Iowa to South Carolina Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,084 miles from Iowa to South Carolina usually costs between $802 and $1,308. 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.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our South Carolina 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 South Carolina car shipping companies
After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Iowa to South Carolina:
- 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 Iowa
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Iowa that can transport your vehicle to South Carolina:
- A A All States Auto Transport: 3.58 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
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 South Carolina
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Iowa to South Carolina, 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.
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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 1,084 miles on your car to travel between Iowa and South Carolina. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You can hire someone to drive your car from Iowa to South Carolina, 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.
Iowa to South Carolina auto transport costs and transit times
Here are tables summarizing the expected costs and transit times for car shipping between well-traveled routes in Iowa and South Carolina. The average journey covers about 1,084 miles and takes roughly two to eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to South Carolina
| From Iowa to South Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines, IA to Charleston, SC | $980 – $1,386 | 1,200 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Columbia, SC | $826 – $1,270 | 1,091 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to North Charleston, SC | $890 – $1,313 | 1,192 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Mount Pleasant, SC | $943 – $1,357 | 1,203 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Rock Hill, SC | $802 – $1,270 | 1,063 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cedar Rapids, IA to South Carolina
| From Iowa to South Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Charleston, SC | $856 – $1,299 | 1,113 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Columbia, SC | $794 – $1,219 | 1,004 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to North Charleston, SC | $908 – $1,340 | 1,105 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Mount Pleasant, SC | $890 – $1,367 | 1,116 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Rock Hill, SC | $781 – $1,287 | 976 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Davenport, IA to South Carolina
| From Iowa to South Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Davenport, IA to Charleston, SC | $818 – $1,207 | 1,034 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Columbia, SC | $760 – $1,266 | 924 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Davenport, IA to North Charleston, SC | $794 – $1,207 | 1,026 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Mount Pleasant, SC | $818 – $1,257 | 1,036 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Rock Hill, SC | $815 – $1,155 | 896 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Sioux City, IA to South Carolina
| From Iowa to South Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sioux City, IA to Charleston, SC | $971 – $1,526 | 1,379 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Columbia, SC | $906 – $1,472 | 1,270 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to North Charleston, SC | $1,010 – $1,571 | 1,371 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Mount Pleasant, SC | $981 – $1,421 | 1,381 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Rock Hill, SC | $887 – $1,400 | 1,241 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Iowa City, IA to South Carolina
| From Iowa to South Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa City, IA to Charleston, SC | $794 – $1,207 | 1,089 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Columbia, SC | $821 – $1,249 | 980 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Iowa City, IA to North Charleston, SC | $770 – $1,219 | 1,081 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Mount Pleasant, SC | $794 – $1,295 | 1,091 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Rock Hill, SC | $791 – $1,202 | 951 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Iowa to South Carolina
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from Iowa to South Carolina, the price usually falls between $1,003 and $1,635.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Iowa to South Carolina
Transporting your vehicle from the Hawkeye State to the Palmetto State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:
- Type of transport: Options like open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport cater to different needs. Open carriers are cost-effective, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re not sure, check out our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Shipping costs are higher for bigger and heavier vehicles. Your car’s weight and dimensions play a direct role in the total cost to ship it to South Carolina.
- Distance and route: The trip from Iowa to South Carolina covers roughly 1,084 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 South Carolina.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes two–eight days, while expedited service costs more.
South Carolina vehicle regulations you need to know
Moving to South Carolina means taking care of certain tasks to get your car registered and ready for the road. Here’s a summary of the key steps involved.
- Car insurance requirements: In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
- Vehicle inspection: Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
- Driver’s license: If you are moving to South Carolina, you will be required to obtain a South Carolina driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state.
- Additional taxes: In South Carolina, there is a sales tax imposed on the purchase of a vehicle. The sales tax rate is 6%, which is collected by the dealer at the time of purchase.
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 South Carolina
About 5.4 million people are living in the Palmetto State. South Carolina had hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters and coastal areas of the state have very mild winters. While precipitation is abundant the entire year in almost the entire state, the coast tends to have a slightly wetter summer, while inland, the spring and autumn transitions tend to be the wettest periods and winter the driest season, with November being the driest month.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Iowa and delivery in South Carolina?
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 South Carolina.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Iowa to South Carolina?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Iowa to South Carolina, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to South Carolina, 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.
In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
How long does it take to ship a car from Iowa to South Carolina?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Iowa to South Carolina is about 1,084 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 South Carolina.
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.
Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
If I have a driver’s license in Iowa, will I need one in South Carolina?
If you are moving to South Carolina, you will be required to obtain a South Carolina driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state.
If I bought a car in Iowa, will I be required to pay sales tax in South Carolina after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Iowa to South Carolina after purchasing it.
In South Carolina, there is a sales tax imposed on the purchase of a vehicle. The sales tax rate is 6%, which is collected by the dealer at the time of purchase.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Iowa and South Carolina to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to South Carolina?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to South Carolina 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 South Carolina?
Shipping a car from Iowa to South Carolina costs $802 to $1,308.
