Arkansas to Iowa Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 598 miles from Arkansas to Iowa typically falls between $682 and $973. The process usually takes one–six days, depending on variables like the type of transport and seasonal demand. For a personalized estimate, visit our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Arkansas car shipping guide.
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
The best Arkansas to Iowa car shipping companies
After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Arkansas to Iowa:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for exact pickup dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best insurance coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Arkansas
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Arkansas that can relocate your vehicle to Iowa:
- Mt. Olive Auto & Freight Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Nationwide Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Mt. Olive Auto & Freight Transport
605 E German Ln, Conway, AR 72032 US
mtoliveautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Mt. Olive Auto Transport is praised for exceptional customer service, reliable and timely deliveries, and competitive pricing, making it a preferred choice for many clients. However, there are significant complaints regarding unprofessional behavior, unexpected price increases, and poor communication that led to frustrating experiences for some customers.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 89327
Alternative Business Names
- Brian Martin DBA Mt. Olive Auto Transport
Nationwide Auto Transport
10800 Financial Centre Pkwy #205, Little Rock, AR 72211
nationwidetransports.com/city/little-rock-arkansas
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2248682
Global Auto Transportation
5500 Patterson Rd, Little Rock, AR 72209 US
globalautotransportation.com/little-rock-auto-transport
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2243114
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.
Alternative ways to ship your car from Arkansas to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Arkansas to Iowa, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 598 miles to your car on the trip from Arkansas to Iowa. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Arkansas to Iowa is an alternative you might want to consider. However, it typically comes with a high price tag, and you’ll need to rely on the driver to care for your car.
Ship by train
Shipping by train can be a cost-effective and reliable method of moving your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the least expensive way to move a vehicle.
Arkansas to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Arkansas and Iowa. The trip typically spans 598 miles and takes about one–six days.
Cost to ship a car from Little Rock, AR to Iowa
| From Arkansas to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Little Rock, AR to Des Moines, IA | $740 – $971 | 616 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Little Rock, AR to Cedar Rapids, IA | $691 – $951 | 618 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Little Rock, AR to Davenport, IA | $740 – $961 | 612 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Little Rock, AR to Sioux City, IA | $756 – $1,046 | 703 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Little Rock, AR to Iowa City, IA | $662 – $992 | 594 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Fayetteville, AR to Iowa
| From Arkansas to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville, AR to Des Moines, IA | $607 – $840 | 428 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Fayetteville, AR to Cedar Rapids, IA | $622 – $877 | 547 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Fayetteville, AR to Davenport, IA | $710 – $992 | 598 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Fayetteville, AR to Sioux City, IA | $667 – $864 | 515 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Fayetteville, AR to Iowa City, IA | $674 – $904 | 542 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Fort Smith, AR to Iowa
| From Arkansas to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Smith, AR to Des Moines, IA | $651 – $851 | 484 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Fort Smith, AR to Cedar Rapids, IA | $677 – $1,040 | 603 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Fort Smith, AR to Davenport, IA | $733 – $1,001 | 654 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Fort Smith, AR to Sioux City, IA | $686 – $962 | 571 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Fort Smith, AR to Iowa City, IA | $689 – $934 | 598 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Springdale, AR to Iowa
| From Arkansas to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Springdale, AR to Des Moines, IA | $567 – $792 | 421 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Springdale, AR to Cedar Rapids, IA | $680 – $941 | 540 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Springdale, AR to Davenport, IA | $675 – $934 | 591 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Springdale, AR to Sioux City, IA | $616 – $864 | 508 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Springdale, AR to Iowa City, IA | $622 – $941 | 535 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Jonesboro, AR to Iowa
| From Arkansas to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jonesboro, AR to Des Moines, IA | $699 – $953 | 572 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Jonesboro, AR to Cedar Rapids, IA | $607 – $868 | 499 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Jonesboro, AR to Davenport, IA | $607 – $817 | 493 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Jonesboro, AR to Sioux City, IA | $718 – $1,084 | 659 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Jonesboro, AR to Iowa City, IA | $638 – $868 | 475 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Arkansas to Iowa
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from Arkansas to Iowa, the price usually falls between $853 and $1,216.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Arkansas to Iowa
If you’re shipping a car from the Natural State to the Hawkeye State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Iowa.
- Distance and route: The route from Arkansas to Iowa is about 598 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of Arkansas in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
- Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Arkansas and Iowa.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes one–six days, while expedited service costs more.
Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to Iowa, you’ll need to complete a few important steps to register your vehicle and make it legal to drive. Below is an overview of the main requirements to help with the process.
- Car insurance requirements: Iowa requires minimum liability insurance, covering $20,000 for individual injury or death, $40,000 for multiple individuals, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident.
- Vehicle inspection: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
- Driver’s license: New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Iowa license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. To do so, visit the DMV with your former state license, as it will need to be surrendered for the new license.
- Additional taxes: In Iowa, sales of vehicles requiring registration are exempt from sales tax but subject to a 5% fee for new registration.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Arkansas
More than 3.1 million people call Arkansas home. Nicknamed the Natural State. Arkansas has hot, humid summers and slightly drier, mild to cool winters. Arkansas is known for extreme weather and frequent storms. A typical year brings thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, snow, and ice storms. Between both the Great Plains and the Gulf States, Arkansas receives around 60 days of thunderstorms. Movers should check their local weather station to make sure they are not being caught in any of these storms.
Transporting your vehicle to Iowa
About 3.2 million people are living in the Hawkeye State. Iowa has a humid continental climate throughout the state. Snowfall is common in Iowa. Spring brings in severe weather season. Iowa has about 50 thunderstorm days per year and has a tornado season. Iowa is known for hot and humid summers. Be sure to check the weather before your move, especially during the springtime.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Arkansas and delivery in Iowa?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Arkansas and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Arkansas to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Arkansas to Iowa, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Iowa, which you should verify before loading your car in Arkansas.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In Arkansas, all drivers must maintain liability insurance that meets the state's minimum requirements, which are $25,000 per person for bodily injury or death in one accident, $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons in one accident, and $25,000 for property damage caused by an auto accident.
Iowa requires minimum liability insurance, covering $20,000 for individual injury or death, $40,000 for multiple individuals, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident.
How long does it take to ship a car from Arkansas to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Arkansas to Iowa is about 598 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take one to six days to travel from Arkansas to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Arkansas does not require mandatory safety or emissions inspections, but the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality encourages voluntary emissions testing for the benefit of the environment. This means that while getting your car tested for emissions is optional, it is strongly encouraged.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Arkansas, will I need one in Iowa?
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Iowa license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. To do so, visit the DMV with your former state license, as it will need to be surrendered for the new license.
If I bought a car in Arkansas, will I be required to pay sales tax in Iowa after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Arkansas to Iowa after purchasing it.
In Iowa, sales of vehicles requiring registration are exempt from sales tax but subject to a 5% fee for new registration.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Arkansas and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Arkansas to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Arkansas to Iowa is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Arkansas to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Arkansas to Iowa costs $682 to $973.
