Shipping a Non-Running Vehicle? What You Need to Know.

So, you need to ship a car that won't start. Maybe it's a project car. Maybe it broke down on a cross-country trip. Whatever the reason, it's not as simple as rolling a working vehicle onto a trailer. You need to understand the realities of shipping a non-running vehicle.

What Makes it Different?

A non-running car needs special handling. This isn't just a minor inconvenience for a carrier; it changes the entire loading and unloading process. Most everyday car transports involve driving the vehicle on and off the trailer. If it doesn't move under its own power, specialized equipment is required. Think winches, forklifts, or even rolling by hand if there's enough manpower and the conditions are right. And believe me, those conditions are rarely "just right" out on the road. This specialized handling adds effort, time, and naturally, cost.

The Cost Factor: Why More?

"How much does it cost to ship a car cross country," you ask? When the car doesn't run, expect that cost to be higher. This isn't some arbitrary price gouging. It's about the extra resources needed. Extra equipment. Extra time. Potentially specialized trailers. Carriers factor this in. When they spend more time wrestling with a dead vehicle, that's time they're not driving and generating revenue. This is why shipping a non-running vehicle generally adds to your overall auto transport quotes.

AMG Transport Co. provides honest quotes, even for these trickier situations. We ensure our vetted insured carriers are prepared for the job.

Preparing Your Non-Running Car for Transport

Even though it's not running, there are things you need to do. Clear out personal belongings. Ensure the vehicle can be rolled, even if it needs a push. Check tire pressure. If the wheels are locked up or steering doesn't work, that's an even bigger problem and needs to be communicated upfront. The more information you provide, the better we can coordinate with our carriers. This transparency helps avoid surprises on pick-up day.

Why a Broker is Your Best Bet for Non-Running Vehicles

Dealing directly with carriers for a non-running car can be a headache. Most carriers prefer the easy jobs. They want to load a car quickly and get back on the road. A non-running vehicle complicates their schedule and presents potential safety issues. Many simply won't touch them unless the price is exceptional, or they have a specialized rig available that day. And finding those specific carriers requires extensive networking and understanding of their equipment and capabilities.

That's where an auto transport broker like AMG Transport Co. comes in. We do what carriers don't want to do. We handle the frontend sales, the coordinating, and the backend systems. More importantly, we have the relationships. We know which carriers are equipped and willing to take on a non-running vehicle. We act as that buffer, ensuring you get a fair rate while still getting the job done right.

The AMG Transport Co. Advantage

• Experience with the Tough Jobs: We've got experience with these situations, finding the right enclosed auto transport for luxury cars, or open car carrier transport for your project. We handle the complexities of shipping a non-running vehicle. We know the right questions to ask both you and the carrier.

• Carrier Network: Our extensive network means we can locate carriers with the proper equipment and expertise, whether it's a single car transport or multi-car transport for families. We leverage our reach to ensure your vehicle is moving, even if it isn't running.

• Pricing Buffer: We work to keep rates reasonable. While it will cost more, we ensure you're not overcharged simply because it's a less desirable load for some drivers. Our relationship with AMG Endeavors, our parent company and a carrier, gives us unique insight into fair pricing.

• Customer Experience: We provide a stronger customer experience. We're a guiding light in an industry that can feel fraud-filled. From door-to-door car shipping to detailed communication, we keep you informed.

• Peace of Mind: We vet our carriers, ensuring they are insured and reputable. We conduct VIN scans for accuracy. Your Stripe deposit secures the service. Our 72-hour pickup windows are accurate and communicated clearly. We aim for a seamless process from start to finish.

Conclusion: Don't Go It Alone

Shipping a non-running vehicle isn't a DIY project for most folks. Trying to find a carrier yourself can lead to frustration, delays, and potentially higher costs. You need an experienced car shipping broker you can trust.

AMG Transport Co. is a Texas based auto transport broker, but we provide nationwide vehicle shipping door to door. We can ship a car from Houston to Los Angeles, or handle relocating to Florida ship car from Texas. We handle everything from classic car transport enclosed carrier to shipping an SUV vs sedan cost difference. We understand what affects car shipping cost per mile and how long does car shipping take cross country.

Don't let a dead engine derail your transport plans. Let us handle the logistics. Get a transparent quote today and experience the difference of working with a reliable vehicle logistics company Texas.

Need to ship a non-running car? Get your free, no-obligation quote today: AMG Transport Co. Quote.

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