Salvage Car Transport Services: Shipping Wrecked Cars Safely and Securely

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Salvage car transport services

Salvage cars are vehicles that have been damaged or declared a total loss by an insurance company due to accidents, natural disasters or other incidents. These vehicles typically have significant damage to their body, engine or other critical components that often leave them unable to drive, or in a condition insurance deems as “unsafe.” Depending on the extent of the damage, handling and loading of salvage cars may require special expertise and equipment to prevent further damage and safely move them from one location to another.

In this blog, we’ll explain the intricacies of salvage car transport. We’ll also break down the steps to shipping a salvage car and answer your most frequently asked questions. 

What is salvage car transport?

Salvage car transport refers to the specialized service of transporting damaged, wrecked or totaled vehicles. Shipping salvage cars presents some unique challenges that aren’t part of the normal auto transport process, such as:

  • Properly securing loose parts 
  • Addressing potential fluid leaks
  • Ensuring the vehicle is stabilized during transport
  • Complying with specific documentation requirements 
  • Obtaining adequate insurance coverage

To ensure the safe and reliable transport of salvage cars, it’s important to find a qualified auto transporter. Most auto transporters hauling salvage vehicles have the necessary equipment and knowledge to handle them properly. 

By entrusting your salvage car shipment to professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing it will be treated with care throughout the transportation process.

How does shipping a salvage car work?

Shipping a salvage car involves specialized equipment and handling techniques to safely load, secure, transport and unload the vehicle. See the steps to shipping a salvage vehicle below.

How to ship a salvage car with Montway:

Step 1: Get a quote by providing vehicle details: Start by obtaining a quote from Montway Auto Transport for your salvage car shipment. Provide accurate vehicle details, including the make, model, year and specific information about the car’s salvage condition. Be sure to note if the vehicle is inoperable, as this will be a significant factor when it comes to pricing and finding the best transporter to meet your needs. Keep in mind that if the vehicle does not roll, break and steer, you will need to contact us for a custom quote at 888-666-8929

If the vehicle is coming from a salvage auction, the carrier will have to work with the location to arrange pickup from their facility. In these cases, please make sure to provide your shipper all the vehicle information including the VIN, buyer number, low number and stock number.

Step 2: Pickup, transport and delivery: Once a carrier has been assigned to your shipment, and on your arranged pickup date, your vehicle will be picked up at an agreed-upon location where it will be securely loaded onto a trailer or flatbed. From there, it will depart to your specific destination. Upon delivery, the vehicle will be unloaded for a final inspection.

Learn more about how auto transport works

How much does it cost to transport a salvage car?

The cost of shipping a salvage car will vary depending on the specific details of the shipment. Generally speaking, salvage cars are subject to the same pricing model as other vehicles. The price can be affected by the extent of the damage and the reason why it was deemed salvage. For the most accurate estimate, call a Montway representative at 888-666-8929 to obtain a customized quote. 

Learn more about how much it costs to ship a car

Factors affecting salvage car transport costs

The cost of shipping a salvage car is influenced by various factors, including:

  • Distance of transport
  • Seasonal demand 
  • Vehicle year, make and model
  • Vehicle condition (extent of damage)
  • Transport method (open or enclosed)
  • Any additional services required (e.g., guaranteed pickup)

Shipping a damaged or salvage car

Montway’s nationwide carrier network includes professionals equipped to transport vehicles that were damaged and may be inoperable. Whether or not your car is running or has been deemed salvage, we have tailored solutions to meet your needs.

Contact us to learn more and get a custom quote for your shipment. Our expert team is available 365 days a year to assist.

Shipping cars with salvage titles

Shipping cars with salvage titles come with specific considerations. These vehicles may have undergone significant repairs or have extensive damage, requiring extra care during transport. If your car has damage that requires additional services beyond ordinary auto transport, communicate that status to your auto transport company so they can handle the shipment safely and efficiently. 

To minimize the risks associated with transporting salvage cars, it is recommended to opt for door-to-door transport. This ensures a direct pickup and delivery process and reduces handling.

Most reputable auto transport companies can handle the transportation of salvage cars, but you should still inquire about their specific policies and capabilities, especially if your salvage car is not able to roll, break and steer. Make sure the auto transporter you choose has experience in handling salvage cars, as well as the necessary equipment to load and transport inoperable vehicles.

Shipping salvage cars from auction

Salvage cars are often sold at auctions, where buyers can find vehicles that have been deemed a total loss by insurance companies. This can be a great opportunity to purchase vehicles at potentially lower prices, especially for those skilled in repairs. However, it’s important to consider the extent of the damage and potential repair costs before making a purchase. 

Whether you’re taking a salvage car to auction or you’re bidding on one, keep in mind that several factors can affect its price, such as:

  • The extent of the damage
  • The make and model of the vehicle
  • Market demand for salvage cars
  • Distance of shipment

How to ship a car from a salvage auction

Step 1: Obtain the necessary documentation

Before shipping a salvage car purchased from an auction, the first step is to gather all the necessary documentation. This may include:

  • The auction invoice
  • Proof of purchase
  • Any required title or ownership transfer documents

Ensuring you have the correct paperwork in order is essential for a smooth and hassle-free process.

Step 2: Coordinate pickup arrangements and provide information to the auto transport company

Once you have the ownership and documentation sorted out, the next step is to coordinate pickup arrangements with both the selling party and the auto transport company. You will need to communicate the pickup location, date and any specific requirements or instructions provided.

It’s also important to provide all relevant information about the salvage car to the auto transport company, including its current condition, size and any special considerations or challenges that may arise during transportation. Clear communication between all parties involved will help ensure a seamless transport process.

Step 3: Perform a thorough inspection upon delivery and confirm the vehicle’s condition

Upon delivery of the salvage car, conduct a thorough inspection to assess its condition. Keep in mind that most of the time, these vehicles are shipped “as-is”. This means the buyer will be responsible for any flaws or defects on the car once they’ve bought it. 

Salvage car transport takeaways

  • Transporting salvage cars requires the right skills to ensure their safe journey without any further damage. Fortunately, working with the right auto transporters can make the task easy and convenient. 
  • When it comes to the cost, factors like distance, vehicle size, year, make, model, condition and transport method all play a role in determining the shipping expenses for salvage cars.
  • If you’re considering buying salvage cars at auctions, be sure to carefully evaluate their condition and assess the potential repair costs before making a decision. 

By keeping these tips in mind and seeking professional assistance, you’ll know what will be involved in shipping your salvage vehicle. 

Salvage car transport FAQs:

How do you transport a totaled car? 

Transporting a totaled car requires special care Montway offers auto transport services for totaled vehicles. However, these shipments will typically take longer to be picked up and cost more to ship because they may require special equipment. Contact a Montway representative to arrange transport for your totaled car.

How do you transport a car that won’t start? 

If a salvage car is non-running, it can still be transported by auto transport companies equipped with the necessary tools and equipment to handle such vehicles. Montway offers transport services for inoperable vehicles and cars that won’t start. Contact a Montway representative at 888-666-8929 to arrange transport and be sure to inform the representative that you have a non-running car.

Can you ship a salvage title car? 

Yes, salvage title cars can be shipped. Be sure to inform the auto transport company about the salvage status to ensure they are prepared to handle the shipment appropriately. 

Can you drive a totaled car around?

Generally, it is not recommended to drive a totaled car, as it may have damage that compromises its safety and drivability. Additionally, the vehicle may have a salvage title, which can affect its legal status for on-road use.

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