How Auto Transporters Load and Unload Non-Running Vehicles
When tasked with loading or unloading a vehicle that does not run, auto shippers have to rely on what is known as a winch. A winch is a tool that literally drags a vehicle onto the back of a transport truck so the carrier can secure it properly.
Winches are great tools in that they allow drivers who normally drive the vehicles onto and off of their truck before securing them to actually get a vehicle that cannot run or drive onto their truck just as easily as if they were to drive it themselves.
Okay, that’s not always true – some winches are automated, and do most of the work themselves, but many of them are still hand-operated, usually via a crank; while this does allow shippers the torque and power necessary to lift a thousand pound car onto a truck, it’s still a pain in the butt and can be exhausting work depending on the winch model.
This is why most auto transporters charge a premium for shipping a non-running automobile, but also why it’s not exorbitant or really, really expensive. In fact, most shippers charge a flat fee of anywhere from $100-200 to move a non-running vehicle, and most of those offer shipping for a flat $150.
This is something you can discuss more with your transportation representative, but you’ll find that the vast majority of companies that haul vehicles don’t charge an arm and a leg over the arm and leg they’re already charging you to move your vehicle in the first place. Auto transport is expensive because it has to be, what with fuel prices so high and fuel economy of massive transport trucks incredibly low.
If you need a quote to ship a vehicle, regardless of whether it’s running or not, American Auto Shipping can help. All you have to do is fill out our free online quote request form and you’ll get a free estimate immediately and a quote within minutes. You can also call us at 800-930-7417 to speak to one of our live agents, who can answer your questions, give you a quote, and even book an order.
Since 2007 Dave has written all the content and blogs for American Auto Shipping and during this time added the duties of customer support and transport logistics.
He currently resides in Washington with his three kids and their mom and cat. A fan of Marvel movies and good stories, when not shipping cars Dave can be found working on his novel, enjoying a good book or playing some tournament HALO.
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