Best Iowa Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated SGT Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Iowa, giving them 4.9 out of 5 stars.
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Key takeaways
- While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of Iowa ranges from $727 to $1,373.
- 79.7% of Iowa auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
- Only 20% of car shipping companies in Iowa offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using SGT Auto Transport.
Why trust moveBuddha?
Our mission at moveBuddha is to make every aspect of moving easier, and we use our firsthand knowledge of the industry to simplify and streamline what can often be a stressful process.
Since moveBuddha’s foundation in 2015, our team has talked to thousands of consumers and analyzed 4,400 moving companies and 2,400 car shippers across the U.S. We’ve collected detailed car shipping experiences through our Better Moves project, and we routinely dig deep into online consumer reviews to identify the most common complaints and compliments companies receive.
We created our own system for analyzing and rating car shipping companies on important factors like pricing, variety of services, customer feedback, and availability. Our experienced editorial team fully fact-checks all content to ensure it is accurate, informative, and up-to-date.
Best car shipping companies in Iowa
Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you need to ship a car out of Des Moines, or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in Iowa:
- SGT Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- AmeriFreight
- Ship A Car Direct
- A A All States Auto Transport
- Bennett Motor Express
- Nimble Inc
- Aaall States Transport
- Rush Transport Service
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
SGT Auto Transport
https://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Insured shipping
- Open and enclosed transport
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
A A All States Auto Transport
A A All States Auto Transport stands out for its comprehensive services, including fully insured enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, and classic car shipping. Though they offer motorcycle transport and international shipping, a notable downside is the lack of inoperable car transport services, which may limit options for some customers.
Despite their strong service offerings, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. However, they do hold a prestigious A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, indicating a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliable service.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Bennett Motor Express
Bennett Motor Express (DOT: 92693) offers a variety of services to accommodate diverse car shipping needs. They provide international shipping, multi-car transport, and expedited delivery with the added benefit of being fully insured. They also support open transport, motorcycle shipping, RV shipping, and heavy equipment shipping, making them a versatile choice for many customers. Google rates the company highly with a rating of 4.6.
However, they do not offer enclosed transport or shipping for inoperable cars, which may be a drawback for those needing these specific services. Additionally, Bennett Motor Express has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, but their comprehensive service offerings and high Google rating highlight their reliability.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Nimble Inc
Nimble Inc (DOT: 2245757) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of transport services. Notable offerings include shipping for electric vehicles, classic car shipping, heavy equipment transport, and open transport options. Additionally, the company is fully insured and allows customers to pay by credit card, providing added convenience and peace of mind.
Unfortunately, Nimble Inc does not provide services for inoperable cars or enclosed transport, which may be a downside for some customers with specific needs. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but remains active in the industry.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Aaall States Transport
Aaall States Transport (DOT: 2230973) offers a variety of specialized vehicle transport services, ensuring the safe relocation of cars through both enclosed and open transport options. They are particularly reliable with fully insured services and cater to classic car owners with specific shipping needs.
A downside for some customers might be their inability to handle inoperable cars and the non-availability of storage solutions.
While Aaall States Transport is recognized with an A+ rating by the BBB, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Rush Transport Service
Rush Transport Service (DOT: 3555031) provides a variety of car shipping options, with a notable capability for multi-car transport. This service is especially beneficial for customers needing to move more than one vehicle at a time. Despite their active status and array of services, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, although they boast an excellent Google rating of 5.0.
A potential downside for some customers is that Rush Transport Service does not offer transport for cars that don’t run (inoperable car transport). Additionally, the company lacks several common perks such as a damage-free guarantee, fully insured transport, and storage solutions.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Interstate
Average cost of transporting a vehicle to or from Iowa
The average cost to ship a car out of Iowa is about $823 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. For example:
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $380 to $879
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $631 to $987
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $759 to $1,318
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Hawkeye State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa to Michigan | $902 | $1,199 |
| Iowa to Ohio | $959 | $1,233 |
| Iowa to Georgia | $1,060 | $1,564 |
| Iowa to California | $1,535 | $2,347 |
| Iowa to Arizona | $1,220 | $1,862 |
| Illinois to Iowa | $572 | $787 |
| Florida to Iowa | $1,284 | $1,843 |
| New York to Iowa | $1,060 | $1,712 |
| Texas to Iowa | $1,058 | $1,657 |
| North Carolina to Iowa | $988 | $1,581 |
When shipping your car out of Iowa, these factors can affect the price:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping your car within Iowa or to nearby states is usually cheaper than cross-country trips.
- Location: Shipping costs depend on location. Sending packages from Des Moines to a smaller Iowa town or another state will vary in price. Urban areas often have lower rates, but shipping to remote Iowa places might be more expensive.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle are important. Compact cars often cost less to ship, but transporting a classic car from central Iowa will cost more because of the extra care needed.
- Shipping options in the Hawkeye State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Iowa’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Gas prices: Since fuel prices change, this can impact your total expenses. Iowa’s current gas prices might influence your shipping costs, especially over long distances.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll end up paying extra for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or faster service.
- Discounts: Some Iowa auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all of the popular Iowa car shipping routes.
| Company | Quote | Rating | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
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Get A Quote |
SGT Auto Transport
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(864) 492-1221 |
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Get A Quote |
Easy Auto Ship
|
(888) 259-6046 |
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Get A Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport
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(833) 775-1461 |
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Get A Quote |
AmeriFreight
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(770) 501-9057 |
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Get A Quote |
Ship A Car Direct
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(866) 563-0804 |
FAQs for shipping cars in Iowa
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Iowa?
SGT Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Iowa, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated SGT Auto Transport a 4.9 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Iowa?
The cheapest copmany to ship your car in Iowa will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on
your specific needs is to use our car shipping
calculator.
Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also,
most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top
car shippers in Iowa, AmeriFreight has the
most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Iowa?
New residents with an out-of-state license must get an Iowa license within 30 days of moving. To do this, go to the DMV with your old state license, as you’ll need to turn it in for the new one.
Does Iowa require a vehicle inspection?
In Iowa, car owners don’t have to get emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Does Iowa’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Iowa. Iowa experiences a humid continental climate statewide. Snow is common. Spring ushers in severe weather. Iowa averages 50 thunderstorms each year and has a tornado season. Summers are hot and humid. Check the weather before moving, especially in spring.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Iowa?
Delivery times for car shipping in Iowa depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days. Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Iowa, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| Miles | Timeframe |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Iowa?
In Iowa, you must have minimum liability insurance with $20,000 for a single person’s injury or death, $40,000 for injuries or deaths of multiple people, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident.
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.
MoveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Other Iowa car shipping resources
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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