Rhode Island to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 1,253 miles from Rhode Island to Iowa falls between $918 and $1,420. Delivery typically takes three–eight days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to Iowa car shipping companies
After putting more than 400 hours of research into the car shipping industry, we identified the best car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island
Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Rhode Island can deliver your vehicle to Iowa:
- Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Virginia Transportation Corp: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- East Coast Auto Transport: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- United Road Services: Davisville: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Natales Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
25 Messenger Dr, Warwick, RI 02888 US
beaconshippinglogistics.com
3.8 / 5.0
Beacon Shipping Logistics has garnered mixed reviews from customers. Many praise the company for its excellent communication, responsiveness, and timely delivery, often highlighting the professionalism of team members like John and Matt. However, some customers reported negative experiences, specifically citing issues with rude staff, lack of accountability for damage, and dissatisfaction with pricing structures.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2268269
Virginia Transportation Corp
141 James P Murphy Ind Hwy, West Warwick, RI 2893 US
virginiatransportation.com
3.76 / 5.0
The company has provided a range of experiences for customers and employees. Positive feedback highlights effective communication and professionalism, while negative comments focus on invasive practices and logistical issues.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 643760
East Coast Auto Transport
111 Amaral St, Riverside, RI 02915 US
eastcoastautotransport.com
3.58 / 5.0
East Coast Auto Transport receives commendation for their professional service, timely delivery, and effective communication from many satisfied customers. However, significant frustration arises from reports of poor customer service, vehicle damage complaints, and concerns regarding delays and lack of communication regarding transport statuses.
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1625076
United Road Services: Davisville
40 Thompson Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852 US
unitedroad.com
3.5 / 5.0
United Road Services generally offers excellent customer service, friendly representatives, and good vehicle care. However, they face criticism for poor communication, unreliable delivery times, and issues with the quality of their subcontracted drivers, leading to frustration among many customers.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2234402
Natales Transport
2708 S County Trl East, East Greenwich, RI 02818 US
natalestransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers express strong praise for the professionalism and timely service of Natale’s Transport, highlighting Rob Natale’s reliability. However, some reviewers raise serious concerns about delays in payment and label the service as a scam.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1569601
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 Rhode Island to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
When moving from Rhode Island 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 straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 1,253 miles to your vehicle on the route from Rhode Island to Iowa. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
You can also hire someone to drive the car from Rhode Island to Iowa for you. This option could be a very costly one and involves trusting a driver to safely get your car to its destination.
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.
Rhode Island to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Rhode Island and Iowa. The typical distance is about 1,253 miles, with shipping times generally falling between three and eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Providence, RI to Iowa
| From Rhode Island to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence, RI to Des Moines, IA | $1,004 – $1,464 | 1,294 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Cedar Rapids, IA | $937 – $1,479 | 1,207 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Davenport, IA | $904 – $1,442 | 1,127 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Sioux City, IA | $1,060 – $1,562 | 1,471 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Iowa City, IA | $886 – $1,456 | 1,183 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Warwick, RI to Iowa
| From Rhode Island to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warwick, RI to Des Moines, IA | $1,004 – $1,449 | 1,278 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Cedar Rapids, IA | $921 – $1,401 | 1,192 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Davenport, IA | $868 – $1,318 | 1,111 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Sioux City, IA | $1,028 – $1,642 | 1,455 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Iowa City, IA | $859 – $1,442 | 1,167 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cranston, RI to Iowa
| From Rhode Island to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cranston, RI to Des Moines, IA | $928 – $1,479 | 1,282 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Cedar Rapids, IA | $921 – $1,331 | 1,196 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Davenport, IA | $921 – $1,428 | 1,116 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Sioux City, IA | $1,039 – $1,578 | 1,459 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Iowa City, IA | $868 – $1,456 | 1,172 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Pawtucket, RI to Iowa
| From Rhode Island to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pawtucket, RI to Des Moines, IA | $937 – $1,537 | 1,297 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Cedar Rapids, IA | $957 – $1,523 | 1,210 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Davenport, IA | $921 – $1,456 | 1,130 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Sioux City, IA | $1,049 – $1,530 | 1,474 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Iowa City, IA | $842 – $1,401 | 1,186 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from East Providence, RI to Iowa
| From Rhode Island to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Providence, RI to Des Moines, IA | $937 – $1,449 | 1,297 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Cedar Rapids, IA | $995 – $1,449 | 1,211 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Davenport, IA | $877 – $1,345 | 1,130 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Sioux City, IA | $1,049 – $1,610 | 1,474 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Iowa City, IA | $904 – $1,359 | 1,186 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to Iowa you should expect to pay between $1,148 and $1,775.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Rhode Island to Iowa
When arranging car transport from the Ocean State to the Hawkeye State, the following factors will determine your overall cost:
- 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: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Iowa.
- Distance and route: The journey from Rhode Island to Iowa spans approximately 1,253 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
- Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of Rhode Island in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
- Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Rhode Island and Iowa may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
- Delivery expectations: Because it’ll make their job easier, your auto shipper may give you a pricing discount if you’re flexible on delivery dates. That being said, getting your car from Rhode Island to Iowa should take between three and eight days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.
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 Rhode Island
More than 1.1 million people call Rhode Island home. Nicknamed the Ocean State. Rhode Island has warm summers and cold winters. The state's southern coastal portions have hot summers and cool winters with a mix of rain and snow.
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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Rhode Island to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. When relocating to Rhode Island, it's essential to secure car insurance meeting the state's minimum requirements, which include liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Additionally, Rhode Island mandates all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage for comprehensive 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 Rhode Island to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Rhode Island to Iowa is about 1,253 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Rhode Island to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
All newly registered vehicles (except new vehicles) must pass a Safety and Emissions inspection or have a valid inspection certificate within 5 days of registration. If not, the registration may be suspended. New vehicles are exempt from inspection for 2 years or until they reach 24,000 miles. Different categories of vehicles have different inspection requirements and must be inspected at a licensed station.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Rhode Island to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Rhode Island to Iowa costs $918 to $1,420.
