Join thousands who chose Safemile: Over 9000 vehicles transported in 2024, with an exceptional 99.8% scratch-free delivery rate. Your trust, our commitment. We deliver cars, SUVs, Trucks, ATV/UTVs, heavy equipment , motorcycles, and boats to all 50 states. Our lines are open 7 days a week, 365 days a year – because your convenience is our priority.
Car Shipping Companies That Allow You to Pack Your Car
Shipping a car across the country or even just a few states away can be a logistical challenge. One common question that arises during this process is whether you can pack personal items in your vehicle during auto transport. Understanding the ins and outs of this aspect is essential for making an informed decision when you ship your car with personal belongings. This guide explores the policies, risks, and best practices associated with car transport and shipping personal items inside your vehicle.
Auto Transport 101: What You Need to Know Before You Ship a Car
If you need to transport your car across state lines or even coast-to-coast, choosing the right auto transport service is essential for a safe, affordable, and stress-free experience. Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle online, or sending a car to a family member, understanding how to ship a car and how to prepare your car for shipping is the first step toward a smooth car shipping experience.
With so many car shipping companies and auto transport companies offering a variety of services from open auto transport to enclosed car shipping, and options that let you ship your car and belongings together it’s important to know what’s allowed, what’s recommended, and what affects the car shipping cost.
Whether you’re transporting a standard sedan, a classic vehicle that requires an enclosed car, or simply want to ship your vehicle with some personal belongings inside, being well-informed about car shipping methods, shipping a car with items, and what’s typically offered by car shipping companies is crucial.
Let’s break down what you need to know to confidently move forward with your vehicle shipping journey and ensure your car and belongings arrive safely, on time, and within budget.
Can You Ship Personal Items in Your Car?
Shipping a car with personal items inside is a common concern for many people preparing for auto transport. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car from another state, or sending a vehicle to a loved one, the idea of utilizing the extra space inside your car for personal belongings seems both convenient and practical. However, the rules around placing items in your car during transport can vary depending on the company and shipping method you choose. That’s why it’s important to understand the guidelines, risks, and best practices before deciding to pack your car with stuff.
Understanding Auto Transport Regulations
When considering shipping personal items inside your vehicle, it’s essential to understand the regulations governing this practice. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees auto transport in the United States and generally advises against placing personal belongings inside vehicles during transport. This recommendation is primarily due to safety concerns and the potential for damage or theft.
Most auto transport companies are not licensed to carry household goods, and including personal items in your vehicle could lead to complications. While enforcement of these regulations may vary, it’s crucial to consult with your chosen car shipping company to understand their specific policies.
Company Policies on Shipping Personal Items
Policies regarding personal items in vehicles differ among car shipping companies. Some allow a limited amount of personal belongings, typically confined to the trunk or below window level, with a weight limit of around 100 pounds . Others may prohibit personal items altogether due to liability concerns.
It’s important to note that even if a company permits personal items, these belongings are usually not covered by the carrier’s insurance. Therefore, any loss or damage to personal items during transport would be the owner’s responsibility .
Preparing Your Car for Shipping: Essential Steps for a Smooth Auto Transport Experience
When you’re ready to ship your car, taking the proper steps to prepare your vehicle is critical to ensuring a smooth and damage-free auto transport experience. Whether you’re working with reliable car shipping companies or comparing multiple shipping quotes, knowing how to properly prepare your car for shipping not only helps prevent delays but also protects both your vehicle and any personal items you may pack inside.
Steps to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
- Clean Your Vehicle
Before handing over your car to an auto transport service, wash the exterior and vacuum the interior. A clean car allows inspectors to accurately document its condition and makes any existing damage clearly visible during the vehicle shipping inspection process. - Document the Vehicle’s Condition
Take dated, high-quality photos of your vehicle from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing scratches or dents. This visual evidence is vital in case a dispute arises during the shipping process and can support any potential insurance claims. - Remove Personal Belongings
While some car shipping companies allow limited personal items inside the vehicle, it’s generally recommended to remove all valuables and unnecessary items from the car. This reduces the risk of theft and prevents loose objects from shifting during transport. - Inspect for Leaks and Mechanical Issues
Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check for any fluid leaks, and if necessary, have them repaired before the scheduled car shipment. Cars with mechanical issues may not be accepted for transport or may incur additional fees.
- Disable Alarms and Remove Toll Tags
Turn off any alarm systems and remove toll tags or parking passes. These can cause delays or additional charges if triggered during car delivery or transport truck loading.
- Secure or Remove Loose Accessories
Detach or firmly secure items like bike racks, spoilers, or rooftop storage boxes. During auto transport, especially on open car carriers, these attachments can loosen and cause damage to your vehicle or others.
Packing Personal Items (If Allowed by Your Car Shipping Company)
If your car transport service allows you to ship personal items inside your vehicle, be sure to follow their specific guidelines. While it may seem convenient to ship your car and belongings together, failing to comply with rules can lead to fines or damaged property.
- Limit the Weight: Most auto transport companies set a weight limit of around 100 pounds for items inside the car. Overloading your car can increase your car shipping cost or make your vehicle ineligible for shipping services.
- Secure the Items: Keep all belongings inside the car either in the trunk or below window level. This prevents movement during transport and keeps items out of sight, reducing theft risk.
- Avoid Fragile or Valuable Items: Items like electronics, jewelry, or irreplaceable goods should not be placed inside the vehicle. These are not covered under standard insurance offered by car shipping companies.
Why Preparation Is Important for a Car with Belongings?
When you decide to ship your car with personal belongings inside, preparation is crucial to ensure a safe and cost-effective auto transport experience. Whether shipping a car across country or locally, proper packing of your car with belongings helps avoid complications during the shipping process.
1. Protecting Your Belongings During Transport
Packing your car for transport is essential to protect your personal belongings in your car. Many car shipping companies allow personal items inside your car, but improperly secured items can shift, causing damage. Proper packing reduces the risk of damage and ensures a smooth shipping experience.
2. Impact on Shipping Costs
Shipping a car with belongings can increase the overall car shipping cost. Auto transport companies may charge extra for car with belongings, or there may be weight restrictions that affect the shipping quote. Be aware of the cost to ship your car with items inside, as this can vary based on the type of auto transport chosen.
3. Weight Limits and Safety Concerns
Knowing the weight limits for personal items in your car is essential. Exceeding the limit can result in delays or the need to get your car to a different provider. Most car shipping companies have a weight limit of 100 pounds for belongings inside. Packing more than this can create unsafe conditions during transport.
4. The Right Packing Strategy
When shipping a car and belongings, it’s important to pack wisely. Place personal items in the car below window level or in the trunk. This keeps your belongings secure and prevents obstruction of the driver’s view. Following the correct packing strategy helps avoid complications and keeps the shipping process smooth.
5. Understanding the Terms of Car Shipping Companies
Each car shipping company has its own policies regarding personal items in your vehicle. Some allow packing as long as weight limits are met, while others don’t permit any personal items. Always check with the auto transport company to understand the rules before booking.
6. Ensuring a Smooth Shipping Process
Proper preparation ensures your car with belongings arrives safely and on time. Clear communication with your auto transport service is key to ensuring that your items inside the car are packed properly and within guidelines. Following these steps minimizes delays, unexpected costs, and damage.
By preparing your vehicle and your personal belongings accordingly, you can have a safe and cost-effective transportation experience. Whether you use a cheap car shipping service or a premium car transport service, preparation ensures a smooth process. Don’t forget to request an instant online car shipping quote to evaluate your options and ensure the best service with Safemile Auto Transport, one of the companies that allows you to ship your vehicle with your belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave personal items in my car while it’s being shipped?
Yes, some auto transport companies, like Safemile Auto Transport, allow up to 100 pounds of personal items to be left in the vehicle, typically in the trunk or below window level. However, these items are not covered by insurance and may be at risk of damage or loss.
Does Packing Personal Items in My Car Affect the Shipping Cost When I Ship My Car?
Yes, it can increase the cost. Auto transport companies factor in the weight and space required for shipping. More weight can lead to higher shipping fees.
What does it mean for my personal items to be outside of the insurance coverage?
It means that if your personal items are damaged or lost during transport, the auto transport company’s insurance will not cover the cost of those items. Therefore, it’s recommended not to pack valuable or fragile items in your car.
Why do car shipping companies limit personal items in vehicles?
Auto transport companies limit personal items for several reasons, including preventing damage or loss of items, managing vehicle weight, and complying with legal regulations.
What are alternative ways to ship personal items if I can’t ship them with my car?
For valuable or fragile items, you can opt for third-party shipping services like freight companies or parcel services. These companies offer secure transport for your personal belongings separately from your car.