Learn how to ship a car that doesn't run. Covers extra costs, carrier requirements, preparation steps, and what to tell your transport broker.

How to Ship an Inoperable or Non-Running Vehicle

Whether it's a project car you bought online, a vehicle that broke down far from home, or a classic you're restoring, shipping a car that doesn't run is absolutely possible—it just requires a little extra planning and cost. Thousands of non-running vehicles are transported across the country every month. Here's everything you need to know to ship yours safely and affordably.

What Counts as an "Inoperable" Vehicle?

In the auto transport industry, a vehicle is considered inoperable if it cannot be driven onto and off of the carrier under its own power. This includes cars that:

Won't start due to engine, battery, or electrical failure

Can't be steered because of a broken steering column or locked wheels

Can't be put in gear or have a non-functioning transmission

Have flat or missing tires that prevent rolling

Have severe body damage blocking wheel movement

Are partially disassembled (e.g., missing wheels, engine removed)

Important Distinction: Rolls vs. Doesn't Roll

Carriers make a critical distinction between a non-running vehicle that still rolls, steers, and brakes versus one that is completely immobile:

Rolls/Steers/Brakes: Easier to load and unload. The vehicle can be winched onto the trailer with minimal effort. Extra cost is typically on the lower end.

Does Not Roll: Requires a forklift or specialized equipment. Significantly more labor and equipment, so costs are higher.

Always be completely honest about your vehicle's condition when requesting a quote. If a carrier arrives expecting a rolling vehicle and finds one that's completely immobile, they may refuse to load it—or charge a significant surcharge on the spot.

How Much More Does It Cost to Ship an Inoperable Vehicle?

Shipping a non-running vehicle typically costs $100–$200 more than shipping an identical vehicle that runs. Here's why:

Why the Extra Cost?

Equipment: The carrier needs a winch, ramps with extra capacity, or sometimes a forklift to load and unload.

Time: Loading a non-running car takes longer, delaying the driver's schedule.

Risk: There's a higher risk of damage during loading if the vehicle can't steer or brake.

Limited carriers: Not all carriers can handle inoperable vehicles, reducing availability and increasing demand for those who can.

Cost Estimates

Scenario	Additional Cost Over Standard
Non-running but rolls, steers, brakes	$100–$150 extra
Non-running, doesn't roll	$150–$250 extra
Missing wheels or heavily disassembled	$200–$400+ extra
Requires forklift at pickup or delivery	$100–$200 extra per location

For a full breakdown of baseline shipping costs by distance, see our complete car shipping cost guide.

Carrier Requirements for Inoperable Vehicles

Not every auto transport carrier can handle non-running vehicles. Here's what's needed:

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Equipment

Winch: Most car haulers have a winch for loading vehicles that can roll but not drive. This is the standard method for most inoperable cars.

Forklift: If the vehicle cannot roll at all, a forklift may be needed at the pickup location, the delivery location, or both. This is less common and must be arranged in advance.

Flatbed Trailer: For severely damaged or completely immobile vehicles, a flatbed tow truck or dedicated flatbed carrier may be required instead of a standard multi-car hauler.

Carrier Availability

Inoperable vehicles reduce the number of carriers willing to bid on the job.

On popular routes like California to Florida or New York to Los Angeles, you'll have more options.

Remote or less-traveled routes may require longer wait times for a qualified carrier.

How to Prepare an Inoperable Vehicle for Shipping

Preparation is even more important for a non-running vehicle. Follow these steps:

1. Assess and Document the Condition

List every issue: Won't start? Flat tires? Missing parts? Locked steering? Write it all down.

Take photos: Photograph the vehicle from every angle, including close-ups of damage, flat tires, missing components, and the odometer.

Note whether it rolls: This single detail dramatically affects loading logistics and pricing.

2. Ensure Access for the Carrier

The vehicle must be in a location the carrier can reach with a large truck and trailer—typically a flat, paved surface with enough room to maneuver.

If the car is in a garage, tight parking structure, or behind a gate, you'll need to have it moved to an accessible area before pickup.

Confirm there's enough clearance for a winch cable to connect to the vehicle.

3. Secure Loose Parts

If any body panels, bumpers, mirrors, or trim pieces are loose, remove them and pack them inside the vehicle or ship them separately.

Tape down or secure anything that could fall off during transport.

If the hood or trunk doesn't latch properly, secure them with zip ties or rope.

4. Handle Fluids

Check for leaks: Active fluid leaks can be a reason for carrier refusal. Patch leaks or place absorbent material under the vehicle.

Fuel: If the car still has fuel, ensure the tank is at ¼ or below.

Disconnect the battery if possible, especially if there are any electrical issues.

5. Keep Keys Available

Even if the car doesn't run, the carrier needs keys to unlock the steering wheel, shift the transmission, and release the parking brake.

Provide all available keys at the time of pickup.

What to Tell Your Broker When Requesting a Quote

Getting an accurate quote for an inoperable vehicle depends on the information you provide. Be upfront about:

1. Exact condition: "The engine won't start, but the car rolls, steers, and brakes normally" is very different from "it has two flat tires and a locked steering column."

2. Vehicle year, make, model, and modifications: Lifted trucks, added weight from aftermarket parts, and lowered cars all affect loading.

3. Pickup location accessibility: Describe the pickup and delivery areas for the carrier.

4. Whether a forklift is needed: If you know the car can't roll, say so immediately.

5. Missing parts: Note any missing wheels, batteries, or major components.

Accurate details ensure you get realistic pricing and avoid day-of surprises.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport for Inoperable Vehicles

Most non-running vehicles ship via open transport, which is the most economical option. However, there are scenarios where enclosed transport makes sense:

Classic or project cars with significant value—even if they don't run, you want weather and debris protection.

Heavily damaged vehicles where exposed mechanical parts could be further damaged by road conditions.

Collector vehicles being shipped to a restoration shop.

Enclosed transport adds 30–60% to the total cost, on top of the inoperable surcharge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Misrepresenting the vehicle's condition: This leads to carrier refusal, delays, and potential fees.

Not ensuring pickup access: If the carrier can't reach the car, you'll be charged for a wasted trip or need to reschedule.

Leaving personal items inside: Carriers are not responsible for belongings in the vehicle—especially important when the car can't be locked securely.

Forgetting the keys: Even non-running cars need keys for loading logistics.

Waiting too long to book: Fewer carriers handle inoperable vehicles, so book early for the best options.

Ship Your Non-Running Vehicle with Confidence

Shipping an inoperable vehicle is more common than you might think, and with the right preparation and an honest assessment of your car's condition, the process is straightforward. The key is transparency—give your broker all the details, prepare the vehicle for easy access, and choose a carrier with the right equipment.

KeepShippin connects you with carriers experienced in handling non-running vehicles across every major route. We'll match you with the right carrier, at a fair price, with no surprises.

Have a car that won't start? We'll still get it where it needs to go. Get a free, no-obligation quote for your inoperable vehicle today.

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How to Ship an Inoperable or Non-Running Vehicle