A car that does not start may still be transportable, but “non-running” is not a complete loading description. Auto Haulers Inc. needs to know whether it rolls, steers, and brakes, whether keys are available, and whether damage or missing parts affect loading. Suitable equipment and carrier acceptance must be confirmed before pickup.
Non-running does not always mean non-rolling
A vehicle with an engine problem that rolls freely presents a different loading task from one with locked wheels, missing tires, or collision damage. Tell us what the vehicle can actually do. If you are buying remotely, ask the seller or auction to confirm its current condition rather than relying only on the listing.
Do not describe a vehicle as running simply because it started once or is expected to start after a repair. Share its condition as it will be handed to the driver.
What we need before quoting
- Vehicle: year, make, model, and any size or clearance modifications.
- Route: pickup and delivery locations and location types.
- Starting: does it start and move under its own power?
- Rolling: are all wheels present, are the tires inflated, and can it roll?
- Steering and brakes: do they work, and are there any restrictions?
- Keys and transmission: are keys available, and can it be placed in neutral?
- Damage: missing parts, loose panels, leaks, or damage affecting loading.
- Access: where it is parked and whether loading or unloading assistance is available.
Photos of all sides, the wheels, and any damage help us understand the loading requirements. Describe anything the photos do not show.
Equipment must work at both ends
Some non-running vehicles need a transporter equipped with a winch. Other conditions require specialized handling or facility assistance. A winch alone does not resolve every locked-wheel, steering, clearance, or damage problem.
Loading help at an auction does not automatically provide an unloading solution at a residence. Confirm the plan for both pickup and delivery before scheduling. Leave loading and securement decisions to the assigned carrier and disclose any concerns in advance.
Salvage auctions and private purchases
Confirm release approval, facility hours, appointment requirements, and storage deadlines. Tell us what assistance the pickup facility offers and any restrictions on carrier access. Our dealer and auction transport page explains the release details needed before dispatch.
A seller’s “runs and drives” description may not establish the vehicle’s condition on pickup day. Ask for a current check, particularly when a vehicle has been stored or has suffered damage since the listing was created.
How condition affects the shipping quote
The price reflects the route, vehicle size, equipment, handling, timing, and carrier availability. Disclosing a loading problem after dispatch may change the equipment or price and delay pickup. Read our vehicle shipping cost guide for the other factors behind a quote.
Open transport and enclosed transport both require suitable loading equipment. Choosing an enclosed trailer does not by itself solve an inoperable vehicle’s loading needs.
Before the driver arrives
Make the vehicle accessible, have the keys and release information ready, and report any change in condition immediately. Photograph the vehicle and review the condition report with the driver. Follow our vehicle preparation checklist for the pickup and delivery inspection steps.
Non-running vehicle shipping questions
Can you ship a car that does not run?
Many non-running cars can be considered for transport. Tell Auto Haulers Inc. whether the vehicle rolls, steers, and brakes, whether keys are available, and what prevents it from running. Equipment and carrier acceptance must be confirmed for the actual condition.
Can a car with locked wheels be transported?
Locked wheels require advance equipment review. A standard loading plan may not work. Send photos and explain which wheels are locked, whether the transmission can be placed in neutral, and what loading assistance is available at both ends.
Does non-running car shipping cost more?
Additional equipment, handling, or limited carrier availability can affect the price. Request a quote for the vehicle’s actual condition instead of using a running-vehicle quote as the final price.
Can you arrange transport from a salvage auction?
Many auction vehicles can be considered after release status, damage, loading condition, access, and equipment are reviewed. Tell us whether the auction provides loading assistance and whether unloading assistance is available at delivery.
What if the vehicle condition changes before pickup?
Contact Auto Haulers Inc. before the driver arrives. A new starting, rolling, steering, braking, or damage issue may require a revised loading plan, equipment, schedule, or quote.
Tell us what needs to move
Send the route, vehicle details, and a clear description of its condition. Include loading restrictions in your shipment notes so we can review the appropriate transport options.
Request my non-running vehicle quote