New Jersey to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 1,110 miles from New Jersey to Iowa typically falls between $842 and $1,415. The process usually takes two–eight 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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  • Refundable deposit
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to New Jersey car shipping guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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The best New Jersey to Iowa car shipping companies

Through more than 400 hours of analysis of car shippers, we found that these are the top car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from New Jersey to Iowa:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
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Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in New Jersey

Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in New Jersey can deliver your vehicle to Iowa:

  1. Troy Car Inc: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Blue Streak Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Dom Polski Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. United Force Auto Transport LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Troy Car Inc

1275 Bloomfield Ave. Unit 74, Fairfield, NJ 07004 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers express high satisfaction with Troy Car Inc.'s reliable and professional car transport services. Positive feedback highlights timely delivery, excellent communication, and the careful handling of vehicles. While no major issues were reported, a few customers felt that more reviews were warranted to reflect their experiences.

Get a Quote (973) 808-8769

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Blue Streak Transport

121A William St, Middlesex, NJ 08846 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the prompt and fair service provided by Blue Streak Transport, highlighting the professionalism and integrity of the staff. However, there was a concerning issue regarding rude customer service in one instance, where a caller felt disrespected during a conversation.

Get a Quote (732) 424-6245

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Dom Polski Llc

111 North Broadway, South Amboy, NJ 08879 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (732) 727-7711

Services Offered

  • International shipping

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

266 Old New Brnswk Rd # 300, Piscataway, NJ 8854 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

The company has received mixed feedback regarding its delivery services. Some customers praised the timely delivery and ease of scheduling while others experienced repeated delays and poor communication. Several reviews highlighted positive interactions with staff during pickups, yet there are significant concerns regarding job transparency and contract fulfillment for employees.

Get a Quote (732) 225-7600

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

United Force Auto Transport LLC

51 Ida St, Haledon, NJ 07508 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Overall, United Force Auto Transport is noted for its exceptional customer service and reliable vehicle transport. Many customers praised their effective communication, professionalism, and timely delivery. However, some reviews mentioned issues with additional fees and unprofessional behavior from certain staff members, which detracted from the experience for some clients.

Get a Quote (973) 850-0573

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

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 New Jersey to Iowa

Ship it with your movers

If you need to ship your car from New Jersey for a move to Iowa, you may want to hire a moving company that can handle car shipping, as well. Many long-distance moving companies work with reputable car shippers to coordinate auto transport.

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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

This option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 1,110 miles on your car to travel between New Jersey 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 New Jersey to Iowa. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.

Ship by train

This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.

New Jersey 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 New Jersey and Iowa. The average travel distance is about 1,110 miles, with shipping times typically ranging from two to eight days.

Cost to ship a car from Trenton, NJ to Iowa

From New Jersey to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Trenton, NJ to Des Moines, IA $789 – $1,327 1,096 miles 2 – 8 days
Trenton, NJ to Cedar Rapids, IA $838 – $1,353 1,009 miles 2 – 8 days
Trenton, NJ to Davenport, IA $779 – $1,233 929 miles 2 – 7 days
Trenton, NJ to Sioux City, IA $918 – $1,406 1,273 miles 3 – 8 days
Trenton, NJ to Iowa City, IA $825 – $1,280 985 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Newark, NJ to Iowa

From New Jersey to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Newark, NJ to Des Moines, IA $773 – $1,249 1,097 miles 2 – 8 days
Newark, NJ to Cedar Rapids, IA $773 – $1,288 1,011 miles 2 – 8 days
Newark, NJ to Davenport, IA $837 – $1,221 930 miles 2 – 7 days
Newark, NJ to Sioux City, IA $918 – $1,435 1,274 miles 3 – 8 days
Newark, NJ to Iowa City, IA $825 – $1,331 986 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Jersey City, NJ to Iowa

From New Jersey to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Jersey City, NJ to Des Moines, IA $930 – $1,415 1,105 miles 2 – 8 days
Jersey City, NJ to Cedar Rapids, IA $773 – $1,249 1,018 miles 2 – 8 days
Jersey City, NJ to Davenport, IA $853 – $1,310 938 miles 2 – 7 days
Jersey City, NJ to Sioux City, IA $909 – $1,537 1,282 miles 3 – 8 days
Jersey City, NJ to Iowa City, IA $776 – $1,306 994 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Paterson, NJ to Iowa

From New Jersey to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Paterson, NJ to Des Moines, IA $797 – $1,249 1,094 miles 2 – 8 days
Paterson, NJ to Cedar Rapids, IA $773 – $1,288 1,008 miles 2 – 8 days
Paterson, NJ to Davenport, IA $837 – $1,272 927 miles 2 – 7 days
Paterson, NJ to Sioux City, IA $966 – $1,449 1,271 miles 3 – 8 days
Paterson, NJ to Iowa City, IA $850 – $1,254 983 miles 2 – 7 days

Cost to ship a car from Elizabeth, NJ to Iowa

From New Jersey to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Elizabeth, NJ to Des Moines, IA $895 – $1,428 1,106 miles 2 – 8 days
Elizabeth, NJ to Cedar Rapids, IA $822 – $1,288 1,020 miles 2 – 8 days
Elizabeth, NJ to Davenport, IA $845 – $1,297 939 miles 2 – 7 days
Elizabeth, NJ to Sioux City, IA $928 – $1,435 1,283 miles 3 – 8 days
Elizabeth, NJ to Iowa City, IA $776 – $1,280 995 miles 2 – 7 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from New Jersey 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 New Jersey to Iowa, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $1,053–$1,769.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from New Jersey to Iowa

When moving your vehicle from the Garden State to the Hawkeye 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: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to Iowa.
  • Distance and route: The trip from New Jersey to Iowa covers roughly 1,110 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from New Jersey in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Variability in fuel prices across states affects the cost of moving a vehicle between New Jersey and Iowa.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is two–eight days, but you can pay for expedited service.

Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know

To drive legally after your move to Iowa, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.

  • 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 New Jersey

More than 9.3 million people call New Jersey home. Nicknamed the Garden State. New Jersey summers are typically hot and humid and winters are usually cold. During winter and early spring, New Jersey can experience "nor'easters", which are capable of causing blizzards or flooding throughout the northeastern United States.

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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey and when dropping it off in Iowa.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from New Jersey to Iowa?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from New Jersey 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 New Jersey.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In New Jersey, meet the minimum auto insurance requirements: $15,000 per person for bodily injury up to $30,000 per accident and $5,000 for property damage. Stay legally covered and financially secure on the road.

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 New Jersey to Iowa?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from New Jersey to Iowa is about 1,110 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from New Jersey to Iowa.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

If you are planning to reside in New Jersey for a minimum of 6 months, it is mandatory to transfer the title of your vehicle, register it, and obtain a driver's license from the state. As a new resident, you have 60 days from the date of establishing your residency to register your vehicle. It is important to note that before registering your vehicle, you are required to have liability insurance coverage as per the New Jersey state laws.

In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.

If I have a driver’s license in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey, 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from New Jersey to Iowa?

The cheapest way to ship a car from New Jersey 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 New Jersey to Iowa?

Shipping a car from New Jersey to Iowa costs $842 to $1,415.

Helpful New Jersey resources