Transporting Non Running Vehicles In The UK – How It Works
Broken down cars, project vehicles and non runners are a big part of everyday work for professional vehicle transport companies in the UK. If your car, van or motorbike does not start, it still can be moved safely and legally, as long as the right equipment and experience are used.
This guide explains how non running vehicle transport works, what information you need to provide and what to expect on collection day.
What counts as a non running vehicle
A non runner is any vehicle that cannot be driven normally onto a transporter or trailer. For example:
- Engine will not start
- Battery is completely flat
- Severe mechanical fault such as broken clutch or gearbox
- Serious brake problems
- Accident damage that makes the car unsafe to drive
Some vehicles can start and move a short distance, but still cannot be driven on the road. It is always better to tell the transport company exactly what the situation is.
Why non runners need specialist equipment
Because a non running vehicle cannot drive onto a truck, it must be loaded with equipment such as:
- Electric or hydraulic winches
- Heavy duty ramps and low loading beds
- Wheel skates or dollies for seized wheels
- Chains and straps to control the vehicle during loading
Professional non runner transport specialists use this equipment every day. It allows them to move damaged or dead vehicles safely without causing more harm to the car or to people around it.
What information to give when you request a quote
The more detail you provide, the better the company can prepare for the job. When you request a quote for a non running vehicle, include:
- Vehicle type, make and model
- Whether the steering works
- Whether the brakes work at least partly
- If the car can roll freely or if any wheels are locked
- If the car is on the ground, on a driveway or in a workshop
- Photos of the vehicle and the access if possible
This allows the driver to bring the right truck, ramps and tools.
Access and location of a non running vehicle
Access is often the biggest challenge when moving a non runner. To help the transporter:
- Explain if the vehicle is nose first in a tight space or close to a wall
- Inform them about steep slopes, narrow gates or low ceilings
- Move other vehicles out of the way before collection, if you can
If the access is very difficult, a site visit or extra staff may be needed. A good company will discuss this honestly with you in advance.
How collection of a non runner usually looks
On collection day, the driver will:
- Check the vehicle and the surroundings
- Plan how to move the vehicle safely to the truck
- Attach a winch cable and guide the vehicle up the ramps
- Use straps and wheel chocks to secure it firmly on the bed
- Confirm the destination and estimated arrival time
The process can take longer than for a running car, because everything is done slowly and carefully.
Typical reasons for non running vehicle transport
People use non runner transport in the UK for many reasons:
- Project cars that are not yet roadworthy
- Cars and vans after engine or gearbox failure
- Vehicles with no MOT or tax that cannot be driven on the road
- Accident damaged vehicles going to a bodyshop or salvage yard
- Non running vehicles bought at auction or online
In all cases, a professional transporter can move the vehicle safely from A to B.
Is non running vehicle transport more expensive
Non runners are usually more work than running cars. They take more time to load and may need extra equipment or staff. That means the price is often higher than for a simple running car, but it is still usually much cheaper than trying to organise recovery and DIY transport yourself.
The best way to know the cost is to request a clear non running vehicle transport quote with full details of the car and the access.
Moving a non running vehicle safely and legally
If your car, van or bike will not start, it does not have to sit and collect dust. With the help of a professional non runner transport company, it can be moved to a garage, buyer or storage location safely, legally and quickly.
All you need to do is provide honest information, agree the price and let the specialists handle the heavy work.
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