Idaho to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 1,409 miles from Idaho to Iowa ranges from $1,114 to $1,626. Expect the trip to take around three–eight days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Idaho 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 Idaho to Iowa 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 Idaho to Iowa:
- 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 Idaho
Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Idaho can deliver your vehicle to Iowa:
- Boise Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
- Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Boise Auto Shipping Group
800 W Main St #1460, Boise, ID 83702 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-idaho/auto-shipping-boise
3.62 / 5.0
Auto Shipping Group is generally regarded for their exceptional customer service and communication, though some customers experienced issues with reliability and communication regarding delivery schedules. Overall, most reviews highlight satisfaction with the process, despite some negative experiences with follow-up interactions and delays in service.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- AAA
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Global Auto Transportation
303 N Kimball Pl, Boise, ID 83704 US
globalautotransportation.com/boise-auto-transport
3.5 / 5.0
Customers consistently praised the thorough assistance of the Logistics Coordinator and the professionalism and honesty of the drivers. However, experiences were marred by unexpected fees and unprofessional handling of customer inquiries, particularly regarding vehicle conditions and charges.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2243114
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 Idaho to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
When moving from Idaho to Iowa, 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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 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 1,409 extra miles on your car to travel from Idaho to Iowa. To help decide, here are the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Idaho to Iowa. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
Ship by train
Shipping by train can be a cost-effective and reliable method of moving your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the least expensive way to move a vehicle.
Idaho to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Idaho and Iowa. The typical distance is about 1,409 miles, with shipping times generally falling between three and eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Boise, ID to Iowa
| From Idaho to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boise, ID to Des Moines, IA | $1,056 – $1,579 | 1,361 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Boise, ID to Cedar Rapids, IA | $1,093 – $1,674 | 1,479 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Boise, ID to Davenport, IA | $1,162 – $1,692 | 1,531 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Boise, ID to Sioux City, IA | $976 – $1,537 | 1,260 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Boise, ID to Iowa City, IA | $1,082 – $1,594 | 1,475 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Meridian, ID to Iowa
| From Idaho to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meridian, ID to Des Moines, IA | $1,015 – $1,487 | 1,370 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Meridian, ID to Cedar Rapids, IA | $1,125 – $1,594 | 1,488 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Meridian, ID to Davenport, IA | $1,127 – $1,643 | 1,538 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Meridian, ID to Sioux City, IA | $957 – $1,420 | 1,269 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Meridian, ID to Iowa City, IA | $1,039 – $1,642 | 1,483 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Nampa, ID to Iowa
| From Idaho to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nampa, ID to Des Moines, IA | $995 – $1,610 | 1,380 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Nampa, ID to Cedar Rapids, IA | $1,071 – $1,546 | 1,496 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Nampa, ID to Davenport, IA | $1,116 – $1,692 | 1,546 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Nampa, ID to Sioux City, IA | $928 – $1,391 | 1,277 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Nampa, ID to Iowa City, IA | $1,093 – $1,530 | 1,491 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Idaho Falls, ID to Iowa
| From Idaho to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho Falls, ID to Des Moines, IA | $859 – $1,428 | 1,139 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Idaho Falls, ID to Cedar Rapids, IA | $985 – $1,406 | 1,258 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Idaho Falls, ID to Davenport, IA | $1,056 – $1,518 | 1,308 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Idaho Falls, ID to Sioux City, IA | $837 – $1,259 | 927 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Idaho Falls, ID to Iowa City, IA | $909 – $1,537 | 1,252 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Caldwell, ID to Iowa
| From Idaho to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caldwell, ID to Des Moines, IA | $1,015 – $1,487 | 1,387 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Caldwell, ID to Cedar Rapids, IA | $1,116 – $1,708 | 1,504 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Caldwell, ID to Davenport, IA | $1,162 – $1,659 | 1,554 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Caldwell, ID to Sioux City, IA | $947 – $1,508 | 1,284 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Caldwell, ID to Iowa City, IA | $1,125 – $1,610 | 1,498 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Idaho to Iowa
Because of their added size and weight, SUVs, trucks, and vans generally cost more to ship than smaller cars.
Shipping a larger vehicle from Idaho to Iowa usually runs between $1,393 and $2,033.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Idaho to Iowa
When moving your vehicle from the Gem State to the Hawkeye State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- 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 rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to Iowa than smaller ones.
- Distance and route: The journey from Idaho to Iowa spans about 1,409 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Idaho around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Variability in fuel prices across states affects the cost of moving a vehicle between Idaho and Iowa.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is three–eight days, but you can pay for expedited service.
Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to Iowa, you’ll need to complete a few important steps to register your vehicle and make it legal to drive. Below is an overview of the main requirements to help with the process.
- Car insurance 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.
- Vehicle inspection: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
- Driver’s license: New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Iowa license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. To do so, visit the DMV with your former state license, as it will need to be surrendered for the new license.
- Additional taxes: In Iowa, sales of vehicles requiring registration are exempt from sales tax but subject to a 5% fee for new registration.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Idaho
More than 2.0 million people call Idaho home. Nicknamed the Gem State. The climate in Idaho varies widely. In the west cloud cover, humidity, and precipitation are at their maximum extent. Idaho can be hot but have relatively low humidity and cooler evenings during the summer months. It is important to know that winters in Idaho can be cold.
Transporting your vehicle to Iowa
About 3.2 million people are living in 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.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Idaho and delivery in Iowa?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Idaho and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Idaho to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Idaho to Iowa, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Iowa, which you should verify before loading your car in Idaho.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Idaho's minimum insurance mandates include $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from Idaho to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Idaho to Iowa is about 1,409 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Idaho to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Idaho, all vehicles in Ada and Canyon Counties are required to pass an emissions test every two years. Additionally, out-of-state vehicle registrations must go through a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Idaho, will I need one in Iowa?
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Iowa license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. To do so, visit the DMV with your former state license, as it will need to be surrendered for the new license.
If I bought a car in Idaho, will I be required to pay sales tax in Iowa after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Idaho to Iowa after purchasing it.
In Iowa, sales of vehicles requiring registration are exempt from sales tax but subject to a 5% fee for new registration.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Idaho and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Idaho to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Idaho to Iowa 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 Idaho to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Idaho to Iowa costs $1,114 to $1,626.
