When dealing with vehicle transport, understanding the nuances of different titles is crucial, especially when it comes to vehicles with rebuilt titles. Whether you’re buying a car with a rebuilt title or selling one, knowing how this designation affects car transport is essential.
In this blog, we will cover what a rebuilt title is, how it differs from a salvage title, and how to ensure smooth transportation of vehicles with rebuilt titles across state lines.
Key Points:
- A rebuilt title indicates that a vehicle was once declared a total loss but has been repaired and deemed roadworthy.
- Vehicles with rebuilt titles require special consideration during transport due to potential insurance and inspection requirements.
- While rebuilt title cars offer significant savings, you must be prepared for challenges, including transport insurance and state inspections.
What is a Rebuilt Title in Vehicle Transport?
A rebuilt title is issued when a vehicle, once declared a total loss (also known as a salvage vehicle), has been repaired and inspected for roadworthiness. In vehicle transport, cars with rebuilt titles often require special handling due to their history of damage and repair.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Transport Companies: Some auto transport companies specialize in transporting vehicles with rebuilt or salvage titles. Check out our guide to the Best Car Shipping Companies for recommendations.
- Insurance Concerns: Insurance for cars with rebuilt titles can be tricky. You may encounter higher premiums or limitations on coverage.
- Resale Value: Vehicles with rebuilt titles typically have a lower market value, affecting shipping insurance and overall transport costs.
How a Rebuilt Title Affects Vehicle Transport
Vehicles with rebuilt titles often need extra precautions when it comes to transport. Here’s how having a rebuilt title impacts the process:
- Cost of Shipping: Vehicles with rebuilt titles may cost more to ship due to their increased insurance needs and specific transport requirements.
- Specialized Carriers: Many transport companies provide enclosed transport options for rebuilt title vehicles to protect them from further damage.
- Inspection Requirements: In certain states, rebuilt title vehicles must pass inspections before being allowed on the road. You need to coordinate this with both the seller and the transport company to ensure compliance before shipment.
If you’re planning to buy a rebuilt title car, check our Top Sites to Buy Cars Online to find trustworthy dealers.
Salvage Title vs Rebuilt Title: What’s the Difference?
One common point of confusion is the difference between a salvage title and a rebuilt title. Let’s clarify how each title impacts vehicle transport.
| Feature | Salvage Title | Rebuilt Title |
|---|---|---|
Condition | Declared a total loss, unrepaired | Repaired and inspected for roadworthiness |
Transport Needs | Requires special handling during transport | Safe to transport but may require extra precautions |
Legal Status | Not roadworthy, cannot be insured or registered | Roadworthy but may face insurance limitations |
Resale Value | Very low resale value, harder to insure | Lower than clean title vehicles, but easier to insure and sell |
For a deeper dive into how vehicle titles affect the car buying process, visit our guide to the Best Used Car Websites.
Why Should You Care About Rebuilt Titles in Transport?
When shipping a car with a rebuilt title, you should consider the following:
- Thorough Inspection: Ensure the vehicle has undergone necessary repairs and passed all required inspections before arranging transport.
- Shipping Insurance: Not all auto transport companies will insure rebuilt title cars under the same terms as vehicles with clean titles. Always ask about insurance coverage.
- Higher Transport Costs: Depending on the condition of the vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport, the cost of shipping a rebuilt title car may vary.
For maximum protection, opt for enclosed car shipping, especially if the rebuilt vehicle holds significant value after repairs.
Conclusion
Understanding rebuilt titles and how they affect vehicle transport can save you time, money, and hassle. Whether you’re shipping a rebuilt title car across the country or simply moving it to a new state, it’s important to consider the costs, risks, and requirements involved.
FAQs
A rebuilt title means the vehicle was declared a total loss but has been repaired and is roadworthy. Transporting these cars requires extra precautions and insurance coverage.
Yes, you can ship a vehicle with a rebuilt title. Specialized services may be needed, and the shipping company might require additional insurance.
Shipping costs are often higher for rebuilt title cars due to increased insurance needs and the possibility of requiring enclosed transport.
A salvage title is issued when a car is declared a total loss. A rebuilt title is given after the vehicle is repaired and passes inspection for roadworthiness.
Yes, it is safe to transport a car with a rebuilt title, but it’s important to use a reputable auto transport company. They may recommend enclosed transport and additional insurance to ensure the vehicle’s protection during transit.
