Cost to ship a car from Omaha to Des Moines
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 134 miles from Omaha to Des Moines ranges from $428 to $619. 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 Omaha car shipping guide.
Why Trust Us
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. 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.
Factors affecting Omaha to Des Moines car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Omaha to Des Moines, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Omaha to Des Moines, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Omaha, 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 Omaha. 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 Big "O" to the Hartford of the West — approximately 134 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 Omaha and Des Moines can impact car shipping prices.
Omaha has hot summers and cold winters. Most rain fall occurs during the warmer months.
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 Omaha 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 134-mile distance between Omaha 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 Omaha 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.
Omaha 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 Omaha to Des Moines:
- 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
|
|
|
|
rating
Comparing Omaha and Des Moines vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Omaha: Notwithstanding the above, for short term or single event valets, a parking meter hood shall be used to designate a temporary parking space to facilitate parking via valet elsewhere. Such hoods shall be charged on a per day rate. For two-, three- and four-hour meters that rate shall be $15.00 per meter. For a ten-hour meter, that rate shall be $8.00 per day.
- 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
- Omaha: Nebraska's car insurance mandates include bodily injury liability coverage at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, property damage liability coverage at $25,000, uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, and underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, ensuring drivers meet the state's minimum requirements for financial protection in the event of accidents.
- 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
- Omaha: Emission tests are not required in Nebraska. However, the state requires VIN inspection.
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Driver’s license
- Omaha: If you are a new resident in Nebraska, you must visit a DMV office within 30 days of establishing residency to obtain a 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Omaha to Des Moines?
The cost to ship a car from Omaha, NE 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 Omaha to Des Moines will range from $428 to $619.
How long will it take to ship my car from Omaha to Des Moines?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 134 miles from Omaha to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Omaha to Des Moines?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Omaha to Des Moines. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
