ship car from south dakota to illinois
South Dakota → Illinois

Ship Car from South Dakota to Illinois

Shipping a vehicle from South Dakota to Illinois covers 712 miles, with carriers typically completing the transport in two to three days via US-20. Whether you are relocating for work, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, we connect you with reliable, vetted independent carriers to handle the logistics. The following guide details everything you need to know, including current market rates, transit expectations, the step-by-step booking process, how to prepare your vehicle for pickup, and answers to common questions about state-to-state transport.

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Distance
712 mi
Transit time
2–3 days
Open carrier from
$800

How much does it cost to ship a car from South Dakota to Illinois?

For a standard 712-mile trip from South Dakota to Illinois, open transport typically ranges from $800 to $1,075, while enclosed shipping runs between $1,525 and $2,050. These rates cover a two-to-three-day transit period. Because Ship Car Pros acts as a referral service rather than a trucking company, our role is to connect you with vetted, independent carriers who bid on your specific route. Your final price depends on several moving parts, including your vehicle's size, its operational status, your specific pickup and delivery zip codes, and the current availability of trucks along the US-20 corridor. There are seven primary factors that determine where your final rate lands, which we will break down in detail below to help you understand how to get the best value for your move.

What factors affect car shipping cost?

Several variables shift the final cost of your transport, and understanding how they stack helps you plan more effectively. Here is what influences your specific quote:

  • Vehicle dimensions and weight: Larger trucks and SUVs require more trailer space and add significant weight, which increases your rate.
  • Transport type: Selecting enclosed shipping provides premium protection but typically costs 1.6 to 1.8 times more than standard open transport.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: A wider four-to-seven-day window allows carriers to integrate your vehicle into established routes, often saving you around $100.
  • Seasonal demand: High-traffic periods like summer and winter holidays reduce available capacity, which naturally pushes prices higher.
  • Route accessibility: Rural pickup or delivery locations that pull a driver away from major corridors like US-20 add time and fuel expenses.
  • Vehicle operability: Non-running cars require specialized winching equipment and extra labor, which commands a higher price per load.

Open vs. enclosed car transport: which should you choose?

Choosing between open and enclosed transport comes down to your vehicle’s value and your specific protection needs. Open transport is the industry standard, used for about 85% of all shipments. With an average cost around $890, it is the most efficient way to move daily drivers, trucks, and standard SUVs. These are the same trailers used by dealerships to transport new inventory from factories safely.

Enclosed transport, averaging around $1,702, provides a sealed environment that protects your vehicle from road debris, weather, and dust. This is the preferred choice for high-value collector cars, luxury vehicles, or custom builds that require pristine arrival. If your car has very low ground clearance or you are transporting a vehicle worth over $75,000, the extra peace of mind offered by an enclosed trailer is generally worth the premium. For most everyday vehicles, however, open transport remains the reliable and cost-effective default.

Open carrier
$800–$1,075
Standard 7–10 car hauler.
Enclosed carrier
$1,525–$2,050
Sealed trailer for high-value vehicles.

How long does it take to ship a car from South Dakota to Illinois?

Most shipments between South Dakota and Illinois cover 712 miles and typically arrive within two to three days. Carriers usually manage this distance by balancing federal driving limits with the reality of daily route planning, which includes time for loading, refueling, and navigating traffic. While a driver could technically cover this distance faster, they must strictly adhere to mandated rest periods that prevent fatigue, ensuring your vehicle remains safe throughout the journey. Factors such as weather conditions, traffic near major urban centers, and the carrier's specific schedule can influence these timelines. We will cover how to prepare your vehicle for this window and what to expect during the delivery process in the following sections.

Which routes do carriers usually take?

Carriers typically travel from South Dakota to Illinois by heading east on US-20 E. This route serves as a primary corridor through the plains, allowing drivers to maintain a consistent pace while avoiding the more complex mountain passes found further west. While pickup density is often concentrated in established hubs like Sioux Falls, carriers frequently collect vehicles from various stops along the highway as they traverse the state. Once they cross into Illinois, drivers navigate the state’s flat terrain, though they must remain alert for localized congestion and specific bridge clearances when approaching major metropolitan areas. By sticking to these designated freight routes, carriers ensure a steady, reliable transit toward your destination.

What can delay your shipment?

While we aim for a two-to-three-day transit, several factors can shift your delivery window. Winter weather is the most common disruptor; heavy snow and ice across the Great Plains can trigger temporary closures of I-90 or I-29, forcing carriers to idle until roads are cleared. Additionally, scheduling is rarely instantaneous. Weekend pickups are often delayed because carrier activity drops, meaning a Friday booking may not depart until Monday. If you are shipping from an auction facility like Copart, ensure your lot number, gate pin, and buyer ID are ready; missing these details creates immediate, preventable delays. Finally, carriers must balance your delivery with other pickups along US-20 to maintain efficiency.

Popular Routes

Major city-to-city routes on the South Dakota → Illinois corridor.

FromToApprox. distanceTransit
Sioux Falls, SDChicago, IL~470 mi2-4 days
Pierre, SDRockford, IL~580 mi3-5 days
Hartford, SDRound Lake Beach, IL~460 mi2-4 days
Rapid City, SDPeoria, IL~730 mi3-5 days
Aberdeen, SDAurora, IL~570 mi3-5 days
Brookings, SDSpringfield, IL~480 mi2-4 days
Watertown, SDJoliet, IL~510 mi3-5 days
Mitchell, SDChampaign, IL~560 mi3-5 days
Yankton, SDNaperville, IL~480 mi2-4 days
Huron, SDBloomington, IL~540 mi3-5 days

How does shipping a car from South Dakota to Illinois work?

Shipping a vehicle from South Dakota to Illinois follows a straightforward, three-stage process: requesting your quote, coordinating the pickup, and receiving your vehicle at its destination. First, we gather your route and vehicle details to connect you with a vetted carrier from our network. Next, the carrier arrives to conduct a thorough condition inspection before loading your car. Finally, the driver transports the vehicle across the state line, keeping you updated until the final delivery and inspection. This sequence ensures your car is handled securely and efficiently from start to finish.

What happens between booking and pickup?

Once you confirm your booking, the focus shifts to securing your spot on a carrier’s route and preparing for their arrival. The transition happens through these specific steps:

  1. We post your shipment to our private network, where vetted, independent carriers review the route and load requirements.
  2. A carrier accepts your load and is formally dispatched to your pickup location.
  3. You receive a notification containing the carrier’s details, including the driver's name and contact information.
  4. The driver coordinates with you or your designated contact to confirm a specific pickup window based on their current route.
  5. On the scheduled day, the driver arrives and performs a walk-around inspection, documenting the vehicle’s condition on the bill of lading before loading it onto the trailer.

During this interval, keep your phone handy, as the driver may call to verify address details or gate access codes. Once the vehicle is loaded, the carrier’s focus turns entirely to the transit corridor toward Illinois.

What is a bill of lading (BOL)?

The bill of lading (BOL) is a critical document that serves as both your shipping contract and a formal condition report. At pickup, the driver performs a thorough, 21-point visual inspection of your vehicle, noting any existing scratches, dents, or mechanical issues while capturing interior and exterior photos. You sign this document before the car is loaded, and the driver provides a copy for your records. When the vehicle reaches its destination, the driver repeats this inspection. You should carefully review the car in good light against the original notes before signing the final delivery document, as this comparison is your primary protection for filing any insurance claims.

After delivery: registration and inspection in Illinois

Once your vehicle arrives in Illinois, you have 30 days to transfer your out-of-state title and register the car with the Illinois Secretary of State. You must visit a local office in person to submit your application (Form VSD 190), your original out-of-state title, and proof of Illinois insurance that meets the state's 25/50/20 liability minimums. While emissions testing is not required for your initial registration, you may need to complete testing every two years if you reside in certain counties. Expect to pay a $165 title fee plus the annual registration fee of $151. Failure to register within the 30-day window results in a $20 late fee, and driving unregistered can lead to fines starting at $90. You can find comprehensive details and pre-fill your forms at ilsos.gov.

Back in South Dakota, remember that you are a "plate-with-owner" state. You should remove your South Dakota license plates before the car is handed off to the carrier, as your registration is automatically voided once the vehicle is titled in Illinois.

How do you verify a car transport company is legitimate?

Verifying the legitimacy of a transporter is a critical step in protecting your vehicle and your finances. The most reliable way to start is by checking federal registration. Every legitimate carrier or broker is required to have an active Motor Carrier (MC) number and a Department of Transportation (DOT) number. You can verify these details instantly through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) official lookup tool. This database confirms whether the company is properly licensed and, crucially, if they maintain the required cargo and liability insurance.

Beyond federal filings, look for transparency in their business practices. A reputable provider will always supply a clear, written agreement detailing the scope of service, insurance coverage, and total cost before any work begins. Be wary of any company that demands an upfront payment or a deposit before a carrier is actually assigned to your load; a legitimate referral service like ours only processes your deposit once a driver is locked in and dispatched.

Finally, do your due diligence by checking independent feedback. Look for consistent, recent reviews on platforms like Transport Reviews or the Better Business Bureau. These sites offer a window into how a company handles communication and resolves issues. If a company lacks an online footprint or refuses to provide their MC number, it is best to move on.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Preparing your vehicle properly ensures a smooth inspection and prevents issues during transit. Follow these steps to get your car ready for the road:

  • Wash the exterior to ensure all pre-existing scratches, dents, or paint chips are clearly visible for the initial inspection.
  • Photograph the vehicle from all angles, including the interior, and ensure your camera dates the images to provide a clear record of its condition.
  • Remove all personal belongings, loose items, and toll tags, as carrier insurance only covers the vehicle and a limited allowance of personal effects.
  • Maintain a quarter-tank of fuel to keep the vehicle light for the carrier while ensuring it can be driven on and off the trailer.
  • Disable all alarms and provide the driver with a complete, labeled set of keys for both the ignition and any locked compartments.
  • Note any mechanical quirks, such as battery issues or fluid leaks, and inform the driver before they begin loading.

Completing these tasks helps the driver conduct an accurate inspection and keeps your transport on schedule.

Specialty shipments from South Dakota to Illinois

Some shipments require more than a standard pickup and delivery. Whether you are dealing with auction logistics, vehicles that no longer start, or the coordination of multiple cars at once, specialized transport requires specific documentation and equipment. We can help you navigate the unique requirements for these scenarios to ensure your vehicle is handled correctly from the moment it leaves South Dakota until it reaches its final destination in Illinois.

How do you ship a car bought at Copart or IAA auction?

Shipping a vehicle purchased from an auction house like Copart or IAA involves a slightly more rigid process than a standard residential pickup. Because these facilities operate on strict appointment schedules and security protocols, the carrier must have specific documentation before they can enter the lot. To avoid delays, you must provide your assigned carrier with the vehicle’s lot number, the facility's gate pin, and your unique buyer number. Additionally, the auction house must have confirmed full payment for the vehicle before they will release it to any driver.

Because of these administrative requirements and the need for the carrier to coordinate an exact pickup time with the facility's dispatch office, auction pickups often take one to three days longer than residential ones. Providing these details upfront is the best way to keep your shipment on schedule and prevent the carrier from being turned away at the gate.

How do you ship an inoperable car?

Shipping a vehicle that no longer runs requires more than a standard trailer. Because the car cannot be driven onto the transport, the carrier must use a winch to pull it up the ramps. For this to work, the vehicle must still be able to roll, steer, and brake. If the wheels are locked or the steering is seized, the vehicle may be impossible to load safely. Because this process requires extra equipment, time, and labor, it adds a surcharge to the standard transport rate. Always disclose the car's condition upfront so the carrier can bring the necessary gear to avoid unnecessary delays.

How do you ship multiple cars at once?

Shipping multiple vehicles simultaneously is a practical solution for families relocating, individuals moving a fleet, or dealers managing inventory. When you ship two or more vehicles along the same route, you generally qualify for a multi-vehicle discount, which lowers the cost per car compared to shipping them individually. This approach is highly efficient because it consolidates your logistics into a single booking and pickup window. Depending on the size of your vehicles and the total count, we can often arrange for them to travel on the same trailer. This ensures they reach their destination in Illinois together, significantly simplifying your coordination and reducing the overall transport expense.

Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it from South Dakota to Illinois?

Deciding whether to drive your vehicle yourself or use a professional carrier requires weighing out-of-pocket costs against the value of your time and effort.

Shipping your vehicle via open transport typically costs around $890. This fee is all-inclusive, covering insurance, fuel, and the door-to-door transit of your vehicle.

If you choose to drive the 712-mile route yourself, your expenses will be lower but not zero. Factoring in current per-mile costs of approximately $0.70-which accounts for fuel, wear and tear, and maintenance-you are looking at roughly $498 in operational costs. Because the drive takes over 10 hours of pure road time, most people require an overnight stay to complete the trip safely, adding roughly $120 for lodging. This brings your total estimated drive cost to approximately $618.

While driving saves you roughly $272, consider the hidden costs of the journey. A cross-country drive involves more than just fuel; it requires a full day of your time, potential meals on the road, and the fatigue that comes with a ten-hour stint behind the wheel. Shipping allows you to bypass the stress of traffic, the risk of road debris damaging your paint, and the logistical headache of a long-distance move. You are essentially choosing between a lower cash outlay or the convenience of having your vehicle delivered to your doorstep.

Ship itDrive it
Total cost$800–$1,075 all-in~$499 (fuel + lodging + meals)
Your time0 hours~12 hrs driving + overnight
Wear & tearNone712 mi added; ~$0.10/mi depreciation
RiskInsured in transitPersonal liability + fatigue

For most South Dakota → Illinois shipments, ship is the better value once time and depreciation are counted.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to ship a car from South Dakota to Illinois?

Shipping a car from South Dakota to Illinois typically costs between $800 and $1,075 for open transport, with an average around $890. If you prefer enclosed shipping for added protection, the cost generally ranges from $1,525 to $2,050. These prices are all-inclusive, covering driver fees, insurance, fuel, and tolls. Your final rate is influenced by factors such as vehicle size, weight, and your specific pickup and delivery locations within each state.

How long will it take for my car to get from South Dakota to Illinois?

Transit for the 712-mile trip from South Dakota to Illinois usually takes two to three days. This timeline accounts for standard driving hours, fuel stops, and the carrier's route planning. While weather or traffic near major urban areas can occasionally cause delays, most carriers aim to complete the transit within this window. Once your vehicle is loaded, the carrier maintains a consistent pace to ensure your car reaches its Illinois destination safely and efficiently.

Should I use open or enclosed transport for my daily driver?

Open transport is the ideal choice for a daily driver. It is the industry standard used for approximately 85% of all shipments, including new vehicles transported from factories to dealerships. Since it is the most cost-effective option and provides full insurance coverage while your vehicle is in transit, it is perfectly suited for standard sedans, trucks, and SUVs. Enclosed transport is generally reserved for high-value collector cars or luxury vehicles requiring extra protection from the elements.

When do I pay for the transport service?

Payment is split into two parts during the shipping process. You do not pay anything until a carrier is officially assigned to your shipment. Once the driver is confirmed, you pay a deposit to secure the booking. The remaining balance is paid directly to the driver at the time of delivery. Most carriers accept payment via cash, certified check, money order, Zelle, or Venmo, though you should confirm the driver's preferred method upon dispatch.

Is my vehicle insured while it's on the carrier's truck?

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured while it is in transit on the carrier's trailer. Every legitimate transport carrier is required to maintain cargo insurance that covers your vehicle from bumper to bumper. This coverage is included in your all-inclusive quote, ensuring your car is protected against damage throughout the entire journey. When you receive your shipping agreement, you can verify the carrier's insurance details as part of their standard federal registration and safety documentation.

Do I need to be present for the vehicle pickup in South Dakota?

You do not need to be personally present for the vehicle pickup. If you are unavailable, you can designate a family member, friend, neighbor, or dealership representative to hand over the keys and sign the necessary paperwork on your behalf. As long as the person you authorize has access to the vehicle and a set of keys, the carrier can complete the inspection and load the car as scheduled.

What is the Bill of Lading and why is it important?

The Bill of Lading is a formal condition report and contract that documents your vehicle's status at both pickup and delivery. It includes a detailed 21-point inspection and photos taken by the driver. This document is essential because it serves as your legal proof of the car's condition before and after transit. Comparing these records at the time of delivery is the primary way to identify any new damage and support a potential insurance claim.

Can my car be delivered on a weekend in Illinois?

Yes, your car can be delivered on a weekend. While carrier dispatch and office operations are often limited on Saturdays and Sundays, drivers are frequently on the road and will deliver vehicles whenever they arrive at the destination. If the carrier reaches your location in Illinois on a weekend, they will coordinate with you or your authorized contact to unload the vehicle, provided the delivery and final inspection can be completed successfully.