Yes, you can! Here is what you need to know about winching fees and non-running vehicle transport.
Shipping a Car That Doesn’t Run: Inoperable Vehicle Transport
Non-running vehicles ship every day—project cars, auction purchases, estate vehicles, and breakdowns. The process costs more and requires honest disclosure up front because standard roll-on loading does not work without extra equipment.
What “Inoperable” Means to Carriers
Typically, inoperable means the vehicle cannot:
- Start under its own power
- Steer for loading alignment
- Brake for safe positioning on the trailer
Partial issues (dead battery but otherwise rolls) still matter—tell dispatch the full story.
Winch and Forklift Loading
Carriers equipped for inoperable cars use winches, skates, or forklifts to pull the vehicle onto the deck. Extra labor and time justify an inoperable fee on top of the base lane rate. Extremely low ground clearance may need enclosed lift gates.
Booking Requirements
When requesting a quote, specify:
- Year, make, model, and approximate weight
- Whether wheels roll freely and tires hold air
- Steering lock status
- Location surface (grass, gravel, inclined driveway)
Surprising the driver at pickup with a non-runner on a standard truck forces rescheduling and may void quoted pricing.
Preparing a Non-Running Vehicle
- Deflate tires only if carrier instructs—usually keep them inflated for rolling
- Remove loose parts that could detach during winching
- Secure hoods, doors, and trunk lids that might swing open
- Clear a path for the truck—move obstacles, notify neighbors
Insurance Still Applies—With Documentation
Cargo insurance covers transport damage, not mechanical failures caused by pre-existing conditions. The BOL must note that the vehicle was non-operable at pickup so new transport-related damage is distinguishable from old mechanical issues.
When Repair Before Shipping Makes Sense
If the car only needs a battery or minor brake work to roll, fixing it locally might eliminate inoperable surcharges and widen carrier choices. Ask dispatch to compare scenarios.
Parts Cars and Project Vehicles
Missing engines, stripped interiors, or flood titles do not automatically block shipping, but declare condition accurately. Some carriers refuse severely damaged frames or leaking fluids.
Need a winch-ready carrier on your route? Quote as inoperable with photos of how the vehicle sits—we’ll dispatch equipment that matches the job the first time.