Route guide · IL → CA

Shipping a car from Illinois to California

Shipping a running sedan from Chicago to Los Angeles costs about $1,175–$1,675 on an open carrier and $1,750–$2,525 in an enclosed trailer, with 5–8 days in transit. It ranks #30 among the 250 busiest car-shipping lanes, based on Census moving data.

Prices updated · Estimates, not quotes · Calculate for your car →

Open carrier, sedan
$1,425
Road miles
2,060
Days in transit
5–8
People moving a year
21.0K
Companies at both ends
171

City to city

What it costs between Illinois and California cities

Open-carrier prices for a running sedan between Chicago, Rockford, Springfield and Peoria and Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and San Jose — 1,890 to 2,220 road miles apart.

From Los Angeles San Francisco San Diego San Jose
Chicago $1,175–$1,6752,060 mi · 5–8 days $1,225–$1,7502,220 mi · 5–8 days $1,150–$1,6752,030 mi · 5–8 days $1,200–$1,7252,160 mi · 5–8 days
Rockford $1,150–$1,6501,990 mi · 4–8 days $1,200–$1,7002,140 mi · 5–8 days $1,150–$1,6251,960 mi · 4–7 days $1,175–$1,6752,080 mi · 5–8 days
Springfield $1,125–$1,6251,920 mi · 4–7 days $1,200–$1,7002,120 mi · 5–8 days $1,125–$1,6001,890 mi · 4–7 days $1,175–$1,6752,050 mi · 5–8 days
Peoria $1,125–$1,6251,930 mi · 4–7 days $1,175–$1,7002,110 mi · 5–8 days $1,125–$1,6001,900 mi · 4–7 days $1,175–$1,6752,050 mi · 5–8 days
Estimate, not a quote

A pickup or delivery far from these metros usually adds $75–$150. Quotes move with fuel prices and truck space, so treat these as a yardstick. Price your own addresses →

By vehicle

Price by vehicle type

Chicago to Los Angeles, 2,060 miles. Bigger and heavier vehicles take more room and weight on the trailer, so they cost more.

VehicleOpen carrierEnclosed
Sedan or small car$1,175–$1,675$1,750–$2,525
Midsize SUV or crossover$1,300–$1,875$1,975–$2,825
Large SUV (Tahoe, Expedition)$1,450–$2,100$2,200–$3,150
Pickup truck$1,525–$2,175$2,275–$3,275
Motorcycle$700–$1,000$1,050–$1,500

By month

Best time to ship

Prices on this lane peak in June–August (the summer moving peak), running about 8% above the quietest months. The cheapest time to ship from Illinois to California is January–May and September–November.

  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Cheapest: about $1,425 Peak: about $1,525

About this route

Why so many cars go from Illinois to California

About 20,968 people moved from Illinois to California in each of the last two years, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (21,982 in 2023, 19,953 in 2024). That is 7.2% of everyone who left Illinois for another state, making California its #5 destination.

Traffic runs both ways — about 15,794 people a year move from California back to Illinois — so carriers run this lane year-round and quotes tend to be steady.

How the price compares

At a typical $1,425, shipping from Illinois to California is among the most expensive routes out of Illinois; Arizona ($1,300) and Florida ($1,200) cost less. That works out to about 69¢ a mile — long hauls cost less per mile because loading and paperwork are spread over more distance.

Distance and transit time

At roughly 2,060 road miles, Chicago to Los Angeles is a cross-country haul. Federal hours-of-service rules cap truck drivers at 11 hours behind the wheel a day, so plan on 5–8 days in transit once the car is loaded. The car heads west and crosses 2 time zones — from Central to Pacific time — so confirm whether the delivery window you are given is in local time.

On the road

  • The route crosses mountain passes in the West; from November to March, snow and chain laws can hold trucks for a day or two.
  • Winter storms in Illinois can slow pickups and deliveries in December through February — leave slack in your schedule.

Companies

Car shipping companies for Illinois to California

Companies headquartered at either end of the route usually run this lane often. Filter by services, company type and safety record — every listing is matched to its FMCSA record.

  • Pickup end Illinois 83 companies · 67 carriers · 16 brokers · 1,481 trucks · 9 yrs avg.
  • Delivery end California 88 companies · 67 carriers · 24 brokers · 1,921 trucks · 12 yrs avg.

171 companies for this route

Eagle Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Carrier · 3 trucks · 18 yrs in business · USDOT 1810927

Eagle Auto Transport is a leader in auto transport and vehicle shipping industry for its competitive prices and on time transportation! If you are looking for…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • State-to-state shipping
  • +2 more

Above Auto Transport LLC

Featured FMCSA verified

Aurora, IL · Broker · 1 truck · 2 yrs in business · USDOT 4329939

At Above Auto Transport, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your vehicle shipping journey with care and expertise. Trust us for…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Terminal-to-terminal shipping
  • +5 more

AWZ Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Aurora, IL · Broker · 1 yrs in business · USDOT 4345482

We’re committed to revolutionizing automotive transport through industry-leading safety standards, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional customer service…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +4 more

BKK TRANSPORT

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 15 yrs in business · USDOT 2248306

Reliable & Professional nationwide transport for vehicles,cars,trucks, machinery equipment,motorcycles, trailers, boats, RVs, Freight,Power only,Tow away…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +4 more

Freight Wheels LLC

Featured FMCSA verified

Aurora, IL · Broker · 3 yrs in business · USDOT 4170050

A family-run team with 15+ years of hands-on experience. Real support, clear pricing, no hidden fees — from booking to delivery.

  • Open car transport
  • Terminal-to-terminal shipping
  • State-to-state shipping
  • +7 more

Karma Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 10 yrs in business · USDOT 2882553

What can we say, we're an awesome pack of car shipping experts. We value your trust and we make a habit of earning it time and time again with our…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Expedited shipping
  • +4 more

Lepke Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Aurora, IL · Broker · 35 yrs in business · USDOT 4237856

Family-owned auto transport brokerage shipping vehicles coast-to-coast since 1991. Trusted by thousands of customers nationwide.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +8 more

Lightning Car Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 4 yrs in business · USDOT 3971091

Never pay more than expected. Every customer is our VIP customer. Lightning Car Transport has over 14 years of industry experience. We offer reliable car…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +5 more

Nexus Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 11 yrs in business · USDOT 2801954

Nexus Auto Transport is a leading car shipping broker specializing in door-to-door transport service. Nexus vets all independent drivers via an extensive…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +2 more

Ship Guy Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 4 yrs in business · USDOT 3932149

We provide reliable nationwide car shipping with instant quotes, vetted carriers, and door-to-door delivery. Our team manages every detail to ensure your…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +13 more

Unlimited Auto Trans LLC

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 7 yrs in business · USDOT 3250475

At Unlimited Auto Trans, we understand that completely. However, we believe there are better ways to get from Point A to Point B. That's why we go the…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +7 more

USA Car Delivery

Featured FMCSA verified

Aurora, IL · Broker · 3 yrs in business · USDOT 4021820

As a premier auto transport provider, we take pride in offering an unrivaled level of service that eliminates any concerns or exertion on your part. With our…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +8 more

UWON CARRIERS LLC

Featured FMCSA verified

Aurora, IL · Broker · 8 yrs in business · USDOT 4445336

We're a nationwide auto transport broker built on transparency, fair pricing, and real human support. Since 2018, we've helped thousands of…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +12 more

Van 3 Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 12 yrs in business · USDOT 2511788

We have been in the business for over 30 years combined. We specialize in transporting automobiles all over the United States. Our international sector has…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +5 more

Orgil Auto Transport

FMCSA verified

Rosemont, IL · Carrier · 75 trucks · 16 yrs in business · USDOT 2005112

Family-owned Chicago-area car carrier serving OEMs, dealers, auctions and rental fleets across the U.S.

  • Open car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • Auction transport
  • +1 more

Extra Mile Transport

FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Carrier · 20 trucks · 10 yrs in business · USDOT 2841191

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +6 more

Auto Fury

FMCSA verified

Addison, IL · Carrier · 8 trucks · 5 yrs in business · USDOT 3587879

Chicago-area carrier shipping exotic, classic and everyday cars nationwide, insured up to $3.75 million.

  • Enclosed car transport
  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +3 more

M&N Auto Logistics LLC

FMCSA verified

Wonder Lake, IL · Carrier · 2 trucks · USDOT 4517500

Illinois nationwide auto transport with online quotes, booking and shipment tracking; open and enclosed options.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +3 more

Decatur, IL · Carrier · 1 truck · 27 yrs in business · USDOT 813878

Licensed carrier shipping imports, classics, exotics, antiques and machinery coast to coast at reasonable rates.

  • Open car transport
  • Classic car transport
  • Luxury car transport
  • +2 more

R&R Auto Haul

FMCSA verified

Palos Hills, IL · Carrier · 1 truck · 1 yrs in business · USDOT 4408691

Chicago-area car hauler with 24/7 dispatch and regular runs from Chicago to Florida, Texas and New Jersey.

  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery

AllState CarShip

FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 2 yrs in business · USDOT 4333281

Chicago auto transport broker offering door-to-door shipping for cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs and ATVs.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +3 more

Top Tier Auto Transport

FMCSA verified

Chicago, IL · Broker · 1 yrs in business · USDOT 4508426

Chicago auto transport broker with instant online pricing and open, expedited and enclosed shipping packages.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Expedited shipping
  • +2 more

Ace

FMCSA verified

Manhattan, IL · Carrier · 2 trucks · 20 yrs in business · USDOT 1491329

  • Satisfactory safety rating

Hilton Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 16 trucks · 34 yrs in business · USDOT 2232328

We are a family owned and operated nationwide auto transport and auto moving company with long experience specializing in shipping cars around the United…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +7 more

Flat Price Moving and Auto Shipping

Featured FMCSA verified

San Francisco, CA · Carrier · 1 truck · 11 yrs in business · USDOT 2815075

Each move is unique, factoring in variables like size, distance, and more. Moreover, each auto transport company or moving firm has its distinct pricing and…

  • International car shipping
  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • +12 more

Andrew Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

San Jose, CA · Broker · 14 yrs in business · USDOT 2344959

At Andrew Auto Transport, we provide secure, stress-free vehicle shipping solutions tailored to your needs. Our door-to-door service makes transporting your…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +6 more

Auto Express Inc.

Featured FMCSA verified

San Diego, CA · Broker · 6 yrs in business · USDOT 3428899

Auto Express Inc. started in Long Island, NY—a market most drivers avoided. We fearlessly traversed the entire country, accustomed to every challenge we faced…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Terminal-to-terminal shipping
  • +1 more

BAH Logistics

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 10 yrs in business · USDOT 3895194

Founded in 2016 and headquartered in North Hollywood, California, BAH Logistics LLC is a federally licensed auto transport broker. We connect customers with a…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +11 more

Direct Express Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

San Francisco, CA · Broker · 15 yrs in business · USDOT 2231879

In 2004, Direct Express Auto Transport changed the vehicle logistics industry forever. Before we launched, getting a car shipping quote meant hours of phone…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +8 more

Landing Pad LLC

Featured FMCSA verified

San Jose, CA · Broker · 6 yrs in business · USDOT 3486358

San Jose auto transport broker operating as CarHauler247, with instant online quotes and booking.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +6 more

LISCA Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 4 yrs in business · USDOT 3945638

LISCA Auto Transport is your trusted nationwide shipping solution. We specialize in transporting cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, and RVs safely and…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +5 more

MG Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

San Diego, CA · Broker · 5 yrs in business · USDOT 3731944

We are a family owned and operated business. Our goal is to get your vehicle to its destination safely and on time. With our several years of pertinence we…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +7 more

Move Auto

Featured FMCSA verified

San Francisco, CA · Broker · USDOT 2223433

Relocate with ease! Moveauto transports vehicles across North America for individuals, families, and businesses. With 30 years of experience, you can trust us…

  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • Terminal-to-terminal shipping
  • +7 more

Nationwide United

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 13 yrs in business · USDOT 2423753

At Nationwide United Auto Transport our goal is simple, provide fast, safe and reliable vehicle transport.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +4 more

Revoway Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 4 yrs in business · USDOT 3884383

Revoway was founded for one reason: to revolutionize the industry and address existing gaps. Committed to constant growth, we have developed outstanding and…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +9 more

Send It Car Shippers

Featured FMCSA verified

San Diego, CA · Broker · 6 yrs in business · USDOT 3517052

At Send It Car Shippers, we offer a diverse range of auto transport services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our comprehensive vehicle…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Cross-country shipping
  • +2 more

Shelby Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 4 yrs in business · USDOT 3813762

Shelby Auto Transport – the difference. In an industry as expansive as auto transport, a company’s reputation isn’t just built on efficiency but on a deeper…

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +10 more

Tempus Logix Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 8 yrs in business · USDOT 3117533

Tempus Logix has a vast network of mandatory insured and bonded carriers with whom we continually work.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +6 more

US Canada Auto Transport

Featured FMCSA verified

San Diego, CA · Broker · 15 yrs in business · USDOT 2244295

Cross-border car shipping between the USA and Canada with customs handling, in business since 1985.

  • International car shipping
  • Snowbird car shipping
  • Open car transport
  • +2 more

Los Alamitos, CA · Carrier · 965 trucks · 32 yrs in business · USDOT 568253

Large Los Alamitos, CA auto carrier with 30+ years of experience, moving new and remarketed vehicles coast to coast.

  • Satisfactory safety rating
  • Open car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • Auction transport
  • +2 more

Deluxe Auto Carriers

FMCSA verified

Jurupa Valley, CA · Carrier & broker · 172 trucks · 21 yrs in business · USDOT 1326050

Southern California car carrier in the Proficient Auto Logistics group, moving finished vehicles to dealerships.

  • Open car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • Cross-country shipping

DBN Auto Transport

FMCSA verified

Anaheim, CA · Carrier · 75 trucks · 9 yrs in business · USDOT 2979175

Woman-owned Anaheim car carrier established in 2012, with soft-tie trailers and camera/GPS on every truck.

  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • Dealer transport

Quality Car Shippers LLC

FMCSA verified

Murrieta, CA · Carrier · 38 trucks · 14 yrs in business · USDOT 2350131

Family-owned Murrieta, CA car carrier serving dealers, rental companies, auctions and OEMs across the lower 48.

  • Open car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • Auction transport
  • +1 more

Auto Line Express Inc

FMCSA verified

Gardena, CA · Carrier · 37 trucks · 13 yrs in business · USDOT 2437733

Gardena, CA car carrier moving thousands of finished vehicles a year across the U.S. and Canada since 2013.

  • Open car transport
  • Expedited shipping
  • Dealer transport
  • +3 more

Intercity Lines, Inc

FMCSA verified

San Francisco, CA · Carrier · 24 trucks · 46 yrs in business · USDOT 223672

  • Satisfactory safety rating
  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +9 more

A Plus Auto Shippers LLC

FMCSA verified

Palm Desert, CA · Carrier · 7 trucks · 31 yrs in business · USDOT 616815

Licensed and bonded auto carrier from the Phoenix and Palm Desert area shipping cars and trucks nationwide.

  • Satisfactory safety rating
  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Cross-country shipping

All Star Auto Transport

FMCSA verified

Chino, CA · Carrier · 5 trucks · 23 yrs in business · USDOT 1162498

Chino, California auto carrier moving vehicles in California and Texas since 2005.

  • Open car transport
  • State-to-state shipping

CA Auto Express Inc

FMCSA verified

Santa Ana, CA · Carrier · 3 trucks · 10 yrs in business · USDOT 2896862

Southern California motor carrier shipping vehicles on its own trucks, coast to coast and within California.

  • Open car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • Auction transport
  • +2 more

Golden Key Express

FMCSA verified

Fresno, CA · Carrier · 1 truck · 25 yrs in business · USDOT 966726

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +7 more

Lucky Star Auto Transport

FMCSA verified

San Jose, CA · Carrier · 1 truck · 14 yrs in business · USDOT 2353323

Family-owned San Jose car carrier offering open, door-to-door auto transport nationwide since 2012.

  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • Cross-country shipping
  • +1 more

ABC Car Shipping

FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 5 yrs in business · USDOT 3730551

At ABC Car Shipping, our objective is to make safe vehicle shipments across the U.S. affordable to everyone, regardless of their location or shipping distances

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +16 more

American Auto Line

FMCSA verified

Fortuna, CA · Broker · 2 yrs in business · USDOT 4230662

California auto transport broker with 15+ years of experience, pairing customers with vetted carriers.

  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • Cross-country shipping

Corsia Logistics

FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 13 yrs in business · USDOT 2405616

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • +8 more

Course Correct LLC

FMCSA verified

San Jose, CA · Broker · 3 yrs in business · USDOT 4169571

Licensed and bonded San Jose car shipping broker arranging door-to-door vehicle transport nationwide.

  • Open car transport
  • Door-to-door delivery
  • Cross-country shipping
  • +1 more

Ship Auto

FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Broker · 5 yrs in business · USDOT 3607939

Los Angeles auto transport broker shipping single cars, dealer inventory and auction vehicles nationwide.

  • Open car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • Auction transport
  • +2 more

TFI Trans

FMCSA verified

Los Angeles, CA · Carrier & broker · 13 yrs in business · USDOT 2430736

Los Angeles auto transport broker since 2013 arranging nationwide car shipping for consumers, dealers, fleets and EV makers.

  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car transport
  • Dealer transport
  • +2 more

FAQ

Illinois to California car shipping: questions

Numbers on this page come from our price model, Census moving data and California's DMV.

How much does it cost to ship a car from Illinois to California?

For a running sedan on an open carrier, expect about $1,175–$1,675 from Chicago to Los Angeles (2,060 road miles). Between other big cities in the two states prices range from $1,125–$1,750. An SUV costs about $1,300–$1,875, a pickup $1,525–$2,175, and an enclosed trailer $1,750–$2,525 for a sedan.

How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to California?

Transit is usually 5–8 days after pickup for the 2,060-mile trip from Chicago to Los Angeles. Getting the car picked up takes another 1–5 days on a standard booking; expedited pickup within 1–2 days costs about 30% more.

When is the cheapest time to ship a car from Illinois to California?

January–May and September–November is the cheapest window on this lane. Prices are highest in June–August, up to about 8% more. Whatever the month, a flexible pickup date booked 2–3 weeks out gets the best price.

How soon do I have to register my car in California after moving?

California requires new residents to register within 20 days of becoming a resident. The car must pass a California smog check, and it has to meet California emission standards to be registered at all.

Is it cheaper to drive or ship my car from Illinois to California?

Driving 2,060 miles takes about 5 days: roughly $260 in gas and 4 nights of hotels and meals (about $560). Shipping a sedan costs about $1,175–$1,675. Add wear on the car and 5 days off work, and the two come out close.

Which car shipping companies go from Illinois to California?

Our directory lists 83 companies based in Illinois and 88 based in California, each checked against FMCSA records, plus 192 that ship nationwide.

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