Best Car Shipping Companies in Dubuque, IA (July 2026)
Nexus Auto Transport is our top pick in Dubuque because they make the entire car shipping process feel surprisingly smooth, especially when it comes to booking and getting timely updates. Most car shipments in the area fall in the range of $764-$1,120.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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The Best Car Shipping Companies in Dubuque
Car shipping companies with nationwide coverage tend to offer better pricing, broader service options, and greater availability. We’ve reviewed the most reliable providers currently serving Dubuque.
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise, personalized support, and multiple discounts are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company’s transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Other Auto Transport Options in Dubuque
We’ve taken the time to review these local car shippers in Dubuque, but keep in mind they may not offer the same level of service or availability as the top-rated options listed above.
All Day Auto Transport
All Day Auto Transport (DOT: 2245170) is a car shipping company known for offering a wide range of services including international shipping, enclosed and open transport, and specialized options such as classic car and electric vehicle shipping. They also accommodate inoperable cars and provide expedited delivery services for those in a hurry. Despite their comprehensive service offerings, the company does not provide a damage-free guarantee or storage solutions, which might be a concern for some customers. All Day Auto Transport holds a mixed reputation with a Google rating of 4.4 and a BBB rating of A+, though their Yelp rating is a low 1.8, indicating varied customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) is a well-regarded car shipping business that provides a variety of services to meet diverse customer needs. They boast impressive reviews, with a Yelp rating of 4.5, a Google rating of 4.8, and a BBB rating of A+, reflecting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The company offers a range of services, including the transport of inoperable cars, classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and electric vehicles, along with international shipping options. They ensure comprehensive coverage with their damage-free guarantee and fully insured service.
However, Van 3 Auto Transport & Car does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be inconvenient for some customers. Despite this, they stand out by offering various payment options and a military discount, making them a versatile option for car shipping needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Karma Auto Transport
Karma Auto Transport (DOT: 2882553) is a highly-rated car shipping company, boasting an impressive Yelp rating of 4.6 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. While they are noted for their comprehensive services such as interstate shipping, classic car transport, and the ability to transport inoperable vehicles, they do not offer motorcycle, trailer, or RV shipping.
Additionally, the company stands out by providing fully insured shipments along with expedited delivery options and shipment tracking. However, some customers might find it disappointing that they do not offer boat shipping or accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Dispatchray
Dispatchray (DOT: 2490936) is a premier car shipping company known for its excellent service and top ratings, boasting a perfect 5.0 on both Yelp and Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
The company provides a range of services, including shipping options for motorcycles, trailers, heavy equipment, and even inoperable cars. In addition, Dispatchray offers specialized services such as classic car shipping and enclosed transport for those needing extra protection for their vehicles.
However, customers looking for guaranteed delivery or shipment tracking may find this company lacking in those areas, as these services are not offered. Despite this, Dispatchray remains a fully insured and reputable choice for all car shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Nimble Inc
Nimble Inc (DOT: 2245757) is an active car shipping company known for offering a range of specialized services. They provide interstate shipping and cater to classic cars, electric vehicles, and heavy equipment transport. However, they currently do not handle inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers with non-running vehicles.
The company is fully insured and accepts payments by credit card, although they do not offer certain payment options such as cryptocurrency or money orders. While Nimble Inc has a Google rating of 2.0, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
See the top car shippers serving Iowa.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Dubuque Car Shipping Costs
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Iowa:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Dubuque in Iowa to California | 1981 | 2575 |
| From Dubuque in Iowa to Texas | 1339 | 1741 |
| From Dubuque in Iowa to Illinois | 665 | 865 |
| From Dubuque in Iowa to New York | 1298 | 1687 |
| From Dubuque in Iowa to Georgia | 1334 | 1734 |
| From Dubuque in Michigan to Iowa | 1008 | 1310 |
| From Dubuque in Florida to Iowa | 1568 | 2038 |
| From Dubuque in North Carolina to Iowa | 1292 | 1680 |
| From Dubuque in Ohio to Iowa | 1117 | 1452 |
| From Dubuque in Arizona to Iowa | 1667 | 2167 |
Cost Factors
Pricing for the shipping your car from Dubuque can change depending on mileage, your vehicle’s size, the transport style you pick, the time of year, and any extra help you need.
We suggest requesting quotes from multiple car shipping companies in Dubuque to ensure you’re making a well-informed and cost-effective choice.
Distance & Location
How far your car has to travel from Dubuque makes a big difference in price, and the same goes for how easy it is for the driver to reach the pickup and drop-off spots. Hard-to-access areas usually add a little extra to the total.
Vehicle Type & Condition
What you pay to ship a car from Dubuque often comes down to the shape it’s in and how large it is. Oversized or non-operational vehicles tend to run higher since they need more handling.
Transport Type
Cars leaving Dubuque, Iowa are typically moved in one of two ways. Some travel on open carriers while others ride in enclosed trailers for added protection.
- Open transport is the go-to method for car shipping out of Dubuque. It involves loading your vehicle onto a trailer with several others, which makes it more affordable thanks to shared costs. Just keep in mind that cars on open carriers are exposed to Iowa’s elements — including rain, sun, and road debris.
- Enclosed transport is the safer, more protective option for moving your vehicle. It rides in a covered truck, shielding it from Iowa’s weather, debris, and visibility. From the time it leaves Dubuque to when it’s delivered, it stays fully enclosed — which is why this method is popular for classic, rare, or expensive cars. Just note that this extra protection typically comes with a higher price tag.
Seasonality
Dubuque’s hot summers and snowy winters can significantly affect car shipping costs due to potential delays and additional safety measures. These seasonal conditions might lead to higher demand and costs, especially during peak times.
Additional Services
Extra services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make shipping a car more expensive by adding convenience and speeding up delivery. These options often require more resources and logistics, leading to higher costs.
How We Chose the Best Dubuque Auto Transport Companies
Our selection process for the top car shipping companies in Dubuque involves a detailed analysis of five crucial factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.
- Licensing confirms that companies meet all required regulations in Dubuque, Iowa, and at the federal level, giving you added confidence.
- Customer satisfaction is measured through real reviews from Dubuque residents, helping to highlight overall service quality.
- Service range is evaluated based on versatility — from standard open carriers to enclosed trailers for high-value vehicles and specialty equipment.
- We examine pricing to ensure companies offer fair, competitive, and clearly communicated rates in Dubuque.
- Strong online reputations across platforms like the BBB and social media reflect trustworthiness and a commitment to customer care.
FAQ
How can I tell if a car shipping company in Iowa is legit?
The safest way to confirm a company’s legitimacy is to look up their USDOT or MC number in the FMCSA SAFER database. The report shows their licensing status, insurance, and complaint history, which gives you a clear picture of how they operate. It only takes a moment and can save you from choosing a carrier that is not properly vetted.
Can I track a car shipment in Iowa?
Many carriers offer GPS tracking or regular text updates so you know where your car is during the trip. Even if live tracking is not available, most companies keep you posted at pickup, along the route, and shortly before delivery. These updates can help you plan your schedule more easily.
What should I expect on pickup day in Iowa?
The driver will inspect your car, note any existing marks, complete the bill of lading, and load your vehicle onto the trailer. If your street is tight or difficult to access, the driver may ask to meet in a nearby open area. The whole process usually moves quickly once the inspection is finished.
Dubuque, IA Relocation Resources
