A non-running vehicle — sometimes called an inoperable vehicle — is one that cannot be driven under its own power. This includes cars with dead engines, failed transmissions, flood damage, accident damage, or vehicles that have simply been sitting too long to start. Most auto transport companies can ship non-running vehicles with the right equipment, though it costs a bit more.
What Carriers Need to Know
When requesting a quote for a non-running vehicle, be upfront about the following:
- Does it roll? Can the vehicle be pushed or towed? This is the minimum requirement for standard non-running pickup.
- Do the brakes work? This affects loading and unloading safety.
- Does it steer? If the steering is locked, special equipment is needed.
- Ground clearance: Very low-clearance vehicles or those with flat tires require additional equipment.
Non-Running Vehicle Shipping Costs
| Route Distance | Running Vehicle | Non-Running (+$150–$250) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | $300–$550 | $450–$800 |
| 500–1,500 miles | $600–$950 | $750–$1,200 |
| Coast to coast | $950–$1,400 | $1,100–$1,650 |
Total Time: Booking to Delivery
Total auto transport time has two components: pickup lead time (how long from booking until the carrier picks up your vehicle) and transit time (how long the carrier takes to drive to the destination). Together, these determine your total time.
| Route Distance | Pickup Lead Time | Transit Time | Total Expected Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | 1–3 days | 1–2 days | 2–5 days total |
| 500–1,000 miles | 1–4 days | 2–3 days | 3–7 days total |
| 1,000–1,500 miles | 2–5 days | 3–5 days | 5–10 days total |
| 1,500–2,000 miles | 2–5 days | 4–6 days | 6–11 days total |
| 2,000+ miles (coast to coast) | 3–7 days | 7–10 days | 10–17 days total |
How to Get Faster Delivery
- Book early: The longer you book in advance, the more carrier options you have and the faster your pickup window
- Use expedited service: Most companies offer expedited pickup (within 24–48 hours) for an extra $100–$300
- Be flexible on dates: Providing a 3–5 day pickup window (instead of a specific date) gives carriers more scheduling flexibility, often resulting in faster pickup
- Use major city points: Pickup and delivery in major metropolitan areas means more carrier availability vs. rural areas
- Choose open transport: Enclosed transport availability is more limited, which can extend pickup wait times by 1–3 extra days
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