Absolutely. The insurance coverage is the same as a running vehicle ($100k minimum). It covers the car from the moment the winch cable is attached until it is off-loaded.
Non-Running Car Shipping: Reliable Transport for Inoperable Vehicles
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Why Specialized Carriers are Required for Non-Runners
Shipping an inoperable vehicle is not a “standard” job. It requires a specific skill set and equipment that not every car carrier possesses.
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The Winching Process: Unlike standard cars that are driven onto the trailer, a non-runner must be physically pulled onto the deck using a motorized or manual winch.
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Weight & Balance Expertise: Loading a car that cannot move under its own power requires the driver to be an expert in physics and cable tension to avoid damaging the vehicle’s frame or steering components.
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Dedicated Equipment: Only a subset of the national carrier fleet is equipped with the heavy-duty winches and specialized ramps needed for inoperable transport.
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Safety Protocols: Handling a “dead” vehicle involves higher risk during the loading and unloading phases, necessitating a driver who understands the unique safety demands of the job.
Shipping a non-running car typically incurs an “Inoperable Fee” (usually $150 – $200) to cover the extra labor and equipment. Below are estimated market rates including the inop fee:
| Route Type | Sample Route | Estimated Inoperable Rate |
| Short Distance | Los Angeles, CA to Phoenix, AZ | $750 – $950 |
| Mid-Range | Dallas, TX to Chicago, IL | $1,050 – $1,350 |
| Coast to Coast | Atlanta, GA to Seattle, WA | $1,550 – $1,850 |
| Project Delivery | Miami, FL to New York, NY | $1,150 – $1,450 |
Our inoperable service is tailored for a variety of specific situations:
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Classic & Project Cars: For vehicles in the middle of a rebuild that have no engine, transmission, or battery.
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Auction Purchases: Ideal for cars bought from Copart, IAA, or eBay Motors that are listed as “non-running.”
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Mechanical Failures: For vehicles that have suffered a major breakdown (blown head gasket, transmission failure) far from home.
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Barn Finds: Getting a long-stored vehicle from its resting place to a modern garage for a second life.
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Note on Condition: To be eligible for transport, the vehicle must still roll and steer. If the wheels are locked or the car is missing tires, a different type of “forklift” loading may be required.
To ensure a smooth pickup, follow this preparation checklist for inoperable cars:
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Confirm “Roll & Steer”: Ensure the tires hold air and the steering wheel turns. If the vehicle is “frozen,” the driver will not be able to winch it.
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Clear the Path: Because the vehicle cannot be driven, the carrier must be able to back up directly to the front or rear of the car. Ensure no other vehicles are blocking the “pull.”
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Secure Loose Parts: If the car is a project, ensure the hood, trunk, and any loose trim are taped or bolted down so they don’t fly off during highway transit.
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Provide Keys: The driver still needs keys to unlock the steering column and access the car, even if the engine won’t start.
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Remove Personal Items: Keep the car empty of loose parts and tools to ensure it stays under the weight limit for the winch.
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