Iowa to Washington Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 1,698 miles from Iowa to Washington falls between $1,187 and $1,725. Delivery typically takes three–nine days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington:
- 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
Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Iowa can deliver your vehicle to Washington:
- 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 Washington
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Iowa to Washington, 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
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 1,698 miles to your vehicle on the route from Iowa to Washington. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Iowa to Washington. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
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 Washington 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 Washington. The average journey covers about 1,698 miles and takes roughly three to nine days.
Cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to Washington
| From Iowa to Washington | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines, IA to Seattle, WA | $1,123 – $1,766 | 1,756 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Spokane, WA | $1,095 – $1,460 | 1,478 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Tacoma, WA | $1,194 – $1,698 | 1,769 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Vancouver, WA | $1,205 – $1,715 | 1,790 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Des Moines, IA to Bellevue, WA | $1,170 – $1,646 | 1,750 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cedar Rapids, IA to Washington
| From Iowa to Washington | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Seattle, WA | $1,243 – $1,897 | 1,828 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Spokane, WA | $1,152 – $1,631 | 1,550 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Tacoma, WA | $1,279 – $1,734 | 1,842 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Vancouver, WA | $1,224 – $1,783 | 1,909 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Cedar Rapids, IA to Bellevue, WA | $1,157 – $1,824 | 1,823 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Davenport, IA to Washington
| From Iowa to Washington | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Davenport, IA to Seattle, WA | $1,286 – $1,933 | 1,911 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Davenport, IA to Spokane, WA | $1,187 – $1,578 | 1,633 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Davenport, IA to Tacoma, WA | $1,261 – $1,933 | 1,925 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Davenport, IA to Vancouver, WA | $1,273 – $1,783 | 1,959 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Davenport, IA to Bellevue, WA | $1,273 – $1,914 | 1,906 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Sioux City, IA to Washington
| From Iowa to Washington | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sioux City, IA to Seattle, WA | $1,109 – $1,584 | 1,559 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Spokane, WA | $913 – $1,341 | 1,281 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Tacoma, WA | $1,142 – $1,537 | 1,572 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Vancouver, WA | $1,153 – $1,627 | 1,635 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Sioux City, IA to Bellevue, WA | $1,152 – $1,646 | 1,553 miles | 3 – 9 days |
Cost to ship a car from Iowa City, IA to Washington
| From Iowa to Washington | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa City, IA to Seattle, WA | $1,218 – $1,788 | 1,857 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Spokane, WA | $1,142 – $1,568 | 1,579 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Tacoma, WA | $1,243 – $1,770 | 1,870 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Vancouver, WA | $1,236 – $1,914 | 1,904 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Iowa City, IA to Bellevue, WA | $1,267 – $1,788 | 1,851 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Iowa to Washington
Since vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are larger and heavier, it’s a bit more expensive to ship them than a sedan. How much more?
If you’re shipping a larger vehicle from Iowa to Washington you should expect to pay between $1,484 and $2,156.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Iowa to Washington
When moving your vehicle from the Hawkeye State to the Evergreen State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- Type of transport: Options include open carriers, enclosed transport, and top-loading. Open carriers are less expensive, while enclosed transport is best for luxury or classic cars. See our comparison of open vs. enclosed auto transport for more details.
- Vehicle size and type: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to Washington than smaller ones.
- Distance and route: The journey from Iowa to Washington spans about 1,698 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the 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: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Iowa and Washington 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 Washington takes three–nine days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.
Washington vehicle regulations you need to know
When you move to Washington, 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: Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
- Vehicle inspection: In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
- Driver’s license: To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
- Additional taxes: If you have obtained and utilized a "private motor vehicle" in another state for more than 90 days prior to relocating to Washington, you are exempt from paying Washington's use tax.
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 Washington
About 7.8 million people are living in the Evergreen State. Washington state rarely experiences extreme weather to worry about. Your move should be unaffected by the weather conditions. However, it's always a good idea to check the forecast ahead of time and maybe prepare for a little rain!
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Iowa and delivery in Washington?
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 Washington.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Iowa to Washington?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Iowa to Washington, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Washington, 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.
Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
How long does it take to ship a car from Iowa to Washington?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Iowa to Washington is about 1,698 miles, and that’s as fast as about 4 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to nine days to travel from Iowa to Washington.
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 the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
If I have a driver’s license in Iowa, will I need one in Washington?
To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
If I bought a car in Iowa, will I be required to pay sales tax in Washington after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Iowa to Washington after purchasing it.
If you have obtained and utilized a "private motor vehicle" in another state for more than 90 days prior to relocating to Washington, you are exempt from paying Washington's use tax.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Iowa and Washington to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Washington?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Iowa to Washington 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 Washington?
Shipping a car from Iowa to Washington costs $1,187 to $1,725.
