Can you ship a car that does not run?

Yes, with notice. A vehicle that cannot be driven onto the truck needs a carrier with a winch or a liftgate, so tell us it is inoperable when you book. Inoperable vehicles can carry an extra fee, and a vehicle that is reported as running but turns out not to be can be refused at pickup.

Rivalane arranges transport for vehicles that do not run, as long as we know before the carrier is assigned. In our Terms and Conditions, a vehicle is inoperable if it cannot function or be driven for any reason, including missing or damaged engine, transmission, wheels, steering, brakes or tires.

What changes for an inoperable vehicle

The carrier has to winch the vehicle onto the trailer instead of driving it on, which takes a winch-equipped truck, more time and more care. Not every carrier has that equipment, so the pool of trucks is smaller, and the carrier may charge an additional fee. Both points are reflected in your quote when you tell us upfront.

What the vehicle still needs

It must roll, steer and brake so it can be winched and positioned. If the wheels are locked or missing, tell us, because that needs different equipment again.

Why honesty at booking matters

If a vehicle is listed as running and the driver finds it will not start, the carrier can charge extra on the spot or refuse the load, and a refused pickup after a carrier has accepted the order counts as a cancellation. Say "does not run" at booking and the right truck arrives.

The same applies to a car that becomes inoperable between booking and pickup: call us as soon as it happens.

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Shipping a Non-Running Car: How It Works

Still have a question?

Our coordinators answer the phone from 8 am to 10 pm Eastern, seven days a week, and every email gets a reply from a person. Rivalane is a licensed auto transport broker, USDOT 4178374 and MC-1608310.

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