Best Car Shipping Companies in Iowa (April 2026)
Our top recommendation for car shipping in Iowa is Nexus Auto Transport a company known for widespread availability, transparent pricing, and a wide range of transport services. The average cost to ship a vehicle out of Iowa is $764-$1,199.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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We’ve evaluated 2,400+ companies nationwide using a thorough rating process that scores each provider on cost, service options, availability, and customer reviews. We also go beyond the numbers to understand what people are really saying in their reviews.
Everything we publish is carefully vetted by our experts to make sure it’s accurate, timely, and truly helpful for your car shipping journey.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Iowa
Car shipping companies that have a national presence have more availability, more services, and are usually more affordable. Here are our reviews of the most trusted car shipping companies 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
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
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in Iowa
These local auto transport companies in Iowa have been carefully reviewed, but they may not offer the same range of services or availability as the top national providers above.
A A All States Auto Transport
A A All States Auto Transport (DOT: 2230973) is a car shipping company that offers a range of specialized services. They provide classic car shipping and have options for enclosed transport, making them a good choice for vintage or luxury vehicle owners who require extra protection. Additionally, they handle motorcycle and electric vehicle shipping, catering to a diverse set of transport needs.
However, the company does not offer services for transporting inoperable cars or provide storage solutions, which may be a limitation for some customers. A A All States Auto Transport is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their clients, but they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. They boast a commendable A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, indicating a strong track record for reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Aaall States Transport
Aaall States Transport (DOT: 2230973) is a car shipping company that specializes in a variety of transportation services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle transport, and trailer shipping. They provide both open and enclosed transport options and are fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers with coverage for unexpected events.
Despite their comprehensive services, Aaall States Transport does not offer guaranteed delivery or transport for inoperable vehicles, which may be a limitation for some clients seeking these specific services. The company is yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, though they hold an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction and business integrity.
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 provides a variety of transportation services, including classic car shipping, open transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They are fully insured and capable of transporting electric vehicles. Although Nimble Inc does not offer damage-free guarantees or expedited delivery, they are notable for not requiring a deposit, which could be appealing to some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, but they have a Google rating of 2.0, which suggests potential areas for improvement in customer satisfaction.
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 specialized car shipping company focusing on interstate and multi-car transport services. They boast exceptional customer satisfaction with a perfect 5.0 rating on both Yelp and Google, and they are known for their reliable service.
While they efficiently handle logistics for moving multiple cars, potential customers might find it a limitation that they do not offer services like inoperable car transport, enclosed transportation, or damage-free guarantees. Furthermore, they have yet to establish a rating on the BBB, which could be a point of consideration for some customers.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Interstate
IMT Transport RGN Yard
IMT Transport RGN Yard (DOT: 313015) offers car shipping services with a particular focus on transporting motorcycles across state lines. Customers can rely on their solid performance, as evidenced by the high Google rating of 4.9, although the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau.
While the company does not offer inoperable car transport or enclosed transport services, which may be a downside for some clients, they maintain an active status and uphold certain standards for their operations. Despite not providing a damage-free guarantee or accepting cryptocurrency, IMT Transport RGN Yard provides essential vehicle shipping solutions for those who prioritize straightforward interstate transportation needs.
Services Offered
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
Local Car Shippers In Iowa
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Popular Car Shipping Routes from Iowa
- Iowa to Alabama
- Iowa to Arkansas
- Iowa to Arizona
- 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 Massachusetts
- Iowa to Maryland
- Iowa to Maine
- Iowa to Michigan
- Iowa to Minnesota
- Iowa to Missouri
- Iowa to Mississippi
- Iowa to Montana
- Iowa to North Carolina
- Iowa to North Dakota
- Iowa to Nebraska
- Iowa to New Hampshire
- Iowa to New Jersey
- Iowa to New Mexico
- Iowa to Nevada
- Iowa to New York
- 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 Virginia
- Iowa to Vermont
- Iowa to Washington
- Iowa to Wisconsin
- Iowa to West Virginia
- Iowa to Wyoming
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 | 1216 | 1581 |
| From Iowa to Michigan | 995 | 1294 |
| From Iowa to Georgia | 1224 | 1591 |
| From Iowa to North Carolina | 1227 | 1595 |
| From Iowa to California | 1764 | 2293 |
| From Florida to Iowa | 1479 | 1923 |
| From Arizona to Iowa | 1452 | 1888 |
| From Ohio to Iowa | 1000 | 1300 |
| From New York to Iowa | 1191 | 1548 |
| From Illinois to Iowa | 625 | 813 |
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are factors have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Iowa:
- Distance and location: Greater distances and remote destinations increase car shipping costs, while shorter distances and well-connected locations lower them.
- Vehicle type and condition: Expect higher shipping rates out of Iowa if you’re transporting a large vehicle, a collectible, or anything that isn’t drivable. Special handling and lift equipment can add to the overall cost.
- Transport type: Shipping a car on an open trailer is cheaper but exposes the vehicle to Iowa's weather and road conditions. Enclosed shipping costs around 30% more, offering protection inside a covered trailer, which is ideal for luxury or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, about 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Iowa's humid continental climate, common snowfall, and tornado season can increase car shipping costs due to weather-related delays and risks. Additionally, hot and humid summers may require extra protective measures.
- Additional services Adding extras like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping to car shipping from Iowa increases costs. Personal delivery and faster service require more resources, boosting the price. You pay more for convenience and speed with these options.
Each of the elements mentioned above can significantly affect the total price of transporting your vehicle out of Iowa. We suggest filling out the form below to receive quotes from multiple auto transport providers in Iowa, allowing you to evaluate their offerings and payment structures to find the best fit.
What To Know Before You Book
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 shipping companies guarantee their rates, so your quoted price stays the same on delivery day. However, not all companies offer this. Unforeseen events or sudden route changes can affect the final cost.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide an option for guaranteed delivery, doing their best to meet the specified date. Without paying for this, the delivery time is an estimate, not a certainty. It's crucial to realize that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays that are beyond the shipper's control, even with "guaranteed" deliveries.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and what it doesn't, in case your car gets damaged during transport. Compare this to your current auto insurance policy, as it might also cover your car while it's being shipped.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it’s handed to you for signing at delivery. It might seem like a basic receipt, but it’s a key document. It outlines the services you received and confirms your car arrived in its original condition. Before signing, check that everything you paid for is listed and any damage to your vehicle is noted. If not, you'll have no basis for a claim later on.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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How We Chose the Best Iowa Auto Transport Companies
Our methodology for selecting the top car shipping companies in Iowa is centered around a comprehensive analysis of five critical factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.
- Licensing proves that a company complies with both Iowa and federal laws — giving you added peace of mind.
- We assess customer satisfaction by digging into ratings and reviews that reveal real-world service experiences.
- Service variety matters. From standard vehicles to specialty shipments like classic cars or oversized equipment.
- Competitive, upfront pricing is a must, especially for the unique conditions of shipping a vehicle in Iowa.
- We also check online reputation across review sites and social media to gauge transparency and overall trustworthiness.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
FAQ
What’s the best way to check if a Iowa car shipper is properly licensed?
Reliable shippers are listed in the FMCSA database. Enter the company’s USDOT or MC number at the SAFER lookup tool to confirm their credentials, safety record, and insurance.
Do auto transport companies in Iowa offer shipment tracking?
Not every truck has live GPS, but most companies communicate frequently during transport. Expect updates at key points like pickup confirmation and delivery scheduling.
How should I prepare for pickup day in Iowa?
Clean out personal items, have your keys ready, and be available for a quick inspection. Drivers need enough space to maneuver, so be flexible if they suggest a nearby meetup point.
What’s the best season to ship a car in Iowa?
Off-peak seasons typically offer the best pricing. Many carriers discount winter shipments due to lighter demand.
What kind of insurance comes with auto transport in Iowa?
Coverage varies by carrier, but all must meet FMCSA insurance standards. Ask for written proof of coverage before you sign anything.
Will auto transport companies in Iowa let you ship stuff inside your car?
As of now, car shippers operating in Iowa do not permit personal belongings to be stored inside your vehicle during transport.
