Cost to ship a car from Des Moines to Oklahoma City
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 544 miles from Des Moines to Oklahoma City ranges from $744 to $1,008. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Oklahoma City, OK in 1–6 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 Oklahoma City to Des Moines car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Des Moines to Oklahoma City car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Des Moines to Oklahoma City, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Des Moines to Oklahoma City, 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 Oklahoma City, 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 Oklahoma City 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 OKC — approximately 544 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 Oklahoma City 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.
Oklahoma City has very hot, humid summers, and cool winters with occasional snowfall. Prolonged and severe droughts (sometimes leading to wildfires in the vicinity), as well as very heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding and flooding, occur with some regularity. Oklahoma City is also located in tornado alley. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.
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 Oklahoma City 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 544-mile distance between Des Moines and Oklahoma City 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 Oklahoma City typically takes between 1 and 6 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Des Moines to Oklahoma City 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 Oklahoma City:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Des Moines and Oklahoma City 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.
- Oklahoma City: What is the purpose of a 72-hour Commercial Vehicle Registration Trip Permit? The 72-hour Commercial Vehicle Registration Trip Permit allows an unregistered commercial motor vehicle or a commercial trailer to be legally registered in Oklahoma on a short-term basis. A 72-hour Commercial Vehicle Registration Trip Permit may be made effective up to 72 hours from the time of purchase. The fee is $22.00. No refunds are allowed.
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.
- Oklahoma City: Ensure compliance with Oklahoma state law by obtaining car insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000 for bodily injury/death and property damage, as mandated by legal requirements.
Vehicle inspections
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
- Oklahoma City: As a new Oklahoma resident, title your vehicle within 30 days of moving by presenting current out-of-state title, proof of passed VIN inspection, completed Form 701-6, proof of valid OK insurance, lien release (if applicable), and paying fees at your local tag agency.
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.
- Oklahoma City: A valid driver's license from a US territory can be transferred to Oklahoma without taking written or driving tests. However, if the license has expired, the applicant will need to take both tests. To transfer their license, the applicant must present primary and secondary forms of identification, proof of full legal name and birthdate, and proof of legal presence in the US to a Driver License Examiner.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Des Moines to Oklahoma City?
The cost to ship a car from Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma City, OK 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 Oklahoma City will range from $744 to $1,008.
How long will it take to ship my car from Des Moines to Oklahoma City?
It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 544 miles from Des Moines to Oklahoma City. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Des Moines to Oklahoma City?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Des Moines to Oklahoma City. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
