Last updated 2024-07-22

Manage a tow request for transporting a non-driveable vehicle over a body of water

A claim representative manages the request for towing a non-driveable vehicle on a ferry or barge to transport the motor vehicle over a body of water.

When this applies

When a vehicle requires a tow over a body of water, via any barge or ferry service provider, the requirement to transport should be determined and arranged aligning with the vehicle's fuel type.

Important: The vehicle fuel type must be identified before a tow is dispatched to a tow company to transport any non-driveable vehicle on a ferry or barge over a body of water. Refer to the topic, Zero-emission vehicles for information on identifying different types of zero-emission vehicles.
A non-driveable zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) requiring transport over a body of water using any ferry service provider, such as BC Ferries or Washington State Ferries, must be arranged by the customer due to the increased risks, including
  • arranging and paying of the
    • tow of the vehicle
      • to the certified inspection facility, and
      • from the certified inspection facility to their chosen collision repair facility
    • inspection of the vehicle at the certified inspection facility, and
  • securing and provision of the required assistance documentation to staff at BC Ferries and/or other entities.
Important: For zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) all reasonable towing costs via ferry including inspection expenses are on a reimbursement basis subject to ICBC's Towing and Storage Rate Payment Schedule. ICBC does not provide any assurance or assume the risks to transport a non-drivable zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) on a ferry or barge. Initial towing and storage costs from the crash site to the tow companies yard, prior to inspection requirements, can be paid by ICBC; unless, the tow from the crash site to the tow yard uses a ferry.

Procedure

  1. Identify the vehicle's fuel type in their claim.
    1. Review the Details tab on the Vehicle Incident section of the Loss Details screen.
    If the non-driveable vehicle is ... And the vehicle is ... Then ...
    a zero-emission vehicle requiring transportation on a ferry or barge repairable
    the customer is responsible for
    • towing and inspection costs, and
    • arranging the towing and transportation to both the inspection facility, and to the final destination.
    a total loss without a Vehicle Ownership Transfer Agreement (CL96) signed by the customer
    a total loss with a CL96 signed by the customer ICBC is responsible for
    • towing and inspection costs, and
    • arranging the towing and transportation to both the inspection facility, and to the final destination.
    not a zero-emission vehicle either
    • repairable, or
    • a total loss
    proceed to step 2.
  2. Arrange a tow for the non-driveable vehicle, if it has been determined that ICBC is responsible for towing costs.
    If the vehicle is at a ... Then ...
    tow supplier/vendor dispatch the tow to a captive tow company.
    non-vendor select a tow company using the ICBC Non-captive tow rotation list for the service area..
    customer's residence
  3. Update the vehicle tracking table on the Vehicle Incident screen.
  4. Contact the tow company to provide the details and instructions for the tow.
    Important: Create a note documenting the agreed upon tow charges.