Iowa to Texas Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 918 miles from Iowa to Texas ranges from $798 to $1,153 and takes two–seven 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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas:
- 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
Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Iowa ready to move your vehicle to Texas:
- 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 Texas
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from Iowa for a move to Texas, you may want to hire a moving company that can handle car shipping, as well. Many long-distance moving companies work with reputable car shippers to coordinate auto transport.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
This is straightforward but not always an option, and it will put about 918 miles on your car going from Iowa to Texas. If you’re not sure, here are the pros and cons of driving your car vs. shipping it.
Hire a driver
You can also hire someone to drive the car from Iowa to Texas 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 Texas auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Iowa and Texas. The typical distance is about 918 miles, with shipping times generally falling between two and seven days.
Cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to Texas
| From Iowa to Texas | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX | $751 – $1,213 | 933 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Des Moines, IA to San Antonio, TX | $760 – $1,305 | 1,007 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Dallas, TX | $743 – $1,032 | 696 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Austin, TX | $759 – $1,177 | 929 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Fort Worth, TX | $794 – $1,086 | 738 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cedar Rapids, IA to Texas
| From Iowa to Texas | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Houston, TX | $815 – $1,242 | 1,052 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to San Antonio, TX | $811 – $1,363 | 1,124 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Dallas, TX | $739 – $1,108 | 815 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Austin, TX | $800 – $1,279 | 1,045 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Fort Worth, TX | $755 – $1,162 | 859 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Davenport, IA to Texas
| From Iowa to Texas | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Davenport, IA to Houston, TX | $745 – $1,254 | 1,042 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to San Antonio, TX | $871 – $1,363 | 1,176 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Dallas, TX | $786 – $1,154 | 816 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Davenport, IA to Austin, TX | $745 – $1,229 | 1,096 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Davenport, IA to Fort Worth, TX | $774 – $1,250 | 910 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Sioux City, IA to Texas
| From Iowa to Texas | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sioux City, IA to Houston, TX | $811 – $1,196 | 995 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Sioux City, IA to San Antonio, TX | $760 – $1,254 | 1,016 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Dallas, TX | $726 – $1,162 | 757 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Austin, TX | $830 – $1,275 | 938 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Fort Worth, TX | $741 – $1,075 | 749 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Iowa City, IA to Texas
| From Iowa to Texas | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa City, IA to Houston, TX | $760 – $1,204 | 1,046 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to San Antonio, TX | $879 – $1,270 | 1,119 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Dallas, TX | $739 – $1,200 | 810 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Austin, TX | $792 – $1,204 | 1,042 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Fort Worth, TX | $794 – $1,234 | 852 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Iowa to Texas
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 Texas usually runs between $998 and $1,441.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Iowa to Texas
When arranging car transport from the Hawkeye State to the Lone Star 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: 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 Texas.
- Distance and route: Traveling from Iowa to Texas involves roughly 918 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Iowa around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Iowa and Texas may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes two–seven days, while expedited service costs more.
Texas vehicle regulations you need to know
Moving to Texas 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: Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.
- Vehicle inspection: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
- Driver’s license: New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to the state.
- Additional taxes: New residents must pay a $90 new resident tax instead of a use tax for a vehicle they bring into Texas. This applies if the vehicle was previously registered in the new resident's name in another state or foreign country.
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 Texas
About 30.5 million people are living in the Lone Star State. Although winters are mild, hurricane season during the summer months may affect your move.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Iowa and delivery in Texas?
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 Texas.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Iowa to Texas?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Iowa to Texas, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Texas, 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.
Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.
How long does it take to ship a car from Iowa to Texas?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Iowa to Texas is about 918 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to seven days to travel from Iowa to Texas.
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 Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
If I have a driver’s license in Iowa, will I need one in Texas?
New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to the state.
If I bought a car in Iowa, will I be required to pay sales tax in Texas after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Iowa to Texas after purchasing it.
New residents must pay a $90 new resident tax instead of a use tax for a vehicle they bring into Texas. This applies if the vehicle was previously registered in the new resident's name in another state or foreign country.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Iowa and Texas to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Texas?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Texas 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 Texas?
Shipping a car from Iowa to Texas costs $798 to $1,153.
