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Car Shipping in Iowa: 2025 Costs & Routes

Last updated: October 2025

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
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ON THIS PAGE

1 Iowa Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination States
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Iowa?
9 Car Transport FAQs
STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Iowa

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative to the big broker monopoly, delivering reliable car shipping and auto transport across Iowa and beyond. Our decades of hands‑on experience and glowing reviews prove we know how to move your vehicle safely and affordably. Read on for clear cost estimates, top destination states, and practical tips to make your Iowa auto transport stress‑free.

Average Cost FROM Iowa

$825 – $1,125
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Iowa

$825 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Iowa

1
California
150 shipments
$1,000 – $1,225
2
Florida
102 shipments
$875 – $1,100
3
Texas
80 shipments
$825 – $1,025
4
Arizona
67 shipments
$1,000 – $1,225
5
Washington
52 shipments
$1,100 – $1,475
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Iowa

The most common destination states for car shipping from Iowa, showing average costs and popular city pairs. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination States Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 California $1,000 – $1,225 Des Moines to San Diego
2 Florida $875 – $1,100 Ankeny to Orlando
3 Texas $825 – $1,025 Cedar Falls to Amarillo
4 Arizona $1,000 – $1,225 Des Moines to Tucson
5 Washington $1,100 – $1,475 Des Moines to Port Angeles
6 North Carolina $850 – $1,175 Coralville to Durham
7 New York $825 – $1,050 Des Moines to West Bronx
8 Oregon $1,100 – $1,425 Cedar Rapids to Portland
9 Georgia $825 – $1,075 Davis City to Roswell
10 Maryland $800 – $900 OSKALOOSA to Severn
IA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
Before calling Sakaem I was booked to use another transport company because their price was the best I could find. The day before they were going to pick up my car, they called me and said they had a reliable driver but he wanted an extra $300. I told them to forget it and called Sakaem. At the last minute they gave me a good price and said it was guaranteed. They service was great and my car arrived in NJ when they said it would be there. I will use them again in January!
Paul Shapiro
Jul 2025
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First time shipping a car to Michigan. Signed a contract with a broker and last minute the truck broke down and he could not find a driver and then the price went up. Scrambled at the last minute and we reached out to Sakaem and talked to Jack. Told him about our situation and he was very understanding and he was able to get our truck to Michigan without any problems. They could haven taken advantage of the situation but they don’t. Also the driver was very nice. Thank you Jack!!!
Sandy Kanaski
Apr 2025
Google logo
A little late on picking up the vehicle, but absolutely exceeded expectations at getting the vehicle delivered earlier than any of us expected. Car was in perfect shape and the driver (Nicoli) was very patient and pleasant to deal with. Truly changed my mind about shipping a vehicle across country in the future. An amazingly great experience. Worth every penny.
Pat&Sarah Cave
Apr 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Iowa

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in Iowa

Distance

Distance matters because carriers charge by mileage. Longer trips use more fuel, driver time, and wear on equipment, raising the price. Iowa shipments to nearby states stay low, while coast‑to‑coast moves cost significantly more.

Season

Season influences pricing because demand fluctuates. Summer and holiday periods see many people moving vehicles, so carriers raise rates and may have longer wait times. Off‑peak months like late fall often provide lower prices and quicker scheduling.

Route

Route selection impacts cost. Major highways allow larger trucks, steady speeds, and fewer stops, which keeps fuel and labor expenses down. Smaller rural or coastal roads may require slower travel and smaller carriers, adding to the overall fee.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type matters as size and weight affect loading, fuel use, and trailer compatibility. Compact cars fit easily on standard open trailers, keeping costs low. Larger SUVs or trucks need more space, stronger equipment, and sometimes specialized carriers, raising the fee.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations can add cost and delay. Shipping during peak travel weeks—like the week before Thanksgiving—means congested highways, longer routes, and higher fuel consumption. Planning shipments for quieter periods helps keep prices down and ensures smoother delivery.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives both price and timing. During peak seasons, fewer trucks are free, so rates climb and you may wait weeks for a slot. In off‑season periods, carriers are eager, often offering lower rates and faster bookings.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees. Urban areas like Des Moines have many carriers, short distances between addresses, and easier loading zones, often lowering costs. Rural locations may require longer drives to reach the shipper, adding mileage and time, which raises the price.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping during Iowa’s off‑season, such as early spring or late fall, often costs less than peak periods like snowbird season; even a few weeks’ shift can lower rates noticeably.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing a pickup or drop‑off near a major highway reduces detours and parking challenges for carriers, which often translates into lower fees compared to neighborhood locations.

3

Hub city advantages

Select Iowa hub cities like Des Moines or Davenport that sit on multiple interstates; proximity to these highways gives carriers more routing options and typically drives down shipping costs.

4

Weather considerations

Check Iowa’s seasonal weather—heavy snow, ice, or flooding can delay transport and raise costs; scheduling around milder periods helps keep your shipment on time and budget-friendly.

5

Booking in advance

Booking your Iowa car shipment weeks ahead secures lower pricing, as carriers can plan routes early and avoid last‑minute premium fees that arise from urgent bookings.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most budget‑friendly option for standard vehicles; they’re widely available and safe for everyday cars, while enclosed trailers are reserved for luxury or delicate rides.

7

Flexible dates

If you can accept a five‑day pickup or delivery window, carriers often lower their rates; flexibility lets them consolidate loads and choose the most efficient routes.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Iowa car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Iowa

Professional auto transport service for Iowa moves

When you arrange car shipping to or from Iowa, start with the state’s unique registration steps. Iowa drivers must obtain a title, proof of insurance, and a completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration from the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) before the vehicle can be titled or registered [Iowa DMV]. The process can be completed online or at a local service center, and a temporary plate is issued for the first 30 days.

Iowa does not require statewide emissions testing, but some counties enforce it for older diesel trucks; check local requirements before auto transport [Iowa DOT]. Window tint on the front side must let at least 50% of light through, while rear windows may be darker. There are no special frame‑height restrictions beyond standard bridge clearances, but heavy trucks should be aware of weight limits on rural roads.

For those moving to Iowa, prepare for harsh winters by installing winter tires, checking antifreeze levels, and ensuring the battery is rated for cold weather. Conversely, if you’re shipping a vehicle out of Iowa in summer, consider a sunshade to protect the interior from UV exposure.

State‑wide insurance minimums are $20,000 for bodily injury per person, $40,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage; Iowa follows a liability‑only system, so uninsured motorist coverage is optional but recommended [Iowa Insurance Division]. Knowing these rules helps make your car shipping experience smooth and compliant.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Iowa Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Before your car leaves Iowa, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth, safe shipment.

  • Gather all keys. The carrier will need a working key (or remote) for loading, unloading, and any required inspections.
  • Remove personal items. Take out all loose objects, toll tags, and valuables. Anything not bolted down can shift or be lost.
  • Check fluid levels. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full. Top off oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid if needed.
  • Inspect for leaks. Look under the vehicle for any drips. Report existing leaks to the driver so they are not blamed for damage.
  • Secure or remove accessories. Take off roof racks, bike racks, spoilers, antennas, and any aftermarket parts that could be damaged.
  • Document the condition. Take photos of the exterior and interior from several angles. Note any existing dents or scratches.
  • Disable alarms. Deactivate any anti‑theft systems that could go off during loading.
  • Check tire pressure. Inflate tires to the recommended level to avoid flat spots.

For a full checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips. Following these steps helps protect your car and speeds up the loading process.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle to or from Iowa with Sakaem Logistics, the carrier we assign must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before your car leaves the terminal, we verify that the carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire trip.

If any damage occurs during transport, you can file a claim directly with the carrier’s insurance provider. We will guide you through the paperwork and keep you informed until the claim is resolved.

Plan ahead. We recommend booking your Iowa pickup at least 14 days in advance. During busy periods such as summer moves or holiday travel, aim for 3‑4 weeks notice. The sooner you post your shipment, the more likely we can bundle your vehicle with other Iowa loads, which often reduces cost and guarantees a carrier slot. If you have a fixed date, let us know as soon as you can so we can lock in the best option for you.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

Open transport uses a standard multi‑level trailer with the vehicles exposed to the elements. It is the most common method in Iowa, costs about 30‑50% less than enclosed, and is suitable for everyday cars, SUVs, and trucks that are in normal condition.

Enclosed transport ships the vehicle inside a weather‑proof, sealed trailer. The price is typically 40‑60% higher because the trailer protects against rain, dust, road debris, and UV rays. This option is best for classic cars, collector vehicles, recent purchases with custom paint, or any high‑value automobile that needs extra care.

Both services include door‑to‑door pickup and delivery, insurance coverage, and tracking. The main trade‑off is cost versus protection. If your car is a daily driver and you’re looking to save money, open transport is usually sufficient. If you’re shipping a prized or delicate vehicle, the added expense of an enclosed carrier can give you peace of mind.

Yes, we offer door‑to‑door auto transport in Iowa. When you book with Sakaem Logistics, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses you want. Our carrier will travel to those locations and load your vehicle right at your doorstep, then drive it to the drop‑off address you specify.

If a location is unsafe or restricted (for example, a narrow residential street or a private gated community), the driver will contact you to choose a nearby, convenient spot such as a gas station, a parking lot, or a commercial loading area. This ensures the vehicle stays protected while still keeping the process simple for you.

Because we started in 2012 to give drivers and owners a fair, transparent alternative to the big brokers, we keep our pricing clear and our process straightforward. Our reviews show that Iowa customers trust us to deliver on time and without hidden fees.

In short, you get a hassle‑free, door‑to‑door service that moves your car from point A to point B in Iowa just the way you need it.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About Iowa

Discover interesting insights about the state you’re shipping to or from

Whether you’re loading a classic car in Des Moines or shipping a truck to Cedar Rapids, Iowa offers a blend of friendly towns, open roads, and quirky charms that make the journey enjoyable.

  • Heartland Geography: Iowa sits in the Midwest’s corn belt, featuring rolling plains, the scenic Loess Hills, and over 1,200 miles of rivers, including the mighty Mississippi on its eastern border.
  • Notable Cities: Des Moines, the state capital, boasts a vibrant downtown and the iconic State Capitol dome, while Iowa City is home to the University of Iowa and a UNESCO City of Literature.
  • Historic Roots: The famous “Iowa State Fair” began in 1854 and remains one of the nation’s largest agricultural showcases.
  • Vehicle Laws: Iowa requires all vehicles to be registered within 30 days of moving in, and it offers a “no‑title” transfer for cars older than 15 years when moving to another state.
  • Weather Wisdom: Expect hot, humid summers and brisk, snowy winters; spring brings the state’s famous “Iowa tornado alley” activity.
  • Economic Engine: Agriculture leads the economy, but manufacturing, especially food processing and renewable energy, adds strong diversity.
  • Population Snapshot: About 3.2 million people live in Iowa, with a median age of 38, reflecting a mix of families, retirees, and college students.
  • Unique Charm: Iowa is the only state where you can drive through a covered bridge, a windmill, and a cornfield all in a single hour.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Shipping a car from Iowa is simple once you know the steps. First, understand the two main players: brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaem Logistics, acts as a match‑maker. They gather quotes, check carrier reviews, and verify insurance before pairing you with a reliable carrier. The carrier is the driver and truck that actually moves your vehicle. By using a reputable broker, you get access to vetted carriers and a smoother auto transport experience. This 101 guide walks you through the entire car shipping process so you can feel confident from the first phone call to the final delivery.

Start by calling a broker to request a quote. The broker will then find a carrier that fits your timeline and vehicle type. Once a carrier is assigned, they will schedule a pickup. Before the truck arrives, clear the car of personal items, make sure it rolls freely, and leave about a quarter tank of gas. If you own a high‑end vehicle, ask for an enclosed trailer for extra protection. The carrier loads your car, transports it across state lines, and delivers it to the destination address you provided. Payment is usually collected at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement. Following these steps ensures a safe, transparent, and stress‑free car shipping experience in Iowa.