If you’ve recently been in an accident, purchased a salvage car online, or need to move a non-operational vehicle across states, one question likely comes to mind: Can I ship a damaged vehicle? The good news is, yes, you absolutely can. Auto transport companies, including 1st Car Shipping, are well-equipped to handle vehicles that don’t start, don’t roll, or are cosmetically or structurally damaged.
This guide walks you through how to ship a damaged car, what to expect during the process, and how to choose the right shipping service that ensures your vehicle is handled with care and efficiency.
Understanding What Counts as a Damaged Vehicle
Before scheduling transport, it’s important to identify what type of “damaged” applies to your situation. This helps determine what equipment the carrier will need and affects the quote you’ll receive.
Common categories include:
- Non-operational vehicles: The car doesn’t start or drive but may still roll, steer, and brake
- Wrecked or salvage vehicles: Significant structural damage from an accident or insurance write-off
- Partially damaged vehicles: Cosmetic issues like broken mirrors, dents, or shattered windshields
- Inoperable systems: Issues with brakes, transmission, steering, or batteries
Each situation may require a different approach to loading, securing, and transporting the vehicle. At 1st Car Shipping, we help you classify your vehicle’s condition so our transport team is fully prepared from day one.
Choosing the Right Transport Type for Damaged Vehicles
When shipping a damaged vehicle, the transport method you choose can make a big difference in cost, safety, and scheduling. Here are your primary options:
Open Transport with Winch Access
- Ideal for vehicles that don’t run but still roll, steer, and brake
- Carrier uses a winch to pull your vehicle onto the trailer
- Cost-effective and suitable for most minor to moderate damage
- Some exposure to weather during transit
Enclosed Transport for High-Value or Sensitive Cars
- Offers full protection from weather, road debris, and vandalism
- Best for damaged luxury or classic cars
- Typically higher cost but worth it for high-value vehicles
- May include hydraulic lift-gate for vehicles that can’t be winched
Flatbed and Tow Truck Services
- Used for severely damaged vehicles that can’t roll or steer
- Great for short distances or local moves
- May not be available for long-distance hauls
At 1st Car Shipping, we assess your car’s damage and match you with the right carrier, equipment, and route to ensure safe and efficient transport.
Prepare Your Damaged Vehicle for Pickup
While your car may not be drivable, there are still steps you can take to get it ready for shipping. Preparation reduces the risk of delays, misunderstandings, or additional fees.
Here’s what to do:
- Remove personal items and valuables: They’re not covered by insurance and can shift during transport
- Disclose the full extent of the damage: Let the transporter know if the vehicle can roll, brake, or steer
- Take photos of the vehicle’s current condition: Document all existing damage for insurance and delivery reference
- Secure loose parts: Use tape or covers to secure broken mirrors, lights, or cracked windows
- Make sure tires are inflated (if possible): Even in a non-running vehicle, this helps with loading
1st Car Shipping provides every customer with a pre-pickup checklist and offers personalized assistance to make sure your damaged vehicle is ready for secure loading.
Understanding the Costs of Shipping a Damaged Vehicle
Shipping a damaged vehicle usually costs more than transporting a fully operational car. The additional fees cover the specialized equipment, manual labor, and handling procedures required to load and secure your car safely.
Here are some factors that influence cost:
- Vehicle size and weight
- Extent of damage and ability to roll or steer
- Type of trailer (open, enclosed, or flatbed)
- Shipping distance and route availability
- Urgency and scheduling flexibility
For example, a non-running sedan that can roll and steer may only cost \$150–\$250 more than a standard car shipment. In contrast, a severely damaged truck that can’t be moved at all may require custom towing, increasing the price further.
At 1st Car Shipping, we offer transparent quotes that include all necessary handling fees—so there are no surprises later.
Know What to Expect at Delivery
Upon arrival, your vehicle will be unloaded using the same special procedures used during pickup. Here’s how to ensure a smooth delivery:
Be present or designate a representative to inspect the vehicle
Check for any new damage and compare it to your pre-shipment photos
Note discrepancies on the Bill of Lading before signing off
Take new photos for documentation and follow up with the carrier if issues arise
Most damaged vehicle shipments arrive without a hitch when handled by experienced professionals. And when you book with 1st Car Shipping, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle is protected and your transport team is trained to handle non-standard cars.
Final Thoughts on Shipping a Damaged Vehicle
So, can you ship a damaged vehicle? Absolutely—and with the right planning and a reliable shipping partner, it can be just as safe and straightforward as shipping a regular car. From selecting the right equipment to prepping your vehicle and coordinating with expert drivers, every step matters in getting your vehicle from point A to point B safely.
At 1st Car Shipping, we specialize in handling all kinds of vehicle conditions—from gently used daily drivers to heavily damaged auction pickups. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote, and let us make your damaged vehicle transport easy, affordable, and stress-free.