Shipping Car with Stuff Inside

During a long-distance move, there is the temptation to maximize the car space by loading it with personal items.

Although one might think this is a financially wise approach to combine your move with the fact that your car will be shipped, the laws on shipping cars with items inside are pretty complicated.

This guide will help you navigate, explain risks, and offer safer options.

The official stance on car shipping with personal items

Most auto transport companies have a straightforward policy: cars should not be shipped with personal items inside.

This guideline isn't arbitrary-it's rooted in legal and logistical concerns.

Licensing restrictions: Car shipping companies are in this business legally and do not operate under the same license as household moving companies. The Department of Transportation regulates personal effects as not being transported across state lines by carriers.
Weight limits: This additional weight is shocking and tends to cause some carriers to exceed the legal weight allowed. While small amounts might go unnoticed, the DOT can fine carriers if cars are found with excessive weight or visible items during inspections.

Risks of shipping a car with personal items

Even if a transport company allows small amounts of personal belongings, it's essential to consider the potential risks:

Theft: Cars on transport trucks are often left in open lots during overnight stops. Any visible items inside your vehicle could attract thieves.

Damage to your vehicle: They move all around the car during transfer, and some of them may bang on the interior part of your car, break windows, or cause a scratch or dent.

Insurance limitations: Auto transport insurance usually only covers physical harm to the car, not its contents. The treatment of personal effects inside the vehicle does not apply; thus, you are alone in case of loss or damage.

Best practices for shipping personal items in your car

If you decide to pack items in your car despite the risks, there are steps you can take to minimize potential issues:

Stick to the Trunk: Place all items securely in the trunk. This keeps them out of sight and reduces the risk of damage.
Keep it light: Avoid overloading your vehicle. Stick to lightweight and non-fragile essentials.
Secure loose items: Padding or straps prevent items from shifting during transit.
Communicate with your carrier: Always inform your transport company about any items in your car. Transparency helps avoid surprises during inspections or weigh-ins.

Why auto transport companies discourage shipping items

The rules of non-acceptance of personal effects are not only prohibitions based on the law - they are aimed to provide trouble-free transportation of goods without risks for all sides.

Here's why:

Liability concerns: Drivers do not wish to be counted liable for any loss or damage to the passengers' belongings.

Operational safety: Excessive weight also presents operating constraints and can otherwise cause problems regarding DOT weight regulations.

Cost implications: Overloaded vehicles can increase fuel consumption and wear on transport equipment, raising operational costs.

Alternatives to shipping personal items in your car

Instead of trying to transport both your vehicle and personal items together, consider these alternatives:

Professional moving companies: This is so because movers are particularly accredited and outfitted with concerns about household goods. They can pick up your property from one destination to another without hazards common with car shipping.
Parcel shipping services: If the quantity is small or the items are expensive, then UPS, FedEx, or Post are possible ways.
Storage options: If you want to transport a car, and your move date is not definite, storing your things in a rented warehouse will be helpful.

How to prepare your car for shipping

If you're shipping your car, it's essential to prepare it properly, even if you're not including personal items:

Clean the interior and exterior: For this reason, it is recommended to wipe out your car to enhance your ability to spot hidden damage.
Remove personal belongings: Remove anything from GPS machines to loose change.
Document condition: Take clear photos of your car from multiple angles to record its condition before shipping.
Check fluids and tires: Ensure proper maintenance to prevent leaks or issues during transport.
Disable alarms: Prevent unnecessary disruptions by turning off any alarms.

Final takeaways

Driving your car with household items may seem like the best deal when shipping your vehicle. However, this is not usually the case.

Anything from potential fines and the limitations of the insurance coverage to theft and damage are clear indications that cars and belongings should not travel together.

By now, you should know how to go about shipping your car.

Therefore, you should not have any problem with this exercise by following the best practices, choosing a reputable transport company, and looking for other options for your items.

Do not confuse professional auto transport companies with moving companies because they are different service providers who aim to safely and efficiently transport your automobile, not your household belongings.

Prioritize their guidance to avoid unnecessary complications and ensure both your car and belongings arrive safely at their destinations.

Are you looking to ship your car?

Get a free, no-obligation quote today and experience hassle-free vehicle transport with Universal Transit!