Inoperable Car Shipping: Equipment Needed & How It Works

You are trying to ship a car that can not move an inch - perhaps it's been out of use for months, or won't start or drive. The big question is, how do you ship a car that can't be driven? Do not break a sweat. Read on to learn how professional transport carriers handle inoperable car shipments daily through the right equipment that ensures the car is properly loaded, secured, and prevented from further damage.

Equipment Needed for Inoperable Car Shipping

• Winch Systems

In the context of auto shipping, a winch is a strong car-pulling kit that helps pull cars onto the carrier when they're stuck and won't roll (non-running).

We have two types of winches.

The hydraulic: A hydraulic winch is a superior winch ideal for many vehicles regardless of their size, but it is more expensive and complex to set up.

Electric Winch: Electric winches are more affordable and easier to set up, utilizing the car's battery.

For a heavy-duty vehicle or a totaled vehicle, a hydraulic winch is the best option.

• Forklifts or Skates

Forklifts are among the easiest to operate car shipment equipment. A forklift is a mobile machine built with fork-like features to lift non-running vehicles for shipment without further damage. 

A forklift is ideal when the wheels are locked or severely damaged.

• Flatbed or specialized carriers

Flatbed or specialized carriers are commonly used to transport heavy loads, including vehicles. They're super spacious and help the vehicle stabilize and secure.

• Straps and Securement Equipment

Heavy-duty, formidable straps and chains

This equipment prevents unnecessary imbalances and movement during transit.

• Protective Padding

While your inoperable car is in transit, it shouldn't get damaged. Damage prevention in transit is the sole job of padding. Padding equipment or materials includes specific films, foam blocks, and full covers to prevent the car from road debris or possible scratches on the paint surface.

How Inoperable Car Shipping Works (Step-by-Step)

• Booking and Vehicle Assessment: Look for a reputable shipping company and book your spot early. Carefully inspect the condition of your car and give an honest report to the shipping company. - share photos if required.
• Pickup and Loading Process: The shipping crew or team will arrive at your scheduled pickup location. They will inspect the vehicle to confirm its condition. Afterwards, a winch, forklift, or whatever inoperable shipping equipment suits your car's condition will be used to securely load it onto the carrier.
• Transport and Monitoring: The shipping team will continually monitor the securement of your vehicle along the routes to avoid any possible damage.
• Delivery and Unloading: Upon getting to the delivery point (door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal), your vehicle will be carefully unloaded with the same equipment. And the team will allow you (customer) to take a final, careful inspection of the vehicle's condition. If there are no issues, you will be asked to sign a document (bill of lading) to reinforce that your car was successfully delivered to you.

Why Inoperable Car Shipping Costs More

Inoperable car shipments not only take longer, but they also require specialized expertise to get great results. And that costs extra.  Using the forklift, winch, and flatbed all add to the labor and direct additional cost. Inoperable shipping is a unique service in the auto shipping industry with limited availability. This factor influences the shipping cost.

Finally Thoughts 

Inoperable vehicles can be shipped successfully with the right equipment and expertise.

Are you looking to ship an inoperable car? Revoway specializes in all kinds of shipping; get a quote today.

FAQs

1. Can a completely non-running car be shipped?

 Absolutely. Non-running cars aren’t an issue. You can have it shipped wherever you need across the country. With professional carriers, we ship your car using specialized equipment. The only requirement we have is to be informed in advance.

2. Do I need to prepare my inoperable car before shipping?

Yes, just a little. As in the case of operable cars, non-operable cars also need to be prepared before shipping. The process is usual - to remove personal belongings, to secure loose parts, and to provide accurate information about the car’s condition. 

3. Is inoperable car shipping more expensive than standard car shipping?

Yes, typically. In the case of inoperable cars, carriers use more equipment than in thecase of standard cars. Resulting in, here we have additional labor, specialized loading tools, and more time at pickup and delivery. It raises the cost automatically.

4. Will my car be damaged during loading or transport?

Not when handled by experienced professionals. Reputable carriers use heavy-duty straps, securement systems, and protective padding to minimize movement and protect your vehicle from scratches, shifting, or road debris during transit.