Illinois to Florida Auto Transport
Hassle-Free Vehicle Shipping from the Land of Lincoln to the Sunshine State
Need to move your car from Illinois to Florida? Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or escaping the cold Midwest winters, Unlimited Auto Trans makes the process smooth, safe, and affordable. We’ve successfully shipped over 12,000 vehicles between IL and FL since 2010, offering fully insured, door-to-door service tailored to your schedule.
Car Shipping From Illinois To Florida
Whether you’re relocating from Chicago to Miami or transporting a vehicle from Springfield to Tampa, our Illinois to Florida car shipping services are built around convenience, safety, and competitive pricing. Choose from multiple transport options based on your timeline and vehicle type:
- Open Auto Transport – Our most popular and economical choice, ideal for everyday vehicles
- Enclosed Auto Transport – Offers extra protection for classic, luxury, or high-value cars
- Expedited Car Shipping – Priority pickup and faster delivery when time is of the essence
Why Ship with Unlimited Auto Trans from IL to FL?
- Over 12,000 vehicles successfully transported between Illinois and Florida since 2010
- Experienced with major routes like I-65, I-24, and I-75 South through Georgia into Florida
- Preferred choice for students, military families, snowbirds, and car buyers
- Full coverage from 60601 (Chicago) to 33101 (Miami) and beyond
How It Works – Simple 3-Step Process
1. Get a Quote
Enter your pickup and delivery info, vehicle type, and preferred date. No commitment.
2. Schedule Your Pickup
We assign a licensed, insured carrier to collect your vehicle at your convenience.
3. Track & Receive Your Vehicle
Enjoy peace of mind with real-time updates until your vehicle arrives safely in Florida.
Popular Illinois to Florida Routes, Costs and Transit Time
Our most requested Illinois to Florida car shipping routes span approximately 1,000 to 1,400 miles, depending on your starting point and destination. These routes primarily follow major corridors like I-65 S, I-24 E, and I-75 S, ensuring efficient and direct delivery throughout the Southeast.
Real Shipping Examples
Interstate Shipping Insights: Illinois to Florida
- Chicago → Miami: Highly popular among relocating professionals, seasonal travelers, and snowbirds
- Aurora → Orlando: Common for families moving to Central Florida for work or education
- Springfield → Tampa: Regularly booked by retirees and online car buyers
- Naperville → Jacksonville: Frequently used for military relocations and vehicle resales
- Champaign → Fort Lauderdale: Trusted route for dealerships and auction house deliveries
Key Considerations for Illinois & Florida Auto Transport
- Urban Congestion: Cities like Chicago and Miami may limit large carrier access; flexible pickup/drop-off points are available
- Suburban Logistics: Towns like Elgin, IL or Port St. Lucie, FL may require extra coordination due to narrow roads or local ordinances
- Rural Areas: Locations outside city limits in IL or FL may involve extended transit times but are still fully covered
Highways Commonly Used for Illinois to Florida Car Shipping
- I-65 South: A major route from Northern IL through Indiana and Kentucky
- I-24 East: Connects I-65 to central Tennessee, providing access to I-75
- I-75 South: A key corridor through Georgia into all major regions of Florida
Why choose Unlimited Auto Trans?
What Sets Us Apart
Upfront Flat Rates
No hidden fees or surprise charges
Dedicated Shipping Coordinators
Personalized updates at every step
Top-Rated Carriers Only
Fully licensed, insured, and vetted transporters
Flexible Pickup Options
From major cities to rural ZIPs
Nationwide Coverage
Coast-to-coast service for any destination
Upfront Flat Rates
No hidden fees or surprise charges
Dedicated Shipping Coordinators
Personalized updates at every step
Top-Rated Carriers Only
Fully licensed, insured, and vetted transporters
Flexible Pickup Options
From major cities to rural ZIPs
Nationwide Coverage
Coast-to-coast service for any destination
Types of Vehicles We Ship from Illinois to Florida
We offer tailored transport solutions for every type of vehicle:
- Sedans, coupes, hatchbacks
- SUVs, crossovers, vans
- Pickup trucks and lifted vehicles
- Classic cars, motorcycles, and show vehicles
- Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids – with special attention to battery care and charging port protection
Car Brands We Ship from Illinois to Florida
We handle all makes and models with the right equipment and attention to detail:
- EVs: Tesla, Lucid, Rivian — with secure handling of sensitive components
- Luxury: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lexus, Audi, Porsche
- Daily Drivers: Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevy, Nissan
- Special Handling: Salvage, auction, or inoperable vehicles with winch or flatbed service
Our Clients in Illinois and Florida
We proudly serve a diverse range of customers across both states, including:
- Families relocating from the Chicago suburbs to South Florida
- Retirees moving vehicles from IL to FL for seasonal living
- Students moving to Florida campuses like UF or UCF
- Military personnel stationed between Great Lakes Naval Station and Florida bases
- Online car buyers, auto dealerships, and classic car collectors
Popular Auto Events in IL & FL
- Chicago Auto Show (IL): One of the largest and oldest car shows in the country
- Miami International Auto Show (FL): Premier auto event in the Sunshine State
- Naperville Classic Car Nights (IL): Popular suburban showcase for collector vehicles
- Daytona Turkey Run (FL): Large classic car gathering attracting shippers and buyers
Cross-State Moving Trends: Why People Ship Cars from IL to FL
Illinois residents frequently relocate to Florida for better weather, job transfers, retirement, or seasonal living. Conversely, Florida buyers often purchase vehicles from Illinois dealerships and auctions due to selection and pricing advantages.
Top 5 Reasons People Ship Cars from Illinois to Florida
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
Get an Instant Illinois to Florida Car Shipping Quote
Planning to ship your vehicle from Illinois to Florida? Whether you’re moving from Chicago (60601) to Orlando (32801) or transporting a car from Rockford (61101) to Tampa (33602), we make it easy to get fast, accurate pricing with no surprises.
Estimated Price & Time Frame
- Cost Range: $950 – $1,450
- Transit Time: 5–7 business days
Prices vary based on vehicle type, trailer selection, pickup/delivery ZIP codes, and seasonal trends.
Our quotes are all-inclusive and tailored to your exact route — no hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or bait-and-switch tactics. You get transparent pricing and expert logistics support every step of the way.
Factors Affecting Price
- Vehicle Type: Larger or modified vehicles (e.g., trucks, vans, lifted SUVs) require more space or special equipment.
- Transport Method
- Open Transport: Affordable and ideal for standard vehicles
- Enclosed Transport: Offers maximum protection for high-value or delicate cars
- Pickup & Delivery Locations: Shipping between major cities like Naperville to Miami is more cost-effective than rural routes such as Champaign to Port St. Lucie
- Seasonal Demand: Florida-bound snowbird season (fall and winter) and summer relocation spikes may affect rates — book early for the best availability
Expert Seasonal Tips for Auto Transport from Illinois to Florida
Best Times of Year to Ship
- Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are ideal for Illinois to Florida car shipping. Milder temperatures and steady demand make for smoother scheduling and reliable delivery windows.
- Summer (June–August): Expect high demand and rate increases, especially around college towns like Champaign, Naperville, and popular Florida destinations like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami. This is peak relocation season for families and students.
- Winter (December–February): While Florida roads remain clear, icy conditions in Northern Illinois (e.g., Rockford, Peoria) and the Midwest may delay pickups. Snowbirds migrating south should book early to secure the best rates and availability.
Events That May Impact Your Schedule
- Snowbird Migration (October–January): Significant uptick in demand for Florida-bound shipments, especially to Miami, Naples, and Fort Myers
- University Move-In Season (August): Thousands of students relocating from Illinois to Florida schools like University of Florida, Florida State University, or UCF increase competition for shipping slots
- Chicago Auto Show (February): One of the largest events in the region may impact carrier availability for enclosed and exotic vehicle transport
- Holiday Season (November–December): Carrier availability drops due to holiday closures, especially around Thanksgiving and New Year’s
What Slows Things Down?
- Severe Weather: Snowstorms in Illinois or hurricanes in Florida can lead to unexpected delays and rerouting
- Urban Congestion: Dense city areas like Downtown Chicago and Miami Beach may require advance coordination due to limited access
- Remote ZIP Codes: Deliveries to rural areas near Southern Illinois or Florida Keys can take longer to schedule
- High Seasonal Demand: Expedited or enclosed carriers book quickly—especially in the winter and summer months
Tips for Avoiding Delays and Peak Rates
- Book Early: Schedule at least 2–3 weeks ahead during busy seasons to secure the best price and carrier availability
- Be Flexible: A 2–3 day pickup or delivery window increases your chances of a faster match
- Meet at Metro Locations: If you’re located in rural Illinois or Florida, consider meeting your driver in Chicago, Springfield, Orlando, or Tampa for more efficient service and lower rates
Car Shipping Laws & Regulations in Illinois and Florida
Understanding the legal and regulatory requirements for each state helps ensure your Illinois to Florida car shipping process is smooth and compliant. Below are key points to consider before, during, and after shipping your vehicle.
Vehicle Registration & Title Requirements
- Illinois:
Before shipping a vehicle out of Illinois, confirm that your car is registered and that the title is clear of unresolved liens. If you’re selling your car to a buyer in Florida, you must properly sign and transfer the title before the carrier picks it up.
- Florida:
If you’re relocating permanently to Florida, you must register your vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency. To complete Florida registration, you’ll need:
- A valid out-of-state title
- Proof of identity and Florida residential address
- Florida auto insurance (must be issued by a FL-licensed provider)
- Completed Form HSMV 82040 (Application for Certificate of Title)
- VIN verification (required for some vehicles)
Emission Standards
- Illinois:
Emissions testing is required in designated metro areas such as Chicago, Aurora, and Lake County. If your vehicle is due for an emissions test before shipping, complete it beforehand to avoid delays with registration or title transfers.
- Florida:
Florida currently does not require emissions testing for most vehicles. However, your car must still meet federal EPA standards when entering the state, especially if it will be registered for long-term use.
Transport Regulations
- Insurance Coverage:
All auto transports arranged by Unlimited Auto Trans are covered by fully insured and USDOT-licensed carriers. No need to purchase additional insurance — your quote includes coverage.
- Permits & Access Restrictions:
In dense metro areas like Downtown Chicago or Miami Beach, local ordinances or HOA rules may restrict access for large transport trucks. If that’s the case, our dispatchers will coordinate a safe, legal nearby transfer point for pickup or drop-off.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Illinois to Florida Car Shipping
Vehicle Shipping Checklist
- Clean Your Car (Inside & Out)
- Remove Personal Items
- Check for Leaks or Mechanical Issues
- Disable Alarms
- Check Tire Pressure & Battery
- Document the Condition
- Keep Fuel Tank 1/4 Full
State-Specific Reminders
- Illinois: No emissions paperwork is required for outbound shipping. If returning to Illinois shortly after delivery, make sure your registration and emissions compliance are current—especially if you’re based in Cook, DuPage, or Lake County, where testing is required.
- Florida: If registering your vehicle in Florida after delivery, be prepared with:
- A signed, valid out-of-state title
- Proof of Florida auto insurance
- Completed HSMV Form 82040
- VIN verification (for out-of-state vehicles)
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Illinois to Florida Auto Transport
How much does it cost to ship a car from Illinois to Florida?
The cost to ship a car from Illinois to Florida typically ranges between $950 and $1,450. Pricing depends on factors like the distance, your vehicle’s size and condition, the type of trailer (open or enclosed), and the time of year. For example, shipping a compact car from Chicago to Orlando may cost less than shipping a large SUV from Rockford to Miami during peak snowbird season.
Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive?
In many cases, Illinois to Florida car shipping is more cost-effective than driving. Consider the cost of fuel, meals, hotels, potential wear and tear, and your time. For a 1,200+ mile trip, driving could cost $800–$1,000 or more, especially with today’s gas prices. Shipping also eliminates stress and saves time.
Is it worth it to ship my car?
Yes, especially if you’re relocating for work, school, seasonal living, or purchasing a vehicle online. Shipping your car from Illinois to Florida provides convenience, protects your vehicle from road wear, and allows you to fly or move on your schedule without adding unnecessary mileage.
What’s the cheapest way to ship a car?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Florida is by open auto transport with flexible pickup and delivery dates. Booking in advance and avoiding peak seasons like summer and winter can also help reduce costs. Terminal-to-terminal shipping is less common but may offer slight savings if available.
At Unlimited Auto Trans, we provide safe and on-time car transport at competitive prices. Ship your car stress-free, knowing we’re licensed, bonded, and insured.
From passenger cars to SUVs, motorcycles, and even luxury cars, we can ship nationwide.
Use our calculator for a free instant quote today.
Book online or call us toll-free at
(888) 278-9855.