Shipping a car that doesn’t run—commonly known as an inoperable vehicle—requires a bit more planning and care than transporting a fully functioning one. Whether it’s a project car, a salvage auction win, or a vehicle with mechanical issues, special equipment and logistics are necessary to ensure safe and smooth delivery.
What is in this Article?
- Always Disclose the Vehicle’s Condition
Inform the transport company that the car is inoperable—this ensures they bring the right equipment and avoids delays or extra charges. - Choose a Carrier That Specializes in Inoperable Auto Transport
Not all transporters can handle non-running cars. Select one with the right tools and experience to load, move, and deliver your vehicle safely. - Don’t Skip Insurance and Documentation
Even if the car doesn’t run, protect it by confirming insurance coverage and documenting its condition with photos before shipment.
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This is where inoperable auto transport services become essential. These specialized services are designed to handle vehicles that can’t move under their own power, but there are still a few common mistakes that can cause unnecessary complications. To help you avoid pitfalls, here are five mistakes to steer clear of when shipping a non-running vehicle.
1. Not Disclosing That the Car Doesn’t Run
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is failing to inform the auto transport company that your car is inoperable. Shipping companies need to know this detail in advance because it affects the type of trailer and equipment needed—such as winches or forklifts.
Why it matters: If the carrier arrives unprepared, you could face rescheduling fees or higher last-minute charges, not to mention wasted time.
2. Choosing the Wrong Type of Transport
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When it comes to inoperable vehicles, not all carriers are equipped to handle them. Some transporters only deal with operable cars, while others have the tools to move a non-running vehicle.
Common mistake: Opting for a standard open carrier without checking if they can load and unload an inoperable car.
Solution: Confirm the transport type and ensure the car shipping company you choose has the proper loading mechanisms for your car’s condition. If you’re working with a provider that specializes in inoperable auto transport, they’ll recommend the right equipment based on whether the vehicle can roll, steer, or brake.
3. Not Verifying the Pickup and Drop-Off Requirements
Non-running cars can’t simply be pushed or driven to the curb. If a carrier needs to pick up the vehicle in a tight space or on a slope, they may have trouble loading it.
Tip: Make sure both pickup and delivery locations are accessible for the equipment required to transport your car. If not, you may need to arrange for a tow truck to move it to a better location.
4. Forgetting to Secure Loose Parts and Prepare the Vehicle
Just because your car isn’t running doesn’t mean it doesn’t need preparation. Loose parts, leaking fluids, or a flat tire can complicate the loading process and potentially cause damage during transit.
Checklist before shipping:
- Secure or remove loose parts (e.g., spoilers, mirrors)
- Check for leaks and notify the carrier
- Ensure tires are inflated (if possible)
- Remove personal items
5. Ignoring Insurance and Documentation
Even if the car doesn’t run, it’s still a valuable asset. Some people skip over insurance details, assuming there’s no risk since the vehicle is already not working.
Don’t make that mistake. Accidents can happen during loading, unloading, or transit.
Make sure:
- The shipping company offers adequate insurance
- You have documentation of the vehicle’s current condition (photos and written notes)
This is especially important when working with an inoperable auto transport company, as the loading process is more complex and riskier than standard transport.
BONUS: What If the Car Can’t Roll, Brake, or Steer?
If your car has locked brakes, no wheels, or structural damage, loading becomes much more complex. These cars may require:
- Forklift or crane loading (especially at salvage auctions)
- Heavy-duty flatbed trucks
- Additional labor or service fees
Pro Tip: Ask your transport company specifically how they plan to load your vehicle—and get it in writing.
Expert Tips to Make It Easy
- Work with specialists. Not every transporter handles inoperable cars—find one with a positive vehicle transport reviews.
- Book early. Special equipment carriers are in higher demand and may take longer to schedule.
- Get multiple quotes. Prices can vary significantly depending on your car’s condition and distance.
Final Checklist: Shipping a Non-Running Car
Before you book, run through this checklist:
- Clearly stated the car is non-running
- Identified whether it rolls, steers, and brakes
- Chosen the right type of transport
- Verified access at both pickup and delivery
- Removed personal items and secured loose parts
- Took photos and documented existing damage
- Confirmed insurance coverage with the transporter
Conclusion
Shipping a car that doesn’t run isn’t impossible—it just takes a little more planning and the right partners. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can ensure a hassle-free experience and protect your investment every step of the way.
Whether you’re restoring a classic, dealing with a breakdown, or buying a car from out of state, the key is preparation and clear communication with your transporter. Partnering with a reliable inoperable auto transport provider can make the entire process smoother and more secure.