Moving a vehicle from Illinois to Iowa? Whether you're relocating, buying a car out of state, or sending a vehicle to family, understanding your shipping options can make the process smoother. It is a short-haul route, making it faster and more affordable than long-distance transport. Here's what to expect in terms of cost, timing, and transport methods when moving a car between these two Midwestern states.
Cost of Shipping a Car from Illinois to Iowa
Shipping a car from Illinois to Iowa is a short, straightforward route within the Midwest. On average, the driving distance is about 260 miles, though it may vary slightly based on pickup and drop-off locations. Because of the short haul, costs are generally lower than long-distance routes.
To get an accurate price, request a custom quote. The cost will depend on the vehicle type, transport method, and timing. A-1 Auto Transport offers free quotes to help you plan your move.
Pricing & Time Examples To Ship Your Vehicle
| To / From Illinois to Iowa | Distance | Cost | Estimated Time In Transit |
| Chicago, IL To Des Moines, IA | 333 miles | $600.12 - $733.48 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Aurora, IL To Cedar Rapids, IA | 210 miles | $378.72 - $462.88 | 1 - 3 Days |
| Naperville, IL To Davenport, IA | 151 miles | $271.44 - $331.76 | 1 - 3 Days |
| Rockford, IL To Sioux City, IA | 393 miles | $707.94 - $865.26 | 3 - 5 Days |
| Joliet, IL To Iowa City, IA | 196 miles | $353.52 - $432.08 | 1 - 3 Days |
| Springfield, IL To Waterloo, IA | 306 miles | $550.44 - $672.76 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Peoria, IL To West Des Moines, IA | 276 miles | $497.16 - $607.64 | 1 - 3 Days |
| Elgin, IL To Ames, IA | 320 miles | $576.18 - $704.22 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Champaign, IL To Ankeny, IA | 355 miles | $638.10 - $779.90 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Waukegan, IL To Council Bluffs, IA | 485 miles | $873.00 - $1,067.00 | 4 - 6 Days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
What Affects Delivery Time?
Even though Illinois and Iowa are neighboring states, transit times can be influenced by weather, traffic, and exact routing. In most cases, delivery takes about one day. Severe weather or high-traffic zones can cause slight delays, but short-haul routes like this are typically quick and efficient.
Auto Transport Hubs
Popular pickup cities in Illinois:
- Chicago
- Aurora
- Rockford
- Peoria
- Crystal Lake
Common delivery hubs in Iowa:
Des Moines
Cedar Rapids
Iowa City
Dubuque
Ames
How Long Does This Process Takes?
The distance by road between Illinois and Iowa is 260 miles. This distance might vary slightly depending on the city where the shipment will originate from.
Delivery times are affected by the state of traffic at the time of shipping as well as the weather conditions. Extreme weather can delay shipping and increase the delivery times. Even if other factors are ignored, it should only take a day for a car to be shipped from Illinois to Iowa.
Affordable Shipping Options
If you're looking for a budget-friendly solution, open carrier transport is the most economical option. It involves hauling your car on an open trailer alongside other vehicles. While this method is safe and widely used, your car will be exposed to the elements during transit
Other Vehicles We Relocate
In addition to standard cars, we also transport:
- Motorcycles
- Trucks
- Boats
Whether you're relocating a daily vehicle or sending recreational equipment, we offer tailored transport solutions between Illinois and Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Illinois to Iowa?
The average cost to ship a car from Illinois to Iowa ranges between $423 and $625, depending on factors like the specific cities involved, vehicle size, and transport type. For instance, shipping from Chicago to Des Moines may cost between $630 and $802.
How long does it take to ship a car from Illinois to Iowa?
Transit times typically range from 1 to 4 days. Shorter distances, such as from Aurora to Davenport, may take 1–2 days, while longer routes could take up to 4 days.
Is my vehicle insured during transport from Illinois to Iowa?
Yes, all auto transport companies are federally required to carry insurance that covers damages during transit. However, coverage limits can vary, so it's advisable to request a copy of the carrier's insurance policy and consider additional coverage for high-value vehicles.
Should I choose open or enclosed transport for shipping my car?
Open transport is the most common and cost-effective method, suitable for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport offers added protection from weather and road debris, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars. Enclosed shipping can cost up to 60% more than open transport.
Can I ship a non-running vehicle from Illinois to Iowa?
Yes, non-operational vehicles can be shipped, but they require special equipment like winches for loading and unloading. This service may incur additional fees, so it's important to inform the transporter about the vehicle's condition in advance.
Dave C.
Courtney J.
Jeff D.
Maria L.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
