

Why Choose AmeriFreight for Ames Car Shipping?
Ames, located in Story County, Iowa, is a vibrant city with a population of over 66,000. Known primarily as the home of Iowa State University (ISU), Ames is a hub for education, research, and innovation. The city also boasts a strong sense of community, beautiful parks, and a diverse economy driven by agriculture and technology. Whether you're moving to Ames for work, school, or simply need to ship a vehicle, AmeriFreight offers expert car shipping services. We ensure your vehicle is transported safely, efficiently, and on time, with a nationwide network of trusted carriers at your service.

Experience and Reliability You Can Trust
With over 20 years of experience and a long list of satisfied customers, AmeriFreight is a leader in the auto transport industry. We've earned industry-wide recognition for our exceptional service, including an A+ rating with the BBB and thousands of positive reviews.
Why Ship with AmeriFreight?

Cost Saving Strategy
We've developed an innovative cost-saving strategy tailored to meet the unique needs of our customers. Through meticulous analysis and optimization, our approach not only reduces expenses but also enhances operational efficiency, directly benefiting you.

No Up-Front Payment
We work for free until you're ready to accept a carrier offer. Before you give out any payment info you'll have estimated pick up and delivery dates, as well as the total, final cost to ship your vehicle.

Free Cancelation
In addition to not taking your credit card till dispatching a carrier to you, you can cancel with us at any time prior to booking your carrier. No locked-in contracts!

Additional Protection
We know you value your vehicle. So we've partnered with AFTA PLAN to provide additional protection for your vehicle during transport. Make sure to ask your agent about AFTA PLAN.

20 Years of Experience
We have the strategy, the pricing, and the protection. Now add almost 2 decades of experience to top pull it all together. We know the auto transport business.

Most 5-Star Reviews in Industry
We take pride in the experience our customers have when working with us. Check review sites and you'll see that we not only have the most reviews, we also have high reviews and customer satisfaction.

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Comprehensive Auto Transport Services for Ames



Expedited Car Transport in Ames: Need it Fast? We Deliver! - For time-sensitive shipments, expedited car transport gets your vehicle to its destination quickly. While there is an additional cost for this service, it ensures your car arrives according to your specific timeline.

Specialty Vehicle Transport: Beyond Cars - AmeriFreight goes beyond cars! We also offer safe and reliable transport for motorcycles and RVs. Our team will create a customized solution to get your unique vehicle where it needs to go.
How Ames Car Shipping Works: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process starts with a quick and easy online quote. Use our user-friendly calculator to get instant rates. Simply provide your pickup and drop-off locations, vehicle type, and preferred shipping date.
Book your
order
Your vehicle is picked up
Your vehicle is delivered

Book your order
Easily book your car shipping by filling out our online form or calling us. We'll take care of the details for a smooth booking process.
Your vehicle is picked up
Our team will pick up your vehicle at your preferred location, handling it with care and ensuring it's safely loaded for transport.
Your vehicle is delivered
We'll coordinate delivery to your chosen location, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time for you to enjoy.

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Delivery in Ames: Welcoming Your Car to its New Home
The excitement builds as your car nears its destination in Ames. Here's what you can expect during the final leg of its journey:
Delivery Scheduling:
Once your car arrives in the Ames area, the carrier will contact you to arrange a convenient delivery time. This flexibility ensures you're present to receive your vehicle.
A Meticulous Final Inspection:
Upon arrival, the carrier will conduct a final inspection of your car together with you. They'll meticulously compare the condition to the initial inspection report completed during pickup. This ensures any potential discrepancies are documented.
Signing the Bill of Lading:
The bill of lading is an important document that serves as a receipt for your car's condition upon delivery. The carrier will carefully review the document with you, highlighting any notations from the pre-shipment and final inspections. Once you're satisfied with the vehicle's condition, you'll sign the bill of lading, finalizing the transport process.
Welcome to Ames!
With the paperwork complete, it's time to take possession of your car! The carrier will assist you in unloading your vehicle from the transport trailer. AmeriFreight wants to ensure a smooth transition, so feel free to ask any questions you may have about the car's condition or the transport process.
We understand that even minor details can be important. That's why AmeriFreight's experienced carriers prioritize clear communication and a meticulous approach throughout the delivery process. This ensures your car arrives in Ames exactly as it left, ready for your next adventure.
Cost Factors for Ames Car Shipping
A few key factors impact the overall cost of shipping your vehicle. Understanding these factors helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your budget. We aim to offer transparent pricing, answer your questions, alleviate your concerns, and ensure the safe delivery of your car to its destination.

Distance: The Route Matters
The distance your vehicle needs to travel from Point A to Point B is one of the main factors impacting your car shipping rate. Cross-country moves, for instance, will cost more than a quick trip to a neighboring state, owing to the time and fuel required to transport your vehicle to its destination.

Vehicle Weight and Size:
Different car sizes affect the cost of shipping. Lighter, more compact vehicles occupy less space, typically resulting in a lower price. Conversely, larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, can increase your rate due to their size and weight.

Open or Enclosed:
The majority of cars shipped across America are on open carriers. As an affordable choice, open carriers provide a variety of equipment to meet any shipping needs. If you are concerned about weather, visibility, or other factors, enclosed may be your option because it may protect your vehicle from nearly all outside factors. Enclosed shipment is an excellent choice for transporting luxury, exotic, and classic vehicles.

Seasonal Fluctuations: Timing is Key
Although you may hear that seasonal fluctuations may greatly affect your vehicle shipping cost, you'll be happy to know at AmeriFreight that isn't necessarily the case. Our strategies to save you money work year-round. For over twenty years we have built unique relationships with thousands of carriers in the industry. This ensures we have year-round capability to get your vehicle where it needs to go at the best price possible.
Popular Car Shipping Routes To and From Ames, Iowa
Route | Estimated Delivery Time (Days) | Open Transport Estimated Price | Enclosed Transport Estimated Price |
---|---|---|---|
Ames to New York | 3-5 | $856 | $1,455 |
Ames to Los Angeles | 7-10 | $1,116 | $1,897 |
Chicago to Ames | 3-5 | $525 | $893 |
Atlanta to Ames | 4-6 | $924 | $1,571 |
Houston to Ames | 5-7 | $749 | $1,273 |
Routes and Transportation:
Ames is well-connected by major highways, which makes vehicle shipping to and from the city straightforward and convenient. Some of the key routes in the area include:
Interstate 35 (I-35): Running north-south, I-35 is one of the most important highways connecting Ames to larger cities like Des Moines to the south and Minneapolis, Minnesota to the north. This interstate is a major route for car shipping.
U.S. Highway 30: An east-west highway that passes through Ames, U.S. 30 connects the city to nearby towns like Boone and Marshalltown. It is often used for vehicle shipments within the region.
Iowa Highway 69: This local highway runs through the heart of Ames, providing access to Iowa State University and the city’s downtown areas.
Ames experiences all four seasons, so winter snow and icy roads can occasionally pose challenges for vehicle transport. AmeriFreight works closely with its carriers to monitor weather conditions and ensure safe and timely delivery, even during harsh winter months.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Ames Car Shipping
Before your car is shipped, it’s important to:
Give it a thorough cleaning and inspection.
Remove all personal belongings and accessories.
Document any existing dents, scratches, or damage with clear photos for your records.

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More Information About Ames, IA
Ames has a mix of residential neighborhoods, from the bustling areas around Iowa State University to quieter suburbs like Somerset and Northwood Heights. AmeriFreight ensures that your vehicle is delivered to your doorstep, whether you're in a high-traffic area near the university or a more secluded neighborhood.
Ames also benefits from its proximity to Ames Municipal Airport, which offers limited regional flights but can be relevant for those shipping vehicles long distances. Though most car shipments happen by road, the airport provides logistical support for certain shipping needs.
Major Events in Ames, IA
Ames hosts several events throughout the year that can impact traffic and vehicle shipping schedules. These events often attract large crowds, and planning your shipment around them can help avoid delays.
Iowa State University Homecoming (October 2024): ISU’s homecoming is a major event that brings thousands of alumni, students, and visitors to Ames. Increased traffic and road closures around the campus are common during this time.
Iowa Games (July 2024): This statewide amateur sports competition attracts athletes and spectators from across Iowa, leading to heavy traffic around Jack Trice Stadium and local highways.
VEISHEA Celebrations (April 2024): VEISHEA, ISU's annual festival celebrating education and community, includes parades and events throughout Ames, which can cause significant road closures and traffic congestion.
If possible, it’s best to schedule your vehicle shipment before or after these events to ensure smooth delivery.
New Resident Resources
If you’re planning to move to Ames, several essential services and resources can help make your transition smooth:
DMV Locations: New residents can register their vehicles at the Story County Treasurer’s Office in Nevada, just east of Ames.
Utility Services: Ames Electric Services provides electricity to residents, while MidAmerican Energy handles natural gas services. The City of Ames manages water and sewer services. Setting up these utilities is a key step when moving to a new home.
Public Transportation: While Ames is a car-friendly city, it also offers public transportation through CyRide, which provides bus services throughout the city, particularly useful for Iowa State University students.
Healthcare and Schools: Ames is home to Mary Greeley Medical Center, a regional healthcare provider. The Ames Community School District offers quality education, and Iowa State University is a major institution for higher learning in the area.
Top Tourist Spots in Ames, IA
Ames has a variety of attractions that appeal to both new residents and visitors. Be sure to check out these must-visit spots:
Reiman Gardens: Located on the Iowa State University campus, Reiman Gardens features beautiful botanical displays, a butterfly wing, and seasonal exhibits. It’s a serene spot to enjoy nature.
Iowa State University Campus: Known for its historic buildings, beautiful green spaces, and cultural events, the ISU campus is a central attraction in Ames. Don't miss landmarks like the Campanile and Lake LaVerne.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park: A scenic park with walking trails, fishing areas, and a lake. It’s a great place for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Moving Tips and Resources
When planning your move to Ames, hiring a reliable moving company can make the process smoother. According to Move.org, Two Men and a Truck and Adamantine Spine Moving are popular options for moving services in the Ames area.
If you need temporary storage during your move, Ames Mini Storage and First Interstate Storage, as highlighted by StorageUnits.com, provide a range of storage unit sizes and flexible options for short-term and long-term needs.
To stay organized, start packing early and label your boxes clearly. Creating an inventory of items being moved is especially helpful for long-distance relocations.
To connect with your new community, consider joining local organizations like the Ames Chamber of Commerce or attending events hosted by Iowa State University and Ames Main Street.
AmeriFreight is here to assist with your vehicle shipping needs, whether you’re moving to Ames for school, work, or simply need help transporting your car. We make the car shipping process easy, reliable, and stress-free.

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Whether you have a new or used sedan, an SUV, a sports car, a truck, an armored personnel carrier, military vehicle or a bus that you want to ship across the country, our car shipping specialists can move it for you hassle free at the best rate possible. We service all continental U.S. including Hawaii and Alaska for all your car shipping needs for your personal vehicles or company fleets. Whether you need a long or short distance auto transport service, call us at (770) 486-1010 or use our online
From Main Street to Wall Street to Your Street, we've got you covered!
Frequently Asked Questions
Transit times vary depending on the distance, but our team of knowledgeable customer service agents will be able to provide an estimate during the quote process.
The most common factors that influence cost include: Distance, Vehicle Type, Vehicle Condition, Open vs. Enclosed Transport, and Seasonal Demand.
While not always mandatory, it is preferred to be present for both pickup and delivery to sign the necessary paperwork and inspect your vehicle. If you cannot be there in person, you can designate a trusted representative to act on your behalf.
Ready to Get a Quote From AmeriFreight
Get started today with AmeriFreight. Join the ranks of satisfied customers who've trusted us for years. AmeriFreight, the best in the auto transport industry, is here to serve you.
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