When it comes to car shipping in Iowa, Nexus Auto Transport earns our top recommendation, backed by a 4.8 out of 5-star score for pricing, customer reviews, and shipping options. The exact cost of shipping a car out of Iowa will depend on several factors, but you can expect a typical range of $779 - $1,263 for most standard routes.
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Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.
Using our own unique rating system, we evaluated 2,400 car shipping companies nationwide based on key factors like pricing, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. We also dig deep into online consumer reviews to pinpoint what real people have to say about each company and identify recurring pain points and areas of praise.
Our in-house team of experts fully fact-checks all content to ensure our content is up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to what you want and need to know.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Iowa
Car shipping companies with a nationwide footprint often offer better pricing, more services, and greater availability. We've reviewed the most dependable options currently serving Iowa.
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in Iowa
We've evaluated these local car shipping companies in Iowa, but keep in mind they might not match the broader services or reach of the top picks we listed earlier.
A A All States Auto Transport
A A All States Auto Transport is a reputable car shipping company that boasts a BBB rating of A+. The company offers a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, electric vehicle shipping, motorcycle shipping, and both open and enclosed transport options. However, a potential downside for customers is the lack of a guaranteed damage-free guarantee and the inability to ship inoperable cars. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, which may be something to consider for prospective customers.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Bennett Motor Express
Bennett Motor Express (DOT: 92693) is a reputable car shipping company that boasts a commendable Google rating of 4.6. The company offers a wide range of services including interstate transport, motorcycle shipping, RV shipping, and heavy equipment shipping. They ensure each vehicle is fully insured and provide detailed inspection reports for added transparency and assurance.
While Bennett Motor Express supports a variety of shipments, they do not offer services for inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some customers. Additionally, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. Despite this, Bennett Motor Express facilitates convenient payment options by accepting credit cards for their services.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Aaall States Transport
Aaall States Transport (DOT: 2230973) is an active car shipping company known for offering a range of specialized transport services. They provide interstate shipping, classic car shipping, motorcycle, and trailer shipping, as well as enclosed transport for vehicles that require extra protection.
While they are fully insured and do not require a deposit, Aaall States Transport does not offer services such as shipping cars that don't run or terminal-to-terminal deliveries, which may be a downside for some customers. They also have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but they proudly hold an A+ rating with the BBB.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Nimble Inc
Nimble Inc (DOT: 2245757) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of services, including interstate shipping, classic car shipping, heavy equipment shipping, and electric vehicle shipping. Their Google rating is a modest 2.0, reflecting customer feedback, and they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
While Nimble Inc provides valuable services such as open transport and the ability to pay by credit card, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not provide any senior, teacher, or military discounts, and they lack features like shipment tracking and terminal-to-terminal delivery.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Rush Transport Service
Rush Transport Service (DOT: 3555031) is a car shipping company known for its commitment to quality service. Despite not offering a damage-free guarantee or shipping for inoperable cars, they ensure efficient interstate transport and are capable of managing multiple car shipments simultaneously.
Although they don't provide certain specialized services such as classic car shipping or motorcycle transportation, Rush Transport Service has received excellent feedback, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating on both Yelp and Google. However, the company has yet to establish a rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Interstate
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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Iowa
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Iowa:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Iowa to Texas | 1352 | 1758 |
| From Iowa to Illinois | 656 | 853 |
| From Iowa to Ohio | 1136 | 1477 |
| From Iowa to Arizona | 1622 | 2109 |
| From Iowa to Michigan | 1053 | 1369 |
| From California to Iowa | 1973 | 2565 |
| From Georgia to Iowa | 1294 | 1682 |
| From Florida to Iowa | 1542 | 2005 |
| From North Carolina to Iowa | 1350 | 1755 |
| From New York to Iowa | 1368 | 1778 |
Popular Moving Routes from Iowa
- Iowa to Alabama
- Iowa to Arizona
- Iowa to Arkansas
- Iowa to California
- Iowa to Colorado
- Iowa to Connecticut
- Iowa to Delaware
- Iowa to Florida
- Iowa to Georgia
- Iowa to Idaho
- Iowa to Illinois
- Iowa to Indiana
- Iowa to Kansas
- Iowa to Kentucky
- Iowa to Louisiana
- Iowa to Maine
- Iowa to Maryland
- Iowa to Massachusetts
- Iowa to Michigan
- Iowa to Minnesota
- Iowa to Mississippi
- Iowa to Missouri
- Iowa to Montana
- Iowa to Nebraska
- Iowa to Nevada
- Iowa to New Hampshire
- Iowa to New Jersey
- Iowa to New Mexico
- Iowa to New York
- Iowa to North Carolina
- Iowa to North Dakota
- Iowa to Ohio
- Iowa to Oklahoma
- Iowa to Oregon
- Iowa to Pennsylvania
- Iowa to Rhode Island
- Iowa to South Carolina
- Iowa to South Dakota
- Iowa to Tennessee
- Iowa to Texas
- Iowa to Utah
- Iowa to Vermont
- Iowa to Virginia
- Iowa to Washington
- Iowa to West Virginia
- Iowa to Wisconsin
- Iowa to Wyoming
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Iowa:
- Distance and Location: The cost of shipping your car out of Iowa depends on the distance and location due to fuel expenses, driver labor, and transportation logistics. Longer distances and remote destinations typically increase shipping costs.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Vehicles that are oversized, inoperable, or require specialized care — such as antiques or custom builds — often incur higher shipping costs when departing from Iowa due to additional handling requirements.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Iowa's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping costs about 30% more but keeps your car inside a covered trailer, so it's better for high-end or classic cars. Due to cost savings, around 90% of people go for the open transport option.
- Seasonality: Iowa's severe spring weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes, increases the risk and potential delays in car shipping. Harsh winters with common snowfall may also complicate transportation logistics.
- Additional Services Extra services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping raise car shipping costs. These options require more resources and faster turnaround, which makes them more expensive.
Shipping a vehicle from Iowa? All of these factors can impact the price. Use the form below to get quotes from different Iowa car shippers so you can compare services, check payment terms, and choose the one that works best for your situation.
How To Cut Car Shipping Costs
Car shipping can get pricey, particularly if you need to transport your vehicle long-distance or cross-country. However, there are a few things you can do to save money on your car shipping costs in Iowa:
- Shop around. Don't choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car costs more in spring and early summer due to higher demand and fewer available slots. The same applies to major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. For the best prices and more scheduling choices, try to ship your car during less busy times.
- Opt for open transport. Choosing open shipping instead of enclosed shipping can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. While enclosed carriers offer more protection, they are also much more expensive. Open carriers might expose your vehicle to the elements and road hazards, but they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up and deliver your car is convenient but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, this option will save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Iowa:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option and will strive to meet the promised date. Without this option, the company's delivery timeline is an estimate, not a certainty. It's crucial to know that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, and are beyond the shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Iowa Auto Transport Companies
To find the best car shipping companies in Iowa, we look closely at five key areas: proper licensing, customer reviews, service options, pricing, and overall online reputation.
- Licensing guarantees that companies meet regulatory standards at both the Iowa and federal levels.
- We analyze customer reviews to understand satisfaction levels and overall reliability.
- A wide range of services shows flexibility — from enclosed shipping to transporting non-operational vehicles.
- Transparent, reasonable pricing is key, especially given the regional considerations of moving a car through Iowa.
- Online reputation, reflected through platforms like the BBB and consumer forums, helps confirm a company’s reliability.
Local Car Shippers In Iowa
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Iowa Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Iowa car shipping company?
Car shipping is a practical alternative to driving long distances through Iowa. It helps you avoid navigating extensive roads and dealing with changing weather. This option saves time and effort, especially with Iowa's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
It's essential to research thoroughly to dodge scams, paying attention to companies with Iowa logistics experience. Also, confirm insurance coverage meets local rules and follow vehicle prep tips.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Iowa?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and how quickly you need it. Enclosed shipping protects better against Iowa's weather, but open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Before hiring an Iowa car shipping company, it's crucial to know if their insurance covers potential damages during transit. Make sure to understand how much coverage you get and what exclusions might apply.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Iowa?
Clean the car inside and out. Take clear photos to record its current state. Ensure minimum liability insurance, as required by Iowa. Check weather reports before scheduling the move.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Iowa?
Seek out positive reviews, proper licensing, and clear pricing. It's best to choose a company familiar with Iowa's logistics and weather challenges.
