Top-Rated New Jersey to Illinois Car Shipping Company
Shipping a car from New Jersey to Illinois is a popular Midwest transport corridor used by families relocating, college students, military personnel, businesses, and seasonal travelers. Most vehicles shipped from New Jersey to Illinois arrive within 2 to 4 days after pickup, with carriers typically traveling along major interstate corridors including I-80, I-76, I-70, I-90, and I-55.
Start your free quote
Reviews
AmeriFreight Auto Transport Reviews
AmeriFreight Auto Transport is BBB-accredited and A-rated, and we're proud to say that customer service is our #1 priority. Don't just take our word for it, see what our customers have to say about our auto transport services!
Licensed & Accredited
How Much It Costs to Ship a Car from New Jersey to Illinois
Shipping a vehicle from New Jersey to Illinois typically costs between $900 and $1,100 using open auto transport, while enclosed auto transport generally ranges from $1,575 to $1,925 on this route. These estimates typically include the carrier's transportation charges, fuel costs, and basic carrier liability coverage during transit.
Every shipment is different, so your final price may vary depending on several factors, including the total shipping distance, your vehicle's size and weight, whether you choose open or enclosed transport, seasonal demand on the New Jersey-to-Illinois corridor, pickup and delivery flexibility, fuel prices, and whether the vehicle is operable. These figures are intended as estimates rather than guaranteed prices, and actual carrier rates may fluctuate based on current market conditions.
Call AmeriFreight Auto Transport at (770) 486-1010 to talk through what your specific shipment would cost.
Most Popular New Jersey to Illinois Car Shipping Routes
| Route | Distance | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL | Approximately 790 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL | Approximately 795 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Trenton, NJ to Springfield, IL | Approximately 865 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Princeton, NJ to Peoria, IL | Approximately 860 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Edison, NJ to Naperville, IL | Approximately 835 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Paterson, NJ to Rockford, IL | Approximately 915 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Cherry Hill, NJ to Champaign, IL | Approximately 785 miles | 2–3 Days |
| Toms River, NJ to Bloomington, IL | Approximately 880 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Atlantic City, NJ to Joliet, IL | Approximately 865 miles | 2–4 Days |
| Camden, NJ to Aurora, IL | Approximately 815 miles | 2–4 Days |
What Affects Your New Jersey to Illinois Car Shipping Cost
DISTANCE
The New Jersey-to-Illinois corridor generally covers between 750 and 1,000 miles, depending on your pickup and delivery locations. Distance is the largest factor affecting shipping costs because longer routes require more fuel, driver hours, equipment usage, and operating expenses for the carrier.
VEHICLE SIZE AND WEIGHT
Compact cars and midsize sedans generally cost less to transport than full-size SUVs, cargo vans, lifted trucks, or dually pickups. Larger and heavier vehicles occupy more trailer space and add additional weight, which can increase transportation costs.
PICKUP AND DELIVERY FLEXIBILITY
Customers with flexible pickup and delivery windows often receive more carrier options because drivers can efficiently group multiple vehicles traveling in the same direction. Expedited shipping requests or narrow scheduling windows usually increase transportation costs.
SEASONAL DEMAND
Demand on the New Jersey-to-Illinois route typically increases during summer moving season, university move-in periods, and around major holidays. Winter weather across Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and northern Illinois can also affect carrier schedules and availability, occasionally increasing shipping costs.
OPEN VS. ENCLOSED TRANSPORT
Open auto transport is the most commonly selected shipping option for this route and offers the lowest overall cost. Enclosed transport generally costs about 75% more, depending on seasonal demand and carrier availability, because fewer enclosed carriers operate this corridor and each trailer transports fewer vehicles.
FUEL PRICES
Diesel prices directly influence long-distance vehicle transport rates. Changes in fuel costs across this interstate corridor can affect carrier pricing throughout the year, particularly on longer shipments.
VEHICLE CONDITION
Vehicles that start, steer, brake, and roll are quicker and easier for carriers to load and unload. Inoperable vehicles typically require additional equipment such as winches and extra handling time, resulting in higher transport costs.
PICKUP AND DELIVERY LOCATION
Shipping between major metropolitan areas such as Newark, Jersey City, Chicago, Aurora, or Naperville is often more economical because carriers regularly service these markets using major interstate highways including I-80 and I-90. Rural communities or smaller towns away from primary freight corridors may require additional detours, increasing overall transportation costs.
How Long New Jersey to Illinois Car Shipping Takes
Most vehicles shipped between New Jersey and Illinois arrive within 2 to 4 days after pickup. Since auto carriers generally travel about 400 to 500 miles per day while transporting multiple vehicles, the roughly 1,000-mile route naturally falls within this transit window.
What Can Shift the Timing
- Several factors can influence how quickly your vehicle arrives. Weather conditions along major routes such as I-80, I-76, I-90, I-70, and I-55 may slow traffic, particularly during winter snowstorms or periods of heavy rain. Holiday travel, construction projects, and seasonal congestion can also affect schedules.
- Pickup and delivery accessibility also plays a role. Vehicles located near major metropolitan areas and interstate highways are often scheduled sooner than those in rural communities or neighborhoods with limited access for commercial transport trucks. Carrier availability and flexible pickup windows can also influence the overall timeline.
Best and Slowest Months on This Corridor
- Customers shipping between New Jersey and Illinois during April, May, September, and October generally experience strong carrier availability and steady transit schedules. These months typically provide balanced shipping demand and consistent freight movement across the Midwest and Northeast.
- Demand usually peaks during June through August because of summer relocations, college moves, and family vacations. Late November through early January can also be busier because of holiday shipping and winter weather across northern interstate corridors, which may result in longer carrier matching times and wider pickup windows.
Expedited Shipping Option
Expedited shipping is available for customers who need prioritized pickup and faster movement on the New Jersey-to-Illinois corridor. While expedited service gives your shipment scheduling priority, actual pickup and delivery timing still depends on carrier availability, weather, and highway conditions.
Popular New Jersey to Illinois City Routes
New Jersey and Illinois are connected by a well-traveled auto transport corridor serving relocations, corporate moves, college students, military transfers, and online vehicle purchases. Some of the busiest routes include Newark to Chicago, Jersey City to Naperville, Trenton to Springfield, and Camden to Aurora, where carriers regularly move vehicles using major interstate highways across the Midwest.
Service Areas in New Jersey Origin
AmeriFreight Auto Transport provides statewide vehicle shipping services throughout New Jersey, including Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison, Woodbridge, Lakewood, Toms River, Trenton, Camden, Cherry Hill, Hoboken, Clifton, Atlantic City, Vineland, Princeton, New Brunswick, and surrounding areas, location permitting. Whether you're shipping from a densely populated North Jersey suburb or a smaller community in Central or South Jersey, carriers regularly service the state's major transportation corridors.
Service Areas in Illinois Destination
AmeriFreight Auto Transport also serves customers throughout Illinois, including Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, Rockford, Elgin, Springfield, Peoria, Champaign, Bloomington, Waukegan, Decatur, Evanston, Schaumburg, Cicero, and surrounding areas, location permitting. Shipments are available to major metropolitan areas as well as many suburban and regional communities across the state through established carrier networks.
Should You Drive or Ship Your Vehicle From New Jersey to Illinois?
There is no single right answer when deciding whether to drive your vehicle or have it shipped from New Jersey to Illinois. While driving may initially appear less expensive, the total cost often includes fuel, hotel accommodations, meals, tolls, vehicle wear, maintenance, depreciation from added mileage, and several days of travel. For many people, the combination of professional auto transport and a one-way flight offers a more convenient and time-efficient alternative, particularly during a relocation or busy life transition.
Drive Cost Breakdown
| Expense Category | Driving Yourself | Shipping the Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Expense | Fuel | $130–$180 |
| Included in shipping price | Hotels | $150–$250 |
| None | Meals | $60–$120 |
| Minimal travel expenses | Vehicle wear & depreciation | $200–$350 |
| Avoided during transport | Travel time | Approximately 2 days |
| One-way flight of about 2–3 hours | Total Estimated Cost | Approximately $540–$900+ |
When Driving Makes Sense
Driving may be a practical choice if you have a flexible schedule, enjoy road trips, or already plan to make stops along the way. It can also make sense if adding mileage to your vehicle is not a significant concern.
When Shipping Makes Sense
Shipping is often the more practical option for longer interstate moves, households relocating multiple vehicles, seasonal moves, or customers who are already flying to Illinois. Professional transport also helps avoid unnecessary mileage, road wear, and the fatigue of a long-distance drive.
Get Started Today
Not sure which makes sense for your move?
Call (770) 486-1010 and an agent can walk through the math with you.
Open or Enclosed Auto Transport for the New Jersey to Illinois Route
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport is the standard shipping method for vehicles traveling from New Jersey to Illinois and is the option chosen by most customers. Because carriers frequently operate along major interstate routes including I-80, I-90, and I-55, open transport is widely available and generally provides the most economical pricing for this corridor. Vehicles remain exposed to normal weather and road conditions during transit, much like they would during a long-distance drive. Most sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and daily drivers are transported this way without issue.
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed transport is commonly selected for luxury, exotic, classic, collectible, and low-clearance vehicles moving between New Jersey and Illinois. An enclosed trailer provides additional protection from weather, road debris, and the normal exposure associated with several hundred miles of interstate travel through the Midwest and Northeast. Enclosed shipping generally costs about 75 percent more than open transport, although pricing varies depending on seasonal demand, route conditions, and carrier availability.
Simple 3-Step Process
How the Shipping Process Works
Shipping a vehicle from New Jersey to Illinois is generally a straightforward process that can be broken down into three simple steps.
The process begins by requesting a quote online or by calling AmeriFreight Auto Transport. You'll provide your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, your vehicle's year, make, and model, your preferred transport type if applicable, and your estimated pickup timeframe. AmeriFreight then prepares a shipping estimate based on the route, vehicle details, and current market conditions. No upfront payment is required before you choose a carrier.
No upfront payment until you choose a carrierOnce you approve moving forward, AmeriFreight matches your shipment with a vetted, USDOT-registered, and insured carrier operating on the New Jersey-to-Illinois route. The carrier contacts you to arrange the pickup window and confirm logistics. During pickup, the driver performs a detailed vehicle inspection, records its condition on the Bill of Lading, and loads the vehicle onto the transport trailer. You'll receive a copy of the inspection documentation for your records.
USDOT-registered & insured carriersYour vehicle typically travels along major interstate corridors such as I-80, I-90, I-76, I-70, and I-55, depending on the pickup and delivery locations. Upon arrival, you or another designated adult will inspect the vehicle with the driver, compare its condition to the original Bill of Lading, sign the delivery paperwork, and complete the shipment.
Bill of Lading signed at delivery
4.8
Over 1,500+ Reviews BBB
4.8
Over 4,513+ Reviews Consumer Affairs
4.7
Over 4,000+ Reviews Google
4.9
Over 4,000+ Reviews Transport Reviews
4.8
Over 9,500+ Reviews Move.org
4.9
Over 500+ Reviews Trustpilot
What to Expect on Delivery Day
When your vehicle arrives from New Jersey to Illinois, the carrier will typically call or text ahead to provide an estimated delivery window. Arrival times can shift because of traffic, construction, weather conditions, interstate delays, or other scheduled deliveries the driver is completing along the route through states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.
Commercial vehicle traffic, road work on major corridors like I-80 and I-90, or unexpected weather events can occasionally affect the final delivery schedule. The driver will keep you informed if adjustments become necessary while your vehicle is in transit.
An adult who is at least 18 years old must be present to accept the vehicle when it is delivered. If you cannot attend personally, you may authorize a trusted friend, family member, coworker, or relocation contact to inspect the vehicle and sign the delivery paperwork on your behalf.
At delivery, you and the driver will inspect the vehicle together and compare its condition against the Bill of Lading completed during pickup. Photos taken before shipping can be helpful during this inspection. If you notice any new scratches, dents, or other concerns, they should be documented on the Bill of Lading before signing the delivery paperwork.
If you notice any newly observed damage, document it immediately on the Bill of Lading while the driver is still present. Do not sign the paperwork as fully completed if something appears incorrect or damaged.
Customers enrolled in the AFTA PLAN gap protection program have 48 hours after delivery to report eligible damage.
The remaining carrier balance is typically paid when your vehicle is delivered. Depending on the carrier's policies, acceptable payment methods may include cash, certified check, or money order. Your customer service agent will explain the carrier's payment requirements before pickup so you know what to expect on delivery day.
Once the inspection is complete and the paperwork has been signed, your shipment is officially finished, you receive your copy of the signed Bill of Lading, and the carrier continues to the next scheduled delivery.
Preparing Your Vehicle for New Jersey to Illinois Transport
Preparing your vehicle for transport from New Jersey to Illinois only takes a little time before pickup, but it helps the inspection process go more smoothly and makes loading and unloading easier for both you and the carrier. Completing a few simple steps beforehand can also reduce misunderstandings about your vehicle's condition during transport.
What to Do
- Wash your vehicle before pickup. A clean vehicle makes it easier to identify existing scratches, dents, chips, or other cosmetic imperfections during the pickup inspection.
- Remove personal belongings. DOT regulations generally prohibit carriers from transporting household goods or loose personal items inside the vehicle. If a carrier allows a limited number of personal items, it usually requires prior approval and may involve additional restrictions or fees.
- Take photos before shipping. Photograph your vehicle from multiple angles, including close-up images of any existing cosmetic damage, to document its condition before transport.
- Leave about one-quarter tank of fuel. This provides enough fuel for loading and unloading while avoiding unnecessary weight on the carrier.
- Check the battery and tires. Make sure the battery is charged and the tires are properly inflated so the vehicle can be safely loaded and unloaded.
- Disable aftermarket alarms. Turning off alarm systems helps prevent unnecessary interruptions while your vehicle is being transported.
- Secure or remove exterior accessories. Fold in mirrors when appropriate and remove or secure antennas, bike racks, roof cargo boxes, spoilers, or other aftermarket accessories whenever possible.
- Provide a working key. The carrier will need a functional key to load, unload, and reposition the vehicle during transport.
Why AmeriFreight
Why Customers Choose AmeriFreight Auto Transport
AmeriFreight Auto Transport believes customers should know which carrier they're working with before paying for transport. No upfront payment until you choose a carrier.
Customers may cancel their shipment order without charge if the vehicle has not yet been dispatched to a carrier.
Cancel free before carrier dispatchAmeriFreight Auto Transport works with carriers that meet USDOT licensing and insurance requirements while maintaining public safety and performance records. Customers do not need to independently research or screen transport drivers before shipping.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport is one of the best-reviewed auto transport companies in the industry, with strong customer ratings across platforms including BBB, ConsumerAffairs, Google, Trustpilot, and Transport Reviews. Those reviews reflect customers' experiences with communication, carrier selection, and overall shipping service on routes across the country, including New Jersey to Illinois.
Carrier liability coverage applies while your vehicle is loaded and in transit, although coverage may include exclusions or deductible-related gaps depending on the situation. AFTA PLAN is an optional gap protection program designed to help cover up to a defined portion of your insurance deductible if eligible damage is reported within 48 hours of delivery. AFTA PLAN is not insurance and does not replace or extend the carrier's liability coverage.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport offers discounts for many qualifying customers shipping between New Jersey and Illinois, including:
Customer service agents can confirm which discounts apply to your shipment when you call.
Buyer's Guide
What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company for New Jersey to Illinois Routes
New Jersey-to-Illinois shipments are among the more commonly quoted interstate auto transport routes, so customers often receive multiple quotes that vary significantly in price and service. Understanding what separates an established auto transport company from a lead-generation website or unreliable operator can help you make a more informed decision.
Legitimate auto transport companies openly display their USDOT and MC numbers, typically on their website footer, About page, or company credentials section. You can independently verify these credentials using the FMCSA SAFER database before booking your shipment.
Auto transport pricing naturally changes based on seasonal demand, vehicle type, route conditions, and carrier availability. Quotes that are dramatically lower than the rest of the market may indicate bait-and-switch pricing, while legitimate estimates on the same route usually vary by hundreds—not thousands—of dollars.
Be cautious of companies requesting full payment before assigning a carrier to your shipment. Reputable transport companies generally collect payment only after you approve the carrier selected for your route.
Established transport companies typically maintain review histories across platforms such as BBB, ConsumerAffairs, Google, Trustpilot, and Transport Reviews. Consistent ratings across several review sites are generally a better indicator of long-term customer satisfaction than unusually high scores on a single platform.
Speaking directly with a live customer service agent is one of the easiest ways to confirm that an auto transport company is active and responsive. AmeriFreight Auto Transport customer service agents can be reached at (770) 486-1010 to answer questions about New Jersey-to-Illinois vehicle shipping.
Relocation Guidance
State Insights for New Jersey to Illinois Moves
Once you establish residency in Illinois, you generally have 90 days to transfer your out-of-state vehicle title and registration and obtain an Illinois driver's license. Illinois requires minimum liability insurance of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 for property damage, along with uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. Illinois follows a fault (tort) insurance system rather than a no-fault system like New Jersey.
Unlike New Jersey, Illinois does not require a statewide annual safety inspection for most passenger vehicles. However, emissions testing is required in many counties within the Chicago metropolitan area, including Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Will, Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair Counties for qualifying vehicles. When transferring your title, you'll typically need proof of ownership, proof of insurance, identification, and payment of applicable taxes and registration fees. Since DMV requirements can change, it's wise to verify current procedures with the Illinois Secretary of State before completing your registration.
Before moving out of New Jersey, make sure your vehicle registration is current and resolve any outstanding toll violations, parking tickets, or registration issues before transport. If your vehicle is financed, confirm with your lienholder that all ownership records are current and that you have any documentation needed for title transfer after your move.
New Jersey requires residents who cancel their registration after moving out of state to surrender their license plates to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) or follow another approved plate disposition process to avoid possible penalties or insurance complications. Because New Jersey is a no-fault insurance state, you'll also want to coordinate the cancellation of your existing policy only after replacement coverage begins in Illinois. If you're moving during winter, preparing your vehicle for possible snow, ice, or freezing temperatures before pickup can help ensure a smoother transport experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shipping a car from New Jersey to Illinois typically costs $900 to $1,100 for open auto transport and approximately $1,575 to $1,925 for enclosed transport. Your final estimate depends on the total distance, vehicle size and weight, transport type, seasonal demand, and pickup and delivery flexibility. These figures are estimates based on current market conditions rather than guaranteed prices. For a shipment-specific estimate, call AmeriFreight Auto Transport at (770) 486-1010.
Most vehicles arrive within 2 to 4 days after pickup. Once your vehicle is in transit, carriers generally travel about 400 to 500 miles per day, although weather, traffic, construction, pickup scheduling, and carrier availability can affect the overall timeline.
Yes. Either you or another trusted adult who is at least 18 years old should be present at both pickup and delivery. That person will inspect the vehicle with the driver, review the Bill of Lading, and sign the required paperwork.
Carrier liability coverage applies while your vehicle is loaded on the transport trailer and in transit. AmeriFreight also offers the optional AFTA PLAN gap protection program for qualifying shipments if eligible damage is reported within 48 hours of delivery. AFTA PLAN is not insurance and does not replace the carrier's liability coverage.
Open auto transport is the standard option for shipping vehicles between New Jersey and Illinois. It is typically the most economical choice and is used for the majority of daily drivers, SUVs, and pickup trucks. Vehicles remain exposed to normal road and weather conditions during transit, similar to what they would experience while being driven.
Enclosed transport generally costs about 75% more than open shipping and is commonly selected for luxury, exotic, collectible, classic, or low-clearance vehicles. The enclosed trailer provides additional protection from weather and road exposure during the trip.
Ready to Ship Your Car from New Jersey to Illinois?
Talk to a customer service agent. No upfront payment until you choose a carrier.
Auto Transport Services Coast to Coast, State to State
- Alabama Car Shipping
- Alaska Car Shipping
- Arizona Car Shipping
- Arkansas Car Shipping
- California Car Shipping
- Colorado Car Shipping
- Connecticut Car Shipping
- Delaware Car Shipping
- Florida Car Shipping
- Georgia Car Shipping
- Hawaii Car Shipping
- Idaho Car Shipping
- Illinois Car Shipping
- Indiana Car Shipping
- Iowa Car Shipping
- Kansas Car Shipping
- Kentucky Car Shipping
- Louisiana Car Shipping
- Maine Car Shipping
- Maryland Car Shipping
- Massachusetts Car Shipping
- Michigan Car Shipping
- Minnesota Car Shipping
- Mississippi Car Shipping
- Missouri Car Shipping
- Montana Car Shipping
- Nebraska Car Shipping
- Nevada Car Shipping
- New Hampshire Car Shipping
- New Jersey Car Shipping
- New Mexico Car Shipping
- New York Car Shipping
- North Carolina Car Shipping
- North Dakota Car Shipping
- Ohio Car Shipping
- Oklahoma Car Shipping
- Oregon Car Shipping
- Pennsylvania Car Shipping
- Rhode Island Car Shipping
- South Carolina Car Shipping
- South Dakota Car Shipping
- Tennessee Car Shipping
- Texas Car Shipping
- Utah Car Shipping
- Vermont Car Shipping
- Virginia Car Shipping
- Washington Car Shipping
- West Virginia Car Shipping
- Wisconsin Car Shipping
- Wyoming Car Shipping
Detailed video guides for every shipping requirement
Learn More About Auto Transport
Read Our Auto Transport Guides
Shipping a Flood-Damaged Car
Shipping a flood-damaged car? Learn risks, costs, and what carriers require to avoid delays, failed pickups, and costly surprises.
How to Properly Document Your Car Before Shipping
Don't let shipping damage deny your claim. Use this guide to meticulously document your car's condition before transport.
What to Remove from Your Car Before Shipping It Safely
Learn what to remove from your car before shipping to avoid delays, damage, or denied claims and understand the key rules and risk...
Ready to get an estimate from AmeriFreight
Auto Transport? Call us at (770) 486-1010
Get free quote
