Need to Ship a Car from Illinois to California?

Driving Yourself vs Using American Auto Transport

Selecting American Auto Transport to ship your car from Illinois to California offers a range of valuable benefits. One of the key advantages is the significant cost savings. The distance between Illinois and California is approximately 2,000 miles. If you were to drive your car yourself, considering a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and an average gas price of $3 per gallon, you’d spend around $240 on fuel alone. Additionally, you’d need to factor in lodging, meals, and potential wear and tear costs, which could easily exceed $400. By opting for American Auto Transport, you can save approximately $200 to $400.

Time efficiency is another compelling benefit. Driving from Illinois to California could take around 30 hours or more, depending on your route and stops. That’s over a day of non-stop driving. American Auto Transport typically offers a transit time of 5-7 days for this route, allowing you to focus on other essential aspects of your move.

Safety is a paramount consideration when shipping your car over such a long distance. American Auto Transport employs experienced drivers and uses secure, enclosed carriers to protect your vehicle from road hazards, inclement weather, and unexpected accidents. They also provide insurance coverage, offering up to $100,000 in coverage for most shipments, ensuring your car’s safety during transit.

Lastly, using American Auto Transport for car shipping can help maintain your vehicle’s condition and resale value. The lengthy drive from Illinois to California adds mileage and wear and tear, which can decrease your car’s resale value. Opting for professional auto transport can keep your car’s mileage low and ensure it retains its value and longevity, making it a smart financial choice in the long run. In summary, choosing American Auto Transport for your car shipping needs is a cost-effective, time-saving, and secure decision that guarantees the well-being of your vehicle throughout the process.

Costs Breakdown of Driving Yourself

Driving your car from Illinois to California may initially seem like a reasonable option, but when you examine the associated costs, it becomes evident that hiring American Auto Transport is the more financially prudent choice:

• Fuel: The distance between Illinois and California is approximately 2,000 miles. Assuming your car has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3 per gallon, you would spend around $240 on fuel for the trip.
• Accommodation: For a multi-day journey, you would likely need to stay in a hotel. With an average hotel room cost of $100 per night, even one night can add another $100 to your expenses.
• Meals: Road trips typically involve dining out, and with an average meal cost of $15, three meals per day over several days can quickly add up. For a two-day journey, this could amount to about $90.
• Wear and Tear: Extended driving can lead to increased maintenance costs and a decrease in your car’s resale value, although these costs are challenging to estimate precisely.

If you choose to drive your car from Illinois to California, you could easily spend approximately $430, excluding potential wear and tear expenses.

On the other hand, opting for American Auto Transport presents a more financially astute choice. While the exact cost may vary based on vehicle type and specific services, the company typically offers competitive rates for shipping from Illinois to California, often ranging from $600 to $900 on average. By selecting auto transport, you can save around $200 to $400 compared to driving your car yourself. Additionally, you’ll avoid wear and tear, ensuring your vehicle’s value remains intact, making it a cost-effective and financially wise decision in the long run.