Buying cars at auction has become increasingly popular—not just for dealers, but for savvy private buyers hunting for a good deal. Whether you snagged a vehicle through a local government auction, an online platform, or a wholesale dealer network, one big question comes up right after the winning bid: How do you get the car home?
That’s where auto transport comes in. Most auction vehicles aren’t ready to hit the road right away, and many auctions require quick pickup. If you can’t pick up the car yourself within the specified time, hiring a professional auto transporter is not just smart—it’s often the only practical solution.
So how does the process work?
After you win an auction, you’ll usually receive a set of documents confirming the sale, including the vehicle’s location, condition, and instructions for pickup. Most auctions give you just a few business days to remove the car from the premises. Miss the window, and you might face storage fees or risk the car being re-listed.
To avoid those complications, it’s best to arrange auto transport immediately after winning the auction, or even better—have a transport plan ready in advance. Start by contacting a transport company and providing the auction address, vehicle details, and any important access info. If you’re buying online through a site like Copart, IAAI, or Manheim, those platforms often have their own pickup protocols and hours, so be sure to share those with the transporter.
One critical detail: many auction cars are inoperable, or only partially operational. That means they can’t be driven onto a trailer and need special handling. Be honest with your transporter about the vehicle’s condition. Can it roll? Does it have tires? Is the steering functional? Cars that can’t move at all will require winches, forklifts, or flatbed loading—equipment not all carriers have on hand.
Because of this, not all carriers will take non-running vehicles, and those that do often charge an additional fee. That’s not a surprise markup—it reflects the extra labor and tools needed to move a car that doesn’t cooperate.
Once the carrier is matched to your vehicle and the pickup is scheduled, you’ll need to coordinate with the auction site. Some auctions require a release form or ID verification, especially if you won remotely. Make sure the transport driver has authorization to collect the vehicle, or you could face delays at the gate.
It’s also important to note that auction cars may not come with keys, license plates, or documentation in the vehicle itself. Don’t worry—these aren’t required for transport, but you’ll want to clarify what’s included when arranging pickup and delivery.
On the delivery side, be ready for a non-running vehicle to arrive. If the car can’t be driven off the trailer, you may need a flat area or even a tow to move it to its final spot. Many buyers have the vehicle delivered directly to a mechanic, restoration shop, or storage facility to begin repairs or evaluation right away.
From a cost perspective, shipping a car from an auction is similar to standard transport, with additional fees for non-operational status and possibly for time-sensitive pickup. Open transport is the most common method, but if you’re buying a high-end or classic vehicle, enclosed shipping adds more protection.
To keep everything smooth, stay in communication with your transporter, keep your documents organized, and be clear about the vehicle’s condition. Take detailed photos of key areas, especially the windshields and windscreens, which are often exposed during transit. That way, your winning bid doesn’t turn into a logistical headache—and your new car arrives safely, ready for its next chapter.