Florida to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,396 miles from Florida to Iowa ranges from $1,027 to $1,583 and takes three–eight days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Florida 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 Florida to Iowa car shipping companies
After putting more than 400 hours of research into the car shipping industry, we identified the best car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Florida to Iowa:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- 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
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- 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
Top local car shippers in Florida
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in Florida who can get your vehicle to Iowa:
- All Coast Auto Transport: 3.94 out of 5 stars
- Eship: 3.92 out of 5 stars
- Nationwide Transport Services: 3.88 out of 5 stars
- Shiping-My-Car.Com: 3.88 out of 5 stars
- National Car Transport: 3.88 out of 5 stars
All Coast Auto Transport
13900 S Jog Rd # 203, Delray Beach, FL 33446 US
allcoastautotransport.com
3.94 / 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
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: NO. 018191NF
Alternative Business Names
- National Transport Solutions, LLC
Eship
7241 NW 43rd Ave, Coconut Creek, FL 33073 US
eshiptransport.com
3.92 / 5.0
Services Offered
- 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
- Senior
- AAA
- Teacher
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: USDOT 2248101
Alternative Business Names
- eShip Transport
Nationwide Transport Services
1 World Trade Center #839, Long Beach, CA 90831 US
nationwidetransportservices.com
3.88 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2245458
Shiping-My-Car.Com
2410 Se Issac Rd, Port St Lucie, FL 34952 US
suncoastautotransport.com
3.88 / 5.0
Suncoast Auto Transport receives accolades for excellent customer service, great communication, and competitive pricing. However, several reviewers criticized their reliability, delayed pickups, and additional unexpected costs.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2241721
National Car Transport
1800 Nw 135th Ave, Miami, FL 33182 US
nationalcartransport.com
3.88 / 5.0
National Car Transport is recognized for its easy online booking, responsive customer service, and reliable drivers. However, some reviews point out serious issues regarding pricing changes and customer support failures, with allegations of fraudulent practices and unfulfilled promises.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2231970
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 Florida to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Florida 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
This option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 1,396 miles on your car to travel between Florida and Iowa. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Florida 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
This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.
Florida to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Florida and Iowa. The typical distance is about 1,396 miles, with shipping times generally falling between three and eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Jacksonville, FL to Iowa
| From Florida to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville, FL to Des Moines, IA | $978 – $1,422 | 1,247 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Jacksonville, FL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $861 – $1,474 | 1,182 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Jacksonville, FL to Davenport, IA | $923 – $1,418 | 1,133 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Jacksonville, FL to Sioux City, IA | $1,084 – $1,678 | 1,423 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Jacksonville, FL to Iowa City, IA | $870 – $1,333 | 1,158 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Miami, FL to Iowa
| From Florida to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami, FL to Des Moines, IA | $1,176 – $1,613 | 1,565 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Miami, FL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $1,129 – $1,564 | 1,500 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Miami, FL to Davenport, IA | $1,139 – $1,549 | 1,451 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Miami, FL to Sioux City, IA | $1,290 – $1,729 | 1,741 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Miami, FL to Iowa City, IA | $1,106 – $1,533 | 1,479 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Tampa, FL to Iowa
| From Florida to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa, FL to Des Moines, IA | $1,038 – $1,490 | 1,357 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Tampa, FL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $978 – $1,511 | 1,293 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Tampa, FL to Davenport, IA | $939 – $1,497 | 1,243 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Tampa, FL to Sioux City, IA | $1,199 – $1,630 | 1,533 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Tampa, FL to Iowa City, IA | $929 – $1,556 | 1,268 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Orlando, FL to Iowa
| From Florida to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando, FL to Des Moines, IA | $1,027 – $1,567 | 1,339 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Orlando, FL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $978 – $1,511 | 1,274 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Orlando, FL to Davenport, IA | $1,016 – $1,437 | 1,225 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Orlando, FL to Sioux City, IA | $1,106 – $1,679 | 1,515 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Orlando, FL to Iowa City, IA | $997 – $1,422 | 1,250 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from St. Petersburg, FL to Iowa
| From Florida to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Petersburg, FL to Des Moines, IA | $1,068 – $1,629 | 1,380 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| St. Petersburg, FL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $997 – $1,490 | 1,315 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| St. Petersburg, FL to Davenport, IA | $997 – $1,408 | 1,266 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| St. Petersburg, FL to Sioux City, IA | $1,176 – $1,630 | 1,556 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| St. Petersburg, FL to Iowa City, IA | $1,007 – $1,437 | 1,291 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Florida 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 Florida to Iowa, expect costs to range from $1,284 to $1,979.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Florida to Iowa
Transporting your vehicle from the Sunshine State to the Hawkeye State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:
- 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: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to Iowa than smaller ones.
- Distance and route: Traveling from Florida to Iowa involves roughly 1,396 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Florida in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Florida and Iowa may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within three–eight days, but expedited options cost more.
Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know
When you move to Iowa, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.
- 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 Florida
More than 22.6 million people call Florida home. Nicknamed the Sunshine State. Severe weather is a common occurrence in Florida, as Florida is the most hurricane-prone state in the US. June 1st and November 30 is the time when most hurricanes in Florida occur, the most severe dates lie between August - October. Be sure to check your local weather station before your move as Florida is known for its thunderstorms and high levels of precipitation. Perhaps plan for a Winter or Springtime move to ensure the safety of your belongings.
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 Florida 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 Florida and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Florida to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Florida 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 Florida.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
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 Florida to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Florida to Iowa is about 1,396 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Florida to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Florida, 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 Florida, 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 Florida 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 Florida and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Florida to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Florida 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 Florida to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Florida to Iowa costs $1,027 to $1,583.
