($859) Cost to ship a car from Laredo, TX to Des Moines, IA

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,127 miles from Laredo, Texas, to Des Moines, Iowa, ranges from $859 to $1,373. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Des Moines to Laredo car shipping guide.

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Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

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 Laredo to Des Moines car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Laredo to Des Moines:

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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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
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
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Laredo

If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in Laredo, TX:

  1. San Antonio Auto Shipping Group: 3.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Car Shipping Carriers Sn Antn: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  3. National Transport Services: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. AMPM Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

San Antonio Auto Shipping Group

5460 Babcock Rd #120-C, San Antonio, TX 78240 US

starstarstarstarstar3.76 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised the excellent support, professionalism, and reliable delivery speed provided by the team at Auto Shipping Group. Many highlighted the positive experiences with specific representatives who ensured smooth communication throughout the shipping process. Additionally, recipients appreciated the careful handling of their vehicles upon delivery. However, some customers encountered difficulties with prior service issues before finding satisfaction with this company. A few reviews noted initial challenges in locating transporter services, suggesting the need for better initial coordination in future cases.

Get a Quote (801) 973-4385

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

Additional Information

Car Shipping Carriers Sn Antn

1100 Nw Loop 410 # 700, Castle Hills, TX 78213 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0
Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

National Transport Services

8610 N New Braunfels Ave Suite S-607, San Antonio, TX 78217 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise the prompt and friendly service, excellent communication, and timely delivery from National Transport. Some noted the professionalism of drivers and the care taken with high-end vehicles during transport. While experiences were overwhelmingly positive, there is little mention of potential areas for improvement in service offerings or details about handling a wider variety of vehicle conditions.

Get a Quote (888) 346-2202

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

11906 Hayter Rd, Laredo, TX 78045 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the drop-and-hook nature of the service and indicate that the facility is generally good and functional, but they also express frustration regarding inefficiencies, long wait times, and some unpleasant interactions with staff.

Get a Quote (956) 791-0981

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

AMPM Auto Transport

302 Crossroads Loop, Laredo, TX 78045 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (877) 241-2676

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • 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 #: 2247310

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.

Car shipping alternatives from TX to IA

If you’re planning a move from Laredo to Des Moines, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.

Coordinate with your movers

If you are relocating from Laredo to Des Moines, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 1,127 miles from Laredo to Des Moines can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Texas to Iowa. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Laredo to Des Moines carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Des Moines. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.

Factors affecting Laredo to Des Moines car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from Laredo to Des Moines can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from Laredo to Des Moines, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Des Moines, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The kind of car you’re shipping out of Laredo has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Des Moines will cost more than moving a smaller car.

Distance and route

Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 1,127 miles from Laredo to Des Moines will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Texas.

Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.

The time of the year

Both seasonal trends and local weather in Laredo and Des Moines can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.

In Laredo, your move is unlikely to be affected by the climate. Temperatures are almost never below freezing and precipitation is mild when compared to other parts of Texas.

September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Laredo to Des Moines during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 1,127-mile journey from Laredo to Des Moines makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.

Delivery expectations

By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Laredo to Des Moines usually takes two–eight days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.

Comparing Laredo and Des Moines vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Laredo: Laredo and Webb County don't have any laws or rules posted on their websites about parking or moving related permits you need to get before your move. It's still a good idea to contact them and to check if your new home has any neighborhood or HOA rules that you need to abide by.
  • Des Moines: special parking permits are issued by the Traffic and Transportation Division of the Engineering Department and are intended to provide for services or needs of an infrequent or unique nature. Examples include utility work, constructions, special events, etc.

Car insurance requirements

  • Laredo: Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.
  • Des Moines: 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 inspections

  • Laredo: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
  • Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.

Driver’s license

  • Laredo: New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to the state.
  • Des Moines: 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.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Laredo to Des Moines?

The cost to ship a car from Laredo, TX to Des Moines, IA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Laredo to Des Moines will range from $859 to $1,373.

How long will it take to ship my car from Laredo to Des Moines?

It will take approximately two to eight days to ship your car the 1,127 miles from Laredo to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Laredo to Des Moines?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Laredo to Des Moines. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Laredo to Des Moines?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Laredo to Des Moines than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 1,127-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.

We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Helpful Laredo resources