Delaware to Iowa Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,081 miles from Delaware to Iowa usually costs between $826 and $1,245. Transit time is about two–eight days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try our car shipping cost calculator.
|
|
|
|
Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Delaware 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 Delaware to Iowa car shipping companies
Through more than 400 hours of analysis of car shippers, we found that these are the top car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Delaware 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 Delaware
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Delaware that can relocate your vehicle to Iowa:
- Moverjet Logistics LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Pride Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Colibri Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Moverjet Logistics LLC
3422 Old Capitol Trl #2025, Wilmington, DE 19808 US
moverjetlogistics.com
3.5 / 5.0
MoverJet Logistics receives praise for competent customer service, particularly from representatives like Lana and Jordan, who provide timely updates throughout the transport process and ensure vehicles are delivered in good condition. However, issues like unexpected price increases, service delays, and poor communication from contracted drivers leave many customers frustrated and dissatisfied. The company should improve transparency and reliability to enhance the customer experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2989759
Pride Car Shipping
1007 Orange St 4th floor, Wilmington, DE 19801 US
pridecarshipping.com
3.5 / 5.0
Pride Car Shipping has received a mix of both high praise and critical feedback concerning their car transport services. Many customers highlight prompt communication, efficient processes, and successful deliveries, notably commending representatives like Liam and Jessica for their professionalism and reassurance during the transport. However, a number of reviews express strong dissatisfaction due to unexpected price increases, canceled pickups, and issues with driver availability, leading to frustration and a sense of distrust regarding quoted rates.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3676446
Xpress Auto Transport
1225 N King St #340, Wilmington, DE 19801 US
xpressautoship.com/city/wilmington-delaware
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3878126
Colibri Auto Transport
3411 Silverside Rd, Wilmington, DE 19810 US
colibriautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Colibri Auto Transport is praised for its excellent customer service, effective communication, and timely delivery of vehicles. Clients highlight that agents like Felix, Jessica, and Chelsie provided outstanding support throughout their transport experience. However, some customers experienced unexpected price increases post-contract and encountered issues with driver cancellations, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction with the overall process.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 4057312
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 Delaware to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Delaware to Iowa, you may find it convenient to work with a moving company that also handles car shipping. Many interstate movers partner with experienced car shipping services to arrange auto transport.
|
|
 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
|
|
Drive it yourself
While it’s simple, this isn’t always the best option, and it’ll put about 1,081 extra miles on your car to travel from Delaware to Iowa. To help decide, here are the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You can hire someone to drive your car from Delaware to Iowa, but it’s often expensive and requires confidence in the driver’s ability to deliver your car safely.
Ship by train
This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.
Delaware to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Delaware and Iowa. The typical distance is about 1,081 miles, with shipping times generally falling between two and eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Wilmington, DE to Iowa
| From Delaware to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilmington, DE to Des Moines, IA | $786 – $1,245 | 1,069 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Wilmington, DE to Cedar Rapids, IA | $805 – $1,312 | 982 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Wilmington, DE to Davenport, IA | $840 – $1,278 | 902 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Wilmington, DE to Sioux City, IA | $952 – $1,486 | 1,246 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Wilmington, DE to Iowa City, IA | $791 – $1,239 | 958 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Dover, DE to Iowa
| From Delaware to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dover, DE to Des Moines, IA | $873 – $1,313 | 1,101 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Dover, DE to Cedar Rapids, IA | $786 – $1,295 | 1,014 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Dover, DE to Davenport, IA | $824 – $1,229 | 934 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Dover, DE to Sioux City, IA | $962 – $1,429 | 1,278 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Dover, DE to Iowa City, IA | $829 – $1,312 | 990 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Newark, DE to Iowa
| From Delaware to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newark, DE to Des Moines, IA | $802 – $1,232 | 1,051 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Newark, DE to Cedar Rapids, IA | $807 – $1,314 | 964 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Newark, DE to Davenport, IA | $823 – $1,276 | 884 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Newark, DE to Sioux City, IA | $906 – $1,457 | 1,228 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Newark, DE to Iowa City, IA | $784 – $1,179 | 940 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Middletown, DE to Iowa
| From Delaware to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middletown, DE to Des Moines, IA | $778 – $1,295 | 1,091 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Middletown, DE to Cedar Rapids, IA | $826 – $1,232 | 1,015 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Middletown, DE to Davenport, IA | $816 – $1,241 | 934 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Middletown, DE to Sioux City, IA | $924 – $1,372 | 1,278 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Middletown, DE to Iowa City, IA | $829 – $1,249 | 990 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bear, DE to Iowa
| From Delaware to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bear, DE to Des Moines, IA | $818 – $1,295 | 1,086 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Bear, DE to Cedar Rapids, IA | $797 – $1,211 | 999 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Bear, DE to Davenport, IA | $800 – $1,278 | 919 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Bear, DE to Sioux City, IA | $906 – $1,415 | 1,263 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Bear, DE to Iowa City, IA | $773 – $1,287 | 975 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Delaware to Iowa
Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.
If you’re moving one from Delaware to Iowa, expect costs to range from $1,033 to $1,556.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Delaware to Iowa
If you’re shipping a car from the First State to the Hawkeye State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- Type of transport: Options include open carriers, enclosed transport, and top-loading. Open carriers are less expensive, while enclosed transport is best for luxury or classic cars. See our comparison of open vs. enclosed auto transport for more details.
- Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to Iowa.
- Distance and route: The journey from Delaware to Iowa spans about 1,081 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Delaware in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between Delaware and Iowa and the varying gas prices across the country.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within two–eight days, but expedited options cost more.
Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know
To drive legally after your move to Iowa, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.
- 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 Delaware
More than 1.0 million people call Delaware home. Nicknamed the First State. Almost all of Delaware is a part of the Atlantic coastal plain, the effects of the ocean moderate its climate. The southern portion of the state has a milder climate than the northern portion of the state.
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 Delaware 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 Delaware and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Delaware to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Delaware 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 Delaware.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Delaware mandates that vehicle owners carry a minimum of liability car insurance of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury liability in case of an accident involving multiple people and $10,000 for property damage per 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 Delaware to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Delaware to Iowa is about 1,081 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from Delaware to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Delaware, vehicles are required to undergo an emissions inspection every two years, unless the vehicle is less than seven years old. Additionally, a vehicle inspection is required every time you register or re-register your vehicle, but it must be completed within 90 days of the registration date to be valid.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Delaware, 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 Delaware, 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 Delaware 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 Delaware and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Delaware to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Delaware 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 Delaware to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Delaware to Iowa costs $826 to $1,245.
