Missouri to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 325 miles from Missouri to Iowa typically falls between $529 and $722. 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 Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri
Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Missouri can deliver your vehicle to Iowa:
- Kansas City Auto Shipping Group: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Jmn Logistics Llc: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Passport Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Nations Auto Transport LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Kansas City Auto Shipping Group
1712 Main St 4th floor, Kansas City, MO 64108 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-missouri/kansas-city
3.66 / 5.0
Customers frequently highlight the professionalism and attentiveness of the staff, particularly mentioning Jason, Felicia, and Mandi, who provided clear communication throughout the shipping process. The efficient booking and delivery times, along with the overall excellent customer service, lead to positive experiences. Some complaints include reports of robocalls and frustrations with prior companies, but overall, most customers express high satisfaction and are likely to recommend the service to others.
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
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Jmn Logistics Llc
2050 Creve Coeur Mill Road N., Maryland Heights, MO 63043 US
jmnhaul.com
3.66 / 5.0
JMN Transport is recognized for excellent customer service, notably by representative Maria Henke, who goes above and beyond to assist clients. However, some reviews reveal serious concerns regarding unethical practices, including refusal to pay contracted amounts to drivers and discrepancies in wage agreements.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239181
Alternative Business Names
- JMN Transportation, INC
Passport Transport
145 Evergreen Pkwy, Lebanon, MO 65536 US
passporttransport.com
3.66 / 5.0
Passport Transport is recognized for their professionalism, courtesy, and quality of service in transporting vehicles, though there have been significant criticisms regarding communication and punctuality. Many customers have praised the care taken during transportation, as well as the professionalism of the drivers. However, issues such as delays, poor communication from the office, and incidents of damage to vehicles during transit have been reported and caused frustration among several customers.
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Classic cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2043860
Alternative Business Names
- Passport Auto Logistics
Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc
2345 Grand Blvd # 2400, Kansas City, MO 64108 US
jackcooper.com
3.58 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 64161
Alternative Business Names
- Pacific Motor Trucking Co.
Nations Auto Transport LLC
12032 E 46 Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64133 US
shipnat.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2244737
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 Missouri to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Missouri 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
While it’s simple, this isn’t always the best option, and it’ll put about 325 extra miles on your car to travel from Missouri 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 Missouri to Iowa. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
Ship by train
If this is an option for you, it’s an affordable and secure way of shipping your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the cheapest way to ship your car!
Missouri 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 Missouri and Iowa. The average travel distance is about 325 miles, with shipping times typically ranging from one to four days.
Cost to ship a car from Kansas City, MO to Iowa
| From Missouri to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA | $446 – $551 | 193 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Kansas City, MO to Cedar Rapids, IA | $492 – $672 | 313 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Kansas City, MO to Davenport, IA | $541 – $732 | 363 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Kansas City, MO to Sioux City, IA | $498 – $686 | 278 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Kansas City, MO to Iowa City, IA | $502 – $728 | 306 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from St. Louis, MO to Iowa
| From Missouri to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA | $539 – $759 | 349 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| St. Louis, MO to Cedar Rapids, IA | $483 – $673 | 284 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| St. Louis, MO to Davenport, IA | $447 – $586 | 266 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| St. Louis, MO to Sioux City, IA | $684 – $917 | 525 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| St. Louis, MO to Iowa City, IA | $470 – $598 | 260 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Springfield, MO to Iowa
| From Missouri to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield, MO to Des Moines, IA | $530 – $793 | 356 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Springfield, MO to Cedar Rapids, IA | $587 – $836 | 401 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Springfield, MO to Davenport, IA | $617 – $804 | 404 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Springfield, MO to Sioux City, IA | $621 – $869 | 443 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Springfield, MO to Iowa City, IA | $597 – $801 | 377 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Columbia, MO to Iowa
| From Missouri to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia, MO to Des Moines, IA | $475 – $587 | 238 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, MO to Cedar Rapids, IA | $446 – $581 | 247 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, MO to Davenport, IA | $434 – $641 | 251 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, MO to Sioux City, IA | $575 – $820 | 403 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Columbia, MO to Iowa City, IA | $435 – $620 | 223 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Independence, MO to Iowa
| From Missouri to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independence, MO to Des Moines, IA | $450 – $579 | 195 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Independence, MO to Cedar Rapids, IA | $513 – $707 | 315 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Independence, MO to Davenport, IA | $552 – $801 | 365 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Independence, MO to Sioux City, IA | $455 – $666 | 288 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Independence, MO to Iowa City, IA | $533 – $672 | 308 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Missouri to Iowa
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from Missouri to Iowa, the price usually falls between $661 and $903.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Missouri to Iowa
If you’re shipping a car from the Show-Me State to the Hawkeye State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- 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: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Iowa.
- Distance and route: Traveling from Missouri to Iowa involves roughly 325 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
- Time of the year: Peak seasons like summer or holidays raise shipping demand. This makes moves out of Missouri more expensive during these times.
- Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Missouri 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
Once you arrive in Iowa, registering your vehicle and ensuring it’s road-legal will require a few specific actions. The list below outlines the most important requirements.
- 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 Missouri
More than 6.2 million people call Missouri home. Nicknamed the Show-Me State. Although temperature in Missouri doesn't get extreme, being in the heart of tornado alley means that storms in the area are common. Be sure to check the weather forecast before move day to prepare for any upcoming weather.
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 Missouri 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 Missouri and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Missouri to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Missouri 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 Missouri.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In Missouri, drivers must have minimum liability coverage, including $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $25,000 per accident for property damage. Adherence to these requirements is crucial for financial responsibility and contributes to a safer driving environment.
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 Missouri to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Missouri to Iowa is about 325 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Missouri to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Missouri's DMV requires that passenger vehicles undergo a biennial safety inspection to evaluate the condition of its suspension, seatbelts, headlights, and related components. Additionally, residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area are required to have vehicle emission inspections.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Missouri, 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 Missouri, 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 Missouri 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 Missouri and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Missouri to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Missouri 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 Missouri to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Missouri to Iowa costs $529 to $722.
