Shipping vehicles in non-running condition is not as easy as putting them on a flatbed trailer and waving goodbye. It takes special equipment, techniques, and labor to safely move the automobile to avoid further damage. There are car shippers offering auto transport for a non-running car, but the question is, why do you need a separate non-running vehicle shipping when any car carrier can haul it, and that too for cheap?
Well, that’s all we will discuss, along with the process, costs, and secrets to getting cheap shipping for inoperable vehicles. So, let’s get started:
What’s Auto Transport For a Non-Running Car?
Auto transport for a non-running car, also known as non-running vehicle shipping or inoperable vehicle transport, is a specialized service that caters to the transportation of vehicles that are not in working condition or cannot be driven on roads due to any mechanical, electrical, or legal issues. This can include cars, trucks, SUVs, or any other non-running vehicle that cannot be driven under its power. The non-running status could be due to various reasons, such as mechanical issues, accident damage, or even a dead battery.
Non-running vehicle shipping is a distinct service from regular vehicle shipping, as it requires additional equipment, labor, and expertise to safely load, transport, and unload the inoperable vehicle. The key differences between non-running vehicle transport and regular auto transport include:
- The need for specialized equipment like hydraulic lifts, winches, and forklifts to load and unload the Inoperable vehicle
- Additional time and labor required to handle the inoperable vehicle
- Limited availability of carriers willing to transport non-running vehicles
- Higher overall costs due to the specialized nature of the service
Whether the vehicle is damaged, disabled, or simply unable to be driven, this specialized transport option can ensure a safe and reliable delivery to your desired destination.
| Feature | Regular Car Shipping | Non-Running Vehicle Shipping |
| Equipment Needed | Standard car carrier trailer | Hydraulic lifts, winches, forklifts |
| Loading/Unloading | Vehicles driven onto the trailer | Manual loading and unloading required |
| Time Required | Faster loading and unloading | Additional time needed for specialized handling |
| Carrier Availability | More carriers available | Limited carriers willing to transport non-running vehicles |
| Cost | Cheap Shipping | Higher due to specialized equipment and labor
|
Why is Non-Running Vehicle Shipping a Separate Service When Regular Car Shipping Can Be Used?
You may need to ship a non-running car for various reasons, including the need for specialized service, trailers, equipment, and sometimes labor compared to regular automobiles. Firstly, there’s a huge demand for shipping inoperable vehicles. According to the National Safety Council, there were 12.8 million vehicle crashes in the US. And these are only crashes; roadside vehicle breakdowns are not added to these stats.
Most of the vehicles in these crashes would require assistance to be moved to the mechanics, impound lots, auction houses, salvage yards, or any other relevant places. That’s where the need for auto shipping arises.
Then there’s also the need to move vintage vehicles, which might not be in running condition, so that’s another factor why shipping non-running cars is a separate service.
While both regular and inoperable vehicle transport services fall under the broader category of car shipping, the specific requirements and processes make non-running vehicle shipping a separate, specialized service.
The key difference lies in the vehicle’s ability to be driven onto the trailer. Regular car shipping typically involves vehicles that are in running condition and can be driven onto the trailer. In contrast, non-running vehicles cannot be driven, requiring specialized equipment and handling techniques to load and unload safely.
| Regular Car Shipping | Non-Running Vehicle Shipping |
| Vehicles can be driven onto the trailer | Vehicles cannot be driven onto the trailer |
| Standard loading and unloading techniques | Requires specialized equipment like hydraulic lifts, winches, and forklifts |
| A larger pool of available carriers | Limited availability of carriers willing to transport non-running vehicles |
Using hydraulic lifts, winches, and sometimes forklifts adds to the overall cost and complexity of the non-running vehicle shipping process. Additionally, the limited availability of carriers willing to transport non-running vehicles makes it a distinct service from regular car shipping, where there is a larger pool of carriers and more competition.
- Regular car shipping involves vehicles in working condition that can be driven onto the trailer.
- Non-running vehicle shipping requires specialized equipment and handling techniques, such as hydraulic lifts and winches.
- The limited availability of carriers for non-running vehicles makes it a separate service from regular car shipping.
Why Does Non-Running Car Shipping Cost More Than Regular Auto Transport?
For several reasons, shipping a non-running vehicle typically costs more than regular auto transport. The unique challenges and additional resources required for handling and transporting a non-operational car result in higher shipping expenses. Let’s explore some variables contributing to the higher costs of non-running car shipping.
Hydraulic Lift and Winch Usage
The transport carrier often needs to use a hydraulic lift or winch system to load and unload a non-running vehicle. This specialized equipment is necessary to safely and securely move the vehicle onto the trailer, as the car cannot be driven onto the carrier. However, renting this equipment is not cheap, and the operation of these hydraulic lifts and winches significantly increases the shipping cost.
| Feature | Regular Auto Transport | Non-Running Car Shipping |
| Loading Method | Driven onto the trailer | Requires hydraulic lift or winch |
| Additional Equipment Needed | None | Hydraulic lift or winch |
| Cost Impact | No additional cost, so it’s cheaper | Increases shipping cost |
Forklift Rental for Loading/Unloading Non-Running Cars
In some cases, a forklift may be required to load and unload a non-running vehicle onto the transport trailer, and the rent can be at least $140 per day. Forklifts provide the necessary lifting power and mobility to maneuver the car safely onto the carrier. The forklift rental fee adds to the shipping expenses for non-running vehicles.
- Forklift rental is often necessary for non-running car shipping
- Forklifts allow for the controlled loading and unloading of non-operational vehicles
- Forklift rental costs contribute to the higher prices of non-running car shipping
Manual Handling and Loading Challenges
When a vehicle is non-operational, the manual effort required to load and unload it on the transport carrier is significantly higher. The carrier’s team may need to push, pull, or lift the car, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. This additional manual handling adds to the overall shipping time and labor costs.
Limited Carrier Availability
Not all auto transport carriers are equipped or willing to handle non-running vehicles. The specialized equipment and additional labor required can make it less appealing for some carriers to transport these types of vehicles. This limited availability of carriers for non-running car shipping can add to the costs.
How to Ship a Non Working Vehicle?
Shipping a non-working or non-running vehicle can be straightforward when you follow the right steps.
- Assess the Vehicle’s Condition: Begin by carefully evaluating the condition of your non-running vehicle. Determine the extent of the issues, such as a mechanical failure, electrical problem, or simply a dead battery. This information will help you choose the appropriate car shipping method and equipment.
- Prepare the Vehicle for Shipping: Secure any loose parts, disconnect the battery, and remove any personal belongings from the vehicle. This step helps ensure your non-working vehicle’s safety and proper handling during the transport process.
- Choose the Right Transport Option: Depending on the condition of your vehicle, you may need to consider specialized inoperable vehicle transport services. Enclosed and flatbed trailers often have the necessary equipment, such as hydraulic lifts and winches, to safely load and secure your non-running vehicle onto the trailer.
- Arrange for Pickup and Delivery: Work closely with your chosen vehicle transport company to schedule the pickup and delivery of your non-working vehicle. Be sure to provide them with all the necessary details, including the vehicle’s location, destination, and special instructions.
- Monitor the Shipping Process: Stay in touch with the transport company throughout the shipping process. Ask for updates on the vehicle’s progress and be available to solve any concerns or issues that may arise during the transport.
Remember, working with a reputable and experienced auto transport provider is key to ensuring safe and reliable delivery of your non-working vehicle.
Shipping a Non-Running Vehicle Vs Calling Tow Truck or AAA?
When dealing with a non-running vehicle, you can call for a tow truck or AAA or ship the vehicle using a professional vehicle transport service. Understanding when to choose each option can help you make the best decision.
Call AAA or a Tow Truck When:
- Your vehicle is only a short distance from your location and must be towed to a nearby repair shop or home.
- A tow truck or AAA service is often cheaper than hiring a professional car shipping company.
- You need to move the vehicle quickly, but you don’t have the time to coordinate a vehicle transport service.
- It’s not a major breakdown, and the vehicle can be fixed on-site
| Scenario | Average Cost | Delivery Time |
| Calling AAA or a Tow Truck | $50 – $200 | Same day |
| Hiring a Vehicle Transport Service | $300 – $500 | 2-5 days |
Ship the Non-Running Vehicle When:
- The non-running vehicle must be transported over a long distance, like 500+ miles, across state lines or to another part of the country.
- You want to avoid the potential damage and hassle during a tow.
- The cost of hiring a professional car shipping company is similar to or slightly above that of a tow truck or AAA service.
- You have the time to coordinate the vehicle transport process and don’t need the vehicle moved immediately.
Based on factors like distance, cost, and time constraints, you can determine whether calling a tow truck or AAA or hiring a professional vehicle transport service is the best solution for your non-running vehicle.
How to Get Cheap Car Shipping For a Non Running Vehicle?
When shipping a non-running vehicle, there are several strategies you can utilize to get cheap shipping without compromising on service quality. Here are some of them:
Compare Multiple Shipping Quotes
Start by obtaining quotes from multiple auto transport providers specializing in non-running vehicle shipping.
Comparing these quotes can help you identify cheap shipping and a solution with the best cost-to-value ratio.
Remember to provide accurate information about the condition of your vehicle to ensure accurate pricing.
Use a Broker Specializing in Non-Running Vehicles
Partnering with a reputable car shipping broker with expertise in handling non-running vehicles can be a game-changer.
Brokers often have established relationships with a network of carriers so they can negotiate better rates on your behalf. This is particularly valuable if you’re shipping a vehicle in poor condition.
Choose Open Transport Over Enclosed Transport
Opting for open transport instead of enclosed transport can be a more budget-friendly option for shipping a non-running vehicle.
Open transport carriers generally offer 30-40% lower rates, although your vehicle may be exposed to the elements during transit. If you’re comfortable with the potential risks, this can be a viable choice.
Hire Trailers With Winch (It’s Cheaper Than Forklift and Hydraulic Gates)
When arranging transportation for your non-running vehicle, consider hiring trailers equipped with a winch.
Using forklifts or hydraulic gates, which often incur additional fees, can be cheaper. Winches can provide the necessary support to load and unload your vehicle safely.
Prepare the Vehicle for Easy Handling
Ensuring your non-running vehicle is properly prepared for transport can also help reduce Inoperable vehicle shipping costs.
Ensure the car is free of debris, the battery is not connected, and the parking brake is engaged. This can simplify the loading and unloading process, potentially saving you money.
Schedule During Off-Peak Seasons
Lastly, consider scheduling your Inoperable vehicle’s transportation during off-peak seasons, when demand for auto shipping services is typically lower. This can lead to more favorable rates from carriers and potentially faster delivery times as well.
Hire Auto Transport for a Non-Running Car to Avoid Further Damage Risks:
Your automobile is already in non-working condition; do not risk further damages and hefty expenses in their repairs by hiring any regular car carrier.
Hire specialized auto shipping for non-running vehicles to get the right handling, loading/unloading equipment, and other relevant treatments for maximum vehicle safety and peace of mind.