($1,106) Cost to ship a car from Port St. Lucie, FL to Des Moines, IA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: On average, moving a car 1,453 miles from Port St. Lucie, Florida, to Des Moines, Iowa, will run you about $1,106 to $1,565. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with 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 Port St. Lucie 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 Port St. Lucie to Des Moines car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines:
- 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 Port St. Lucie
If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Port St. Lucie, FL:
- All Coast Auto Transport: 3.94 out of 5 stars
- Shiping-My-Car.Com: 3.88 out of 5 stars
- Allstate Transport Solutions: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- State 2 State Auto Transport: 3.52 out of 5 stars
- Shipping A Car: 3.5 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
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
Allstate Transport Solutions
1107 53rd Court South, Mangonia Park, FL 33407 US
allstatetransportsolutions.com
3.56 / 5.0
Customers appreciate the reasonable costs, exceptional communication, and professionalism of their services, with many expressing satisfaction with the quality of work performed. However, some reported issues with delays in response from AAA, and experiences with insufficient insurance coverage for transport.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3386744
State 2 State Auto Transport
6145 Nw Nolia Ct, Port St Lucie, FL 34983 US
state2stateautotransport.com
3.52 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Classic cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 593576
Shipping A Car
612 SW Badger Terrace, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 US
shipping-my-car.com/about-us
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2241721
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 FL to IA
Getting your car from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.
Coordinate with your movers
On moves from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines, it’s common for the top long-distance movers to coordinate with established car shippers for you. This can simplify your relocation, but you might not have a say in which car shipper they choose.
Drive your car
Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 1,453 miles from Port St. Lucie 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
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Florida to Iowa. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Port St. Lucie. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Des Moines.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Des Moines, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Port St. Lucie to Des Moines car shipping costs
When transporting your vehicle from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines, these factors will influence the cost:
Transport method
When it comes to moving your car from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.
Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to Des Moines, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping costs out of Port St. Lucie will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to Des Moines than a compact car.
Distance and route
Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 1,453 miles from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Florida.
Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Port St. Lucie and Des Moines can impact car shipping prices.
Port St. Lucie summers are usually hot, with high temperatures averaging in the low 90s. Winters are usually mild to warm, with average high temperatures in the 70s. Port St. Lucie is also vulnerable to hurricanes.
September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 1,453-mile distance between Port St. Lucie and Des Moines and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines typically takes between three and eight days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Comparing Port St. Lucie and Des Moines vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Port St. Lucie: Effective October 29, 2021, carriers may purchase Florida trip permits online through the FLHSMV Commercial Vehicle Permit Portal. A Florida Temporary Trip Permit is valid for ten (10) days and costs $30.00. Carriers may also contact the Bureau of Commercial Vehicle and Driver Services at (850) 617-3711 weekdays from 8-4:30 to obtain a trip permit.
- 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
- Port St. Lucie: 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.
- 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
- Port St. Lucie: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Driver’s license
- Port St. Lucie: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
- 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 Port St. Lucie to Des Moines?
The cost to ship a car from Port St. Lucie, FL 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 Port St. Lucie to Des Moines will range from $1,106 to $1,565.
How long will it take to ship my car from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines?
It will take approximately three to eight days to ship your car the 1,453 miles from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Port St. Lucie to Des Moines?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Port St. Lucie 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 Port St. Lucie to Des Moines?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Port St. Lucie 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 1,453-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.
