($1,162) Cost to ship a car from Scottsdale, AZ to Des Moines, IA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 1,388 miles from Scottsdale, Arizona, to Des Moines, Iowa, generally falls between $1,162 and $1,790. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Des Moines to Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale to Des Moines car shipping companies
To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Scottsdale to Des Moines:
- 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 Scottsdale
If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in Scottsdale, AZ:
- Car Go Auto Transport: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Phoenix Auto Shipping Group: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Auto Transport Team: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Car Shipping Carriers-Phoenix: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Scottsdale Auto Transport Inc.: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Car Go Auto Transport
17232 N 63rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308 US
cargoautotransport.com
3.76 / 5.0
Car Go Auto Transport provides highly appreciated customer service, timely delivery, and effective communication throughout the vehicle transport process, reinforcing their reputation as a reliable choice for car shipping needs. However, there have been reported instances of delays, additional unexpected charges, and some damaging incidents during transit that have raised concerns among customers about their overall practices.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 676058
Alternative Business Names
- Car-Go Auto Transport
Phoenix Auto Shipping Group
1204 E Baseline Rd UNIT 106, Tempe, AZ 85283 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-arizona/phoenix
3.56 / 5.0
Customers widely praise Felicia from Auto Shipping Group for her exceptional communication, professionalism, and reliability throughout the entire vehicle shipping process. While many clients report a seamless experience and timely delivery, there were isolated concerns regarding a single negative experience about company practices.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2239008
Auto Transport Team
11107 W Buckeye Rd, Avondale, AZ 85323 US
autotransportteam.com
3.56 / 5.0
Auto Transport Team is praised for their outstanding customer service, timely delivery, and effective communication throughout the transportation process. Many customers felt reassured by the professionalism of the staff, particularly representatives like Clay and Zach, who were commended for their attentiveness and consistent updates. However, some customers raised concerns regarding communication gaps during scheduling and problems related to vehicle condition upon delivery.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 872309
Alternative Business Names
- Auto Transport Team LLC
Car Shipping Carriers-Phoenix
4600 E Washington St # 300, Phoenix, AZ 85034 US
carshippingcarriers.com
3.56 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2249744
Scottsdale Auto Transport Inc.
2765 N Scottsdale Rd UNIT 325, Scottsdale, AZ 85257 US
a1autotransport.com/scottsdale
3.5 / 5.0
Great explanation of service and car arrived a day early! Excellent expectations and even better delivery! Good company to talk to.
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
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- AAA
- Student
- Teacher
- Law enforcement
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 815051
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.
Car shipping alternatives from AZ to IA
If you’re planning a move from Scottsdale to Des Moines, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re moving from Scottsdale to Des Moines, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.
Drive your car
Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 1,388 miles from Scottsdale to Des Moines might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.
Use a driving service
Having a driver transport your car from Arizona to Iowa is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Scottsdale to Des Moines. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Des Moines, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.
Factors affecting Scottsdale to Des Moines car shipping costs
If you’re moving your car from Scottsdale to Des Moines, the cost will depend on several key factors:
Transport method
If you’re moving a car from Scottsdale to Des Moines, your options include open, enclosed, and top-loaded shipping. Each service has pros and cons depending on your situation.
Open carriers from Scottsdale tend to be the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is better for protecting luxury or classic cars. To help you decide on the right choice for your move to Des Moines, see our detailed guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping price from Scottsdale depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Des Moines will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.
Distance and route
Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 1,388 miles from Scottsdale to Des Moines will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Arizona.
Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.
The time of the year
Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Scottsdale and Des Moines.
Extreme heat may cause discomfort if you choose to move in the summer. Pay close attention to heat sensitive household items such as instruments, antique furniture, and electronics.
September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Scottsdale to Des Moines during these times can be more expensive.
Fuel prices
Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 1,388-mile journey from Scottsdale to Des Moines makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.
Delivery expectations
By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Scottsdale to Des Moines usually takes three–eight days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing Scottsdale and Des Moines vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Scottsdale: Scottsdale doesn't require a parking permit for your move however, it's still a good idea to double check with the City of Scottsdale. Also, be aware of any HOA or building rules that you should know before your move day.
- Des Moines: special parking permits are issued by the Traffic and Transportation Division of the Engineering Department and are intended to provide for services or needs of an infrequent or unique nature. Examples include utility work, constructions, special events, etc.
Car insurance requirements
- Scottsdale: The mandated liability insurance minimums in Arizona are as follows: $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person per accident $30,000 for bodily injury liability for two or more people per accident $10,000 for property damage liability per accident
- Des Moines: 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 inspections
- Scottsdale: Emissions testing is mandatory in Phoenix and Tucson, but not in the rest of Arizona. If you reside in either Phoenix or Tucson, you are required to undergo an emissions test every two years while renewing your vehicle registration. On the other hand, car safety inspections are not mandatory in the state of Arizona.
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Driver’s license
- Scottsdale: If you are a former resident of another state and now reside in Arizona, you will need to visit an Arizona Motor Vehicle Services office in person to obtain an Arizona driver's license. You have a 10-day window after relocating within the state to update the address on your Arizona driver's license.
- Des Moines: 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Scottsdale to Des Moines?
The cost to ship a car from Scottsdale, AZ to Des Moines, IA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Scottsdale to Des Moines will range from $1,162 to $1,790.
How long will it take to ship my car from Scottsdale to Des Moines?
It will take approximately three to eight days to ship your car the 1,388 miles from Scottsdale to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Scottsdale to Des Moines?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Scottsdale to Des Moines. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Scottsdale to Des Moines?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Scottsdale to Des Moines than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 1,388-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.
