Car transportation is the safest way to move a vehicle that can’t – or shouldn’t – be driven. Whether you’ve bought a car online, you’re moving house or you need a non-runner taken to a garage, here’s what you need to know before you book.
When do you need car transportation?
- Buying a car from a private seller, dealer or auction in another part of London or the UK
- Selling a car to a buyer who wants it delivered
- Non-running vehicles that need to reach a garage or engine specialist
- Cars without a current MOT, tax or insurance that can’t legally be driven on the road (apart from limited exceptions such as driving to a pre-booked MOT)
- Moving house or relocating
- Classic, prestige and low-mileage cars where owners don’t want to add miles
Types of vehicle transport
Single-vehicle flatbed transport
The car is loaded onto a flatbed or recovery truck and strapped down. This is ideal for most private moves, non-runners and vehicles in London, where large multi-car transporters struggle with narrow streets.
Multi-car transporters
Used mostly by dealers and manufacturers to move several vehicles at once over long distances.
Enclosed transport
For high-value or classic cars that need protection from weather and road debris.
How much does car transportation cost in London?
Cost depends on distance, vehicle size and weight, whether it runs, how accessible the addresses are and how flexible your dates are. Ask for a quote with both postcodes and full vehicle details. Read more about car transportation in London.
How to prepare your car for transport
- Remove personal belongings and valuables.
- Note or photograph existing damage before collection.
- Make sure keys, locking wheel nuts and any paperwork are ready.
- Tell the transport company if the car doesn’t start, steer or brake, or if it’s lowered.
- Confirm access – height limits, narrow streets and parking restrictions.
Questions to ask a transport company
- Is the price fixed?
- What insurance covers my vehicle while it’s being transported?
- When will you collect and deliver?
- Can you handle a non-runner or low car?
- Will I get updates on the day?
Buying a car online? Arrange delivery first
If you’re buying from a private seller, agree the collection time with them before booking transport, and make sure payment and paperwork are complete before the vehicle is loaded.
Why choose Mehrev Automotive?
As a London-based recovery and transport company, we move single vehicles door to door across London and the UK, including non-runners. We can also rebuild engines and help if you’re looking for cars for sale in London.
Frequently asked questions
How much does car transportation cost in London?
It depends on distance, the vehicle, whether it runs and access at each address. Share both postcodes and vehicle details for a fixed quote.
Can you transport a car that doesn’t run?
Yes. Non-runners can be winched onto a flatbed. Tell the transport company whether the wheels turn and the steering works.
Is it better to transport a car or drive it?
If the car isn’t road legal, doesn’t run, is high value or the journey is long, transportation is usually the safer choice.
Need help now? Call Mehrev Automotive on 07366 051814 – 24/7 breakdown recovery, car transportation, engine rebuilding and car sales across London.