You can ship a car that doesn't run across the nation or overseas, but shipping a fully functional vehicle is much easier. If your vehicle has been wrecked, broken down, or won't even start anymore, you may ask yourself: Is it possible to ship a car that doesn't run? The answer is yes with special treatment and planning.
This informative blog post will discusses the most important things to consider when shipping a non-running car, what you need, and how you can safely and efficiently get your vehicle from Point A to Point B.
1. Can I Ship a Non-Running Car?
Yes, you can ship a non-running car. Carriers usually prefer vehicles that may be driven up onto the transporter without special handling. Still, services are offered that cater to inoperable cars as well. These carriers have special provisions for transporting such vehicles.
There are several reasons why your vehicle might not be running, and knowing its precise state will enable you to decide on the most appropriate shipping method and prepare the equipment required for the task.
2. How Do You Ship a Non-Running Car?
Transporting a non-driving vehicle involves equipment and procedures specifically designed for that purpose. It's not simply loading the car onto a transport truck and hauling it away. Since the car can't be driven onto the transport truck, the transport company must utilize a forklift or a winch to load the vehicle onto the carrier.
The process is outlined as follows:
Step 1: Selecting the Appropriate Method of Transport: Non-running vehicles typically need to be loaded and unloaded by specialized equipment. That may involve a flatbed truck with a winch or a car hauler with a lift gate that can handle cars that do not drive. Many auto transport services can manage these vehicles. Still, it is a good idea to check first to ensure that the service you are using carries the proper equipment for non-running vehicles.
Step 2: Preparing the Car: Before shipping a car that does not run, the company will have to evaluate the condition of the car. If the vehicle is not dead but has a few working parts (like wheels or a battery), the shipping company may be able to roll the car themselves. Still, the company will employ a winch or specialized equipment to tow the vehicle if the vehicle is stationary. They might even ask you to drain the vehicle's fluids (gasoline, oil, etc.) to prevent leaks or danger.
Step 3: Winching the Car: If the car is not running, the shipping company will likely employ a winch to pull it onto the carrier. This includes attaching the car to a winch with a motorized system to move the vehicle and gently pull it onto the truck. This is usually used when driving on or off the transport vehicle is impossible.
Step 4: Inoperable Vehicles and Enclosed Shipping: If your vehicle is especially valuable, unique, or delicate, you might prefer to ship it via enclosed shipping. This provides extra protection from the elements and road hazards during transit. Enclosed shipping is beneficial for non-running vintage vehicles, high-end vehicles, or any vehicle that might be vulnerable to further damage in transit.
3. Shipping a Non-Running Vehicle Costs
Shipping a non-run vehicle typically costs more than shipping a running one. The basis for the price increase is that the loading and unloading of a non-run vehicle involves equipment and labor needs that are not as common for running vehicles. The risk for overall damage can also be increased because the car cannot be transported, which may add to insurance costs.
Shipping a non-running vehicle varies depending on a variety of factors:
- Distance: The longer your vehicle has to be transported, the higher the cost.
- Condition of the Car: If the vehicle is inoperable, you might require extra services, like a winch or a liftgate, which can add to the cost.
- Type of Transport: Open transport is the cheapest, but choosing enclosed transport for extra protection will be more costly.
- Location: If you are shipping to or from a rural area, the price might be higher because it may require specialized services or more distant routes.
To obtain a proper estimate, call several shipping companies and let them know the condition of your vehicle. This will enable them to give a better quote for your particular needs. Or you can use Vehicle Transport Hub to get quotes from many transporters in one place, you can compare and evaluate many transporters at once and not have to call, email or fill out dozens online forms.
4. Preparing a Non-Running Car for Shipping
Before shipping a non-running car, you must make all required preparations. Here are a few steps to take when getting your vehicle ready for transport:
- Inform the Transport Company: Always inform the transport company about the car's condition. Be honest and transparent about whether the vehicle is immobile or has minor issues. This helps the company prepare the appropriate equipment for the job.
- Check the Fluid Levels: Car shipping companies sometimes ask that vehicles have fluid drains, such as gas, oil, or coolant, mainly for safety purposes. Spilled fluids may be hazardous during shipping, particularly if the car is winched onto the carrier.
- Remove Personal Items: When shipping a running or non-running vehicle, personal items should be removed from the car. The shipping company is not liable for personal items left inside the vehicle, and additional weight sometimes makes it more expensive.
- Secure the Vehicle: If possible, ensure the vehicle is fixed and readily attached to a winch or lifting machine. Inspect the tires and ensure they are correctly inflated, as flat tires can make loading challenging.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Before shipping, take detailed photos of the vehicle's condition, including any damage. This can help you resolve any potential disputes in case the car is used during transport.
5. Is It Worth Shipping a Non-Running Car?
Whether or not a non-running car is worth shipping depends on several factors, including its value, condition, and personal situation.
- Value of the Car: If the car is of exceptional value, vintage, or can be repaired and resold, shipping may be worthwhile. Yet, if the vehicle is old, has little value, or is in bad shape, it could be less expensive to sell locally or junk it.
- Repair Cost vs. Shipping: Shipping could be an option if the vehicle can be fixed and is worth the cost. For instance, if repairing the vehicle locally costs too much, it might be more cost-effective to ship the car to a mechanic or specialist elsewhere.
- Logistical Issues: If the vehicle is stuck and cannot be moved easily, shipping it nationwide or overseas may be the next best thing. Non-running vehicles take more effort to load and unload, so a professional moving company will be required if you cannot handle it independently.
It is possible to transport a car that doesn't run, but it involves some special care. The transport company will have to use special equipment to load and unload the vehicle, which will cost more. If the vehicle holds value, is repairable, or has emotional value, transporting it may be your best option. Be sure to advance plan, communicate thoroughly with the transport company, and prepare the car for shipping to make transportation go as smoothly as possible.
