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Dec 22, 2025

Cost to Ship a Car From Florida to Illinois

If you want to know the cost to ship a car from Florida to Illinois, you should know the car shipping from start to finish which includes finding the best car transport company, the types of services offered for a certain price, and what factors impact the cost. If you are someone who ships cars frequently, knowing how to choose a service that fits your need and budget is key to convenient car shipping from Florida to Illinois. This blogpost explains in detail how you can know and learn about the mentioned points on car shipping services.

Cost to Ship a Car From Florida to Illinois: Complete 2025 Guide

To ship car to another state, the first thing one does is to find the average cost in the market. Without knowing the average price for specific distance and services could result in you getting charged with hefty prices.

  1. First check a few reputed carriers in the market that have local and countrywide presence

  2. Ask them to offer you quotation by proving you exact details with exact pickup and drop location in Florida and Illinois

  3. Now find the average cost, and choose the most affordable one with better services

  4. Always be wary of cheapest quotations, pricebaiting, confusing cost breakdown on quotation, hidden charges, and overpricing of normal services.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car?

While the distance from Florida to Illinois is 957 miles, it takes about 2-8 days to ship a car between the two states. From booking to delivery; 1-2 days is a pickup and loading window, then carriers dispatch the car on the given schedule. In standard car shipping, carriers wait for the trailer to be booked completely.

Apart from that, a 200-500 miles route takes 2-3 days, 500-1000 miles take 4-6 days, and a 1000+ miles route takes 8-10 days. The impacting factors, when shipping a car cross country, can also reduce or increase the total transit time such as weather, route, peak season, or certain modes of shipping like enclosed.

Cost Breakdown by Transport Type

Open Auto Transport

Florida to Illinois Car Shipping Costs with Open Car Transport are affordable and within the budget limit of many vehicle owners. The prices are estimated at around $800 to $1000 by expert carriers. Open car shipping is an open trailer transport method which is typically chosen by majority car owners. It is completely safe and is also fast as compared to other methods.

Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed Car Shipping Services cost 30-40% more or may be twice the cost of open shipping depending on car size, type, model, and location. It is a highly secure shipping method where your car is protected in a covered trailer protecting it from elements, debris, and scratches. This is comparatively slower than open shipping. If you have a high-value car, this service is for you.

What Affects the Cost of Shipping?

Below factors significantly affect FL to IL shipping rates.

Vehicle Type & Size

If you have large vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or vans they will probably cost more because they take up more size and have more weight. Smaller vehicles like sedans, Coupes cost less because they are easy to load and carry.

Distance & Route

Illinois to Florida is a very long route. Fuel, tolls, and the driver's time will affect the costs. Detours and remote pickup areas can raise the costs; it depends where your pick and drop off location is in these two states.

Seasonal Demand

Prices rise during winter and summers when many people move vehicles from IL to Florida increasing the demand for car shipping. Off-season months normally offer lower rates because the demand is low.

Delivery Preferences: Door-to-Door vs Terminal

Door to Door Car Shipping services are costly because the truck comes directly to your pickup location. Terminal shipping is way cheaper but requires dropping off and picking up the car at set locations.

Carrier Availability

When many carriers operate on the Florida to Illinois route, the competition keeps car shipping prices stable. But during busy seasons there is limited carrier availability which leads to higher shipping rates. That is why keeping the dates flexible can get you better rates from good companies.

Popular Florida to Illinois Routes

From To Delivery Time Quote
Florida Chicago, IL 2 – 3 days $699 – $899
Florida Aurora, IL 2 – 3 days $689 – $889
Florida Naperville, IL 2 – 3 days $699 – $899
Florida Joliet, IL 2 – 3 days $679 – $879
Florida Rockford, IL 3 – 4 days $729 – $929
Florida Springfield, IL 3 – 4 days $749 – $949
Florida Peoria, IL 3 – 4 days $739 – $939
Florida Champaign, IL 3 – 4 days $729 – $929
Florida Bloomington, IL 3 – 4 days $739 – $939
Florida Decatur, IL 3 – 5 days $759 – $959

Tips to Save Money on Florida to Illinois Car Shipping

Here are some useful tips to save on FL to IL car shipping:

Book Early

When you book your car shipment early gives carriers enough time to plan routes and combine loads. This reduces rush fees and last-minute charges, helping you secure a lower and more stable price for Florida to Illinois car shipping.

Choose Open Transport

Open transport is the most affordable option because several cars are shipped on one trailer at the same time. Since there is no extra protection or special handling, the overall shipping cost stays much lower.

Be Flexible with Pickup Dates

When you allow flexible pickup dates, carriers can adjust schedules and choose the most efficient route. This flexibility makes it easier to match your car with available trucks, which often results in cheaper rates.

Avoid Peak Weeks

Shipping during busy weeks, such as holidays or winter relocation periods, increases demand and prices. When you choose slower weeks, it helps you avoid competition for carrier space and keeps shipping costs more affordable.

Compare Multiple Quotes

If you want an affordable Cost to Ship a Car From Florida to Illinois, you must compare quotations from various carriers. To do it easily, use Car Shipping Cost Calculator available in carriers’ websites.

Do You Need Insurance When Shipping?

Yes, insurance is important when shipping a car because it protects your vehicle during transport. Even though auto transport is generally safe, cars travel long distances and face risks like road debris, weather, or minor accidents. Insurance helps cover repair costs if your vehicle is damaged while being shipped.

Most professional car shipping services include basic carrier insurance in the price. This covers damage caused during loading, unloading, or transit. However, coverage limits may vary, and some policies exclude personal items or pre-existing damage.

Having insurance gives peace of mind, particularly when shipping an expensive, classic, or long-distance vehicle. Before booking, always ask for proof of insurance and understand what is covered. Taking photos of your car before pickup also helps in case you need to file a claim.

Why Do So Many People Ship Cars on This Route?

Here are some solid reasons why people ship cars on the Florida to Illinois route.

Snowbirds Traveling South

Mostly retirees, older citizens, and people who are not used to harsh weather like freezing cold, they move to the south for calmer winters. Similarly, they spend their harsh summers of their state in the Northern states to avoid extreme hot and humid weather.

College Students

College students mostly ship their vehicle for convenience to the state where they stay for school. With the help of professional carriers you can reduce Florida to Illinois car shipping cost significantly.

New Vehicle Purchases

People buy vehicles in other states for many reasons; shipping them to their home state cannot be possible without Illinois or Florida car shipping services.

Moving or Relocating

Businesses and individuals move vehicles and relocate for various reasons like moving with a family, and setting up a new office. They hire professionals to ship a car cross country without any hassle. It is a great way to save on costs for bulk car shipments.

Should You Drive or Ship Your Car?

You should always get a professional carrier to ship vehicles from Florida to Illinois. Driving yourself is risky from yours and your car’s perspective. Moving with a carrier can save you from spending extra money on fuel, car maintenance on long routes, bad weather, and rough roads. You save your precious time and have peace of mind letting the carrier take the worry.

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

Choosing the right auto transport is the key to smooth and reliable car shipping service for the Florida to Illinois route. While there are many out there with great reputation, it is important to check reviews, years of experience, portfolio, facilities, and affordable costs.

You can get all these qualities in Bold Auto Transport. With more than a decade experience, and 4.7+ rating from credible customers. You can entrust Bold Auto Transport with your standard sedans, SUVs, exotic and luxury vehicles, and heavy corporate equipment. 

You can call for a free quotation now.

Using the Right Services for Your Route

For the Florida to Illinois route you can choose open transport if you want affordable services. For expensive or luxury cars enclosed shipping is a right choice. If you don’t have enough time to ship on a flexible schedule, you can get Expedited Auto Transport service with air or land cargo. For luxury cars, and your convenience you can choose door to door delivery service; you won't have to send anyone to the terminal or worry about paperwork, all will be done at your doorstep. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your carrier to choose the correct servie for a route.

How to Ship a Car From Florida to Illinois: Step-By-Step

1. Find Carrier for Florida to Illinois Car Shipping

Find multiple car shipping companies that frequently operate between Florida and Illinois. Finalize the best ones based on cost-effective services that have proper reviews and a name in the market.

2. Get Florida to Illinois Car Shipping Quote

Get quotations from those carriers using their online tools or contact them over the phone. You should provide all vehicle, location, and shipment method details. Now match the estimates with each other, look for anomalies, choose the carrier whose prices match with the market average. Finally, book a call with the best one.

3. Inspection and Pickup

After booking they will give you a pickup and inspection schedule. Before they arrive for pickup, prepare by cleaning it, removing all personal items, and taking images of the vehicle from all angles. They will load the car and schedule it for the shipment. Sign the bill of lading with the car's condition printed on it.

4. Delivery and Final Inspection

While your vehicle is on the way, you can track your car by getting updates on the phone or use their vehicle tracking system. They will deliver the car to your desired location. They will also make a final inspection. You must sign the bill of lading to make sure there are no damages.

Conclusion

It can simply be concluded that for car transport services from Florida to Illinois, you must know how to generate a cost estimate; getting quotes from multiple sources. Knowing how to choose the right company and right service for a specific route like this is also important for easy car shipping. Thus, you must follow the step by step guide to easily follow up on the car shipping processes.

FAQs: Cost to Ship a Car From Florida to Illinois

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from FL to IL?

The cheapest option is open transport with flexible pickup dates. Booking early and avoiding busy seasons also helps lower the overall cost.

How long does it take to get a quote?

Most car shipping companies provide quotes within a few minutes. Some may take a few hours if details like vehicle type or pickup location need review.

Is my vehicle insured during transport?

Yes, licensed car carriers include basic insurance during transport. This coverage protects your vehicle from damage caused while loading, unloading, or driving on the route.

Can I ship a non-running car?

Yes, non-running cars can be shipped, but they usually cost more. Special equipment like winches is needed to load and unload the vehicle safely.

Can I put personal items inside the car?

Some carriers allow a few personal items, but it is not recommended. Personal belongings are not insured and may cause delays or extra charges.

Should I choose open or enclosed transport?

Open transport is cheaper and commonly used for normal cars. Enclosed transport costs more and is better for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.

Can I track my car during transport?

Many companies offer tracking through phone updates or online systems. You can contact the broker or driver to get progress updates during the trip.

Are door-to-door deliveries available?

Yes, door-to-door delivery is available and very common. The carrier picks up and drops off your car as close to your address as possible.

How early should I book?

It is best to book at least one to two weeks early. Early booking gives you better prices and more carrier options.

Is this route available year-round?

Yes, Florida to Illinois car shipping services operate all year. Weather may cause small delays in winter, but carriers operate on this route in every season.

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