Best Car Shipping Companies in Des Moines, IA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Des Moines, IA, Nexus Auto Transport is a standout with competitive prices, a broad selection of services, and a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars rating. Although rates fluctuate, you’ll typically spend between and $1,362 to ship your car from Des Moines.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Iowa car shipping guide.
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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
Top car shipping companies in Des Moines, IA
Whether your car needs to be shipped around Iowa or further away, take a look at the top-rated vehicle shipping firms you can find in Des Moines:
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million 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, military, USAA members and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Doesn’t ship ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company’s transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- 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
Mr. Car Shipper
Mr. Car Shipper (DOT: 2310535) is an active car shipping company offering a range of services, including transportation of classic cars, motorcycles, and inoperable vehicles. They excel at providing fully insured and guaranteed delivery, ensuring that shipments are protected and timely. Although they are BBB accredited with an A+ rating, they have a moderate Yelp rating of 2.8 and have yet to establish ratings on Google.
While they offer benefits such as expedited delivery and damage-free guarantees, some may find it a downside that Mr. Car Shipper does not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery or accept cryptocurrency as a payment option. Customers interested in vehicle shipping services can contact them via email at [email protected] for further inquiries.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of services including interstate and international shipping, multi-car transport, and electric vehicle shipping. They assure quality with a damage-free guarantee and fully insured services, along with shipment tracking and detailed inspection reports to keep their customers informed.
While their offerings are extensive, they do not provide services like inoperable car transport, trailer shipping, or expedited delivery, which might be a limitation for some clients. Despite not offering many discounts, Auto Driveaway holds an A+ BBB rating, though their customer satisfaction scores reflect room for improvement with a 2.0 rating on Yelp and a 3.0 rating on Google.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
A A All States Auto Transport
A A All States Auto Transport (DOT: 2230973) is a car shipping company that prides itself on offering a variety of specialized transportation services. They cater to customers looking to transport classic cars, motorcycles, and electric vehicles. Additionally, the company provides international shipping options, all while being fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
A A All States Auto Transport does not yet have established ratings on Yelp and Google, but it boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. While some might find the lack of a damage-free guarantee and inoperable car transport services to be a downside, the company focuses on offering open and enclosed transport, catering primarily to operable vehicles.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Rush Transport Service
Rush Transport Service (DOT: 3555031) is a dynamic car shipping company that specializes in interstate and multi-car transport. They offer reliable services without requiring a deposit, making them a convenient option for individuals looking to manage shipments without upfront costs. Despite not providing services like international shipping, detailed inspection reports, or transport for vehicles that don’t run, Rush Transport Service stands out with top ratings, achieving a perfect score of 5.0 on both Yelp and Google.
The company has yet to establish a BBB rating. While their service offerings do not include options such as enclosed transport or payment flexibility like credit cards or money orders, their focus remains on providing straightforward and efficient vehicle transport solutions.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Interstate
IMT Transport RGN Yard
IMT Transport RGN Yard (DOT: 313015) specializes in providing reliable interstate car transportation services. Despite not offering a damage-free guarantee, they are known for transporting motorcycles with expertise and care. The company boasts a high Google rating of 4.9, reflecting customer satisfaction, even though they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
While IMT Transport RGN Yard excels in motorcycle shipping, potential customers should be aware that they do not offer services for inoperable cars or classic car shipping. Additionally, they do not provide storage solutions or expedited delivery options, which might be a downside for those seeking these services.
Services Offered
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
Comparing Des Moines car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 0 local car shipping companies in Des Moines, 3 across Iowa, and 518+ nationwide to compare service availability and help you choose the best option for your needs.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Des Moines, across Iowa, and nationwide:
- Enclosed transport: 0 in Des Moines (0%), 2 in Iowa (66.67%), 494 nationwide (80.72%)
- Inoperable car transport: 0 in Des Moines (0%), 0 in Iowa (0.0%), 242 nationwide (39.54%)
- Multi-car shipping: 0 in Des Moines (0%), 0 in Iowa (0.0%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 0 in Des Moines (0%), 0 in Iowa (0.0%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 0 in Des Moines (0%), 0 in Iowa (0.0%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
| Company | Enclosed transport | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Car Shipper | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Auto Driveaway | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| A A All States Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Rush Transport Service | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| IMT Transport RGN Yard | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of 2,400 car shipping firms across the nation, examining and ranking them by key criteria utilizing our exclusive methodology.
We took into account the following factors:
- Service diversity: We assessed the array of services available from each company. This review included checking if they provide open, enclosed transport options, or both. Further, we looked at whether they offer door-to-door service or terminal-based delivery, and the types of vehicles they handle. Companies that cater to unique vehicles like RVs and motorcycles ranked higher than those focusing solely on cars.
- Add-on services: Companies offering premium optional services, like quick shipping, fixed pickup times, complimentary car washes, and reimbursement for rental cars, received additional points.
- Service evaluation: By analyzing comments on platforms such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot, we determined if a car shipping company upholds prompt service, good communication, and cost efficiency. We further evaluated each company’s position in the industry by validating their USDOT credentials and their engagement 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: Our review considered how simple it is for customers to arrange services and calculate costs with clear quotes, price comparison, flat-rate pricing, and other advantages. Car shippers that offer binding estimates or guarantee prices received higher marks than those lacking transparency in their pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Des Moines
With a population of 699,292 and the status of a major Iowa city, Des Moines sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Des Moines compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving your car from Des Moines, Iowa will vary but usually falls between to $1,362. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Des Moines, Iowa to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Iowa to California | $1,327 – $1,855 |
| Iowa to New York | $789 – $1,314 |
| Iowa to Ohio | $744 – $1,005 |
| Iowa to North Carolina | $838 – $1,288 |
| Iowa to Arizona | $964 – $1,595 |
| Georgia to Iowa | $846 – $1,340 |
| Illinois to Iowa | $456 – $580 |
| Florida to Iowa | $985 – $1,472 |
| Michigan to Iowa | $706 – $977 |
| Texas to Iowa | $861 – $1,196 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Des Moines
As a major city, Des Moines benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Des Moines is 87, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- Move distance: You’ll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in Des Moines or within Iowa, while trips across state lines generally cost more.
- City vs. suburbs: Rates can vary if you’re moving your vehicle from the lively streets of downtown Des Moines vs. the suburbs.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Des Moines might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in Des Moines: Pick between standard open-air carriers for budget-friendly transport or enclosed trailers for extra protection against the elements. Enclosed shipping costs more but shields your car from the unexpected.
- Gas prices: The going rate for fuel in Des Moines can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Des Moines, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Severe winter weather and heavy snowfall in Des Moines, Iowa can increase car shipping prices due to hazardous road conditions and possible delays. Seasonal thunderstorms and tornado risks in spring may also drive up costs or cause scheduling challenges.
Tips for choosing the right Des Moines car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for Des Moines companies with clear pricing so you don’t get stuck with surprise fees. In Iowa, expect to pay about $1,100 to ship a standard vehicle.
- Check insurance details: Look for companies offering strong insurance options, multiple coverage plans, and a clear claims process. Some may even provide a damage-free guarantee.
- See what others are saying: Reading real reviews from people in Des Moines will help you find trustworthy transporters and steer clear of scams.
- Vet the companies: Before booking, check the FMCSA company snapshot for USDOT numbers and compliance status.
- Compare value, not just price: Check which services are included. Sometimes, premium services are worth the added cost.
- Understand delivery timelines: Review pickup and drop-off expectations carefully. They’ll vary based on location, route, and carrier type.
- Ask about add-ons: Carriers in Des Moines may offer extras like door-to-door or expedited shipping. These can help tailor your move to your exact needs.
- Ask around: Referrals from friends, family, or coworkers in Des Moines are one of the most trusted ways to find a good shipper.
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
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Des Moines?
Many car shipping companies in Des Moines, Iowa, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can typically monitor their vehicle’s progress on the company’s website or through a mobile app. You can find out when your vehicle departs Des Moines, its estimated arrival time, and any possible delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Des Moines?
Interstate 35 connects north to south. Interstate 80 runs east to west. Interstate 235 links downtown with outer areas. These highways provide efficient routes for car shipping from Des Moines.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
To check a car shipping company’s license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) number and look it up on the USDOT’s FMCSA website. This works for any provider based in Des Moines or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Des Moines?
Most carriers won’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from Des Moines. But if you have a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always verify the inspection laws for the state where your car is being delivered, as rules can differ.
Take Iowa regulations as an example. In Iowa, car owners aren’t required to have emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Des Moines?
You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It’s a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Des Moines to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Des Moines?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Des Moines specializing in open carrier delivery include Mr. Car Shipper, Auto Driveaway, and A A All States Auto Transport.
Who ships classic cars out of Des Moines?
Des Moines-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Mr. Car Shipper and A A All States Auto Transport.
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