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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Chicago, IL Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Chicago, IL
- Chicago to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1100 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
- Chicago to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $975 – $1225 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
- 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
- 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 Chicago customers say about Sherpa:
“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, I felt more comfortable going with them.”
“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.”
“Working with Sherpa to transport my car from Phoenix to Chicago was a great experience. Their customer service is the kind you rarely experience from a company. Each time it was very easy to speak to an actual person who was knowledgeable, friendly, helpful and professional. My order was placed on hold with without penalty.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Chicago, Illinois
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago to Los Angeles, CA | 2,017 mi | $1100 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Chicago to Phoenix, AZ | 1,754 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 | 1,378 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 | 2,076 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 reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s 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
- Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts car shipping costs to and from Chicago. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but Chicago’s central location and extensive highway network can help moderate costs for many routes.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to Chicago. Enclosed trailers, while offering extra protection, are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times. They’re typically only necessary for high-value or classic vehicles.
- Seasonal Factors: Chicago’s weather can affect car shipping prices. Winter storms may cause delays or require special handling, potentially increasing costs. Summer is peak season for auto transport, which can also drive up prices.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship to Chicago than standard cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Chicago’s urban area is well-served by auto transport companies, which can help keep costs down. However, if you’re shipping to or from more remote areas outside the city, prices may increase.
- Flexibility: Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can often result in lower car shipping costs to Chicago. Rush or guaranteed delivery services typically come at a premium.
- Route Popularity: Chicago’s status as a major transportation hub means many routes to and from the city are well-traveled, potentially leading to more competitive pricing for car shipping services.
Understanding these factors can help you better estimate and potentially reduce your car shipping costs to or from Chicago. For more detailed information on pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping to determine the best option for your vehicle.
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 vehicles.
- Choose open transport: Open carriers are more affordable and provide greater flexibility for negotiating lower rates when shipping a car to or from Chicago.
- Optimize pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find convenient spots near major interstates like I-90, I-94, or I-290. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during auto transport.
- Be flexible with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better options and potentially lower costs for your Chicago car shipping needs.
- Consider seasonal factors: Be aware that winter weather in Chicago can affect car transport schedules and pricing. Planning your shipment during milder seasons may offer more competitive rates.
- Explore multi-car discounts: If you’re shipping multiple vehicles to or from Chicago, ask about potential savings for transporting them together.
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 Chicago Car Shipping Work?
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 ship your car to or from the Windy City:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you an accurate estimate of your car shipping costs, taking into account factors like vehicle type, transport method, and distance.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport service. Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise ensures your quoted price remains unchanged.
- Prepare your vehicle: Before the car shipping date, wash and inspect your vehicle, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Chicago’s variable weather, ensure your antifreeze levels are appropriate for potential temperature extremes.
- Consider the season: Chicago’s weather can impact auto transport. Winter snowstorms may cause delays on major routes like I-90, I-94, or I-55. Summer is peak moving season, so book early for the best rates and availability.
- Choose your transport method: Open transport is more affordable, but enclosed transport offers extra protection from Chicago’s sometimes harsh weather conditions.
- Plan for traffic: Chicago’s notorious traffic can affect pickup and delivery times. Be flexible and patient, especially during rush hours.
- Meet the carrier: At pickup, you’ll hand over the keys and complete an inspection. For safety, consider meeting in well-lit areas like shopping centers off major highways.
- Track your shipment: Sherpa provides updates throughout the auto transport process, allowing you to relax while your vehicle is in transit.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and pay any remaining balance. Be prepared for potential parking challenges in Chicago’s bustling neighborhoods.
By following these steps and working with a reputable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free auto transport experience to or from Chicago, IL. Whether you’re relocating for work, escaping the Midwest winters, or simply need to move your vehicle, professional car shipping services make the process simple and convenient.
Chicago Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Chicago, IL, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and practical considerations. Chicago car shipping involves more than just arranging auto transport; it requires preparation for the city’s unique environment.
First, consider Chicago’s toll system. If you’re using car shipping services to move away, remember to remove your I-PASS transponder. This device is specific to Illinois tollways, and you won’t need it elsewhere. For those moving to Chicago, you’ll want to acquire an I-PASS soon after arrival to save on toll fees.
Vehicle registration in Illinois must be completed within 30 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to visit a Secretary of State facility with your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and identification. Be prepared for Chicago’s strict parking regulations; many neighborhoods require resident parking permits, which you can apply for online through the City Clerk’s office.
When you ship a car to Chicago, consider the city’s harsh winters. You may need to winterize your vehicle with snow tires and antifreeze. The city’s extensive public transit system might influence your decision on whether to bring a car at all.
For utilities, ComEd provides electricity, while water comes from the City of Chicago. Major internet providers include Xfinity, AT&T, and RCN. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore Chicago’s world-class library system for free cards.
If you’re leaving Chicago, remember to cancel local memberships and forward your mail. Whether you’re coming or going, choosing a reliable car shipping company is essential for a smooth transition. With proper planning and the right car transport partner, your move to or from the Windy City can be a breeze.
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
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Chicago.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Chicago, IL
General information and facts about Chicago.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Chicago.
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 Chicago.
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 all four seasons, each bringing unique challenges for auto transport.
Winter Considerations: Chicago winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions. If you’re scheduling car shipping services during this time:
- Remove snow tires or chains before transport, as carriers can’t accommodate these.
- Ensure pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping.
- Avoid leaving items that may freeze and expand in the vehicle.
Summer Precautions: Chicago summers can be hot and humid. When you ship a car during warmer months:
- Place a sunshade in the windshield to protect the interior.
- Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt.
- Consider scheduling early morning or evening pickups to avoid peak heat.
Peak Seasons: Chicago car shipping demand fluctuates throughout the year. Be aware of these busy periods:
- Late August to early September: College students returning to school
- May to June: End of academic year and summer moves
- November and April: Snowbird season as people travel to and from warmer climates
To ensure a smooth car transport experience, book your shipment a few weeks before or after these peak times if possible. By considering these seasonal factors, you’ll be better prepared when using a car shipping company for your Chicago, IL auto transport needs.
Car Shipping for College Students in Chicago, Illinois
When considering car shipping to Chicago for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at local universities. Most campuses have limited parking, often requiring permits. For example, at the University of Chicago, students must register their vehicles and purchase annual passes. Northwestern University offers various parking options, but spaces are limited and pricey. Many off-campus apartments near these schools don’t include parking, so factor this into your budget when shipping a car to Chicago. During winter breaks, some universities provide long-term parking, but it’s best to confirm in advance. Chicago’s harsh winters necessitate snow tires and regular maintenance. Before using auto transport services, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Illinois. Lastly, consider whether you truly need a car in Chicago, as the city boasts excellent public transportation. If you decide to ship your car, research reliable car shipping companies that specialize in Chicago car shipping to ensure a smooth transition to college life.
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.”
“Nicholas has an exotic vehicle and we moved it back and forth across the United States. His parents live out East and I, his assistant, arranged to have the 911 shipped to his father who was 1,000 miles away. I looked at three different transport companies and Sherpa had the best reviews. They didn’t appear to damage the vehicles and Nick was very specific about not wanting that vehicle damaged before it arrived. The Sherpa rep was very good. I called her and then I got busy because I travel with Nick to different locations, and she followed up with me. She was the only one out of all the services that followed up, so I was very impressed with that. I do all of Nick’s follow up and I stay on people. She was also very courteous. She explained the whole thing to me, how it worked, how the mileage charges worked, what the options were and what was covered and not covered. Then when I had a subsequent question, I could get her right on the line. Sherpa was a bit more expensive than others in the market but we would gladly pay for the customer service. The delivery on the other side went well, although the vehicle was delivered after it was dark so it was a little frustrating because from an inspection standpoint, it was hard to see. Still, the transport was very quick. Sherpa told us that it was gonna be a week or two weeks and the car got there in three days. They got the car there on time and there was no damage. The cost with Sherpa was good too. We have transported in the past as this was not our first show. We used someone else before, a covered carrier, and it was less expensive but the communication was not as good. Sherpa was wonderful to work with. So when we will move Nick`s car back next year, we will use Sherpa again.”
“We moved cross country so we needed the two cars, an Audi Q5 and a RAV, be shipped from California to North Carolina. There was a company that Sherpa contracted here in North Carolina which is not far from where we live now. I felt that if that company was confident in them, then it would be okay to go with them too, so we did. The interactions I had with their customer service was straightforward. The person I spoke with was pleasant and confident, and the quote they provided was competitive. It was also the same upon completion of transport. The gentleman who picked up the cars was very efficient and obviously had been doing this for quite a while. It was dusk when he picked the cars and he made sure he turned on bright lights and took photos all over. He gave us confidence, so when the cars drove away, we felt comfortable. The transport was shorter than I thought. They gave me a range and they said, “We`ll be there Tuesday or Wednesday,” but by Sunday night, we were already getting messages that they were close. They dropped the vehicles off to a friend of mine here in Charlotte and they were communicating with her too. Dealing with Sherpa was very easy. We paid what we agreed and the delivery was faster than I thought. I`m really satisfied with how it went and I would recommend them.”
“I used Sherpa Auto to transport my two cars from Chicago to Washington. I spoke with Crimson and she was able to explain everything to me, including the fact that Sherpa is a broker and that they`re gonna put the cars out and the driver will pick the highest price. I felt that she was telling me the truth. Also, the reps are always willing to help. I called them right after the cars have been delivered and a couple of times again to follow up. I should have been connected to the rebate department and the carwash but then the person who answered the call assisted me. It was a great interaction. The quote they gave me was 100% accurate. They have the guaranteed quote where even if the price changes, I`m still gonna be paying what Crimson quoted me. At least, I have a peace of mind knowing that I`m not gonna go over that price. Also, although the price was a bit on a higher end, I was given $100 rebate plus carwash so it ended up almost the same with the other companies. Then I was advised by the driver, who was very nice as well, that when he picks up the two cars, it will take around five days and it did. He also told me that he was gonna text me once he was near and he did. All in all, I`m so happy with the way it turned out. After I received the cars, I received the $200 rebates. I told my two friends who are moving out of state about Sherpa. I gave them the number and told them to look for Crimson.”
“My experience with Sherpa was great. Really great reservation system and fantastic customer support and communication along the way. Sherpa and all of its competitors are essentially brokers. They`re going to use their network to find a third party to ship your vehicle. So you should know that in advance. It`s hard to blame any broker for poor delivery service…but you should trust that they would make thing right should anything go wrong. Fortunately, I didn`t have to worry about any of that. My third party hauler was great. They communicated wonderfully and got my vehicle from Colorado to Chicago in less than 48 hours from pickup. I had to push back my vehicle pick up due to the dealership and both Sherpa and the third party hauler were great to work with. Go with Sherpa. It was the best price, the best online experience and had amazing customer support and communication.”
About Chicago, Illinois
🏙️ Chicago, Illinois is a vibrant metropolis teeming with history, culture, and innovation. As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago boasts a population of 2.7 million residents [U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate]. This bustling urban center covers an impressive 234 square miles along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan [City of Chicago]. 🌆
Chicago’s economy is diverse and robust, with a gross metropolitan product of $689 billion in 2018 [Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis]. The city is home to 36 Fortune 500 companies, including notable names like Boeing, McDonald’s, and Walgreens Boots Alliance [Fortune, 2021]. 💼
Known for its architectural marvels, Chicago claims the title of birthplace of the skyscraper. The city’s skyline features iconic structures like the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), standing tall at 1,451 feet [Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat]. 🏙️
Chicago’s transportation network is extensive, with O’Hare International Airport ranking as one of the world’s busiest airports, serving over 84 million passengers in 2019 [Chicago Department of Aviation]. The city’s public transit system, operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), provides approximately 1.6 million rides on an average weekday [CTA].
With its rich cultural scene, Chicago hosts numerous world-class museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, which welcomes about 1.5 million visitors annually [Art Institute of Chicago]. The city’s passion for sports is evident in its devoted fan bases for teams like the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks. 🏛️🏆
Areas of Chicago, Illinois that we Serve
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Sherpa provides a full service area in and around Chicago:
Downtown Chicago: 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60607, 60616
North Side: 60610, 60611, 60613, 60614, 60618, 60622, 60625, 60640, 60641, 60645, 60646, 60647, 60657, 60660
South Side: 60609, 60615, 60617, 60619, 60620, 60621, 60628, 60629, 60632, 60636, 60637, 60638, 60643, 60649, 60652, 60653
West Side: 60608, 60612, 60623, 60624, 60639, 60644, 60651
Northwest Side: 60630, 60631, 60634, 60635, 60656
Southwest Side: 60633, 60642, 60655
Far North Side: 60626, 60659
Far South Side: 60827, 60633
Suburban Cook County: 60004, 60005, 60007, 60008, 60016, 60018, 60025, 60053, 60076, 60077, 60091, 60103, 60104, 60126, 60130, 60131, 60153, 60154, 60155, 60160, 60162, 60163, 60164, 60165, 60171, 60176, 60201, 60202, 60203, 60301, 60302, 60304, 60305, 60406, 60409, 60411, 60415, 60419, 60422, 60425, 60426, 60429, 60430, 60438, 60443, 60445, 60453, 60455, 60456, 60458, 60459, 60461, 60462, 60463, 60464, 60465, 60466, 60467, 60472, 60473, 60476, 60477, 60478, 60480, 60482, 60501, 60513, 60525, 60526, 60534, 60546, 60558, 60706, 60707, 60714, 60803, 60804, 60805
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Illinois and 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 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
- 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
Opting for car shipping services to or from Chicago, IL offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort navigating the Windy City’s busy streets or long interstate drives. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether it’s heading to the heart of downtown or leaving the shores of Lake Michigan. Additionally, most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage during transit, providing peace of mind. By choosing to ship a car instead of driving, you avoid the stress of long-distance travel and potential risks associated with it, making it a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for your Chicago car transport needs.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company in Chicago, IL, look for providers with a solid reputation and extensive experience in auto transport. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a good safety record with the FMCSA. Consider customer service quality, pricing, and service range. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or have unclear terms. A reputable Chicago car shipping service should provide transparent quotes and clear communication throughout the process. Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best value – prioritize reliability and quality service to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, whether you’re shipping to the Magnificent Mile or across the country.