Illinois to Kentucky Car Shipping You Can Count On

Last updated Nov, 12 2025

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 - Illinois to Kentucky

Last Updated: 2 days ago

Quick Answer: The average cost to ship a car from Illinois to Kentucky is $625, with delivery typically taking 2–4 days.

See route-specific prices and distances in the table below.

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 - $899.70	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 - $857.36	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

Do I need to be present for pickup or delivery when shipping my car from Illinois to Kentucky?

You do not always need to be present for pickup or delivery, but being there makes the process smoother. The driver will inspect your car and note its condition and mileage. If you cannot attend, you can authorize a trusted person to sign the paperwork on your behalf. Make sure to provide their full name and ID in advance so the vehicle can be released without delays.