Des Moines, IA Car Shipping
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Des Moines, IA Car Shipping
Planning to ship your vehicle to or from Des Moines, IA? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping in Des Moines, including auto transport costs for popular routes, delivery timelines, and expert tips. Whether you’re relocating across the country or buying a car online, we’ll help you navigate the car shipping process with confidence and ease.
Popular Routes from Des Moines, IA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Des Moines, IA Auto Transport
Car shipping from Des Moines, IA typically costs between $750-$1,575 and takes 1-5 days depending on your destination, with most routes averaging around 1,336 miles.
Our Des Moines and Iowa Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from 8,000+ reviews, and BBB A+ rating—ensuring no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor, but Des Moines’ location along major highways like I-80 and I-35 helps keep prices competitive compared to remote areas.
Tips and Tricks to Save
The most important step is preparing your vehicle properly—remove personal items, clean it thoroughly, document its condition with photos, and ensure it has about 1/4 tank of gas.
How Car Shipping Works
Iowa requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency and doesn’t mandate emissions testing, but does enforce strict window tinting laws (front windows must allow 70%+ light transmission).
State Insights
Book your Des Moines car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for best rates, or 3-4 weeks during peak summer and holiday seasons when demand and prices are highest.
What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying
The Sherpa Difference
TRANSPARENCY
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
NATIONWIDE COVERAGE
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 8,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
CARRIER QUALITY
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
EXPERT HANDLING
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
Popular Routes from Des Moines, IA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Des Moines
to Phoenix
|
1,399 mi
|
$1025–1400
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Los Angeles
|
1,683 mi
|
$1125–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to New York City
|
1,107 mi
|
$850–1025
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Atlanta
|
900 mi
|
$950–1200
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Dallas
|
697 mi
|
$750–850
|
0-3 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Seattle
|
1,756 mi
|
$1025–1450
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Houston
|
934 mi
|
$900–1050
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Boston
|
1,300 mi
|
$900–1000
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Portland
|
1,787 mi
|
$1200–1575
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to San Francisco
|
1,796 mi
|
$1225–1350
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to San Diego
|
1,745 mi
|
$1175–1500
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Miami
|
1,564 mi
|
$1025–1400
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Minneapolis
|
244 mi
|
$550–625
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Philadelphia
|
1,076 mi
|
$825–975
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Des Moines
to Tampa
|
1,356 mi
|
$925–1200
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 721 actual shipments involving Des Moines, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.
By Vehicle Type
By Trailer Type
Note: Updated 2026 pricing. Prices shown are averages based on actual Sherpa shipments over the last 12 months. Your quote may vary based on specific pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition, current market demand, and time of year. Get an instant quote for accurate pricing.
Factors that Affect Des Moines, IA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping cost. The further your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. Shipping from Des Moines to a nearby state like Illinois or Missouri will cost less than shipping to California or Florida. However, longer routes often have better per-mile rates, so cross-country moves can offer better value than you might expect.
Route
Your route matters as much as the distance. Des Moines sits along major highways like I-80 and I-35, which is great news for your wallet. These high-traffic routes have more carriers and lower costs. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area far from major interstates, expect to pay more. The easier it is for carriers to reach you, the less you’ll pay.
Season
Timing affects your price. Summer months (May through September) are peak season when demand is highest and prices rise. Winter months typically offer lower rates and better availability. If you have flexibility, shipping during the off-season can save you money. Spring and fall offer moderate pricing between these extremes.
Vehicle Type
What you’re shipping matters. Standard sedans are the cheapest to transport. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more because they take up more space on the trailer, add weight (increasing fuel costs), and are harder to load and unload. Some carriers can’t accommodate oversized vehicles at all, which limits your options and increases prices.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy travel periods drive up costs. The week before Thanksgiving, Christmas holidays, and summer vacation weeks see massive road congestion. This slows down carriers and increases their costs, which they pass to you. If possible, avoid these peak travel times. Shipping during quieter periods means faster service and better rates.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability depends on when you ship. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for a carrier, and you’ll pay premium rates. Off-season shipping often means you can find a carrier within days at lower prices. Des Moines’ central location helps with availability year-round, but planning ahead always gives you more options and better rates.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two trailer options. Open trailers are the standard choice and cost significantly less. Your vehicle is exposed to weather but perfectly safe for most cars. Enclosed trailers protect luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles from the elements but cost 40-60% more. For most Des Moines residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport offers the best value.
Population Density
Where you pick up and drop off affects pricing. Des Moines’ moderate density and accessible roads work in your favor compared to dense urban areas. If you’re shipping to a major city like New York or Chicago, consider meeting your carrier in a suburb with easier access. Tight city streets, parking restrictions, and traffic make urban deliveries more expensive and complicated.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Save money by shipping during off-peak times like spring or fall. Avoid busy seasons such as summer and winter snowbird migration when demand spikes. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can significantly reduce costs and ensure faster pickup times.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to lower your shipping costs. Offering carriers a five-day window instead of exact dates gives them routing flexibility, which translates to savings for you. This simple adjustment can make your car transport more affordable and convenient.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup locations near major highways in Des Moines for better rates and faster service. Highway-accessible spots attract more carriers, increasing competition and lowering prices. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby highway city to save money.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They safely transport standard cars while keeping your budget in check. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-end vehicles that need extra protection from weather and road debris.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Des Moines, IA Work?
Car shipping from Des Moines, IA is a straightforward process designed to transport your vehicle safely across the country. When you book auto transport services, a carrier will pick up your car from your Des Moines location and deliver it to your destination. The typical timeline ranges from 1-5 days, depending on distance. Most routes from Des Moines, IA average around 1,336 miles, with pricing between $750-$1575 based on factors like vehicle size, transport type, and seasonal demand.
The car shipping process begins with requesting a quote and booking your transport. Next, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. A professional driver will then pick up your car at a convenient Des Moines location. Your vehicle travels via open or enclosed carrier to its destination. Des Moines benefits from excellent highway access via I-35 and I-80, making auto transport efficient and reliable. Throughout the journey, carriers provide tracking updates so you know exactly where your vehicle is located. Upon delivery, inspect your car carefully and sign the final paperwork to complete the transport process.
Des Moines, IA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Des Moines, IA, understanding Iowa’s vehicle regulations helps ensure a smooth transition. New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency at their local Iowa DOT office [Iowa DOT]. Iowa does not require emissions testing, making auto transport and registration simpler than many states. However, window tinting laws are strict: front side windows must allow more than 70% light transmission, while back windows have no restrictions [Iowa DOT].
Iowa requires liability insurance with minimum coverage of 20/40/15 (bodily injury and property damage) [Iowa Insurance Division]. Winter weather in Des Moines, IA demands vehicle preparation. Consider all-season or winter tires before car shipping, as snow and ice are common from November through March. Remote starters and block heaters are valuable additions for cold Iowa winters.
Iowa law prohibits frame or suspension modifications that raise vehicles beyond manufacturer specifications for safety reasons [Iowa DOT]. When arranging auto transport to Des Moines, IA, schedule shipments during spring or fall when weather conditions are most favorable. Winter car shipping may face delays due to road conditions. Ensure your vehicle registration paperwork is ready upon arrival to avoid penalties and get proper Iowa license plates promptly.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Des Moines, Iowa that we Serve
Downtown Des Moines: 50309, 50314, 50316, 50317
West Des Moines: 50265, 50266, 50325
East Des Moines: 50313, 50315, 50320
South Des Moines: 50315, 50320, 50321
North Des Moines: 50313, 50316, 50317
Urbandale: 50322, 50323
Ankeny: 50021, 50023
Johnston: 50131
Clive: 50325
Windsor Heights: 50311, 50324
We serves the entire Des Moines region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is home to several universities, including Drake University, Grand View University, and Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). If you’re planning on shipping a car to Des Moines for college, understanding parking logistics is essential. Most universities require parking permits, which typically range from $100-$300 per semester [Drake University Parking Services]. Drake offers various permit types based on residence status, while commuter students generally have more flexible options [Grand View University]. Many on-campus apartments include one parking space, but dorm residents should verify availability beforehand. During winter break, most campuses allow vehicle storage with valid permits, though some require notification [DMACC Parking]. Iowa winters can be harsh, so consider all-season or snow tires for safety [Iowa DOT]. Before using car shipping services to transport your vehicle, confirm your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Iowa to avoid gaps in protection during your college years.
Des Moines, IA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Des Moines, IA is simple. Follow these key steps:
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and loose items from the interior. Carriers are not insured for personal property.
Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos before shipping.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has enough gas (about 1/4 tank), and the battery is charged so the carrier can load and unload it.
Remove or secure accessories: Take off or secure bike racks, spoilers, antennas, and other exterior items that could be damaged during transit.
Disable alarms: Turn off your car alarm to avoid issues during transport.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.
For more detailed guidance, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Des Moines, IA. Every carrier in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and in good standing. This protects your vehicle throughout the entire transport from Des Moines.
For added protection, all our contracted carriers list Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy. This means we monitor coverage directly to ensure your vehicle stays protected.
Our quotes are all-inclusive, so insurance coverage is already included in your price—no hidden fees or extra charges.
We recommend scheduling your pickup from Des Moines at least 1-2 weeks in advance. This gives carriers enough time to plan efficient routes and match your vehicle with other shipments heading in the same direction.
For the best rates and availability, book even earlier if possible. During peak seasons (summer months and holidays), aim for 3-4 weeks advance notice. Last-minute bookings are sometimes available but may cost more and offer fewer carrier options.
Booking early helps you:
- Lock in better pricing
- Get more flexible pickup windows
- Choose from more qualified carriers
- Avoid rush fees
Need expedited service? Contact us directly to discuss rush shipping options from Des Moines.
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. 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 auto transport is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer alongside other cars, exposed to weather and road conditions. This method is safe, reliable, and costs significantly less—typically 40-60% cheaper than enclosed transport.
Enclosed auto transport provides full protection inside a covered trailer, shielding your vehicle from weather, road debris, and dust. This premium option is ideal for luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, or any car with custom features you want to protect.
For most everyday vehicles shipping to or from Des Moines, open transport is perfectly safe and cost-effective. However, if you’re transporting a high-value or collectible vehicle, enclosed transport offers peace of mind and maximum protection. Learn more in our detailed open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from Des Moines, IA. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you choose, and deliver it directly to your destination.
When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come to you, making the process as convenient as possible. You won’t need to drive to a terminal or drop-off location.
In some cases, large car carriers may have difficulty accessing certain streets in Des Moines due to narrow roads, low-hanging trees, or tight turns. If this happens, our driver will contact you to arrange a nearby meeting spot, such as a shopping center parking lot or gas station. This ensures your vehicle is transported safely while still keeping pickup and delivery close to your location.
Door-to-door service is included in most of our quotes and is the most popular option for customers shipping vehicles to or from Des Moines.
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.
While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!