
Illinois to Kentucky Car Shipping
Shipping a car from Illinois to Kentucky is a common route for both seasonal movers and vehicle buyers. Whether you're relocating for work, sending a car to a college student, or purchasing out of state, reliable auto transport can save you time and mileage. With roughly 400 miles between the two states, professional shipping offers a practical alternative to driving the distance yourself.
How Much Does It Cost?
Planning to transport a vehicle from Illinois to Kentucky? Knowing the cost upfront helps avoid surprises. Rates are typically based on vehicle size, shipping method, and distance. To get an accurate estimate, request a custom quote from an experienced provider like A-1 Auto Transport.
Auto Transport Pricing & Time Examples To Ship Your Vehicle
To / From Illinois to Kentucky | Distance | Cost | Estimated Time In Transit |
Chicago, IL To Louisville, KY | 300 miles | $539.10 - $658.90 | 2 - 4 Days |
Aurora, IL To Lexington, KY | 409 miles | $735.30 - $898.70 | 3 - 5 Days |
Naperville, IL To Bowling Green, KY | 442 miles | $795.96 - $972.84 | 3 - 5 Days |
Rockford, IL To Owensboro, KY | 404 miles | $726.66 - $888.14 | 3 - 5 Days |
Joliet, IL To Covington, KY | 305 miles | $548.82 - $670.78 | 2 - 4 Days |
Springfield, IL To Richmond, KY | 422 miles | $760.32 - $929.28 | 3 - 5 Days |
Peoria, IL To Georgetown, KY | 389 miles | $699.84 - $855.36 | 3 - 5 Days |
Elgin, IL To Florence, KY | 343 miles | $616.86 - $753.94 | 2 - 4 Days |
Champaign, IL To Hopkinsville, KY | 265 miles | $476.82 - $582.78 | 1 - 3 Days |
Waukegan, IL To Nicholasville, KY | 428 miles | $769.86 - $940.94 | 3 - 5 Days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
What is the Most Affordable Way to Ship a Car?

For budget-conscious customers, open carrier transport is the most affordable option. Your vehicle is shipped on an open-air trailer alongside others. While this method is cost-effective, it offers less protection from weather and road debris compared to enclosed shipping.
Major Pickup and Delivery Cities
In Illinois, vehicle pickups commonly occur in:
- Chicago
- Orland Park
- Aurora
- Champaign
- Springfield
Delivery in Kentucky often goes to:
- Louisville
- Lexington
- Bowling Green
- Frankfort
- Paducah
Estimated Distance and Transit Time
The average driving distance between Illinois and Kentucky is about 400 miles. Depending on the route, traffic, and pickup/drop-off locations, delivery usually takes 1 to 2 days. Enclosed transport or rural areas may slightly extend the timeline.

Other Items We Can Help You Relocate
In addition to standard vehicles, we handle:
- Motorcycles
- Mopeds
Trucks
Whether you’re relocating or buying a vehicle out of state, our Illinois to Kentucky car shipping services make the process smooth and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Illinois to Kentucky?
Shipping a car from Illinois to Kentucky typically costs between $567 and $760, depending on factors like the specific cities involved, vehicle size, transport type, and time of year. For example, shipping from Chicago to Louisville may range from $577 to $803.
How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to Kentucky?
Transit times usually range from 1 to 4 days, influenced by the exact pickup and delivery locations, carrier availability, and chosen transport method. For instance, shipping from Aurora, IL to Bowling Green, KY may take approximately 1 to 3 days.
Is my vehicle insured during transport from Illinois to Kentucky?
Yes, all auto transport companies are federally required to carry insurance that covers damages during transit. However, coverage limits can vary, so it's advisable to request a copy of the carrier's insurance policy and consider additional coverage for high-value vehicles.
Should I choose open or enclosed transport for shipping my car?
Open transport is the most common and cost-effective method, suitable for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport offers added protection from weather and road debris, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars. Enclosed shipping can cost up to 60% more than open transport.
Can I ship a non-running vehicle from Illinois to Kentucky?
Yes, non-operational vehicles can be shipped, but they require special equipment like winches for loading and unloading. This service may incur additional fees, so it's important to inform the transporter about the vehicle's condition in advance