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Blog · Impound

Can I move my car from an insurance storage lot to an independent body shop?

Yes, you have the legal right to move your vehicle from any insurance storage lot, salvage yard, or tow yard to the independent collision repair shop of your choice. You are never obligated to leave your car at a facility chosen by an insurance company.

Why did the insurance company tow my car to their storage yard?

Insurance companies frequently direct tow trucks to haul damaged vehicles to their own contracted storage yards, salvage pools, or preferred Direct Repair Program (DRP) shops immediately after an accident. They do this to control the claims process, prevent mounting daily storage fees from independent yards, and pressure you into using their network or accepting a quick total-loss settlement. However, these yards are designed for the insurer's convenience, not your vehicle's proper restoration.

Who pays the fees to release my car from an insurance lot?

The insurance company handling the claim is generally responsible for paying the reasonable towing and storage fees required to release your vehicle, but you must act quickly to authorize the transfer. If you delay the decision, the insurer may issue a cut-off notice for storage charges, attempting to shift those daily costs onto you. Getting your vehicle moved to an independent shop immediately protects you from these predatory storage billing practices.

We specialize in getting vehicles out of Phoenix impound lots and insurance storage yards fast. If your car is stuck in a holding yard, call Airpark Auto Collision at (602) 600-7825. We will handle the release paperwork, negotiate the fees, and tow it directly to our North Phoenix facility.

How do I transfer my vehicle to Airpark Auto Collision?

To move your vehicle, you simply need to notify the insurance adjuster and the storage facility that you are designating Airpark Auto Collision as your authorized repair shop. The process requires a few straightforward steps:

  • Contact the storage facility or insurance adjuster to state that you want your vehicle released.
  • Sign a digital release form authorizing our transport service to pick up the vehicle.
  • Provide our shop address: 22039 N 24th Ave Ste A, Phoenix, AZ 85027.
  • Let our team coordinate the physical tow and administrative logistics to bring your car to our shop.

What are your rights as a vehicle owner in Arizona?

As a vehicle owner, you hold the ultimate authority over where your vehicle is repaired. While insurance policies and state laws vary, insurers cannot legally dictate which shop repairs your vehicle or force you to leave it at a salvage pool. We do not participate in insurance Direct Repair Programs, meaning we work exclusively for you—not the insurance company. We advocate for your safety by insisting on OEM parts, proper structural repairs, and mandatory ADAS calibrations for drivers across North Phoenix, Deer Valley, the TSMC corridor, Anthem, Cave Creek, and Scottsdale.

Common Questions

Will moving my car to an independent shop delay my insurance claim?

No. While insurance representatives may claim that choosing an independent shop slows down the process, we handle all communications, structural supplements, and digital documentation directly with the insurer. Our team works aggressively to keep your claim moving without cutting corners on repair quality.

What if the insurance company already declared my car a total loss at their yard?

You still have the right to a second opinion. Insurance adjusters frequently write visual-only estimates at storage lots that overestimate damage or underestimate vehicle value to force a total loss. Having your vehicle moved to our shop allows us to perform a proper teardown and precise structural evaluation to determine if it can be safely and economically repaired.

Call Airpark Before You Make a Decision

If your insurance company is telling you where to take your car, your vehicle is sitting in an impound lot, or your claim is being delayed — call us first. We'll explain your options.