Wisconsin to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 322 miles from Wisconsin to Iowa ranges from $487 to $658. Expect the trip to take around one–four days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, use our car shipping cost calculator.

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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 Iowa to Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin

Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in Wisconsin who can get your vehicle to Iowa:

  1. Discount Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  2. Auto Driveaway: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Midwest Auto Movers Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Rapid Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Discount Auto Transport

213231 Varsity St, Stratford, WI 54484 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise Nation Wide Discount Auto Transport for its excellent service, reasonable pricing, and knowledgeable staff. While some experienced minor frustrations during the process, overall experiences highlight effective communication and customer care.

Get a Quote (715) 687-4600

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Auto Driveaway

N14w24200 Tower Pl # 210b, Waukesha, WI 53188 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Fail to get reviews.

Get a Quote (800) 346-2277

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Midwest Auto Movers Inc

2909 South Mallard Avenue, Marshfield, WI 54449 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers highly appreciate the prompt delivery and great value provided by the company. The quality of the equipment and the drivers' care for vehicles are also noted positively, indicating a strong commitment to service. Overall, customers express satisfaction with their experiences.

Get a Quote (715) 305-4540

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Midwest Auto Movers

Ceva Logistics

5929 Packer Dr Ne, Menomonie, WI 54751 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (715) 233-1792

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

Rapid Auto Transport

1101 Jackson St, Wausau, WI 54403 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (715) 573-4040

Services Offered

  • Interstate shipping
  • 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 Wisconsin to Iowa

Ship it with your movers

When moving from Wisconsin 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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  • 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

While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 322 miles to your vehicle on the route from Wisconsin to Iowa. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.

Hire a driver

Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Wisconsin to Iowa. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.

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.

Wisconsin to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times

Here are tables summarizing the expected costs and transit times for car shipping between well-traveled routes in Wisconsin and Iowa. The average journey covers about 322 miles and takes roughly one to four days.

Cost to ship a car from Milwaukee, WI to Iowa

From Wisconsin to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Milwaukee, WI to Des Moines, IA $536 – $793 373 miles 1 – 4 days
Milwaukee, WI to Cedar Rapids, IA $464 – $629 244 miles 1 – 4 days
Milwaukee, WI to Davenport, IA $437 – $592 212 miles 1 – 4 days
Milwaukee, WI to Sioux City, IA $623 – $864 471 miles 1 – 4 days
Milwaukee, WI to Iowa City, IA $434 – $616 262 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Madison, WI to Iowa

From Wisconsin to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Madison, WI to Des Moines, IA $469 – $634 284 miles 1 – 4 days
Madison, WI to Cedar Rapids, IA $392 – $518 165 miles 1 – 4 days
Madison, WI to Davenport, IA $388 – $523 163 miles 1 – 4 days
Madison, WI to Sioux City, IA $603 – $793 392 miles 1 – 4 days
Madison, WI to Iowa City, IA $409 – $553 176 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Green Bay, WI to Iowa

From Wisconsin to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Green Bay, WI to Des Moines, IA $603 – $869 425 miles 1 – 4 days
Green Bay, WI to Cedar Rapids, IA $508 – $679 306 miles 1 – 4 days
Green Bay, WI to Davenport, IA $523 – $707 304 miles 1 – 4 days
Green Bay, WI to Sioux City, IA $650 – $899 533 miles 1 – 6 days
Green Bay, WI to Iowa City, IA $513 – $658 317 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Kenosha, WI to Iowa

From Wisconsin to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Kenosha, WI to Des Moines, IA $558 – $793 368 miles 1 – 4 days
Kenosha, WI to Cedar Rapids, IA $469 – $627 282 miles 1 – 4 days
Kenosha, WI to Davenport, IA $434 – $575 207 miles 1 – 4 days
Kenosha, WI to Sioux City, IA $655 – $829 463 miles 1 – 4 days
Kenosha, WI to Iowa City, IA $452 – $641 257 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Racine, WI to Iowa

From Wisconsin to Iowa Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Racine, WI to Des Moines, IA $552 – $755 370 miles 1 – 4 days
Racine, WI to Cedar Rapids, IA $447 – $586 270 miles 1 – 4 days
Racine, WI to Davenport, IA $429 – $564 209 miles 1 – 4 days
Racine, WI to Sioux City, IA $622 – $863 497 miles 1 – 4 days
Racine, WI to Iowa City, IA $429 – $641 259 miles 1 – 4 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Wisconsin to Iowa

Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.

If you’re moving one from Wisconsin to Iowa, expect costs to range from $609 to $823.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Wisconsin to Iowa

When transporting your vehicle from the Badger State to the Hawkeye State, these factors will influence your final price:

  • 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 journey from Wisconsin to Iowa spans approximately 322 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Wisconsin in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Wisconsin and Iowa.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Wisconsin to Iowa takes one–four days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.

Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know

Moving to Iowa means taking care of certain tasks to get your car registered and ready for the road. Here’s a summary of the key steps involved.

  • 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 Wisconsin

More than 5.9 million people call Wisconsin home. Nicknamed the Badger State. Wisconsin has warm-summers humid continental climate while the southern and southwestern portions are classified as hot-summer humid continental climate. Wisconsin also receives a large amount of regular snowfall averaging around 40 inches. Be sure to check your local weather station if you are planning your move for the summer.

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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin and when dropping it off in Iowa.

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

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Wisconsin requires auto insurance policies to provide a minimum coverage of $10,000 for property damage, $25,000 for individual injury or death, and $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals.

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 Wisconsin to Iowa?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Wisconsin to Iowa is about 322 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Wisconsin to Iowa.

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

Safety and emission inspections are not required in Wisconsin. However, you must take your vehicle for emissions inspection available at select privately owned businesses including vehicle repair facilities, service stations, and car dealerships.

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

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

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

The cheapest way to ship a car from Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin to Iowa?

Shipping a car from Wisconsin to Iowa costs $487 to $658.

Helpful Wisconsin resources