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UPDATED 2026 COSTS

Joliet, IL Car Shipping

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WHY CHOOSE SHERPA?

With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

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Illinois Car Shipping

Joliet, IL Car Shipping

Looking for reliable car shipping in Joliet, IL? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re moving across the country or buying a vehicle out of state, auto transport doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your car from Joliet—including costs, timelines, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience with transparent pricing you can trust.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

Joliet, IL Auto Transport

Car shipping from Joliet, IL averages $775-$1,300 depending on your destination, with most routes taking 2-6 days for delivery across the country.

Our Joliet and Illinois Customers

Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent, locked-in pricing with our Price Lock Promise, backed by 4.9 stars from over 8,000 reviews and an A+ BBB rating.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance and route accessibility are the biggest cost factors—Joliet’s location near I-80 and I-55 keeps prices competitive, while shipping to remote areas or during peak seasons increases costs.

Tips and Tricks to Save

Book your shipment 1-2 weeks in advance and choose flexible pickup windows to secure better rates and ensure carrier availability for your Joliet auto transport.

How Car Shipping Works

Door-to-door pickup and delivery is included in your quote, with carriers coming directly to your Joliet location for maximum convenience.

State Insights

Illinois requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency and emissions testing for Will County vehicles, so prepare these documents before your car arrives in Joliet.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

My experience with Sherpa was excellent. Everything was done as promised. The car was delivered in good condition. I`m a pleased customer. I met the driver at the designated location, and he told me it`d be about four days. I gave him $60 in cash and I said, “Buy yourself some coffee.” He seemed pleased with that. I left before he loaded the car. I was very happy with the entire transaction.It went smoothly. On the return trip to Chicago, I plan on using them, which will be the end of April.
Alan
Mar 2023
I was googling online. I went off to choose Sherpa from reading reviews and Better Business Bureau complaints. Everything went timely with Sherpa. Communication with them went smoothly. The move was from Illinois to Florida, so it`s a good 20-hour drive.
Lynn
Jun 2020
I liked the price guarantee of Sherpa, the representatives that I spoke with, and the ratings. They had a good military rating. Customer service was great and the delivery was perfect. The only thing was the driver was supposed to give us a call an hour before he showed up. He just showed up at the door. Thankfully, my husband had driven up into the driveway and it went great. I was impressed with Sherpa and I will use them again next year if my son deploys. He’s in the Air Force.
Sherry
Aug 2022
WHY SHERPA AUTO?

The Sherpa Difference

TRANSPARENCY

Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

NATIONWIDE COVERAGE

Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.

CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH

Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 8,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

CARRIER QUALITY

We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.

EXPERT HANDLING

From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.

JOLIET, IL AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Joliet, IL

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Joliet
to Los Angeles
1,991 mi
$10501225
2-6 days
Joliet
to Phoenix
1,716 mi
$10001150
2-6 days
Joliet
to Miami
1,388 mi
$9001075
1-5 days
Joliet
to San Francisco
2,103 mi
$10501225
3-7 days
Joliet
to Seattle
2,086 mi
$11501300
3-7 days
Joliet
to Dallas
889 mi
$8501000
1-4 days
Joliet
to Tampa
1,179 mi
$8751050
1-4 days
Joliet
to San Diego
2,052 mi
$10751250
3-7 days
Joliet
to New York City
801 mi
$775900
1-4 days
Joliet
to Houston
1,036 mi
$9001050
1-4 days
Joliet
to San Jose
2,135 mi
$10751225
3-7 days
Joliet
to Naples
1,338 mi
$9501150
1-5 days
Joliet
to Las Vegas
1,723 mi
$9501100
2-6 days
Joliet
to Atlanta
724 mi
$700850
0-3 days
Joliet
to Riverside
1,956 mi
$10751250
2-6 days
Note: Updated for 2026. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Joliet, IL. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
REAL DATA • 10,431 SHIPMENTS

Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type

Based on 10,431 actual shipments involving Joliet, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.

By Vehicle Type

Car (Sedan/Coupe) Baseline
5,165 shipments
SUV / Crossover +$76
4,786 shipments
Pickup Truck +$215
480 shipments

By Trailer Type

Open Trailer Baseline
10,431 shipments
Enclosed Trailer +$523 (+66%)
909 shipments

Note: Updated 2026 pricing. Prices shown are averages based on actual Sherpa shipments over the last 12 months. Your quote may vary based on specific pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition, current market demand, and time of year. Get an instant quote for accurate pricing.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Joliet, IL Shipping Prices

Distance

Distance plays a major role in car shipping costs. The farther your vehicle needs to travel to or from Joliet, the higher the price. A cross-country shipment from Joliet to California will cost significantly more than a regional move to a neighboring state like Wisconsin or Indiana.

Route

Your shipping route matters just as much as distance. Joliet sits near major interstates like I-55 and I-80, which means shipments along these highways are typically more affordable. Routes to remote areas or small towns without direct highway access will cost more due to the extra time and fuel required.

Season

Timing affects your shipping costs. Summer months and winter snowbird season (when people move to warmer states) see higher demand and prices. Spring and fall typically offer better rates. If you have flexibility in your moving dates, choosing off-peak seasons can save you money.

Vehicle Type

What you’re shipping matters. Standard sedans are the most affordable to transport. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier (increasing fuel costs), harder to load and unload, and take up more trailer space. Some carriers can’t even accommodate larger vehicles, which limits your options and drives up prices.

Traffic Patterns

Heavy traffic periods increase shipping costs. The week before Thanksgiving, major holidays, and summer vacation weeks see congested roads that slow down deliveries. If possible, schedule your shipment during quieter travel periods to avoid delays and potentially lower costs.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability directly impacts both timing and cost. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for an available carrier, and prices rise with demand. Off-season shipments often have carriers available within days and more competitive pricing. Book early during busy periods to secure better rates.

Open vs Enclosed

You’ll choose between open and enclosed trailers. Open trailers are the standard, affordable option that works well for most vehicles. Enclosed trailers cost more but protect high-end, classic, or luxury cars from weather and road debris. For typical vehicles, open transport from Joliet is perfectly safe and budget-friendly.

Population Density

Where you’re shipping to or from affects costs. Joliet’s location in the Chicago metropolitan area generally works in your favor, as carriers frequently service this region. However, if you need delivery to a dense downtown area with narrow streets or parking restrictions, expect higher costs. Consider meeting your carrier in a suburb with easier access to save money.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Save money by shipping during off-peak times. Avoid busy seasons like summer and snowbird migration periods when demand drives prices up. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant savings on your Joliet car shipping costs.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to reduce costs. Offering carriers a five-day window instead of exact dates gives them routing flexibility, which translates to lower rates for you. This simple adjustment can mean substantial savings on your Joliet shipment.

Hub City Advantages

Joliet’s proximity to major highways like I-55 and I-80 offers competitive shipping rates. Select pickup locations near these routes for better carrier access and pricing. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers in highway-accessible cities to save money.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They safely transport standard cars while exposing them to weather. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles needing extra protection from the elements.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Joliet, IL Work?

Picturesque view of Illinois

Car shipping from Joliet, IL is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. First, get a free quote online and book your auto transport service. Our team will assign a trusted carrier to pick up your vehicle from your Joliet location. The average shipping distance from Joliet, IL is 1,524 miles, with delivery typically taking 2-6 days depending on your destination. Most routes from Joliet range from $775-$1300, offering affordable options for your car shipping needs.

Joliet’s location near major highways like I-80 and I-55 makes auto transport convenient and efficient. Before pickup, remove personal items and document your vehicle’s condition. The carrier will load your car and transport it safely to your destination. You’ll receive tracking updates throughout the journey. Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle and sign the bill of lading. Whether you’re moving across the country or shipping a vehicle for business, our car shipping service from Joliet, IL ensures reliable, hassle-free auto transport with competitive pricing and professional care every step of the way.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

Joliet, IL Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning car shipping to Joliet, IL, understanding Illinois vehicle regulations helps ensure a smooth transition. New residents must register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency at the Illinois Secretary of State office [Illinois SOS]. You’ll need your current title, proof of insurance, and payment for registration fees. Illinois requires emissions testing for vehicles in certain counties, including Will County where Joliet is located, for cars model year 1996 and newer [Illinois EPA].

Illinois law has specific regulations to know before your auto transport arrives. Window tinting must allow more than 35% light transmission for front side windows, while the windshield can only have tinting above the AS-1 line [Illinois Vehicle Code]. The state requires liability insurance with minimum coverage of 25/50/20, though higher limits are recommended for better protection [Illinois Department of Insurance].

Joliet experiences harsh winters, so prepare your vehicle after car shipping. Winter tires or all-season tires with good tread are essential for navigating snow and ice from November through March. Consider rust-proofing treatment, as road salt used in Illinois can accelerate corrosion. Keep an emergency kit with blankets, a shovel, and jumper cables in your vehicle during winter months for safety on Joliet roads.

Nearby Cities for Car Shipping

Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:

Areas of Joliet, Illinois that we Serve

Central Joliet: 60432, 60433, 60435
North Joliet: 60431, 60435
West Joliet: 60433, 60435
East Joliet: 60432, 60433
South Joliet: 60436
Downtown Joliet: 60432
Rockdale: 60436
Crest Hill: 60403, 60435
Plainfield: 60544, 60585, 60586
Shorewood: 60404, 60431

We serves the entire Joliet region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Joliet, IL

Joliet is home to the University of St. Francis and Joliet Junior College, both requiring parking permits for students bringing vehicles to campus [University Parking Services]. At University of St. Francis, residential students can purchase annual parking passes, while commuters have daily options available [USF Transportation]. Joliet Junior College operates on a first-come, first-served basis with free parking lots, though registration is recommended [JJC Campus Safety]. When planning your car shipping to Joliet, IL, consider that most dorms don’t include guaranteed parking spots, so early registration is crucial. Winter storage isn’t typically offered on-campus, so students leaving for break should arrange alternative storage. Given Illinois winters, ensure your vehicle has appropriate tires and verify your roadside assistance coverage extends to the area before using car transport services [Illinois DMV].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Joliet, IL Vehicle Transport FAQs

Preparing your vehicle for transport from Joliet, IL is simple. Follow these key steps:

Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and loose items from your car. Carriers are not insured for personal property.

Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos before shipping.

Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has less than a quarter tank of gas. Check that the battery is charged and there are no leaks.

Secure or remove accessories: Take off or secure any custom parts, antennas, spoilers, or bike racks that could get damaged.

Disable alarms: Turn off your car alarm to avoid issues during transport.

Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.

For complete preparation guidelines, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps ensures a smooth pickup from Joliet and safe delivery of your vehicle.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Joliet, IL. All carriers in our network must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.

Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you extra protection and peace of mind.

You’ll receive a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate before pickup. If you have questions about coverage, our team is here to help explain the details.

We recommend scheduling your car shipping service from Joliet, IL at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you more options and often better rates.

Here’s why advance booking helps:

  • Better carrier availability: Carriers can plan routes that include your pickup location with other shipments
  • More competitive pricing: Last-minute bookings typically cost more due to limited availability
  • Flexible scheduling: You’ll have more pickup date options to choose from

If you need faster service, we can often accommodate rush shipments with 2-5 days notice, though this may come with premium pricing. For the best experience, contact us as soon as you know your moving dates.

No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.

We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.

Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.

Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

Open auto transport uses open-air trailers that carry multiple vehicles at once. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris during transit. This is the most popular and affordable option—about 90% of vehicles shipped from Joliet use open transport.

Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, dust, and road debris. This costs 50-60% more than open transport but offers maximum protection.

Choose open transport if: You have a standard daily driver and want the best value. It’s safe, reliable, and used for most car shipments.

Choose enclosed transport if: You’re shipping a luxury vehicle, classic car, exotic sports car, or any vehicle with custom paint or modifications. The extra cost is worth it for high-value vehicles.

For a detailed comparison, see our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.

Yes, we offer convenient door-to-door auto transport service for Joliet, IL residents. When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come directly to your home or business to pick up your vehicle and deliver it right to your destination.

In most cases, our drivers can access residential streets in Joliet without any issues. However, if your location has narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or other obstacles that make it unsafe for a large car carrier, we’ll work with you to find a nearby meeting spot. This might be a shopping center parking lot, gas station, or other convenient location just a few blocks away.

Benefits of door-to-door service:

  • No need to drive to a terminal
  • Saves you time and hassle
  • Direct pickup and delivery at your convenience
  • Included in your quote at no extra charge

Our team will coordinate all the details with you before pickup to ensure a smooth experience from start to finish.

Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.

While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT

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