Car Shipping in Illinois: 2026 Costs & Routes

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Before your car leaves Illinois, follow these simple steps to keep it safe and avoid delays:

1. Clean and document. Wash the exterior and take clear photos of any existing dents or scratches. This makes the inspection process smoother.

2. Remove personal items. Take out all loose belongings, toll tags, and any accessories (roof racks, bike racks, spoilers) that could be damaged or shift during transport.

3. Check fluids and battery. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, and that oil, coolant, and brake fluid are at proper levels. A weak battery can cause loading issues, so make sure it’s charged.

4. Secure the vehicle. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure, lock the steering wheel, and disable any alarms or anti‑theft devices.

5. Gather keys. Provide the carrier with all necessary keys (including remote fob) so they can perform a quick inspection and load the car.

For a full checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips. Following these steps helps ensure a smooth, damage‑free transit across Illinois and beyond.

Yes. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before a vehicle leaves the terminal, we verify that the carrier’s policy is active and covers the entire transit period. If a claim is needed, the carrier’s insurance handles it directly, and we assist you with the paperwork. This protection applies to every shipment to or from Illinois.

Schedule early, but give yourself a buffer. For most moves in Illinois we suggest booking your pickup at least 14 days in advance. This gives carriers time to plan routes, bundle your vehicle with nearby shipments, and secure the best price. If you’re moving during peak seasons (summer, holidays) or need a specific date, aim for 3‑4 weeks ahead. Booking later than two weeks can still work, but options may be limited and rates could rise.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. 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.

Open transport uses a standard multi‑car trailer with the top exposed. It’s the most common, cheapest option—typically 40‑60% less than enclosed. Vehicles are secured with straps, but they are still exposed to weather, road debris, and occasional scratches. Open is ideal for everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs that are in good condition and not highly valuable.

Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that shields the vehicle from the elements, dust, and debris. Because the trailer holds fewer cars (usually one or two) and requires more handling, the price is about 50‑70% higher than open. Enclosed is the best choice for classic cars, luxury or high‑value vehicles, custom paint, or any auto you want extra protection for during the trip.

In Illinois the choice also depends on season. Open trucks can still run in winter, but snow and road salt may increase the risk of surface damage. Enclosed trailers keep the interior dry and protected from salt spray, making them a safer bet in harsh weather.

Overall, pick open transport for cost‑savings on a regular vehicle, and choose enclosed transport when protection outweighs the extra cost.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics offers door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Illinois. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and deliver it to the drop‑off point you specify. If a street, gate, or safety issue prevents direct access, we will work with you to choose a nearby safe spot such as a gas station or parking lot.

Because we started in 2012 to break the broker monopoly, we keep costs low and stay transparent about each step. You’ll receive a clear timeline, real‑time updates, and a final delivery confirmation, so you always know where your car is.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!