Shipping a Car from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
The Los Angeles, CA–Chicago, IL route is a high-demand corridor. At approximately 1,742 miles, this is a long-distance shipment at around $0.69/mile for a standard sedan.
Current Pricing on This Route
| Transport Type | Vehicle | Estimated Cost | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | Sedan / Coupe | $1210–$1355 | Up to $250,000 |
| Open Transport | SUV / Truck (+18%) | $1428–$1599 | Up to $250,000 |
| Enclosed Transport | Sedan / Coupe | $1715–$2315 | Up to $1,000,000 |
| Enclosed Transport | Luxury / Classic | $1921–$2593 | Up to $1,000,000 |
Prices are estimates based on current carrier market data. Actual quotes vary by vehicle condition, exact location, and seasonal demand.
Transit Time
Once a carrier is dispatched, transit from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL typically takes 3–7 days. Allow 1–3 business days for carrier assignment. Total door-to-door time is usually 3–10 days depending on your pickup flexibility.
Tips for This Route
- Book 2–3 weeks ahead for best rates and carrier availability.
- Offer a flexible 3–5 day pickup window — reduces cost by 10–20%.
- Open transport is safe for 95% of vehicles — choose enclosed for luxury or classic cars.
- Never pay full balance upfront. Pay a deposit to book, balance at delivery.
- Verify your carrier's MC number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL?▼
Open transport from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL typically costs $1210–$1355 for a standard sedan. Enclosed transport runs $1715–$2315.
How long does it take to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL?▼
Transit time is typically 3–7 days once a carrier is dispatched. Total door-to-door time is usually 3–10 days.
Is it safe to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL?▼
Yes. All carriers are FMCSA-licensed and insured. Open transport carries coverage up to $250,000. Enclosed up to $1,000,000.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL?▼
Open transport at $1210–$1355. Book 2–3 weeks ahead with a flexible pickup window and compare quotes from multiple brokers.