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Des Moines Car Shipping and Auto Transport Services

  • No upfront payment
  • A cost-saving strategy to save your money
  • No commitment, cancel for free
  • Additional Protection for your vehicle
  • 20 Years of Experience
  • The most 5-star reviews in the industry

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Company Ratings

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4.7 Rating
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4.7 Rating
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5.0 Rating
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4.1 Rating
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4.9 Rating
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Competitive Pricing

Affordable rates, unmatched quality.

AFTA Plan
AFTA Plan

Additional Damage Protection Plan.

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Door to Door Service

Convenient delivery, right home.

Multiple Discounts
Multiple Discounts

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Why Choose AmeriFreight for Des Moines Car Shipping?

Des Moines, Iowa, the state’s capital and largest city, is home to over 200,000 residents and serves as a hub for business, politics, and culture in the Midwest. Known for its growing economy, beautiful parks, and vibrant arts scene, Des Moines is an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re relocating to Des Moines, attending a major event, or need car shipping services for any reason, AmeriFreight is here to help. With our extensive experience in vehicle transport across the U.S., we provide reliable, affordable, and stress-free car shipping services.

AmeriFreight is your trusted partner for reliable and efficient auto transport services in Des Moines, Iowa. With over two decades of experience, we have built a solid reputation for customer satisfaction and top-tier service. Our long list of happy customers and our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) speak to our commitment to providing the best car shipping services in Des Moines.

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20 plus years of car shipping experience AmeriFreight

Experience and Reliability You Can Trust

When it comes to car shipping in Des Moines, AmeriFreight is your trusted partner. Whether you are moving, buying a car out of state, or just need a vehicle transported, we offer reliable and secure shipping solutions tailored to your needs.

Comprehensive Car Shipping Services in Des Moines

At AmeriFreight, we offer a variety of car shipping services tailored to meet your needs. Whether you’re shipping a daily driver, a luxury car, or a motorcycle, we have you covered with safe, affordable, and reliable options.

Open Car Transport – The Budget-Friendly, Reliable Option

Open car transport is the most affordable way to ship your vehicle across the U.S. Perfect for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, this cost-effective option offers nationwide availability, fast shipping times, and the reliability you need for your everyday vehicle.

Enclosed Auto Transport – Premium Protection for High-Value Cars

For luxury, classic, or exotic cars that need extra protection, enclosed auto transport is the perfect choice. Your vehicle is transported in a fully enclosed trailer, keeping it safe from weather and road debris—ideal for high-value cars that deserve top-tier care.

Expedited Car Shipping – When Timing is Everything

When time is of the essence, expedited car shipping ensures your vehicle is a top priority. With faster pickup and delivery times, this service is perfect for last-minute moves or when you need your car at its destination quickly and without delays.

Door-to-Door Auto Transport – Ultimate Convenience, No Hassle

With door-to-door auto transport, your vehicle is picked up and delivered directly to your chosen location. This hassle-free service saves you the trouble of terminal drop-offs and pickups, providing you with the ultimate convenience.

Motorcycle Shipping – Safe, Simple, and Secure

AmeriFreight’s motorcycle shipping service ensures your bike is transported safely and securely, whether for a move, sale, or event. With specialized handling, we take the same care in shipping motorcycles as we do with cars, so your ride arrives safely.

Military Vehicle Shipping – Serving Those Who Serve

For active-duty military personnel, AmeriFreight offers reliable vehicle shipping with military discounts. If you're relocating, we ensure a smooth and secure transport process, delivering your vehicle wherever duty calls.

Snowbird Vehicle Shipping – Easy Seasonal Moves

Snowbird shipping makes seasonal relocations a breeze. Whether you’re heading south for the winter or back home for the summer, we provide flexible scheduling and affordable rates, so your vehicle is waiting for you at your seasonal home.

Why Ship with AmeriFreight?

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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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Want to know the cost of shipping a car with us

A Smooth Move: From Anywhere to Des Moines

Imagine you're planning a move to Des Moines. The excitement of your new life is building, but the thought of driving your car across long distances is daunting. The wear and tear of a long road trip could take a toll on your beloved vehicle. AmeriFreight can help!

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How Does the Auto Transport Industry Work?

AmeriFreight simplifies car shipping. Need help? We offer clear guidance, so you can focus on what matters. We're here for you.

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Book your
order
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Your vehicle is picked up
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Your vehicle is delivered
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A truck delivering your vehicle
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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.

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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.

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Your vehicle is delivered

We'll coordinate delivery to your chosen location, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time for you to enjoy.

Cost Factors for Des Moines Car Transport

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

How to Save on Car Shipping Costs to or from Des Moines

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Book Early

Booking several weeks in advance can help you secure better rate options, especially if you're shipping during peak seasons like summer.

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Be Flexible with Pick-Up and Delivery Dates

If you're able to provide a wider time frame for shipping, it may reduce costs. Expedited services are more expensive due to the tight deadlines

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Consider Open Transport

Unless your vehicle requires extra protection, choosing open transport can help you save hundreds of dollars.

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Use Discounts

AmeriFreight offers discounts for military personnel, students, seniors, and more, so be sure to ask about our available discounts when you get a quote.


Popular Car Shipping Routes to and From Des Moines

AmeriFreight ships vehicles across the country, including popular routes to and from Des Moines. Below is a table showing estimated delivery times and price ranges for open transport and enclosed transport options:

RouteEstimated Delivery Time (Days)Open Transport Estimated PriceEnclosed Transport Estimated Price
Des Moines to New York City5-7$856.00$1,455
Los Angeles to Des Moines7-10$930.00$1,581
Denver to Des Moines4-6$856.00$1,455
Miami to Des Moines7-10$999.00$1,698

Routes and Transportation:

Des Moines is well-connected by a network of highways and interstates, making it easy for car shipping companies to navigate the city. Key routes include:

  • Interstate 80 (I-80): A major east-west highway that passes through Des Moines, connecting the city to Chicago, Illinois, and Omaha, Nebraska.

  • Interstate 35 (I-35): Running north-south, this interstate connects Des Moines to Minneapolis to the north and Kansas City to the south.

  • Interstate 235 (I-235): A highway that loops around downtown Des Moines, offering access to various neighborhoods and commercial districts.

Des Moines generally experiences moderate traffic, but congestion can occur during rush hours, particularly along I-235 and major city streets like Ingersoll Avenue and Fleur Drive. Winters in Iowa can bring snow and icy conditions, which may impact transport schedules, but AmeriFreight’s experienced team ensures your vehicle is transported safely, regardless of the weather.

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Local Tips for Des Moines Car Shipping

Shipping During Peak Seasons

Des Moines experiences high demand for car shipping during the summer months. To ensure availability and the best rates, we recommend booking your shipment early.

Registering Your Vehicle in Des Moines

If you are new to Des Moines, Iowa, remember to register your vehicle with the local DMV within 30 days of establishing residency. You will need your title, proof of insurance, and a completed application for registration.

More Information About Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines has a well-organized street grid, making navigation easy for residents and transporters. Popular neighborhoods like Downtown, East Village, and Beaverdale can experience heavier traffic, especially during local events or peak hours. AmeriFreight coordinates vehicle deliveries and pickups in accessible areas where transport trucks can easily navigate.

Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located just a few miles south of downtown, serves as a key transportation hub and can be used for vehicle shipping logistics. Additionally, Des Moines has a public transportation system, Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART), offering convenient bus routes throughout the city.

Major Events in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is home to a variety of major events that can impact traffic and car shipping schedules. Notable events include:


  • Iowa State Fair (August): One of the largest and most famous state fairs in the U.S., this event attracts over a million visitors, leading to road closures and heavy traffic near the fairgrounds.

  • Des Moines Arts Festival (June): This popular event draws thousands of art enthusiasts to the downtown area, resulting in increased traffic and potential road closures.

  • Drake Relays (April): Held at Drake University, this track and field event attracts athletes and spectators from around the world, leading to busy roads and increased congestion around the university area.

Planning vehicle shipments around these events is essential to avoid delays caused by road closures or increased traffic. AmeriFreight’s team is experienced in scheduling around major events to ensure timely delivery.

New Resident Resources

If you’re moving to Des Moines, registering your vehicle and setting up essential services is a priority. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) operates a Motor Vehicle Division office in Des Moines, where you can register your car and obtain a driver’s license.


Utilities in Des Moines are provided by MidAmerican Energy for electricity and gas, while Des Moines Water Works manages water services. Internet and telecommunications services are offered by companies such as Mediacom and CenturyLink.


Public transportation is provided by DART, offering a network of bus routes throughout the city. Des Moines is also home to top healthcare facilities such as UnityPoint Health and MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. New residents will find plenty of schools, parks, and shopping centers throughout the city.

Top Tourist Spots in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines offers a variety of attractions that highlight its culture and history. Some must-visit spots include:


  1. Pappajohn Sculpture Park: Located in downtown Des Moines, this outdoor park features a stunning collection of contemporary sculptures and is a great spot for relaxation and photography.

  2. Iowa State Capitol: A beautiful historic building with a golden dome, the Iowa State Capitol offers tours that showcase its impressive architecture and history.

  3. Blank Park Zoo: A family-friendly destination, Blank Park Zoo offers a variety of animal exhibits and is perfect for a day out with kids.

Moving Tips and Resources

When planning a move to Des Moines, hiring a professional moving company can simplify the process. According to Move.org, Two Men and a Truck and Adam’s Moving are reliable local options for moving services in the Des Moines area.

If you need storage solutions, StorageMart and Central Self Storage, as highlighted by StorageUnits.com, offer secure facilities for both short-term and long-term storage needs. These options are especially helpful if you need to store your belongings or vehicle while waiting for your home to be ready.

Before moving, it’s a good idea to check local parking regulations, especially if you plan to use large moving trucks in residential areas. The City of Des Moines Parking Division can provide information on permits and parking rules to ensure a smooth move.


With AmeriFreight, you can rest assured that your vehicle shipping needs will be handled with professionalism and care, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home in this thriving Iowa city.

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.

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.

Have a question not answered here?Ask an Expert! Our team of car shipping specialists are here to help. Get personalized answers to your Austin car shipping questions!

By choosing AmeriFreight, you can be confident that your car shipping experience in Austin will be smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Get your free quote today!

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SEE HOW WE CAN SAVE YOU MONEY

Visit our Reviews page to see what our satisfied customers say about us. We are a top rated car shipping company and one of the best in the industry over the past two decades. At AmeriFreight, we carefully screen carriers and only work with the ones who are compliant, licensed and insured, and carry a high rating. Call us at (770) 486-1010 to speak with our experienced car transport specialists or use our online auto transport quote calculator for a no obligation quote.

You care about your car; We care about its safe delivery, and your peace of mind!

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