Massachusetts to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,271 miles from Massachusetts to Iowa ranges from $929 to $1,541 and takes three–eight 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 Iowa to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Massachusetts can deliver your vehicle to Iowa:
- Fox Auto Transport: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- Intercity Lines Inc: 3.84 out of 5 stars
- Fisher Shipping Company: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Dreamline Logistics LLC: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Preowned Auto Logistics: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Fox Auto Transport
150 Pleasant St Suite 209, Easthampton, MA 01027 US
foxautotransport.com
3.86 / 5.0
Fox Auto Transport is praised for its excellent customer service, efficient transportation, and reliable communication throughout the process. Many customers have specifically highlighted Patrick and Paul for their professionalism and attention to detail. However, some users reported fluctuating prices and occasional scheduling issues, leading to frustration for a few customers.
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2237933
Intercity Lines Inc
552 Old West Brookfield Rd, Warren, MA 01083 US
intercitylines.com
3.84 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 223672
Fisher Shipping Company
27B Midstate Dr Suite 106, Auburn, MA 01501 US
fishershipping.com
3.8 / 5.0
Fisher Shipping has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for their exceptional customer service, efficient transport, and professionalism throughout the shipping process. Customers appreciate the promptness and clear communication from their representatives, ensuring a smooth experience when transporting their vehicles. However, there are instances of dissatisfaction concerning claims and damage inspection. A few clients experienced issues with notable scratches on vehicles after transport, raising concerns about damage during shipping. Overall, most customers would highly recommend Fisher Shipping for vehicle transport.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2235479
Alternative Business Names
- Fisher Auto Transport
Dreamline Logistics LLC
2464 Massachusetts Ave #220, Cambridge, MA 02140 US
dreamline-logistics.com
3.8 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise Dreamline Logistics for their excellent service, fast communication, professionalism, and care in handling vehicles. However, some reviews highlight issues such as unexpected delays and concerns about damage accountability during transport.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3172148
Preowned Auto Logistics
222 Jubilee Dr., Peabody, MA 01960 US
preownedautologistics.com
3.8 / 5.0
Customers have praised Preowned Auto Logistics for their professionalism, timely service, and excellent communication. Many highlighted specific representatives like Mike and Chris for their attentive and responsive service. However, some reviews pointed to negative experiences regarding delayed deliveries, insufficient communication about transport status, and issues like theft of personal items left in vehicles.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1056402
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 Massachusetts to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Massachusetts to Iowa, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 1,271 miles to your car on the trip from Massachusetts to Iowa. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Massachusetts to Iowa is an alternative you might want to consider. However, it typically comes with a high price tag, and you’ll need to rely on the driver to care for your car.
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.
Massachusetts to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below detail the costs and estimated transit times for shipping a car between popular cities in Massachusetts and Iowa. The average travel distance is about 1,271 miles, with shipping times typically ranging from three to eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Boston, MA to Iowa
| From Massachusetts to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston, MA to Des Moines, IA | $1,007 – $1,541 | 1,299 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Boston, MA to Cedar Rapids, IA | $968 – $1,408 | 1,212 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Boston, MA to Davenport, IA | $905 – $1,474 | 1,132 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Boston, MA to Sioux City, IA | $1,139 – $1,662 | 1,476 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Boston, MA to Iowa City, IA | $888 – $1,347 | 1,188 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Worcester, MA to Iowa
| From Massachusetts to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Worcester, MA to Des Moines, IA | $997 – $1,556 | 1,262 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Worcester, MA to Cedar Rapids, IA | $932 – $1,390 | 1,175 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Worcester, MA to Davenport, IA | $864 – $1,383 | 1,095 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Worcester, MA to Sioux City, IA | $1,062 – $1,565 | 1,439 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Worcester, MA to Iowa City, IA | $923 – $1,333 | 1,151 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Springfield, MA to Iowa
| From Massachusetts to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield, MA to Des Moines, IA | $949 – $1,482 | 1,217 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Springfield, MA to Cedar Rapids, IA | $932 – $1,474 | 1,130 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Springfield, MA to Davenport, IA | $864 – $1,317 | 1,050 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Springfield, MA to Sioux City, IA | $1,017 – $1,536 | 1,394 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Springfield, MA to Iowa City, IA | $861 – $1,390 | 1,106 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cambridge, MA to Iowa
| From Massachusetts to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge, MA to Des Moines, IA | $929 – $1,497 | 1,296 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Cambridge, MA to Cedar Rapids, IA | $1,007 – $1,541 | 1,209 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cambridge, MA to Davenport, IA | $896 – $1,347 | 1,129 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cambridge, MA to Sioux City, IA | $1,150 – $1,533 | 1,473 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Cambridge, MA to Iowa City, IA | $914 – $1,390 | 1,185 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Lowell, MA to Iowa
| From Massachusetts to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lowell, MA to Des Moines, IA | $1,048 – $1,521 | 1,303 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Lowell, MA to Cedar Rapids, IA | $929 – $1,452 | 1,216 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Lowell, MA to Davenport, IA | $861 – $1,404 | 1,136 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Lowell, MA to Sioux City, IA | $1,051 – $1,662 | 1,480 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Lowell, MA to Iowa City, IA | $870 – $1,432 | 1,192 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Massachusetts to Iowa
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 Massachusetts to Iowa you should expect to pay between $1,161 and $1,926.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Massachusetts to Iowa
When transporting your vehicle from the Bay State to the Hawkeye State, these factors will influence your final price:
- 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 Iowa.
- Distance and route: The journey from Massachusetts to Iowa spans about 1,271 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Massachusetts in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Massachusetts to Iowa, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- 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
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 Massachusetts
More than 7.0 million people call Massachusetts home. Nicknamed the Bay State. Most of Massachusetts has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Far southeast coastal areas are the broad transition zone to Humid Subtropical climates. The warm to hot summers render the oceanic climate rare in this transition, only applying to exposed coastal areas such as on the peninsula of Barnstable County. The climate of Boston is quite representative for the commonwealth, characterized by summer highs of around 81 °F (27 °C) and winter highs of 35 °F (2 °C), and is quite wet. Frosts are frequent all winter, even in coastal areas due to prevailing inland winds. Due to its location near the Atlantic, Massachusetts is vulnerable to nor'easters, hurricanes, and tropical storms.
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Massachusetts to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
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 Massachusetts to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Massachusetts to Iowa is about 1,271 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Massachusetts to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Massachusetts to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Massachusetts to Iowa costs $929 to $1,541.
