Cost to ship a car from Memphis to Des Moines
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 610 miles from Memphis to Des Moines ranges from $760 to $1,017. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Des Moines, IA 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 Des Moines to Memphis car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Memphis to Des Moines car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Memphis to Des Moines, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Memphis to Des Moines, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Memphis, 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 Memphis. 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 Bluff City to the Hartford of the West — approximately 610 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 Memphis and Des Moines can impact car shipping prices.
Winter weather comes alternately from the upper Great Plains and the Gulf of Mexico, which can lead to drastic swings in temperature. Summer weather may come from Texas (very hot and humid) or the Gulf (hot and very humid). Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year though mainly during the spring months. Large hail, strong winds, flooding and frequent lightning can accompany these storms. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.
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 Memphis 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 610-mile distance between Memphis 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 Memphis to Des Moines 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.
Memphis 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 Memphis 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 Memphis and Des Moines vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Memphis: A single trip or annual permit must be obtained before traveling with oversize and/or overweight loads on Tennessee roadways. All permit types can be obtained through the TNTRIPS application.
- 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
- Memphis: Tennessee drivers need to fulfill liability insurance criteria of 25/50/15 ($25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident). Valid proof of insurance is crucial for registration and may be requested by law enforcement during traffic stops. Motorists have the flexibility to choose additional coverage for an added layer of vehicle protection.
- 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
- Memphis: In Tennessee, vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspection. Cost is around $15 and more information can be found at Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's website.
- Des Moines: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
Driver’s license
- Memphis: To obtain a driver's license in Tennessee, individuals must be at least 15 years old (with a Learner's Permit) or 16 years old (with a regular driver's license), pass written, vision and driving tests, provide proof of identity, residency, legal presence, and social security number, pass a medical examination if required, pay the required fee, Hold the Learner's Permit for at least 180 days before taking the skills test for the driver's license and comply with the graduated licensing system restrictions for the first 6 months.
- 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 Memphis to Des Moines?
The cost to ship a car from Memphis, TN 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 Memphis to Des Moines will range from $760 to $1,017.
How long will it take to ship my car from Memphis to Des Moines?
It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 610 miles from Memphis to Des Moines. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Memphis to Des Moines?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Memphis to Des Moines. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
