How Much Does Car Shipping from California to Illinois Cost?

Shipping a car from California to Illinois typically takes around 4 to 6 days, but the exact duration can vary based on several factors.

Understanding the Car Shipping Process and Costs

When considering shipping your vehicle from California to Illinois, it's important to be aware of the key components of the process and the factors that impact the overall cost.

Shipping Times and Factors Affecting Them

The shipping duration from California to Illinois is generally estimated to be between 4 to 6 days. However, several factors can influence this timeframe, including weather conditions, carrier capacity, and the availability of shipping routes. Whileopen auto transport is typically faster and less expensive due to high availability, the specific carrier type (open or enclosed trailer) and delivery timeframe (standard or expedited) will play a significant role in the overall cost and efficiency of the process.

Carrier Types and Delivery Options

The choice of carrier type is crucial when shipping a car. Standard everyday sedans, such as a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, are usually transported using an open-air trailer. However, for high-end sports or luxury automobiles or any classic vehicles, an enclosed trailer is recommended to ensure safe transport.

When it comes to delivery options, standard car shipping involves the carrier picking up your vehicle after a few days and delivering it within 5-7 days. It's important to note that all estimated dates and times should be taken as approximations.

For customers who require guaranteed delivery times, expedited delivery is an option. Expedited shipping can ensure that the vehicle is picked up or delivered on or by a specified date and time, but comes at a higher cost.

Vital Information on Pick-Up and Documentation

To initiate the car shipping process, the vehicle must be released to the carrier at the point of pick-up. Generally, the person responsible for this release should have the authority to do so. Upon pick-up, a Bill of Lading (BOL) must be signed. This document serves as both a receipt and an inspection report, requiring the carrier to inspect the car and mark any pre-existing damages. It's crucial that all marks or notes are visible before the document is signed to protect your interests.

Current Average Shipping Costs

The average cost for car shipping from California to Illinois as of August 2021 is approximately $1,300, including taxes, tolls, shipping insurance, and reservation fees. While many brokers might offer a lower initial price to attract customers, this pricing strategy can be risky and is not recommended for both the customer and the carrier.

Example of Current Rates:

Below is an example of the rates accepted by various carriers for shipping a car from California to Illinois, including a $300 loading fee:

A-Z Auto Transport charges a total of $1,300 to ship a car from California to Illinois, which is equivalent to $0.49 per mile, with a distance of approximately 2,022 miles. Roadrunner and Montway charge up to $1,600 for the same distance.

Understanding the Process to Avoid Stress

While the primary concern may be the price, understanding the car shipping process is crucial. This knowledge helps prevent unnecessary anxiety and stress, as you can expect the process to unfold as planned.

By carefully considering the carrier type, delivery options, and understanding the requirements at the pick-up point, you can ensure a smoother and more secure transportation of your vehicle from California to Illinois. Whether you require standard or expedited delivery, the process is designed to handle your needs effectively while keeping costs within a reasonable range.