Illinois to Kentucky Car Shipping You Can Count On

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Considerations

  • Illinois to Kentucky car shipping averages $450–$750, with open carrier service offering the most cost-efficient option for sedans.
  • Most deliveries complete in 1–3 days across this 300–400 mile route, depending on pickup location and trailer availability.
  • All transport partners are FMCSA-compliant with full cargo insurance; both door-to-door and rural pickup options are supported.
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Illinois to Kentucky Car Shipping You Can Count On

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.

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Auto Transport Pricing & Time Examples To Ship Your Vehicle

To / From Illinois to KentuckyDistanceCostEstimated Time In Transit
Chicago, IL To Louisville, KY300 miles$539.10 - $658.902 - 4 Days
Aurora, IL To Lexington, KY409 miles$735.30 - $898.703 - 5 Days
Naperville, IL To Bowling Green, KY442 miles$795.96 - $972.843 - 5 Days
Rockford, IL To Owensboro, KY404 miles$726.66 - $888.143 - 5 Days
Joliet, IL To Covington, KY305 miles$548.82 - $670.782 - 4 Days
Springfield, IL To Richmond, KY422 miles$760.32 - $929.283 - 5 Days
Peoria, IL To Georgetown, KY389 miles$699.84 - $855.363 - 5 Days
Elgin, IL To Florence, KY343 miles$616.86 - $753.942 - 4 Days
Champaign, IL To Hopkinsville, KY265 miles$476.82 - $582.781 - 3 Days
Waukegan, IL To Nicholasville, KY428 miles$769.86 - $940.943 - 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?

a truck parked by the roadside

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.

vehicle ready for transportation

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.

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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

Dave loved the fast delivery Dave C.
★★★★★
Dave loved the fast delivery
My relocation to Chicago was fast, smooth and without any delay thanks to A1 Auto.
Courtney enjoyed the honest guidance Courtney J.
★★★★★
Courtney enjoyed the honest guidance
Just what you need when trusting someone with your wheels! Kudos to this company!
Jeff enjoyed the fair price Jeff D.
★★★★★
Jeff enjoyed the fair price
Moved my ride hassle-free with these folks.Fair pricing, no surprises. Definitely recommend them!
Maria enjoyed the special care and safety Maria L.
★★★★★
Maria enjoyed the special care and safety
Huge thanks to the movers – they were meticulous with my car. Love these guys.
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“A1 Auto Transport became synonymous with top-notch service delivery, unfailing punctuality and constantly preoccupied with customer satisfaction.

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Heather Lindstrom
Quick Quote and Smooth Delivery
★★★★★

I requested a quote and got a fair price almost immediately. The car was picked up on the scheduled day, and we were kept updated by the driver throughout the trip. Everything arrived just as expected. Great experience overall with our Illinois to Kentucky move.

Jordan Vega
Friendly Driver, Stress-Free Shipping
★★★★★

I was nervous about sending my car so far, but the whole process was easier than I imagined. Anytime I had a question, it got answered right away. The driver was easygoing and communicative, and my car made it safely to its new home without a scratch.

Shaun Ellis
Fast, Transparent, and Reliable Service
★★★★★

The whole car shipping process felt seamless from getting an online quote to final delivery. Everything was on time and well communicated, which gave me peace of mind. I’d use A1 Auto Transport again without thinking twice.

Bryan Keener
Delivered Earlier Than Promised
★★★★★

We had two cars shipped and were thrilled when they arrived two days ahead of schedule. The driver kept us in the loop, was friendly, and the whole process was super straightforward. A1 Auto Transport handled everything from Illinois to Kentucky without a hitch.

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A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

CSI Logistics
435 Division Street
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
FMC 22206
Intl Cargo
45 Campus Drive
Edison, NJ 08837
NO. 17858N
Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.
3401 E Randol Mill Rd,
Arlington, TX 76011
NO. 018191NF
CFR Rinkens
15501 Texaco Avenue
Paramount, CA 90723
NO. 013055NF
ABC Worldwide LLC
2840 NW 2nd Ave #105
Boca Raton, FL 33431
NO. 025472F
ShipYourCarNow LLC
1160 South Rogers Circle Suite 1
Boca Raton, FL 33487
NO. 025646
Merco Air & Ocean Cargo, Inc.
6 Fir Way
Cooper City, FL 33026
NO. 021869F
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