Iowa to Connecticut Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 1,165 miles from Iowa to Connecticut typically falls between $859 and $1,318. The process usually takes two–eight 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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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Connecticut to Iowa car shipping guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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The best Iowa to Connecticut car shipping companies

Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car from Iowa to Connecticut:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
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Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Iowa

Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Iowa ready to move your vehicle to Connecticut:

  1. A A All States Auto Transport: 3.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Bennett Motor Express: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Aaall States Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Nimble Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars

A A All States Auto Transport

214 JACKSON ST, SUITE 1468 SIOUX CITY, IA 51102 US

starstarstarstarstar3.58 / 5.0
Get a Quote (712) 823-0443

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Bennett Motor Express

906 W Crystal Lake Rd, Forest City, IA 50436 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (800) 866-5500

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment

Additional Information

Aaall States Transport

214 JACKSON ST, SUITE 1468 SIOUX CITY, IA 51102 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

While some customers report frustrating experiences with delivery delays and a refusal to wear masks by drivers, others are satisfied with undamaged deliveries and commend the customer service provided by the office staff and drivers.

Get a Quote (712) 823-0443

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Nimble Inc

910 23rd Ave # 200, Coralville, IA 52241 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Nimble, Inc. is faced with serious concern regarding business practices, particularly around unpaid freight charges and customer service experiences. While there are some positive comments about their staff, numerous reviews highlight major issues related to financial responsibility and operational difficulties during service deliveries.

Get a Quote (866) 700-0770

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Heavy equipment
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

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 Iowa to Connecticut

Ship it with your movers

When moving from Iowa to Connecticut, it can be helpful to hire a moving company that includes car shipping services. A number of long-distance moving companies work directly with reliable car shippers to arrange transport.

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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

This option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 1,165 miles on your car to travel between Iowa and Connecticut. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.

Hire a driver

You can also hire someone to drive the car from Iowa to Connecticut for you. This option could be a very costly one and involves trusting a driver to safely get your car to its destination.

Ship by train

This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.

Iowa to Connecticut auto transport costs and transit times

Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Iowa and Connecticut. The typical distance is about 1,165 miles, with shipping times generally falling between two and eight days.

Cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to Connecticut

From Iowa to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Des Moines, IA to Waterbury, CT $895 – $1,428 1,179 miles 2 – 8 days
Des Moines, IA to Bridgeport, CT $930 – $1,387 1,166 miles 2 – 8 days
Des Moines, IA to Stamford, CT $930 – $1,456 1,145 miles 2 – 8 days
Des Moines, IA to New Haven, CT $868 – $1,401 1,185 miles 2 – 8 days
Des Moines, IA to Hartford, CT $985 – $1,449 1,209 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Cedar Rapids, IA to Connecticut

From Iowa to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Cedar Rapids, IA to Waterbury, CT $805 – $1,367 1,093 miles 2 – 8 days
Cedar Rapids, IA to Bridgeport, CT $773 – $1,262 1,080 miles 2 – 8 days
Cedar Rapids, IA to Stamford, CT $854 – $1,314 1,058 miles 2 – 8 days
Cedar Rapids, IA to New Haven, CT $854 – $1,249 1,099 miles 2 – 8 days
Cedar Rapids, IA to Hartford, CT $859 – $1,442 1,122 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Davenport, IA to Connecticut

From Iowa to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Davenport, IA to Waterbury, CT $822 – $1,249 1,013 miles 2 – 8 days
Davenport, IA to Bridgeport, CT $838 – $1,314 1,000 miles 2 – 8 days
Davenport, IA to Stamford, CT $801 – $1,319 978 miles 2 – 7 days
Davenport, IA to New Haven, CT $854 – $1,353 1,019 miles 2 – 8 days
Davenport, IA to Hartford, CT $781 – $1,353 1,042 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Sioux City, IA to Connecticut

From Iowa to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Sioux City, IA to Waterbury, CT $1,046 – $1,595 1,356 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux City, IA to Bridgeport, CT $964 – $1,472 1,343 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux City, IA to Stamford, CT $1,066 – $1,457 1,322 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux City, IA to New Haven, CT $1,046 – $1,472 1,362 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux City, IA to Hartford, CT $1,056 – $1,549 1,386 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Iowa City, IA to Connecticut

From Iowa to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Iowa City, IA to Waterbury, CT $838 – $1,327 1,068 miles 2 – 8 days
Iowa City, IA to Bridgeport, CT $773 – $1,301 1,055 miles 2 – 8 days
Iowa City, IA to Stamford, CT $838 – $1,288 1,034 miles 2 – 8 days
Iowa City, IA to New Haven, CT $773 – $1,314 1,074 miles 2 – 8 days
Iowa City, IA to Hartford, CT $789 – $1,353 1,098 miles 2 – 8 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Iowa to Connecticut

Because of their added size and weight, SUVs, trucks, and vans generally cost more to ship than smaller cars.

Shipping a larger vehicle from Iowa to Connecticut usually runs between $1,074 and $1,648.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Iowa to Connecticut

When transporting your vehicle from the Hawkeye State to the Constitution State, these factors will influence your final price:

  • 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 Connecticut.
  • Distance and route: The route from Iowa to Connecticut is about 1,165 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
  • Time of the year: Peak seasons like summer or holidays raise shipping demand. This makes moves out of Iowa more expensive during these times.
  • Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Iowa and Connecticut may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Iowa to Connecticut takes two–eight days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.

Connecticut vehicle regulations you need to know

When you move to Connecticut, 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: The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
  • Vehicle inspection: In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.
  • Driver’s license: As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.
  • Additional taxes: If you paid less than 6.35% (or 7.75% for vehicles valued over $50,000) in sales tax in another state, you will need to pay the difference to the Connecticut DMV at the time of vehicle registration.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from Iowa

More than 3.2 million people call Iowa home. Nicknamed 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.

Transporting your vehicle to Connecticut

About 3.6 million people are living in the Constitution State. Connecticut has decent weather, is familiar to any east coast native. In the North, there tend to be cold winters with moderate snowfall and hot, humid summers. In the South, there are cool winters with a mix of rain and infrequent snow, and hot humid summers.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Iowa and delivery in Connecticut?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Iowa and when dropping it off in Connecticut.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Iowa to Connecticut?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Iowa to Connecticut, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Connecticut, which you should verify before loading your car in Iowa.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the 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.

The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident

How long does it take to ship a car from Iowa to Connecticut?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Iowa to Connecticut is about 1,165 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from Iowa to Connecticut.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.

In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.

If I have a driver’s license in Iowa, will I need one in Connecticut?

As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.

If I bought a car in Iowa, will I be required to pay sales tax in Connecticut after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Iowa to Connecticut after purchasing it.

If you paid less than 6.35% (or 7.75% for vehicles valued over $50,000) in sales tax in another state, you will need to pay the difference to the Connecticut DMV at the time of vehicle registration.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Iowa and Connecticut to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Connecticut?

The cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Connecticut 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 Iowa to Connecticut?

Shipping a car from Iowa to Connecticut costs $859 to $1,318.

Helpful Iowa resources