Shipping a Car from Chicago, IL to Nashville, TN
Chicago, IL to Nashville, TN is a 474-mile heading south run that runs through Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. Transit after dispatch is about 1–2 days (9 hours of driving, plus stops). This lane sees steady, moderate demand.
What Chicago to Nashville Costs
A sedan on an open trailer is priced at roughly $355–$520 on this haul, or $0.92 for each of the 474 miles. For a larger vehicle plan on $400–$580, and for enclosed carriage of a sedan plan on $515–$755 (about 45% above open). For scale, Atlanta, GA to Tampa, FL is a similar 496-mile move at $370–$545. The reverse haul, Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL, comes in at $350–$510.
| Transport Type | Vehicle | Typical Price | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open | Sedan / Coupe | $355–$520 | Standard choice for everyday cars |
| Open | SUV / Truck | $400–$580 | Larger vehicles, same trailers |
| Open | Minivan | $400–$580 | Larger vehicles, same trailers |
| Enclosed | Sedan / Coupe | $515–$755 | Maximum protection from weather and debris |
Figures assume a standard sedan; actual quotes vary with exact addresses, condition and season.
The Route and Corridor
The direct line between the two cities crosses Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. In Illinois, I-80, I-90, I-94 and I-55 all pass through the Chicago area. In Kentucky, I-64, I-65 and I-75 meet around Louisville and Lexington. Indiana: I-65, I-70, I-69 and the I-80/I-90 toll road make it a true crossroads. Toll roads in Illinois and Indiana are built into carrier pricing.
Timing and Seasonality
Lake-effect and winter storms in the northern states can delay pickups from December through February. Start getting quotes roughly two weeks ahead for a move of 474 miles. Across Illinois expect harsh winters and strong winds off the lake; across Tennessee, winter ice on the Cumberland Plateau.
Pickup and Delivery Details
Pickup in Chicago. The nation's busiest rail and trucking crossroads, with I-55, I-90 and I-94 feeding most long hauls. The main approaches to Chicago are I-55, I-90 and I-94. The nearest major airport, O'Hare International Airport, is a common landmark for meeting a driver.
Delivery in Nashville. Nashville is a freight crossroads, so there is usually a truck passing through. The nearest major airport, Nashville International Airport, is a common landmark for meeting a driver. Fast-growing Tennessee hub at I-24/I-40/I-65 with heavy relocation volume.
Practical Tips for This Lane
- Inspect at both ends. Walk around the car with the driver in Chicago and again in Nashville, and note anything on the bill of lading.
- Choose the trailer deliberately. Open at $355–$520 fits most cars; enclosed at $515–$755 suits luxury, classic or low cars.
- Be flexible on the date. A three-day pickup window lets dispatchers slot your car into a load heading south.