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Des Moines, IA Car Shipping

Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

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Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Des Moines, IA Car Shipping Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Most Popular Car Shipping Routes Icon

Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Des Moines, IA

  1. Des Moines to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $1050 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 5 days
  2. Des Moines to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1150 – $1275 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  3. Des Moines to Miami, FL with an average cost of $1125 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs Icon

Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs

  • Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
  • Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
  • Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
  • Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
  • Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
The Premier Auto Transport Company Icon

Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?

With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.

What our Des Moines customers say about Sherpa:

Google
★★★★★

“What a truly amazing FIRST TIME shipping experience. From the moment I did my research on the various companies, I kept coming back to Sherpa. Finally chose them and the communication was always quick and detailed. I was kept updated, informed quickly who we were being assigned to, GiGi Line Inc and communicated directly with the driver, he contacted 24 hours prior to the expected pick up, kept me informed about his ETA which was super helpful for my busy day. Amazingly the shipment arrived to Iowa a day earlier than we even expected!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Pickup and delivery was fantastic. Delivery was ahead of schedule. Driver communicated along the way to let me know where he at. The price provided at the quote was the end price which in this industry is a big thing because no one keeps the same end price. I would definitely use again. If only they moved household goods too.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Was I nervous in having a car I’d just purchased in California shipped to me in Iowa during the early winter months? Yes. But Sherpa and their system of independent contractors were simply amazing. Everything worked out flawlessly, and the car was delivered in fantastic condition ahead of schedule. If I ever need this same service in the future, there is only one company I’m going to call- Sherpa!”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Des Moines, Iowa

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Des Moines to Phoenix, AZ 1,399 mi $1050 – $1350 1 to 5 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Los Angeles, CA 1,685 mi $1150 – $1275 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Miami, FL 1,564 mi $1125 – $1350 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Las Vegas, NV 1,415 mi $1100 – $1275 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Atlanta, GA 902 mi $925 – $1250 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Des Moines to San Francisco, CA 1,799 mi $1175 – $1300 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Des Moines to New York City, NY 1,107 mi $900 – $1150 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Seattle, WA 1,756 mi $1325 – $1550 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Dallas, TX 697 mi $800 – $1125 0 to 3 days Get Quote
Des Moines to Portland, OR 1,787 mi $1350 – $1525 2 to 6 days Get Quote

Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Des Moines, IA. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.

Factors that affect Des Moines Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The distance between Des Moines and your destination significantly affects car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer journeys.
  • Vehicle Type: The size and weight of your vehicle impact shipping costs. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks typically cost more to transport than compact cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
  • Transport Method: Open car transport is the most common and affordable option for shipping to or from Des Moines. Enclosed transport, while more expensive, offers additional protection from weather and road debris, which can be beneficial during Iowa’s harsh winters.
  • Pickup and Delivery Locations: Urban areas like Des Moines are generally more accessible and cost-effective for car shipping. However, if you’re shipping to or from rural areas in Iowa, it may increase the price due to additional time and resources required.
  • Seasonal Factors: Weather conditions in Des Moines can affect car shipping prices. Winter months may see higher rates due to challenging road conditions, while summer tends to be peak season for auto transport, potentially increasing costs.
  • Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. If your car isn’t running, it will require special equipment for loading and unloading, increasing the overall cost of shipping.
  • Timing and Flexibility: If you have a flexible schedule for pickup and delivery, you may be able to secure better rates. Rush or guaranteed delivery services will typically cost more.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Des Moines. For a more detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during Iowa’s varied weather conditions, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your Des Moines car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
  • Choose open transport: Open car shipping is generally more affordable than enclosed transport. It offers greater flexibility for negotiating lower rates, especially for standard vehicles.
  • Strategic pickup/drop-off: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find convenient locations near major interstates like I-35 or I-80. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues. A lighter car often means lower shipping costs.
  • Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better pricing options. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of less busy shipping periods.
  • Consider seasonal timing: Auto transport to and from Des Moines may be more affordable during off-peak seasons. Avoid major holidays and summer months when demand is high.
  • Explore multi-car discounts: If you’re shipping multiple vehicles, ask about potential savings. Many car shipping companies offer discounts for transporting more than one car.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport

What makes Sherpa different?

  • Transparency:

    Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

  • 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.

  • Customer-First Approach:

    Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

  • 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.

  • 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.

How does Des Moines Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in Des Moines, IA, requires careful planning and consideration of the city’s unique characteristics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your car to or from Iowa’s capital:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport. Provide details about your vehicle, desired pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.

2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. Consider Des Moines’ weather patterns when scheduling, as harsh winters can affect transport times.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Follow our comprehensive guide on how to ship a car. For Des Moines shipments, pay extra attention to weather-proofing your vehicle, especially during snowy months.

4. Choose Your Transport Method: Opt for enclosed transport if shipping during winter to protect your vehicle from road salt and ice. Open transport is suitable for most shipments during milder seasons.

5. Consider Local Logistics: Des Moines’ central location and access to major highways like I-35 and I-80 make it a convenient hub for car transport. However, be aware of potential traffic around downtown during rush hours.

6. Meet the Carrier: Arrange a safe, accessible location for vehicle pickup, keeping in mind Des Moines’ street parking regulations.

7. Track Your Shipment: Stay informed about your vehicle’s progress as it travels to or from Des Moines.

8. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly and complete the necessary paperwork.

By following these steps and working with a reliable car shipping company, you can ensure a smooth auto transport experience to or from Des Moines, IA. Remember to account for local factors such as weather conditions and traffic patterns to make your car shipping process as efficient as possible.

Des Moines Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When shipping your car to or from Des Moines, IA, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Des Moines doesn’t have toll roads, so there’s no need to remove toll readers. However, Iowa does require vehicle inspections for new residents. You’ll need to have your vehicle inspected within 30 days of establishing residency. For vehicle registration, visit the Iowa Department of Transportation website or a local county treasurer’s office. Des Moines residents should also be aware of winter parking restrictions due to heavy snowfall.

When moving to Des Moines, consider these helpful tips:

  • Set up utilities: Contact MidAmerican Energy for electricity and Des Moines Water Works for water service.
  • Internet providers: Options include Mediacom, CenturyLink, and Metronet.
  • Register to vote: Visit the Polk County Auditor’s Office or register online.
  • Enroll children in school: Contact the Des Moines Public Schools district office.
  • Get a library card: Visit any Des Moines Public Library branch with proof of residency.

If you’re moving away from Des Moines, remember to:

  • Cancel local memberships (e.g., gyms, clubs)
  • Forward your mail through the USPS website
  • Notify your employer, banks, and insurance providers of your move

When using car shipping services to transport your vehicle to or from Des Moines, consider the city’s climate. Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and icy conditions can affect auto transport schedules. Summer months are generally ideal for car shipping to Des Moines. Major highways like I-35, I-80, and I-235 make Des Moines easily accessible for auto transport companies. By choosing a reliable car shipping company, you can ensure your vehicle arrives safely in the Heart of Iowa.

Des Moines, Iowa Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Des Moines?

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Des Moines. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.

Is my vehicle insured transporting to or from Des Moines?

Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.

All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.

How far out should I schedule my pickup service from Des Moines?

The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.

How do I pay for my auto transport to 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.

Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?

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.

Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?

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.

What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?

Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.

Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?

Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.

How are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?

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.

What types of vehicles can you transport?

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.

More FAQs about auto transport to or from Des Moines, IA?

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Looking for more Des Moines, IA Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Des Moines.

College Students Icon College Students

Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.

Reviews Icon Reviews

Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.

About Des Moines, IA Icon About Des Moines, IA

General information and facts about Des Moines.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Des Moines.

What is Car Shipping Icon What is Car Shipping?

An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.

Benefits Icon Benefits of using Car Transport Companies

Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.

Choosing a Company Icon Choosing a Company

Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Des Moines.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Des Moines

When planning car shipping to or from Des Moines, IA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s seasonal weather patterns. Des Moines experiences all four seasons distinctly, which can significantly impact auto transport logistics.

In winter, Des Moines car shipping can be challenging due to snow and ice. If you’re scheduling car transport during this season:

  • Remove snow tires or chains before shipping, as carriers can’t transport vehicles with these.
  • Ensure pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping in icy conditions.
  • Remove or properly insulate any items in the car that could freeze and potentially damage the vehicle.

Summer in Des Moines can bring high temperatures, affecting your car shipping experience. Consider these tips:

  • Place a sunshade under the windshield to protect the interior.
  • Remove any heat-sensitive items from the car before shipping.
  • Check with your car shipping company about their policies for transporting vehicles in extreme heat.

Timing is also crucial when shipping a car to or from Des Moines. Keep in mind:

  • August and January are busy months due to college students moving, which may affect auto transport availability and prices.
  • Spring and fall are generally ideal for car shipping services, with milder weather and fewer scheduling conflicts.
  • If possible, avoid scheduling your car transport during major events like the Iowa State Fair in August, which can cause traffic congestion.

By considering these factors, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient car shipping experience to or from Des Moines, IA. Always consult with your chosen auto transport provider for specific advice tailored to your situation and the current season.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in Des Moines, Iowa

When considering car shipping to Des Moines for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at local universities. Drake University, for instance, requires students to register their vehicles and purchase parking permits. On-campus parking is available, but spaces are limited. Many off-campus apartments offer parking, but it’s wise to confirm this before signing a lease. For winter breaks, Drake provides long-term parking options, which is handy if you’re using car transport services to head home. Remember, Des Moines winters can be harsh, so snow tires are a smart investment. Before shipping your car to Iowa, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to your new location. This foresight can save you headaches down the road. Lastly, if you’re shipping a car to Des Moines for school, plan ahead – auto transport during peak moving seasons can get busy!

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

Reviews from our Iowa Customers

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied Iowa customers:

Google
★★★★★

“Excellent, Efficient service. Sherpa is honest and trustworthy. Everything that they promise in their agreement is delivered with precision This was my first time shipping a vehicle. I was extremely nervous and skeptical. I was given a status report everyday until a carrier was secured. The carrier was secured during the promised timeframe. The estimated delivery time was 2-3 days after pick up. My vehicle was picked up at 9:25 AM in NJ on the 17th and delivered in Iowa 6:25 PM on the 18th. Less than 1 1/2 days in excellent t condition ! I AM A FAN. I highly recommend Sherpa for your car shipping needs”

Google
★★★★★

“Sherpa Auto Transport brought my daughter’s car from Iowa to Washington State. PIckup was on-time, communication with the driver was fantastic, and arrival was on-time. Car arrived in perfect condition. Moving is always stressful and having a kind and accommodating driver really helped us!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Sherpa has been good from a communication standpoint, like working with me on dates that are convenient. I’ve used them twice now and I will be using them again in the not too distant future. They’ve been amazing every time and we’ll never use anybody else. It’s affordable comparatively to some of the other ones I’ve looked at. They make sure that the people that they’re using as third party carriers are good. The transport was a complicated one this time. The car was going from Fresno, California to Des Moines, Iowa. I had to leave before the car. I didn’t know where the car was gonna be until a few days before the move. They were super patient and adaptive with that and didn’t charge me any extra with it being 12 miles farther out than it was supposed to be originally. It was my assistant’s neighbors who saw the car off. They were super nice to them and called them an hour and a half ahead of time. It was a weekend and they understood these people were strangers to me. They made it a good experience for them too since they were doing me such a huge favor.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Sherpa makes sure that what they quote for you is fixed. I was helping my brother-in-law with shipping his car and at that time, he got a limited amount of money. We never did those stuff before, so I wanted a certain amount and no hidden fees. When I contacted Sherpa, their staff member was very nice and informative to tell me. He gave me really good information on a very good way to make sure the car would be safe. Everything went smoothly, and I’m really happy with the service I got from them.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I had a great experience shipping my vehicle with Sherpa. The price was right and Synade did a great job guiding me through the process and making sure everything went smooth. My shipper was Ozark Transportation and my driver was Allejandro. He did a great job taking care of my vehicle and making sure condition was accurately documented. He worked flawlessly with the dealer and even got my car to me a day early! Buying a car from out of state site unseen and having it shipped is a daunting task. Sherpa made one of the most important steps just a bit easier. Sherpa is awesome.”

City Information Icon

About Des Moines, Iowa

🏙️ Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant city with a rich history and thriving economy. As the capital and most populous city in Iowa, Des Moines boasts a population of 214,133 as of the 2020 census [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city covers an area of 90.65 square miles, offering a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty [U.S. Census Bureau]. 🌳

Des Moines enjoys a diverse economy, with major industries including insurance, financial services, and publishing. It’s home to the headquarters of several Fortune 500 companies, contributing to its nickname as the “Hartford of the West” [City of Des Moines]. The city’s unemployment rate stands at a low 2.9%, reflecting its robust job market [U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics].

🏫 Education is a priority in Des Moines, with a high school graduation rate of 93.3% [Iowa Department of Education]. The city is also home to several colleges and universities, including Drake University and Grand View University.

Des Moines offers a high quality of life, with a cost of living index of 81.2, significantly lower than the national average of 100 [Best Places]. The city boasts over 4,000 acres of parkland and 81 miles of trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts [City of Des Moines]. 🚴‍♀️

With its central location, Des Moines serves as a transportation hub. The Des Moines International Airport handles over 2.9 million passengers annually, connecting the city to major destinations across the country [Des Moines Airport Authority]. These factors make Des Moines an attractive destination for both residents and businesses alike. 🚗✈️

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Des Moines, Iowa that we Serve

Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:

Sherpa provides a full service area in and around Des Moines:

Des Moines City Center: 50309, 50310, 50311, 50312, 50313, 50314, 50315, 50316, 50317, 50319, 50320, 50321, 50322, 50323, 50324, 50325, 50328, 50329, 50330, 50331, 50332, 50333, 50334, 50335, 50336, 50339, 50340, 50347, 50359, 50360, 50361, 50362, 50363, 50364, 50367, 50368, 50369
West Des Moines: 50265, 50266, 50263
Urbandale: 50322, 50323
Ankeny: 50015, 50021, 50023
Johnston: 50131
Altoona: 50009
Clive: 50325
Grimes: 50111
Pleasant Hill: 50327
Waukee: 50263, 50266
Bondurant: 50035
Windsor Heights: 50311, 50312, 50322
Norwalk: 50211
Carlisle: 50047
Surrounding Areas: 50001, 50002, 50003, 50005, 50006, 50007, 50008, 50010, 50011, 50012, 50013, 50014, 50020, 50025, 50026, 50027, 50028, 50029, 50030, 50032, 50033, 50034, 50036, 50037, 50038, 50039, 50040, 50041, 50042, 50043, 50044, 50045, 50046, 50048, 50049, 50050, 50051, 50052, 50053, 50054, 50055, 50056, 50057, 50058, 50059, 50060, 50061, 50062, 50063, 50064, 50065, 50066, 50067, 50068, 50069, 50070, 50071, 50072, 50073, 50074, 50075, 50076, 50077, 50078, 50099

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Iowa and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

What is Auto Transport? Icon

What is Car Shipping?

Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Des Moines, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

About the Car Shipping Industry

Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Iowa. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.

Fun Facts About Car Shipping

  1. The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
  2. Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
  3. Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
  4. The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
  5. During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
  6. Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
  7. Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using Car Transport Icon

Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company

Opting for car shipping services to or from Des Moines, IA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort. Professional auto transport companies have the expertise to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, whether you’re relocating to enjoy the vibrant downtown scene or leaving the capital city. These services often include insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car travels across Iowa’s rolling plains. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the wear and tear of long-distance driving and potential road hazards. It’s a cost-effective and stress-free solution for transporting your vehicle to or from the heart of the Hawkeye State.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing an auto transport company for Des Moines car shipping, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a strong track record of successful car transport services. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a good standing with the FMCSA. Consider customer service quality, pricing transparency, and service range. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or lack clear communication. Remember, reliable car shipping services should seamlessly connect Des Moines to destinations across America, much like how the city’s extensive skywalks connect its downtown buildings. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a trustworthy partner to ship your car to or from the heart of Iowa.