Moving Non-Running Dealer Units: What the Carrier Needs to Know

Non-running and inoperable dealer units can be moved, but the carrier needs to know before dispatch. A car that will not start or drive has to be loaded differently than one a driver can drive onto the trailer, so telling your transport company up front is what gets the right equipment to the pickup.

Every desk ends up with a few of these: a trade-in with a dead battery, an auction buy the condition report flagged, a unit headed to a body shop or a wholesale buyer. They all move the same way, as long as nobody is surprised at the pickup.

Why does the carrier need to know in advance?

On a normal load the driver starts the car and drives it up the ramp. A unit that does not run has to be pulled or pushed onto the trailer with the right loading tools. If the carrier shows up expecting a running car, the load can stall right there and the car stays where it is. When the condition is in the order, the carrier comes prepared.

What counts as non-running?

Tell the transport company if any of these apply, even if the car "should be fine":

• Will not start. Dead battery, no key, or a known mechanical problem.
• Starts but does not drive. Transmission, brake or steering issues.
• Will not roll or steer. Locked wheels, flat tires or missing parts.
• Anything the condition report flagged. On auction buys, pass along what the report says.

When in doubt, say so. It is easier for the carrier to plan for a car that might not start than to find out at the gate.

What to send with a non-running unit

• Pickup and drop-off addresses, with a contact name and phone at each.
• The VIN, plus year, make and model.
• Exactly what is wrong: will not start, will not roll, will not steer.
• Whether a key is with the car.
• For auction units, the release and any condition report notes. See auction gate passes and releases.
• When the car is ready and when you need it.

This is the same list the FCT dealer desk asks for on every order, with the condition spelled out.

Check it at pickup and delivery

A non-running unit still gets the normal inspection at both ends. Make sure the condition noted at pickup matches what you sent, and check the car against the bill of lading when it arrives. Our guides on the bill of lading and checking in a delivered car walk through what to look for.

Moving non-running units with FCT

Send the unit by phone at (980) 552-1101, by email or through the quote form, and say that it does not run. We match a vetted, fully insured carrier running that lane, confirm the pickup window with you, and keep you posted until the car is delivered. That works for auction pickups, dealer trades and wholesale moves anywhere in the continental U.S.

Frequently asked questions

Can a non-running vehicle be shipped?

Yes. Non-running and inoperable units can be moved, but the carrier needs to know before dispatch so the right loading equipment comes to the pickup.

What should I tell the transport company about a car that does not run?

Say exactly what is wrong (will not start, will not roll or will not steer), whether a key is with the car, and anything the condition report flagged.

What happens if I do not mention the car is non-running?

The carrier may arrive expecting to drive the car onto the trailer and not be able to load it, which can leave the car where it is.

Can FCT pick up a non-running auction car?

Yes. Send the auction address, the VIN, the release and the condition notes, and FCT lines up a carrier prepared for a car that does not run.

Need a car moved?

FCT gives dealers one point of contact from quote to drop-off. Request a quote or call (980) 552-1101, and a real person gets back to you.