Best Iowa Car Shipping Companies (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Sherpa Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Iowa, giving them 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Key takeaways
- While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of Iowa ranges from $607 to $1,088.
- 76.3% of Iowa auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
- Only 20% of car shipping companies in Iowa offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Sherpa Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Iowa
Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you need to ship a car out of Des Moines or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in Iowa:
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
A A All States Auto Transport
A A All States Auto Transport (DOT: 2230973)
A A All States Auto Transport specializes in a range of services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and electric vehicle shipping. The company ensures that all transports are fully insured, providing extra security for their clients. However, they do not provide services for inoperable cars, which might be a drawback for some customers.
Though the company boasts a BBB rating of A+, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Bennett Motor Express
Bennett Motor Express (DOT: 92693) is a car shipping company known for its comprehensive range of transportation options and solid reputation, highlighted by a Google rating of 4.6. They offer various services including interstate shipping, motorcycle shipping, trailer and RV shipping, as well as open transport and expedited delivery.
Despite these extensive offerings, they do not provide shipping for inoperable cars, which could be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they are fully insured and offer detailed inspection reports, ensuring peace of mind during the shipping process. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Aaall States Transport
Aaall States Transport (DOT: 2230973) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of specialized services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, trailer shipping, and both open and enclosed transport. They are fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers, and they do not require a deposit, which can be a relief for many clients.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google but proudly holds an A+ rating with the BBB, indicating a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability. It’s worth noting that Aaall States Transport does not offer inoperable car transport, which might be a drawback for customers who need to ship cars that don’t run.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Nimble Inc
Nimble Inc (DOT: 2245757) is a car shipping company that provides several noteworthy services, such as classic car shipping, open transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They also cater to electric vehicle owners with specialized transportation options.
Despite being fully insured, the company has a limited range of discounts and does not offer amenities like guaranteed or expedited delivery. Additionally, customers cannot track their shipments or have inoperable cars transported, which might be a drawback for some users. Their Google rating is currently 2.0; however, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Rush Transport Service
Rush Transport Service (DOT: 3555031) is an active car shipping company that offers reliable interstate transport and multi-car transport services. The company is highly rated, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating on both Yelp and Google.
While Rush Transport Service focuses on core transport services, they do not offer additional options such as enclosed transport or inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite this, their strong ratings reflect a high level of customer satisfaction with the services they do provide.
Currently, they do not accept cryptocurrency or offer services like boat or motorcycle shipping, and they have yet to establish a damage-free guarantee or provide storage solutions.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Interstate
Local car shippers in Iowa cities
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Average cost of transporting a car out of IA
The average cost to transport a car to another state if you live in Iowa is about $1,029 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
For example:
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $380 to $879
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $607 to $876
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $770 to $1,283
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Hawkeye State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa to New York | $940 | $1,536 |
| Iowa to Texas | $968 | $1,502 |
| Iowa to Ohio | $870 | $1,174 |
| Iowa to Arizona | $1,272 | $1,903 |
| Iowa to Georgia | $990 | $1,552 |
| Florida to Iowa | $1,186 | $1,922 |
| Illinois to Iowa | $534 | $757 |
| North Carolina to Iowa | $960 | $1,520 |
| Michigan to Iowa | $851 | $1,261 |
| California to Iowa | $1,569 | $2,166 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Iowa:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping your car within Iowa or to nearby states is usually cheaper than longer trips across the country.
- Location: Shipping costs vary depending on where you’re sending items. From busy Des Moines to a smaller Iowa town or out of state, location matters. Urban areas may have lower rates, but remote Iowa locations can be more expensive.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle are important. Compact cars typically cost less to ship. However, if you’re moving a classic car from Iowa, expect a higher price because of the special care it needs.
- Shipping options in the Hawkeye State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Iowa’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Gas prices: Fuel prices can change, impacting your total expenses. In Iowa, gas prices might influence your shipping costs, especially for long hauls.
- Delivery time frame: If you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service, you’ll end up paying more for car shipping.
- Discounts: Some Iowa auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular Iowa car shipping routes.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Iowa?
Sherpa Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Iowa, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Sherpa Auto Transport a 4.5 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Iowa?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Iowa will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on
your specific needs is to use our car shipping
calculator.
Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also,
most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top
car shippers in Iowa, AmeriFreight has the
most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Iowa?
New Iowa residents must get an Iowa license within 30 days of moving. Go to the DMV with your current out-of-state license, which you will need to turn in for the new one.
Does Iowa require a vehicle inspection?
In Iowa, car owners don’t need to get emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Does Iowa’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Iowa. Iowa has a humid continental climate. Snow is common in winter. Spring ushers in severe weather. Iowa experiences around 50 days of thunderstorms annually and has a tornado season. Summers are hot and humid. Before moving, especially in spring, check the weather conditions.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Iowa?
Delivery times for car shipping in Iowa depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days.
Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Iowa, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| Miles | Time frame |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Iowa?
Iowa mandates minimum liability insurance with $20,000 for injury or death per person, $40,000 for injuries or deaths to multiple people, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident.
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