($802) Cost to ship a car from Lubbock, TX to Des Moines, IA

Quick answer: On average, moving a car 890 miles from Lubbock, Texas, to Des Moines, Iowa, will run you about $802 to $1,221. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with 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 Lubbock car shipping guide.

Our track record

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
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 Lubbock to Des Moines car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Lubbock 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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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
Licensedcheckmark
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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 Lubbock

If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Lubbock, TX:

  1. RAPID AUTO SHIPPING: 3.5 out of 5 stars

RAPID AUTO SHIPPING

906 Main St, Silverton, TX 79257 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise the company's professionalism, reliability, and the seamless nature of their vehicle transport services. They also highlight the competitive pricing and timely delivery as standout features. However, no significant negative feedback was reported, indicating high customer satisfaction overall.

Get a Quote (833) 233-4447

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
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Student

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Rapid A Shipping LLC

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

When you’re moving from Lubbock to Des Moines, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.

Coordinate with your movers

When relocating from Lubbock to Des Moines, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.

Drive your car

There are lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 890-mile drive from Lubbock to Des Moines into a fun road trip, and you’ll likely save money. But all that mileage will put some wear and tear on your vehicle, and you could face inclement weather or other dangerous driving conditions.

Use a driving service

Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Texas to Iowa. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Lubbock. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Des Moines.

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 Lubbock to Des Moines car shipping costs

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

Transport method

If you’re moving a car from Lubbock to Des Moines, your options include open, enclosed, and top-loaded shipping. Each service has pros and cons depending on your situation.

Open carriers from Lubbock tend to be the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is better for protecting luxury or classic cars. To help you decide on the right choice for your move to Des Moines, see our detailed guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Lubbock is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to Des Moines will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.

Distance and route

Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 890 miles from Lubbock to Des Moines will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Texas.

Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.

The time of the year

Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Lubbock and Des Moines.

Although in many parts of Texas hurricanes and extreme heat may affect your move, this is less of a concern in Lubbock. Local climate shouldn't play a big role in your move to Lubbock.

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

During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Lubbock to Des Moines during these times can be more expensive.

Fuel prices

Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 890-mile drive between Lubbock and Des Moines, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Lubbock to Des Moines typically takes between two and seven days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Comparing Lubbock and Des Moines vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Lubbock: For information on whether you need a permit to move to Lubbock call the city at 8067753000
  • 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

  • Lubbock: 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

  • Lubbock: 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

  • Lubbock: 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 Lubbock to Des Moines?

The cost to ship a car from Lubbock, 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 Lubbock to Des Moines will range from $802 to $1,221.

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

It will take approximately two to seven days to ship your car the 890 miles from Lubbock to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Lubbock 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 Lubbock to Des Moines?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Lubbock 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 890-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 Lubbock resources