Cost to ship a car from Des Moines to St. Petersburg
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,383 miles from Des Moines to St. Petersburg ranges from $1,221 to $1,940. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in St. Petersburg, FL in 3–8 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our St. Petersburg to Des Moines car shipping guide .
Factors affecting car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Des Moines to St. Petersburg, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Des Moines to St. Petersburg, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Des Moines, 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 St. Petersburg, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Des Moines. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to St. Petersburg will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Hartford of the West to the Always in Season — approximately 1,383 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.
Time of the year
The season and weather in both Des Moines and St. Petersburg can impact car shipping prices.
September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
St. Petersburg has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Des Moines to St. Petersburg during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 1,383-mile distance between Des Moines and St. Petersburg and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Des Moines to St. Petersburg typically takes between 3 and 8 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Des Moines to St. Petersburg car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Des Moines to St. Petersburg:
- Best for Overall Value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best for Quick Pick Up: Easy Auto Ship
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Cross Country: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
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Comparing Des Moines and St. Petersburg vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- 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.
- St. Petersburg: Effective October 29, 2021, carriers may purchase Florida trip permits online through the FLHSMV Commercial Vehicle Permit Portal. A Florida Temporary Trip Permit is valid for ten (10) days and costs $30.00. Carriers may also contact the Bureau of Commercial Vehicle and Driver Services at (850) 617-3711 weekdays from 8-4:30 to obtain a trip permit.
Car insurance requirements
- 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.
- St. Petersburg: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
Vehicle inspections
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
- St. Petersburg: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
Driver’s license
- 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.
- St. Petersburg: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Des Moines to St. Petersburg?
The cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to St. Petersburg, FL varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Des Moines to St. Petersburg will range from $1,221 to $1,940.
How long will it take to ship my car?
It will take approximately 3–8 days to ship your car the 1,383 miles from Des Moines to St. Petersburg. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Des Moines to St. Petersburg. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
