Shipping a Non-Running Vehicle: What You Need to Know

Listen up. You've got a car that won't start. Maybe it's a project car. Maybe it just gave up the ghost. But you need to move it. Cross-country, even. This isn't like shipping a daily driver. There are different rules. Different costs. Most importantly, you need to understand reality before you get swindled. That's why I'm here. Mike, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co. Let's get to it.

First Things First: Can You Even Ship It?

Yes. You can ship a non-running vehicle. But you need to be upfront about it. Don't try to hide it. That's a surefire way to have problems down the line. When you get an auto transport quote, make it clear the car isn't running. This changes everything for the carrier. Without that detail, you're setting yourself up for headaches.

Why is a Non-Running Car Different?

Think about it. A running car drives onto the truck. Easy. A non-running car needs help. Usually a winch. Not every truck has one. Not every driver wants to use one. It takes more time. More effort. More risk. That translates directly to higher car shipping services Texas costs. It's not a scam. It's just how it works.

Finding a Reliable Auto Transport Broker for Non-Running Vehicles

This is where we come in. At AMG Transport Co., we're an auto transport broker Texas. We specialize in finding the right solution, even for a non-running car. You see, carriers, the folks actually driving the trucks, they don’t like dealing with problems. Their job is to move cars safely. Dealing with a non-runner requires extra steps. Extra equipment. They'd rather just load and go.

That's our job. We handle the frontend sales, the coordinating, the backend systems. All the stuff outside of maintaining and driving the trucks. We buffer you from their headaches. And they rely on us to solve yours. We know which carriers have winches. Which ones are experienced with non-runners. And we'll find them for you. It's almost required to work with an experienced broker when you're shipping a non-running vehicle. Most people couldn't work with carriers directly anyway.

What Affects the Cost of Shipping a Non-Running Car?

Several factors play into how much does it cost to ship a car cross country, especially for a non-runner:

• Operability: Can it steer? Brake? Roll? The less it can do, the more complicated and expensive it gets. If your car is completely immobile, prepare for a higher open car carrier transport cost or specialized equipment.
• Distance: Shipping a non-running vehicle from Houston to Los Angeles is going to cost more than across town. Obvious, right? But the added complexity of a non-runner amplifies the distance factor.
• Vehicle Type: A non-running sedan is one thing. A non-running extended cab pickup or SUV? That's heavier, larger. Shipping an SUV vs sedan cost difference increases significantly when a winch is involved.
• Enclosed vs. Open Transport: If you're shipping a classic car that's not running, you might still want classic car transport enclosed carrier service. That's always more expensive than open. However, if it's a broken-down daily driver, open carrier car shipping pros & cons usually lean towards open for cost savings. For a luxury vehicle, even a non-runner, enclosed auto transport for luxury cars is often the sensible choice for protection.
• Location: Getting a truck to a remote farm versus a major city like Dallas or San Antonio will impact the nationwide vehicle shipping door to door efficiency and cost. We provide door pick-up and delivery car transport service every day.
• Urgency: Need it picked up yesterday? Expect to pay a premium. Standard how long does car shipping take cross country timelines allow for better pricing.

The Broker's Role: Keeping Rates Reasonable

Carriers aren't saints. They don't always like brokers because we keep their rates in check. They know they can charge regular people more. But a good broker, like AMG Transport Co., has strong relationships with carriers. We vet them. They're invested in taking care of our clients. That means you get a fair price, even for a non-running car. We also handle the financial side, like securely processing payments via Stripe, meaning carriers get paid reliably. This builds trust.

AMG Transport Co. Practices for Your Peace of Mind:

• Transparent quotes: No hidden fees, just honest numbers.
• VIN scans: We confirm your vehicle details upfront.
• Stripe deposits: Secure and reliable payment processing.
• Vetted, insured carriers: We work with the best, not just the cheapest.
• 72-hour pickup windows: We give you a clear expectation for when your vehicle will be picked up.

Planning Your Non-Running Car Shipment

Here's a quick checklist to prepare your non-runner for transport:

1. Be Honest About Condition: Again, clearly state it's a non-running vehicle. Can it roll, steer, and brake? This is crucial information for us to find the right truck.

2. Check Fluids: Top off fluids or drain them if it's a long-term storage situation. Prevent leaks.

3. Secure Loose Parts: If parts are falling off, secure them. Drivers won't strap down your loose fender for you.

4. Remove Personal Items: Anything valuable should be out of the car. Insurances typically don't cover personal belongings.

5. Have Keys Available: Even for a non-runner, keys are usually needed to put it in neutral or unlock the steering column.

Whether you're relocating to Florida ship car from Texas, or just moving a project car to a new garage, we're your partner. We're a Texas based auto transport broker nationwide, providing door-to-door car shipping how it works services. We pride ourselves on our auto transport safety record and reputation. We aim to be the best auto transport company for out-of-state moves, ensuring your non-runner gets where it needs to go without extra drama.

Conclusion: Don't Go It Alone with a Non-Running Vehicle

Shipping a non-running vehicle adds layers of complexity. You need an expert. You need a buffer. You need transparent pricing and reliable service. That's what AMG Transport Co. delivers. We understand the ins and outs. We have the relationships with carriers. We manage the entire process, so you don't have to deal with the frustrations. Let us be your experienced car shipping broker you can trust. Don't take chances with your non-running car. Get it done right.

Ready for a hassle-free experience with your non-running vehicle shipment? Get a quote today and let us handle the logistics.

Get Your No-Obligation Quote Now!

Written by Mike Matthews, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co.