Guide on how to Ship a Non-Running Car Safely and Without Stress.
Whether your car has mechanical issues, was involved in an accident, is a project vehicle, or has been sitting unused for a long time, shipping a non-running car requires special handling, equipment, and experience.
At UWON Carriers, we specialize in transporting non-operational vehicles safely and efficiently across the United States. If your car won’t start, roll, or move on its own, here’s everything you need to know before shipping it.
What Is a Non-Running (Inoperable) Vehicle?
A non-running or inoperable car is any vehicle that cannot be driven normally. This may include:
- Engine failure
- Dead battery
- Transmission problems
- Accident damage
- Classic or project cars not yet restored
- Vehicles missing wheels or with locked steering
Unlike standard auto transport, non-running vehicles cannot be driven onto a trailer, which means extra equipment and planning are required.
How Are Non-Running Cars Transported?
Shipping a non-running car requires specialized loading methods, most commonly:
✔ Winch Loading
A winch system is used to carefully pull the vehicle onto the trailer without forcing movement or causing damage.
✔ Liftgate or Flatbed (when necessary)
For heavily damaged or immobile vehicles, a flatbed or liftgate trailer may be required to ensure safe loading and unloading.
Because of this additional equipment, it’s important to work with a transport company that has experience handling inoperable vehicles, not just standard shipments.
Is It More Expensive to Ship a Non-Running Car?
In most cases, yes, but the difference is reasonable and justified.
Non-running vehicles typically cost slightly more to ship because:
- Loading takes more time
- Specialized equipment is required
- Fewer carriers are equipped to handle inoperable cars
At UWON Carriers, we provide all-inclusive pricing, so you won’t be surprised by hidden winch or handling fees later.
Can Any Auto Transport Company Ship a Non-Running Car?
No and this is where many people run into problems.
Some companies accept non-running bookings but later:
- Delay pickup
- Increase the price
- Cancel the shipment because a carrier isn’t available
We avoid this by matching your vehicle with the right carrier from the start, ensuring:
- Proper equipment is available
- Pickup happens as scheduled
Your car is handled safely from door to door
What You Should Do Before Shipping a Non-Running Vehicle
To ensure a smooth shipment, we recommend:
- Informing us honestly about the car’s condition
- Letting us know if the car rolls, steers, or brakes
- Removing personal items from the vehicle
- Making sure tires are inflated if possible
The more accurate the information, the smoother and faster the transport process will be.
Why Choose UWON Carriers for Non-Running Car Transport?
We understand that shipping a non-operational vehicle can feel stressful. That’s why we focus on clear communication, proper planning, and reliable carriers.
When you ship with UWON Carriers, you get:
- ✔ Experienced carriers with winch equipment
- ✔ Door-to-door service nationwide
- ✔ Fully insured transport
- ✔ Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
- ✔ Support from pickup to delivery
Whether it’s a daily driver, a classic car, or a project vehicle, we treat every shipment with care.
Get a Quote for Shipping Your Non-Running Car
If your car doesn’t run, don’t push it, just ship it the right way.
For an exact price on your route, use UWON Carriers’ quote form, call us at +1 (216) 412-4411, or email quote@uwoncarriers.com
