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Chicago, IL Car Shipping

Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

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Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Chicago, IL Car Shipping Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Most Popular Car Shipping Routes Icon

Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Chicago, IL

  1. Chicago to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1100 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
  2. Chicago to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $975 – $1225 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  3. Chicago to San Francisco, CA with an average cost of $1075 – $1275 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs Icon

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 of 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.
The Premier Auto Transport Company Icon

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 Chicago customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

Yelp
★★★★★

“I just had my Audi A6 shipped from Chicago to Los Angeles. Frankly, my car is my baby and I researched a lot transport companies before I made my decision. I picked Sherpa because of their high rating and their customer service. On the Better Business Bureau site they responded to the few complaints with a personalized tone indicating they wanted their customer to be happy. The other companies seemed to respond in a routine manner to get the customer off their back.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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!”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Chicago, Illinois

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Chicago to Los Angeles, CA 2,015 mi $1100 – $1350 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Chicago to Phoenix, AZ 1,753 mi $975 – $1225 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Chicago to San Francisco, CA 2,131 mi $1075 – $1275 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Chicago to Miami, FL 1,380 mi $925 – $1150 1 to 5 days Get Quote
Chicago to Seattle, WA 2,064 mi $1150 – $1300 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Chicago to San Diego, CA 2,077 mi $1100 – $1325 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Chicago to New York City, NY 790 mi $825 – $1000 0 to 3 days Get Quote
Chicago to Las Vegas, NV 1,747 mi $950 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Chicago to Houston, TX 1,083 mi $825 – $950 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Chicago to Dallas, TX 926 mi $800 – $900 1 to 4 days Get Quote

Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Chicago, IL. 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 Chicago Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: Chicago’s central location affects shipping costs. Transporting a car to or from the Windy City to coastal areas like New York or Los Angeles will generally be more expensive than shipping to nearby Midwest cities.
  • Seasonal Factors: Chicago’s harsh winters can impact car shipping prices. Icy roads and snowstorms may cause delays or require special handling, potentially increasing costs during winter months.
  • Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Chicago. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers protection from Chicago’s extreme weather conditions for high-value vehicles.
  • Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks, which are popular in Chicago for navigating snowy streets, may cost more to ship due to their size and weight.
  • Pickup and Delivery Locations: Shipping to downtown Chicago might be pricier than to suburban areas due to traffic congestion. Consider pickup/delivery near major highways like I-90 or I-294 for potential savings.
  • Timing: Summer is peak season for car shipping in Chicago, with many people moving to or from the city. Prices may be higher during this time, so consider shipping in spring or fall for potential savings.
  • Vehicle Condition: Non-running vehicles cost more to ship as they require special equipment for loading and unloading, which is especially important in Chicago’s busy urban environment.

Understanding these factors can help you plan your Chicago car shipping more effectively. For a detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during Chicago’s unpredictable weather, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your Chicago car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
  • Choose open transport: Open car shipping is generally more affordable than enclosed transport. It offers greater flexibility for negotiating lower rates, especially for standard vehicles.
  • Pick strategic locations: Discuss with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors about convenient pickup and drop-off points near major interstates like I-90, I-94, or I-55. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
  • Be flexible with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates. Carriers may offer discounts for filling spots on existing routes.
  • Consider seasonal timing: Auto transport to and from Chicago can be affected by weather. Summer months often see increased demand and potentially higher prices. Planning your shipment during off-peak seasons might result in better rates.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport

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 Chicago Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in Chicago, IL requires careful planning and consideration of the city’s unique characteristics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you seamlessly transport your vehicle to or from the Windy City:

1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you an accurate estimate of your Chicago car shipping costs.

2. Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your auto transport service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.

3. Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full. For Chicago’s unpredictable weather, consider weatherproofing your vehicle if shipping during winter months.

4. Meet the carrier: Sherpa provides door-to-door service, so you’ll meet the carrier at your specified location. In Chicago, be mindful of parking restrictions and potential traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.

5. Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, Sherpa will keep you updated on its progress. Your vehicle may travel along major routes like I-90, I-94, or I-55, depending on its destination.

6. Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance. If shipping to Chicago during winter, be prepared for potential weather-related delays.

For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive resource page. Remember, Chicago’s busy urban environment and variable weather conditions may impact your car transport experience, so choose a reliable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport to ensure a smooth process.

Chicago Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When shipping a car to or from Chicago, IL, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. For vehicle owners, removing your I-PASS or E-ZPass transponder before car transport is advisable to avoid unintended toll charges. Illinois requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency, and Chicago has a city sticker requirement for most vehicles. Be sure to research parking permits in your new neighborhood, as some areas require residential parking passes.

For those moving to Chicago, setting up utilities is a key step. ComEd provides electricity, while water services are managed by the City of Chicago. Internet providers include Xfinity, AT&T, and RCN. Don’t forget to register to vote and explore the Chicago Public Library system for free library cards. If you’re moving away from Chicago, remember to cancel local memberships and set up mail forwarding with USPS.

Chicago’s climate can impact car shipping services. Harsh winters may affect auto transport schedules, so plan accordingly. The city’s extensive highway system, including I-90, I-94, and I-290, facilitates efficient car transport but can get congested during peak hours.

When choosing a car shipping company, consider one familiar with Chicago’s unique challenges. Sherpa Auto Transport specializes in Chicago car shipping, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely whether you’re moving to the Windy City or heading to new horizons. Our expertise in navigating local regulations and weather conditions makes us a top choice for shipping a car to or from Chicago, IL.

Chicago, Illinois Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Chicago?

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Chicago. 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago?

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 Chicago?

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 Chicago, IL?

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Looking for more Chicago, IL Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Chicago.

College Students Icon College Students

Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.

Reviews Icon Reviews

Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.

About Chicago, IL Icon About Chicago, IL

General information and facts about Chicago.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Chicago.

What is Car Shipping Icon What is Car Shipping?

An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.

Benefits Icon Benefits of using Car Transport Companies

Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.

Choosing a Company Icon Choosing a Company

Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Chicago.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Chicago

When planning car shipping to or from Chicago, IL, it’s crucial to consider the city’s distinct seasonal weather patterns. Chicago experiences harsh winters and warm summers, which can significantly impact your auto transport experience.

During winter months (November to March), keep these tips in mind:

  • Remove snow tires or chains before transport, as carriers can’t ship vehicles with them.
  • Ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping in icy conditions.
  • Avoid leaving items that may freeze and expand in your vehicle.

For summer car shipping (June to August):

  • Use a sunshade to protect your car’s interior from intense heat.
  • Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt.

Be aware of peak car transport seasons in Chicago:

  • Late August/early September and May: Busy due to college students moving.
  • October to April: ‘Snowbird’ season as people head south for winter.

To avoid higher rates and potential delays during these busy periods, consider shipping your car a few weeks before or after peak times. By planning around Chicago’s weather and seasonal events, you’ll ensure a smoother auto transport experience. Always consult with your car shipping company for the most up-to-date advice on Chicago car shipping.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in Chicago, Illinois

When considering car shipping to Chicago for college, it’s crucial to understand each university’s parking policies. Most Chicago-area schools require parking permits, often with limited availability and additional costs. For example, at the University of Chicago, students must register their vehicles and purchase annual passes. Northwestern University offers various parking options, including covered garages for winter protection. DePaul University has limited on-campus parking, so many students rely on street parking or nearby lots. Always check if your apartment or dorm includes parking, as it’s not always guaranteed. For winter breaks, some universities offer long-term storage options, but it’s wise to research alternatives if not provided. Given Chicago’s harsh winters, consider investing in snow tires for safety. Lastly, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to your new location. Planning ahead for these factors will ensure a smoother transition when shipping your car to Chicago for your college experience.

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

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:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“As I was cruising the internet, I checked the triple-A rating that Sherpa received and the reviews that I was able to pull up, and they have the best reviews. My experience went very well. The gentleman I spoke with walked me through everything in the beginning. And then, I had one question for him a week before the pickup, and we didn`t have any problems with that. He answered my questions. Terry, the driver that picked up the car, was very pleasant. He tied down the car so that I didn`t worry about it. And he was great when he delivered the car down here. I couldn`t be happier. Moreover, the quote was reasonable and it did not change. I am very happy I chose Sherpa. It was a great service.”

Yelp
★★★★★

“My Sherpa experience was wonderful! I purchased a used car from out of state and needed to find reasonable and reliable transport. Sherpa`s quote was lower than several others, AND the customer service and communication were great throughout. My car was assigned a hauler within a couple of days, and the car was here the next day after pickup (Illinois to Pennsylvania). The driver arrived as scheduled and was very professional and friendly. I would use Sherpa again!”

Google
★★★★★

“I called about 20 car transport companies. Sherpa was excellent. They were priced a little on the high side, but I wanted to feel assured my car would arrive quickly and safely, and it did! It took less than 4 days to have my car shipped from Illinois to Arizona. They picked up my car within 2 days of scheduling. They communicated very well and I’ll use them again as they were very professional and did not have any hidden fees.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“From the time we reached out for a quote, to the delivery of the SUV from Florida to Illinois, we had a great experience with Sherpa and the driver. The staff at Sherpa thoroughly explained the process and price guarantee, and were all very helpful and responsive to our questions. Every interaction with them was positive, and the SUV was delivered when expected. If you have transport needs, please consider Sherpa! We highly recommend their team!”

City Information Icon

About Chicago, Illinois

🏙️ Chicago, IL: A City of Superlatives

Chicago, the largest city in Illinois, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and diverse culture. Here are some fascinating facts about the Windy City:

📊 Population and Size: Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, with approximately 2.7 million residents as of 2020 [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city covers an area of 234 square miles, making it one of the largest cities in the country [City of Chicago].

🏛️ Architecture: Chicago is renowned for its stunning architecture and is home to the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885 [Chicago Architecture Center]. The city boasts four of the ten tallest buildings in the United States, including the iconic Willis Tower [Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat].

🌭 Food Scene: Chicago is famous for its culinary delights, including deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. The city has over 7,300 restaurants and is home to 23 Michelin-starred establishments as of 2022 [Choose Chicago].

🚆 Transportation: Chicago’s public transportation system, operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), is one of the largest in the nation. The CTA provides 1.6 million rides on an average weekday [Chicago Transit Authority].

These facts highlight Chicago’s significance as a major economic and cultural hub in the United States, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike. 🌟

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Chicago, Illinois that we Serve

Downtown Chicago: 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60607, 60616
North Side: 60610, 60611, 60613, 60614, 60618, 60622, 60625, 60626, 60630, 60631, 60634, 60640, 60641, 60645, 60646, 60647, 60657, 60659, 60660
South Side: 60609, 60615, 60617, 60619, 60620, 60621, 60628, 60629, 60632, 60633, 60636, 60637, 60638, 60643, 60649, 60652, 60653, 60655
West Side: 60608, 60612, 60623, 60624, 60639, 60644, 60651
Loop: 60654
Near North Side: 60642, 60654
Near West Side: 60661
O’Hare Area: 60666, 60678
Suburban Cook County: 60004, 60005, 60007, 60008, 60016, 60018, 60025, 60053, 60056, 60062, 60068, 60070, 60076, 60077, 60091, 60103, 60104, 60126, 60130, 60131, 60141, 60153, 60154, 60155, 60160, 60162, 60163, 60164, 60165, 60171, 60176, 60201, 60202, 60203, 60301, 60302, 60304, 60305, 60402, 60406, 60409, 60411, 60415, 60419, 60422, 60425, 60426, 60428, 60429, 60430, 60438, 60453, 60455, 60456, 60458, 60459, 60461, 60462, 60463, 60464, 60465, 60466, 60467, 60469, 60472, 60473, 60475, 60476, 60477, 60478, 60480, 60482, 60501, 60513, 60525, 60526, 60534, 60546, 60558, 60706, 60707, 60712, 60714, 60803, 60804, 60805, 60827

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Illinois and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

What is Auto Transport? Icon

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 Chicago, 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

  1. 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]
  2. 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]
  3. 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]
  4. 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]
  5. 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]
  6. 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]
  7. 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 Car Transport Icon

Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company

Choosing car shipping services for your Chicago journey offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you from navigating the Windy City’s bustling streets or enduring long interstate drives. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, allowing you to focus on exploring Chicago’s iconic attractions like Millennium Park or savoring deep-dish pizza. With expert handling and often included insurance coverage, shipping a car to or from Chicago becomes a stress-free experience. Whether you’re relocating to the Magnificent Mile or leaving the Midwest, car transport offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for moving your vehicle, making your transition smoother than a ride along Lake Shore Drive.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing a car shipping company in the Windy City, look for providers with a proven track record and positive customer reviews. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A reputable Chicago car shipping service should provide clear pricing, excellent customer support, and a range of transport options. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or have numerous unresolved complaints. By considering these factors, you can find a reliable auto transport partner to safely move your vehicle to or from Chicago, IL, whether you’re relocating to the Loop or shipping your car cross-country.