Shipping a Car That Doesn’t Run? Here’s the Ultimate Guide!

Can You Ship a Car That Doesn’t Run? Yes, Here’s How!

Shipping a non-running car might sound daunting, but with the right preparation and the help of a reputable car shipping company like Rivalane, it can be a straightforward process. Vehicles with mechanical issues require extra care and specialized equipment for safe transport, and this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

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What Is a Non-Running Car?

A non-running car refers to any vehicle that cannot be driven onto or off a car carrier under its own power. This could be due to mechanical problems, a dead battery, or missing parts. To transport these vehicles, auto transport companies utilize specialized equipment such as winches, dollies, or lift gates. While this type of shipping often incurs additional costs, professional services ensure your vehicle is handled with the utmost care.

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How to Ship a Non-Running Car

Shipping an inoperable car involves steps similar to standard car shipping but with a few critical differences:

1. Request a Specialized Shipping Quote – The first step is to inform your car shipping company about your vehicle’s condition. Providing accurate details helps determine the additional costs involved for specialized handling. Non-running vehicles require extra equipment, such as winches or forklifts, which increase the price slightly. Rivalane’s car shipping calculator provides transparent quotes with no hidden fees, allowing you to plan your budget effectively.
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2. Choose the Right Transport Service – Non-operational cars can be transported using open or enclosed carriers. Open carriers are cost-effective and suitable for standard vehicles, while enclosed transport offers maximum protection for valuable or classic cars. Rivalane helps you select the best option based on your vehicle’s condition and your budget.
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3. Prepare the Vehicle for Transport – Proper preparation is crucial to ensure a smooth shipping process. Here’s how you can get your non-running car ready:
   
   • Communicate Clearly: Inform the transport company about the car’s exact condition, including missing parts or any hazards.
   • Inspect the Car: Document the car’s current condition with photos and notes for insurance purposes.
   • Secure Loose Parts: Remove or secure detachable items like mirrors, spoilers, or antennas to prevent damage during transit.
   Rivalane’s expert team provides detailed guidance to help you prepare your vehicle for pickup.
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4. Arrange Pickup and Delivery Locations – Shipping non-running cars often requires specific pickup and delivery points that accommodate loading and unloading equipment. While door-to-door service is available, terminal-to-terminal shipping can sometimes be more practical for non-operational vehicles. Rivalane offers flexible options tailored to your needs to ensure safe and efficient delivery.

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Factors That Affect Shipping Costs for Non-Running Cars

Transporting a non-running car typically costs more than standard vehicle shipping due to additional handling requirements. Key factors influencing the price include:

• Special Equipment: Tools such as winches, dollies, or forklifts are often needed, adding to the overall cost.
• Carrier Type: Open carriers are more affordable, but enclosed transport provides superior protection for valuable cars.
• Distance: Longer routes naturally increase the price, particularly for inoperable vehicles.
• Seasonal Demand: Peak seasons, such as summer, tend to have higher rates due to increased demand.

Rivalane’s car shipping calculator takes all these factors into account to give you a precise estimate.

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Insurance for Non-Running Cars

When shipping a car that doesn’t run, cargo insurance becomes even more critical. Since non-operational vehicles may already have existing damage, ensuring comprehensive coverage gives you peace of mind. Rivalane includes robust cargo insurance with every shipment, protecting your investment from unforeseen risks during transport.

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Why Choose Rivalane for Non-Running Car Shipping?

At Rivalane, we specialize in making car shipping—even for non-running vehicles—hassle-free and secure. Here’s why customers trust us:

1. Specialized Carriers: We partner with transport companies equipped to handle inoperable vehicles safely.
2. Transparent Pricing: Our quotes include all costs upfront, with no hidden surprises.
3. Flexible Services: From enclosed transport to customizable delivery locations, we tailor our services to meet your needs.
4. Comprehensive Insurance: Every shipment is covered, ensuring your vehicle’s safety throughout its journey.

Conclusion

Shipping a non-running car is entirely possible with the right preparation and professional support. Understanding the process, selecting appropriate transport services, and accounting for additional costs like cargo insurance and specialized equipment ensures a smooth experience.

Whether you need to ship your car across town or across the country, Rivalane offers expert guidance, upfront pricing, and reliable services to meet your needs. Contact us today for a personalized shipping quote, and let us take care of your vehicle with the care and professionalism it deserves.

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