Iowa to Illinois Car Shipping (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Moving a car from Iowa to Illinois is typically straightforward, with rates starting near $528 and delivery in about 1 day.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

At FreightWaves, we aim to give readers transparent, research-backed information and fair reviews of car shipping providers.

Our internal rating framework has been applied to 2,400 auto transport companies across the United States, with careful attention to pricing clarity, service features, coverage areas, and overall customer experience. We also analyze real customer reviews to identify trends in performance and reliability.

We take accuracy seriously, and our editorial team works diligently to keep every guide and review updated and relevant.

Cost of Shipping a Car From IA to IL

When calculating the cost to ship a car from Iowa to Illinois, most quotes land between $528 and $779. Final pricing is influenced by vehicle size, seasonality, trailer type, and how quickly you need delivery.

Pro tip: Give yourself a 6- to 8-week head start to lock in more competitive pricing. Last-minute bookings often cost more. Our free cost calculator tool below makes it easy to plan ahead.

Best Iowa to Illinois Car Shippers

Here are the top car shipping companies:

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

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

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

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

4.4 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

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

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

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

4.4 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (855) 952-1031

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

Top Local IA-IL Car Shippers

These are the best local car shipping companies in Iowa:

A A All States Auto Transport

214 JACKSON ST, SUITE 1468 SIOUX CITY, IA, 51102
3.76 / 5.0

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.

Get a Quote (712) 823-0443

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Aaall States Transport

214 JACKSON ST, SUITE 1468 SIOUX CITY, IA, 51102
3.72 / 5.0

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.

Get a Quote (712) 823-0443

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Nimble Inc

910 23rd Ave # 200, Coralville, IA, 52241
3.62 / 5.0

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.

Get a Quote (866) 700-0770

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Rush Transport Service

1535 19th St, Des Moines, IA, 50314
3.44 / 5.0

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.

Get a Quote (515) 499-8995

Services Offered

  • Multi Car Transport
  • Interstate

IMT Transport RGN Yard

5043 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, IA, 50313
3.44 / 5.0

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.

Get a Quote (515) 967-0844

Services Offered

  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping

Take a closer look at our picks for top car shippers servicing Iowa residents, or see which companies stand out for car shipping from Iowa to Illinois.

Car Shipping Methods

When planning a shipment from Iowa to Illinois, you’ll generally pick between open and enclosed transport. Open trailers are the go-to, more affordable option for most vehicles, while enclosed transport is priced higher and designed to give premium cars extra protection.

Open Transport

Open transport is the option most drivers choose because it keeps costs lower and works well for everyday vehicles. Shipments from Iowa to Illinois typically arrive in about 1 day. Pricing can fluctuate based on seasonal demand and the size or type of vehicle you’re moving.

Enclosed Transport

If you’re moving a luxury, antique, or exotic vehicle, enclosed transport offers a fully covered trailer for added peace of mind. Delivery from Iowa to Illinois generally takes about 4 days. The added protection and limited carrier availability typically mean a higher cost.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

Choosing the best car shipping company is key to a smooth experience. For moves from Iowa to Illinois, keep in mind important factors like:

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

FAQ

How long does it take to ship a car from Iowa to Illinois?

Short-distance shipments typically take 1 to 4 days. Weather, traffic, and scheduling can affect that window. Most car shippers offer real-time tracking and estimated delivery updates.

How much does it cost to ship a car from Iowa to Illinois?

Shipping a car from Iowa to Illinois typically costs between $528-$779. Your final quote can vary based on vehicle size, transport type, time of year, and how flexible your pickup and delivery windows are.

What’s the best way to request a car shipping quote from Iowa to Illinois?

You can quickly estimate your cost by visiting our car shipping calculator page. Provide a few basic details about your vehicle and route, and you’ll see pricing estimates tailored to shipments between Iowa and Illinois.

Is my car insured during a shipment from Iowa to Illinois?

Every licensed car shipper provides insurance by law, but coverage can vary. Before pickup, ask to see proof and explore options for extra coverage for added assurance.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Short trips like Iowa to Illinois still require prep. Clean your vehicle, clear out personal belongings, and take photos for records. Be sure to review any state-specific shipping guidelines before transport.

How will I pick up my car in Illinois?

When your vehicle reaches Illinois, inspect it thoroughly and reference the condition report. Updated photos are a must, and don’t forget to look into any state-specific title or inspection rules.

Why Ship a Car From Iowa to Illinois?

From out-of-state purchases to seasonal moves, auto transport is a hassle-free way to move your vehicle without racking up miles.

Iowa Relocation Resources

Shipping the reverse route? Check out our Illinois to Iowa car shipping guide

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.