Key takeaways
- Inoperable cars can be shipped; the carrier uses a winch or forklift to load them.
- Tell us at booking: an inoperable fee applies and only carriers with the right equipment can take the load.
- The car should still roll, steer, and brake; if it cannot, it needs a custom quote.
- Keys, inflated tires, and a clear path to the car make pickup go smoothly.
What "inoperable" means
A car is inoperable if it cannot start and drive onto the trailer under its own power: a dead engine, a failed transmission, or a car that has been sitting for years. Most can still roll, steer, and brake, which is what the carrier needs to winch them on safely.
How it is loaded
Carriers that accept inoperable vehicles use a winch to pull the car up the ramps, or a forklift at the pickup location. It takes longer than driving on, which is why there is an extra fee and why not every carrier can take the load.
What it costs
When you choose "does not run" in the instant quote, the inoperable fee is added automatically, so the price you see includes it. Telling us late can mean a different carrier and a new pickup date.
When you need a custom quote
If the car cannot roll (missing wheels, locked brakes, seized steering), it needs special equipment. Call our Car Shipping Hotline or mention it in your quote notes, and an advisor will price it.
Preparing a non-running car
- Inflate the tires so it rolls.
- Make sure it is in neutral and the parking brake is off, or tell the driver how to release it.
- Leave the keys with the car.
- Make sure the carrier can reach it: a truck needs room to park nearby.
- Follow the rest of the pickup checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Can you ship a car that does not run?
Yes. Carriers load non-running cars with a winch or forklift. An inoperable fee applies and must be known at booking.
How much more does it cost to ship an inoperable car?
An inoperable fee is added to the price; the TS Fast Auto Logistics instant quote includes it when you choose "does not run".
What if the car cannot roll or steer?
It needs special equipment, so an advisor prepares a custom quote.
What vehicle transportation problems can the TS Fast Car Shipping Hotline help with?
Our Car Shipping Hotline, (888) 885-0991, is for anyone with a vehicle transportation or logistics problem anywhere in the United States: booking a car, SUV, truck, motorcycle or RV shipment, a carrier that cancelled or never showed up, an urgent or expedited pickup, a vehicle that does not run, a military PCS move, or a delayed delivery. Call and a specialist will help you work out the next step.
Does TS Fast Auto Logistics transport vehicles to every state?
Yes. We arrange door-to-door vehicle transport between any two US states, nationwide. Hawaii, Alaska, and commercial, oversized or very heavy vehicles are quoted individually. We transport vehicles only: we do not ship packages, parcels or household goods, and we are not a local tow or roadside assistance service.