How to Ship a Non-Running Vehicle
Here's something that surprises most people: nearly 15% of all vehicles we ship at Liberty Car Shipping don't run. Dead batteries, blown engines, accident damage - we've moved them all since 2015. The good news? Shipping a non-running car isn't rocket science, but there are specific steps you need to know.
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What Counts as a Non-Running Vehicle?
A non-running vehicle is any car, truck, or SUV that can't move under its own power or steer properly. We're talking dead engines, seized transmissions, missing wheels, or vehicles that simply won't start.
But here's where it gets specific. Your car also counts as inoperable if it can't be safely driven onto and off the carrier. Got working brakes but no steering? That's inoperable. Engine runs but transmission is shot? Same deal.
The key question our drivers ask: can this vehicle be driven on and off the truck safely? If the answer is no, you're looking at inoperable vehicle transport - and that changes everything about pricing and logistics.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Non-Running Car?
Shipping a non-running vehicle costs 15-25% more than standard transport. For a typical sedan going 1,000 miles, you're looking at $1,100-$1,600 instead of the usual $900-$1,200.
Why the premium? Carriers need special equipment to load your vehicle. We're talking about winches, dollies, and sometimes even forklifts. Plus, loading takes 2-3 times longer, which eats into the driver's schedule.
Here's the real cost breakdown we see: local moves (under 500 miles) add about $150-$200 to your quote. Cross-country shipments? Expect an extra $200-$400. And if your vehicle is seriously damaged or missing wheels, that surcharge can hit $500 or more.
What Equipment Do Carriers Use for Inoperable Vehicles?
Most carriers handling non-running vehicles come equipped with a winch system rated for 10,000+ pounds. This isn't your basic tow strap - we're talking about heavy-duty electric winches that can pull a full-size truck up a ramp.
For vehicles with seized wheels or missing tires, carriers use go-jacks or dollies. These are basically heavy-duty roller systems that slide under the wheels. Think of them as industrial-strength furniture dollies.
In extreme cases - like when we shipped a flood-damaged Escalade last month - the carrier needed a forklift at pickup. The vehicle was so waterlogged and the wheels so seized that even winching wasn't an option. That's rare, but it happens about 2% of the time.
Do You Need Special Permits or Documentation?
You don't need special permits for shipping a non-running vehicle, but your paperwork game needs to be solid. The bill of lading must clearly state that the vehicle is inoperable - this protects both you and the carrier.
Here's what gets overlooked: if your vehicle has fluid leaks, you need to document that too. We once had a customer's BMW with a cracked oil pan that wasn't disclosed. The carrier had to refuse pickup because active leaks violate DOT regulations.
Your insurance company also needs a heads up. Some policies have different coverage rules for vehicles that aren't running. It's worth a five-minute phone call to confirm your coverage before we schedule pickup.
Can Non-Running Vehicles Go on Open Carriers?
Absolutely. About 85% of the inoperable vehicles we ship go on standard open carriers. The winch systems work the same whether it's an open or enclosed trailer.
The decision usually comes down to value and condition. If you're shipping a classic Mustang that doesn't run, enclosed transport makes sense for weather protection. But if it's a daily driver with a blown transmission, open transport saves you $400-$600.
One thing to consider: loading a non-running vehicle takes longer, so open carriers sometimes prefer them for the bottom deck. It's easier access for the winch system and doesn't require lifting the vehicle as high.
What If Your Vehicle Has Body Damage or Missing Parts?
Body damage usually isn't a problem as long as the vehicle is structurally sound. We've shipped cars with missing bumpers, cracked windshields, and even vehicles with significant collision damage.
The real issues start with missing wheels or major structural damage. If your vehicle is missing more than one wheel, most carriers will require dollies or special equipment. That's an automatic surcharge of $200-$300.
Here's what stops shipment completely: active fluid leaks, hanging body panels that could fall off during transport, or structural damage that makes the vehicle unsafe to secure. We had to turn down a pickup last year where the frame was so bent that tie-down points weren't accessible.
How Long Does Inoperable Vehicle Shipping Take?
Non-running vehicles typically add 1-2 days to standard shipping times. The delay isn't in transit - it's finding a carrier with the right equipment and scheduling the longer pickup time.
For cross-country shipments, you're looking at 7-10 days instead of the usual 5-7. Regional moves (under 1,000 miles) usually take 3-5 days compared to 2-4 for running vehicles.
The wildcard is carrier availability. Fewer drivers are equipped to handle inoperable vehicles, so during peak season (summer months), you might wait an extra week for pickup. That's why we recommend booking inoperable vehicle transport at least 7-10 days in advance.
Tips for Preparing Your Non-Running Vehicle for Shipping
Start by removing all personal items - this is critical because the loading process is more involved and items can shift or fall out. We've seen laptops, phones, and important documents lost during winch loading.
Make sure your vehicle has at least a quarter tank of gas if the engine runs at all. Even non-running vehicles sometimes need to be moved short distances at the destination, and carriers prefer not to add fuel.
Document everything with photos before pickup. Since inoperable vehicles often have existing damage, clear photos protect you if new damage occurs. Take shots of all four corners, the interior, and any existing problem areas.
Running vs Non-Running Vehicle Shipping Costs
| Distance | Running Vehicle | Non-Running Vehicle | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | $400-$700 | $550-$900 | $150-$200 |
| 500-1,000 miles | $600-$900 | $750-$1,150 | $150-$250 |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | $800-$1,200 | $1,000-$1,500 | $200-$300 |
| 1,500-2,000 miles | $1,000-$1,400 | $1,250-$1,750 | $250-$350 |
| Cross Country (2,000+ miles) | $1,200-$1,600 | $1,500-$2,100 | $300-$500 |
Your vehicle must be clearly marked as 'INOPERABLE' on the bill of lading. This isn't optional - it's required by DOT regulations and protects you if loading takes longer than expected or requires special equipment.
Key Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Liberty Car Shipping services.