal factors: Illinois experiences harsh winters, which can affect car shipping. Planning your transport during milder seasons may result in more competitive pricing and smoother logistics.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
What makes Sherpa different?
- Transparency:
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
- Carrier Quality:
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
- Customer-First Approach:
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
- Nationwide Coverage:
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
- Expert Handling:
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
How does Illinois Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Illinois requires careful planning and consideration of the state’s unique characteristics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you smoothly transport your vehicle:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a reputable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you an accurate estimate of costs based on factors such as your vehicle type, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
2. Choose Your Transport Method: Consider Illinois’ varied weather conditions when selecting between open or enclosed transport. Enclosed transport offers extra protection from harsh Midwest winters and potential road debris on busy interstates like I-55 or I-57.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Follow our comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, which includes washing your vehicle, documenting existing damage, and performing a maintenance check. For Illinois-specific prep, consider removing snow chains or winter tires if shipping during warmer months.
4. Schedule Pickup and Delivery: Work with your chosen auto transport company to arrange convenient pickup and delivery times. Be mindful of potential weather-related delays, especially during Illinois’ snowy winters or severe thunderstorm seasons.
5. Meet the Carrier: At pickup, you’ll meet the carrier, hand over the keys, and perform an inspection. If you’re shipping to or from Chicago, be prepared for potential traffic congestion that might affect pickup or delivery times.
6. Track Your Shipment: Most reputable car shipping services offer tracking options. Stay informed about your vehicle’s progress as it travels along Illinois’ extensive highway network.
7. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly and sign the bill of lading. If shipping during winter, be prepared for potential salt residue from Illinois’ well-maintained but heavily salted roads.
By following these steps and working with a trusted Illinois car shipping company, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free auto transport experience to or from the Prairie State.
Illinois Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping a car to or from Illinois, it’s crucial to be aware of local vehicle requirements and regulations. Illinois uses the I-PASS system for toll collection, so remember to remove your transponder before car transport to avoid unnecessary charges. If you’re moving to Illinois, you’ll need to register your vehicle within 30 days. The process involves providing proof of ownership, insurance, and passing a safety inspection.
Illinois experiences diverse weather conditions, from hot summers to snowy winters. When using car shipping services, consider enclosed transport to protect your vehicle from harsh elements, especially during winter months. The state’s extensive network of highways, including I-55, I-57, and I-90, facilitates smooth auto transport across the Prairie State.
For those relocating to Illinois, here are some essential moving tips:
- Set up utilities: Major providers include ComEd for electricity and Illinois American Water for water services.
- Internet options: Choose from providers like Xfinity, AT&T, and WOW!
- Register to vote: Visit the Illinois State Board of Elections website.
- Enroll children in school: Contact your local school district for registration details.
- Obtain a library card: Visit your nearest public library with proof of residency.
If you’re moving away from Illinois, don’t forget to:
- Cancel local memberships and subscriptions
- Forward your mail through the USPS website
- Notify the Illinois Secretary of State about your move
By considering these factors and using a reputable car shipping company, your move to or from Illinois can be a smooth and stress-free experience. Remember, whether you need to ship a car across the state or the country, professional Illinois car shipping services can ensure your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.
Illinois Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Illinois?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Illinois. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured transporting to or from Illinois?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service from Illinois?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
How do I pay for my auto transport to Illinois?
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?
Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket. While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
What types of vehicles can you transport?
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
More FAQs about auto transport to or from Illinois?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Illinois Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Illinois.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Military Personnel and Families
Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Illinois
General information and facts about Illinois.
Illinois Local Guides
Specific guides with in-depth information on cities & towns across Illinois.
What is Car Shipping?
An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.
Benefits of using Car Transport Companies
Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.
Choosing a Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Illinois.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Illinois
When planning car shipping to or from Illinois, it’s crucial to consider the state’s diverse seasonal weather patterns. Illinois experiences all four seasons distinctly, which can significantly impact auto transport logistics.
In winter, Illinois often faces harsh conditions with heavy snowfall and icy roads. If you’re scheduling car shipping services during this time:
- Avoid using snow tire chains, as carriers cannot transport vehicles with them.
- Ensure pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground, avoiding steep inclines that can be treacherous in icy conditions.
- Remove any items from your vehicle that might freeze and potentially damage your car or the carrier.
Summer in Illinois can bring intense heat and humidity. When shipping a car during warmer months:
- Consider using a sunshade to protect your car’s interior from excessive heat.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items that could melt or be damaged by high temperatures.
Beyond weather considerations, timing is crucial for efficient Illinois car shipping. Keep in mind:
- College towns like Champaign-Urbana see increased demand for car transport services at the beginning and end of academic terms.
- The Chicago area experiences higher traffic during summer months, which may affect auto transport schedules.
- Winter sees an influx of ‘snowbirds’ heading south, potentially impacting availability and rates for car shipping companies.
To ensure a smooth car shipping experience in Illinois, plan ahead and be flexible with your dates if possible. By considering these seasonal factors, you can optimize your auto transport experience and avoid potential delays or complications.
Car Shipping for College Students in Illinois
When considering car shipping to Illinois for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at various universities. Most Illinois campuses require parking permits, which students must purchase and display. For instance, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers different permit types based on your status and housing location. Northwestern University in Evanston has limited on-campus parking, so many students opt for public transportation.
Before arranging auto transport to Illinois, check if your chosen college provides long-term parking during breaks. Some universities offer this service, while others may require you to find off-campus storage. It’s also wise to consider Illinois weather conditions. Winters can be harsh, so equipping your car with snow tires is advisable.
When shipping a car to Illinois for school, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage remains valid in your new location. Some policies may need adjusting for out-of-state students. Lastly, if you’re living off-campus, confirm whether your apartment includes parking. Many urban areas around universities have limited parking, so this could influence your car shipping decision. By considering these factors, you’ll ensure a smoother transition when using car shipping services to bring your vehicle to your Illinois campus.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in Illinois
Illinois is home to several military installations, making it a crucial hub for service members and their families. Scott Air Force Base, located near Belleville, is the largest military presence in the state. For those utilizing car shipping services to this base, it’s important to note that on-base parking is available, but limited. Many personnel opt to live in nearby communities with ample parking options.
When shipping a car to Illinois military bases, remember that vehicle registration requirements vary. At Scott AFB, you’ll need to register your vehicle within 30 days of arrival. The base offers a Vehicle Registration Office to assist with this process.
For Navy personnel, Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago is a key destination for auto transport. While on-base parking is restricted, surrounding areas offer various parking options. The base provides comprehensive resources, including a NEX and commissary, to support military families.
When considering Illinois car shipping, it’s worth noting that many car shipping companies, including Sherpa Auto Transport, offer military discounts. Sherpa provides a $50 discount as a token of appreciation for your service.
Remember, whether you’re shipping a car to Scott AFB, Naval Station Great Lakes, or any other Illinois military installation, planning ahead is crucial. Research base-specific regulations and utilize available resources to ensure a smooth transition. Thank you to all service members and their families for your dedication and sacrifice.
Reviews from our Illinois Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied Illinois customers:
“We were moving from Chicago land area to LA so I needed to ship my car. I reached out to an open site, which gave me a million people. I started reading and they were just relentless. I was not moving for a while. I had no idea if it was gonna cost $1,000 to ship my car or $5,000. I was just trying to get estimates. My move was never an exact date to pick up the car. I was waiting on selling our house and a bunch of other things. I started to find someone again and Sherpa came up highly recommended. It had great reviews and a very competitive price. They didn`t inundate me. It was like, “When I figure it out, I`ll let you know.” Another issue was when we were moving and getting ourselves out here, we didn`t have an address because we didn`t find a house yet. Sherpa picked up the car and we didn`t even 100% know where we were looking to move to yet. That was pretty interesting. I had to update them. We were dealing with two people and they were fine. They understood and were very easy to talk to. Someone then called and said they were with Sherpa and were picking up the car. They were great. It took four days from start to finish. They even came in a day early than they said. The driver would text me every time like where he was gonna be, where he`s at now, and when he was gonna get there. He texted me the day before saying he was going to be in the vicinity at around X amount of time. It was perfect. The driver knew where we are going and dropping off my car was super easy. He was at the mall and it was great because he said he might be running late. I was having dinner with friends. I told the driver to let me know when he got there and I would run out and give him my keys. He kept me in the loop the entire time. We had snow so that was an issue. It was the same thing going in. We had to go a little further but it was not a big deal. He was right on like what time to pick up so that was fine. My husband said the car was gonna come washed but it didn`t. The car arrived really dirty but that didn`t bother me. I just did that drive so I understood. I was driving from Chicago to here. I went through a windstorm or tornadoes through Oklahoma, snow and fall staff, and a sandstorm somewhere in Texas. It definitely was a lot of debris. On the whole, call direct and book Sherpa. It was a no-brainer. You put your stuff in and they come.”
“Every person that I interacted with both Sherpa and the contractor who physically took my car was friendly, and easy to interact and communicate with. On top of that, the pricing couldn`t be beat. If and when I move again, I would call them back and use them again. I reached out to them and was able to get a quote right away. I was very happy with it. I like knowing that it was locked in. And it was a 24-hour window, but that was the same as all the other companies that if you did it within 24 hours, they would guarantee you that quote. I looked at quotes a year ago when I was thinking of moving and they were the same price. I went with them because not only did they end up being the cheapest quote that I got, but the reps were very transparent about the pricing and the processes that go on. I have never transported a car before, so I didn`t know that Sherpa doesn`t transport the car. They contract it out to some other guy. They were also transparent about pick-up and delivery windows. Since it`s not an exact science, it`s like, “They`ll show up to your house within a three-day window. So that`s another factor of things that you have to figure out and schedule on top of your move,†which none of the other companies mentioned. So, I felt more comfortable going with them. For delivery, I had a friend of mine accept it because they would beat me. But I was able to give them a commercial address to drop it off at an office building where my friend works. So, they were able to go right to my friend and make that drop-off happen. Similar thing happened for pick up in that they picked it up from my residential address, being in Chicago, small, tight corners, the guy couldn`t get in front of my house. But he was able to stop on the side of a main street two blocks away and I met him there. So, it was convenient. I was very happy with the experience.”
“I just had my very first car shipment experience, which was a bit complicated: I was leaving my car in Virginia beach after a road trip and flying to Minneapolis for a wedding. I just didn`t have time to make that drive between work and the wedding, but I live in Illinois. So I needed my car moved from Virginia beach to Chicago without me being in either location physically. I researched the options for shipment companies and read about all the nightmare scenarios that could happen. However, Sherpa was highly rated, reasonably priced, and easy to work with. I also felt secure in their guarantee that the amount wouldn`t change and they would front their own money to the drivers to make sure. They explained the timeline of how much I owed at each stage, such as locking in the rate and getting the driver. When the driver arrived to get the car, I wasn`t present, but I felt secure because he took sooo many photos and videos of the car, along with a very thorough review. He got the car to Chicago ahead of schedule and dropped it off with my roommate. He even came back after he left to help her take the emergency brake off. I can`t recommend Sherpa and this driver enough! Please choose them, especially if you have a complicated situation or want to feel taken care of!”
“I`ve used Sherpa before. So, I was familiar with them. About two years ago, I had another vehicle moved. This time, I had a 2009 Jaguar XF shipped from Chicago to Mississippi. I started to complete the process online, but then I ended up calling to complete the setup process of them picking up the car. It took them a few days. They confirmed that a company was ready to pick up and let me know the date. The company gave me a call when they were on the way and they picked the car up. They let me know when it had arrived. It was smooth. I gave them the receiving party`s information. So, they did not text me after they shipped the car to my mother. They did contact her to let her know they were maybe an hour or two out so she would know what time to be home. The car arrived on Thursday and I arrived in Mississippi on Friday. So, I saw the car and it was in the same condition. My experiences with Sherpa were easier than you expect it to be. They make the process very easy. So, that`s why I went back to them. I would recommend them to other people. I did check some other people as far as the cost, but Sherpa`s cost is very good compared to others. On my first time, they guaranteed to have a company reserved for you in so many days. If not, they`d start deducting from your fee. So, they did. It was fine. I recently got a rebate back from them, too. They do what they say.”
“Cannot say enough WONDERFUL things about Russell and our experience. I don`t typically write reviews, but both Russell and Sherpa were fantastic. He was extremely communicative with texts to keep us updated. He made sure to check the car over with us meticulously. He kept in touch with us as he traveled. Once we arrived in Los Angeles, I texted him and we were able to get our vehicle within an hour and a half of arriving. Just wonderful service all around.”
About Illinois
🌽 Illinois: The Prairie State 🏙️
Illinois, known as the Prairie State, is a land of diverse landscapes and rich history. With a population of 12.5 million, it’s the 6th most populous state in the USA [U.S. Census Bureau, 2021]. The state capital is Springfield, but Chicago, the largest city, is a major global hub.
🚗 Illinois boasts an extensive transportation network. It has the 3rd largest interstate highway system in the nation, spanning 2,185 miles [Illinois Department of Transportation]. This makes it a crucial state for auto transport routes.
Economically, Illinois is a powerhouse. It has the 5th largest GDP among U.S. states, at $1 trillion [Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2022]. The state is a leader in manufacturing, agriculture, and financial services.
🌱 Agriculture plays a significant role in Illinois. It’s the top soybean producer and ranks 2nd in corn production nationally [USDA, 2022]. The state has 72,000 farms covering 27 million acres [Illinois Department of Agriculture].
Illinois is home to 69 Fortune 1000 companies, including Boeing and McDonald’s [Fortune, 2022]. It’s also an education hub, with over 300 colleges and universities [Illinois Board of Higher Education].
From the bustling streets of Chicago to the serene farmlands, Illinois offers a unique blend of urban and rural life, making it an intriguing destination for both visitors and new residents alike. 🌆🌾
Illinois Local Guides
We’ve prepared local city guides that include information on routes, pricing, and more for cities & towns across Illinois.
Sherpa Auto Transport services all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Illinois, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
About the Car Shipping Industry
Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Illinois. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.
Fun Facts About Car Shipping
- The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
- Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
- The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
- Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
- Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company
Choosing car shipping services for your Illinois transport needs offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort. Professional auto transport companies have the expertise to handle your vehicle safely, ensuring timely delivery across the Prairie State. Whether you’re moving to bustling Chicago or the serene cornfields of central Illinois, shipping a car eliminates the stress of long-distance driving. Most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage, providing peace of mind during transit. By opting to ship a car, you can avoid wear and tear on your vehicle and potential risks associated with navigating Illinois’ diverse road conditions, from city traffic to rural highways.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Illinois car shipping, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful car transports and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Compare pricing and services, but be wary of unusually low quotes that seem too good to be true. A reliable car shipping company should offer transparent communication and flexible scheduling options. For peace of mind when shipping a car to or from the Land of Lincoln, choose a provider that understands the unique challenges of Midwest weather and road conditions. By considering these factors, you’ll find a trustworthy partner for your Illinois auto transport needs.