Cost to ship a car from Chicago to Des Moines
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 333 miles from Chicago to Des Moines ranges from $557 to $709. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Des Moines, IA in 1–4 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 Des Moines to Chicago car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Chicago to Des Moines car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Chicago to Des Moines, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Chicago to Des Moines, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Chicago, 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 Des Moines, 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 Chicago. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Des Moines will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Chi-Town to the Hartford of the West — approximately 333 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 Chicago and Des Moines can impact car shipping prices.
Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Chicago to Des Moines 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 333-mile distance between Chicago and Des Moines 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 Chicago to Des Moines typically takes between 1 and 4 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Chicago to Des Moines car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Chicago to Des Moines:
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for quick pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best marketplace: uShip
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Comparing Chicago and Des Moines vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Chicago: For a fee of $25, CDOT will provide ticket and tow enforceable signs to eligible moving companies for the day of the move. This requires 72 hours.
- 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
- Chicago: The liability insurance minimums for Illinois are $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident, and $20,000 property damage liability per accident.
- 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
- Chicago: In Illinois, emissions inspections are mandatory on a yearly basis for eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metropolitan areas. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts tests on automobiles before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State's office.
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Driver’s license
- Chicago: Even if your out-of-state driver's license is valid, you must still pass a vision test and written exam if you are moving to Illinois. Within 90 days of becoming a resident in the state, you must convert your license to an Illinois non-commercial 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Chicago to Des Moines?
The cost to ship a car from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA 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 Chicago to Des Moines will range from $557 to $709.
How long will it take to ship my car from Chicago to Des Moines?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 333 miles from Chicago to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Chicago to Des Moines?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Chicago to Des Moines. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
