If you’re planning a move from Illinois to Florida, you’re in good company. Every year, thousands of Illinois residents relocate to the Sunshine State for work, retirement, school, or simply to escape the Midwest winters.
Driving over 1,200 miles might seem like an adventure, but it can turn into a costly and time-consuming hassle. Between gas, hotels, food, and the wear and tear on your vehicle, the expenses add up fast. The smarter choice? Simply ship car from Illinois to Florida using a licensed, insured auto transport company.
In this guide, we’ll break down costs, routes, seasonal tips, and how to prepare your car so everything goes smoothly from pickup to delivery.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
The average cost to ship a car from Illinois to Florida ranges from $950 to $1,450, depending on several factors:
- Distance and ZIP codes
- Type of vehicle (sedan vs. SUV, modified or oversized)
- Open vs. enclosed trailer
- Time of year (peak vs. off-peak seasons)
For example, shipping a midsize SUV from Chicago to Orlando in the spring typically costs around $1,150 on an open carrier. Choosing enclosed transport or shipping during snowbird season may raise the price.
Choosing the Right Transport Type
When you decide to ship car from Illinois to Florida, one of your first decisions will be how you want your car transported:
- Open Car Transport: The most economical and popular option. Your vehicle is transported on an open-air trailer. It’s fully insured and ideal for standard cars.
- Enclosed Car Transport: Offers added protection from weather and road debris. Recommended for high-end, classic, or exotic vehicles.
If you’re shipping a daily driver, open transport is usually sufficient. For luxury or collector vehicles, enclosed shipping offers peace of mind.
Route Highlights and Major Highways
The most common routes for Illinois to Florida car shipping follow major interstate highways to ensure quick and efficient delivery. Top city-to-city combinations include:
- Chicago, IL → Miami, FL (~1,380 mi)
- Aurora, IL → Orlando, FL (~1,180 mi)
- Springfield, IL → Tampa, FL (~1,150 mi)
- Naperville, IL → Jacksonville, FL (~1,100 mi)
Popular highways used:
- I-65 S through Indiana and Kentucky
- I-24 E into Tennessee
- I-75 S through Georgia into Florida
Urban areas like Chicago and Miami may have truck access limitations. In those cases, your carrier will arrange a nearby location for safe pickup or drop-off. Rural areas might involve longer scheduling windows.
Seasonal Tips: When to Ship Your Car
Timing can affect both pricing and delivery speed. Here’s what to know about the seasons:
- Spring (March–May): Ideal for snowbirds returning north; moderate rates and availability.
- Summer (June–August): Peak season due to family relocations and student moves. Expect higher prices.
- Fall (September–November): Best mix of cost and availability. Great time to schedule a move.
- Winter (December–February): Snowbird season drives up demand. Book early to secure best pricing.
Also consider:
- Snowstorms in Illinois may delay pickups.
- Holiday closures and student move-in dates increase demand.
Preparation: How to Get Your Vehicle Ready for Transport
Getting your car ready ensures a smooth shipping experience. Here’s what to do:
- Wash the vehicle for a clear pre-shipping inspection
- Remove personal belongings and valuables
- Check fluids, tire pressure, and battery
- Disable alarms and remove toll tags
- Leave ¼ tank of gas
- Take photos of your car from all angles
If your vehicle isn’t driveable or the registration is expired, notify your shipping coordinator. Your car can still be transported, but the carrier will need special loading instructions.
Final Thoughts: Should You Ship or Drive?
Driving from Illinois to Florida might sound exciting, but it can easily cost $800 to $1,200 in gas, food, and hotels. Add the 1,200+ miles of road wear, the risk of breakdowns, and time lost—and the value of professional shipping becomes clear.
When you ship car from Illinois to Florida, you save time, reduce risk, and avoid unnecessary mileage. Your car is delivered by licensed, insured professionals, right to your destination.
So whether you’re relocating, retiring, or heading south for school or the season, trust Unlimited Auto Trans to move your vehicle the easy, safe, and smart way.
