Illinois to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 259 miles from Illinois to Iowa typically falls between $457 and $624. The process usually takes one–four days, depending on variables like the type of transport and seasonal demand. For a personalized estimate, visit our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Illinois 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 Illinois to Iowa car shipping companies
After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Illinois 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 Illinois
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Illinois that can transport your vehicle to Iowa:
- Van 3 Auto Transport & Car: 3.92 out of 5 stars
- Dispatchray: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Karma Auto Transport: 3.78 out of 5 stars
- Chicago Auto Shipping Group: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- BKK TRANSPORT: 3.72 out of 5 stars
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
106 Meadow Dr, Countryside, IL 60525 US
van3autotransport.com
3.92 / 5.0
Van3 Auto Transport receives praise for its excellent customer service, prompt vehicle delivery, and competitive pricing. However, several customers reported serious issues, including delayed pickups, vehicle damage during transport, and lack of communication from the company, leading to significant frustration.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2511788
Dispatchray
6109 Jovic Ct, La Grange, IL 60525 US
dispatchray.com
3.8 / 5.0
Customers express strong satisfaction with Dispatch Ray, highlighting excellent communication, competitive pricing, and a professional approach in transporting vehicles. They detail positive experiences with knowledgeable staff and timely deliveries throughout various transport needs. However, there were no significant issues reported by clients, with many indicating no hidden fees or surprises in the process.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2490936
Alternative Business Names
- USA Auto Carrier Incorporated
Karma Auto Transport
901 Nicholas Blvd Unit D, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 US
karmaautotransport.com
3.78 / 5.0
Karma Auto Transport is known for its excellent service and reliability. Customers frequently commend their professionalism, quick communication, and affordable pricing. However, there are complaints regarding payment issues for transporters and some unexpected delivery hassles, which raised concerns about their overall accountability.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2882553
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
625 N Michigan Ave Suite 1000 PMB 165, Chicago, IL 60611 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-illinois/chicago
3.76 / 5.0
Customers generally report a high level of satisfaction with Auto Shipping Group's services, highlighting exceptional customer service and efficient, timely car transport. However, some negative experiences include issues with communication and unexpected pricing changes.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
BKK TRANSPORT
77 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 US
bkktransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
BKK Transport is appreciated for competitive pricing, effective communication, and timely vehicle delivery. However, some customers report issues with late deliveries, poor contractor reliability, and unexpected extra charges.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2248306
Alternative Business Names
- BKK Transport & Brokerage, Inc
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 Illinois to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If your move takes you from Illinois to Iowa, you might want to look for a moving company that can coordinate car shipping. Many interstate moving companies already partner with established auto transport services.
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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 259 miles on your car to travel between Illinois and Iowa. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from Illinois to Iowa. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.
Ship by train
Shipping a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.
Illinois to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Illinois and Iowa. The trip typically spans 259 miles and takes about one–four days.
Cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Iowa
| From Illinois to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA | $513 – $724 | 332 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $461 – $631 | 246 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Davenport, IA | $406 – $549 | 171 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Sioux City, IA | $643 – $847 | 477 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chicago, IL to Iowa City, IA | $472 – $616 | 221 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Aurora, IL to Iowa
| From Illinois to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora, IL to Des Moines, IA | $489 – $674 | 297 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $479 – $611 | 210 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Davenport, IA | $360 – $511 | 136 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Sioux City, IA | $663 – $918 | 474 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Aurora, IL to Iowa City, IA | $422 – $560 | 186 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Joliet, IL to Iowa
| From Illinois to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joliet, IL to Des Moines, IA | $539 – $694 | 308 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $463 – $580 | 221 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Davenport, IA | $387 – $526 | 141 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Sioux City, IA | $623 – $918 | 485 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Joliet, IL to Iowa City, IA | $429 – $586 | 197 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Naperville, IL to Iowa
| From Illinois to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naperville, IL to Des Moines, IA | $498 – $715 | 306 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $475 – $588 | 219 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Davenport, IA | $380 – $536 | 145 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Sioux City, IA | $623 – $856 | 483 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Naperville, IL to Iowa City, IA | $455 – $547 | 195 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Rockford, IL to Iowa
| From Illinois to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockford, IL to Des Moines, IA | $499 – $654 | 285 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Cedar Rapids, IA | $400 – $524 | 164 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Davenport, IA | $352 – $516 | 124 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Sioux City, IA | $610 – $819 | 392 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Rockford, IL to Iowa City, IA | $402 – $554 | 174 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Illinois to Iowa
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 Illinois to Iowa, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $571–$780.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Illinois to Iowa
When moving your vehicle from the Land of Lincoln to the Hawkeye State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- Type of transport: Common choices include open carriers, enclosed carriers, and top-loading. Open carriers are the least expensive, while enclosed shipping is better for classic or high-end cars. More details are available in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
- 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 Iowa.
- Distance and route: The route from Illinois to Iowa is about 259 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Illinois around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Illinois and Iowa.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is one–four days, but you can pay for expedited service.
Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know
When you move to Iowa, 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: 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 Illinois
More than 12.5 million people call Illinois home. Nicknamed the Land of Lincoln. Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley"
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 Illinois 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 Illinois and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Illinois to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Illinois 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 Illinois.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. The liability insurance minimums for Illinois are $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident, and $20,000 property damage liability 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 Illinois to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Illinois to Iowa is about 259 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Illinois to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Illinois, emissions inspections are mandatory on a yearly basis for eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metropolitan areas. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts tests on automobiles before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State's office.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Illinois, 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 Illinois, 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 Illinois 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 Illinois and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Illinois 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 Illinois to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Illinois to Iowa costs $457 to $624.
