Iowa to Massachusetts Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,270 miles from Iowa to Massachusetts ranges from $968 to $1,482 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 Massachusetts to Iowa 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 Iowa to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts:
- 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 Iowa
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Iowa that can relocate your vehicle to Massachusetts:
- A A All States Auto Transport: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Bennett Motor Express: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Aaall States Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Nimble Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
A A All States Auto Transport
214 JACKSON ST, SUITE 1468 SIOUX CITY, IA 51102 US
autotransport.company
3.58 / 5.0
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
bennettmotorexpressllc.com
3.5 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 92693
Aaall States Transport
214 JACKSON ST, SUITE 1468 SIOUX CITY, IA 51102 US
autotransport.company
3.5 / 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.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2230973
Nimble Inc
910 23rd Ave # 200, Coralville, IA 52241 US
nimbleinc.net
3.5 / 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.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Classic cars
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2245757
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 Massachusetts
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Iowa to Massachusetts, 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
While it’s simple, this isn’t always the best option, and it’ll put about 1,270 extra miles on your car to travel from Iowa to Massachusetts. To help decide, here are the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from Iowa to Massachusetts. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.
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 Massachusetts auto transport costs and transit times
The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in Iowa and Massachusetts. Average distances are close to 1,270 miles, with delivery usually taking three–eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to Massachusetts
| From Iowa to Massachusetts | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines, IA to Boston, MA | $1,058 – $1,583 | 1,300 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Worcester, MA | $968 – $1,452 | 1,262 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Springfield, MA | $939 – $1,452 | 1,218 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Cambridge, MA | $987 – $1,497 | 1,297 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Lowell, MA | $997 – $1,583 | 1,304 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cedar Rapids, IA to Massachusetts
| From Iowa to Massachusetts | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Boston, MA | $997 – $1,437 | 1,213 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Worcester, MA | $870 – $1,361 | 1,175 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Springfield, MA | $852 – $1,404 | 1,132 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Cambridge, MA | $958 – $1,408 | 1,210 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Lowell, MA | $920 – $1,467 | 1,217 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Davenport, IA to Massachusetts
| From Iowa to Massachusetts | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Davenport, IA to Boston, MA | $932 – $1,361 | 1,133 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Worcester, MA | $790 – $1,304 | 1,095 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Springfield, MA | $856 – $1,317 | 1,052 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Cambridge, MA | $905 – $1,375 | 1,130 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Lowell, MA | $879 – $1,361 | 1,137 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Sioux City, IA to Massachusetts
| From Iowa to Massachusetts | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sioux City, IA to Boston, MA | $1,040 – $1,581 | 1,477 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Worcester, MA | $1,150 – $1,646 | 1,439 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Springfield, MA | $997 – $1,505 | 1,395 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Cambridge, MA | $1,062 – $1,581 | 1,474 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Lowell, MA | $1,040 – $1,630 | 1,481 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Iowa City, IA to Massachusetts
| From Iowa to Massachusetts | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa City, IA to Boston, MA | $905 – $1,446 | 1,188 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Worcester, MA | $941 – $1,404 | 1,150 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Springfield, MA | $852 – $1,375 | 1,107 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Cambridge, MA | $905 – $1,347 | 1,186 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Lowell, MA | $914 – $1,446 | 1,193 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Iowa to Massachusetts
Transporting bigger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans is usually more expensive than shipping a sedan due to increased weight and space requirements.
For this route from Iowa to Massachusetts, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $1,210–$1,853.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Iowa to Massachusetts
When arranging car transport from the Hawkeye State to the Bay State, the following factors will determine your overall cost:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Massachusetts.
- Distance and route: The trip from Iowa to Massachusetts covers roughly 1,270 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Iowa in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Variability in fuel prices across states affects the cost of moving a vehicle between Iowa and Massachusetts.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is three–eight days, but you can pay for expedited service.
Massachusetts vehicle regulations you need to know
To drive legally after your move to Massachusetts, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.
- Car insurance requirements: Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
- Vehicle inspection: Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
- Driver’s license: As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
- Additional taxes: As a buyer, transferee, or user of a motor vehicle or trailer in Massachusetts, you are responsible for paying a sales or use tax of 6.25%.
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 Massachusetts
About 7.0 million people are living in the Bay State. Most of Massachusetts has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Far southeast coastal areas are the broad transition zone to Humid Subtropical climates. The warm to hot summers render the oceanic climate rare in this transition, only applying to exposed coastal areas such as on the peninsula of Barnstable County. The climate of Boston is quite representative for the commonwealth, characterized by summer highs of around 81 °F (27 °C) and winter highs of 35 °F (2 °C), and is quite wet. Frosts are frequent all winter, even in coastal areas due to prevailing inland winds. Due to its location near the Atlantic, Massachusetts is vulnerable to nor'easters, hurricanes, and tropical storms.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Iowa and delivery in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Iowa to Massachusetts?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Iowa to Massachusetts, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Massachusetts, 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.
Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
How long does it take to ship a car from Iowa to Massachusetts?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Iowa to Massachusetts is about 1,270 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Iowa to Massachusetts.
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.
Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
If I have a driver’s license in Iowa, will I need one in Massachusetts?
As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
If I bought a car in Iowa, will I be required to pay sales tax in Massachusetts after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Iowa to Massachusetts after purchasing it.
As a buyer, transferee, or user of a motor vehicle or trailer in Massachusetts, you are responsible for paying a sales or use tax of 6.25%.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Iowa and Massachusetts to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Massachusetts?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
Shipping a car from Iowa to Massachusetts costs $968 to $1,482.
