Can I put stuff in my car when I ship it?
“Can I ship my car with belongings inside?” is a question we often receive from customers planning to ship their car to another state or across the country.
The answer is yes, you can pack personal belongings in your car when you ship it, but you must follow some rules. When shipping a car and belongings together, you are typically allowed to put up to 100 lbs of your things in the trunk or back of your car. Make sure to pack these items in a box or suitcase. If you’re planning to include things, let us know their estimated weight when you book the car transport. This helps us give you a quote that covers shipping a car with items inside.
When shipping you car and belongings together, there are rules you need to follow. You must keep the front seats and the area at your feet in the front clear of any personal belongings. The back seats and the floor in the back should also be empty, unless you’ve arranged otherwise with your car shipper. You can’t attach anything to the outside of your car during shipping, as per the rules of the Department of Transportation (DOT) that all car shipping companies follow.
Shipping a car across country with belongings is possible but has strict rules associated with it. If you’re shipping a car to or from Hawaii, different rules will likely apply. You can’t ship personal items in your car. If the port finds any personal belongings, they may refuse to ship your car (the only exception being a child’s car seat secured in the back seat of the vehicle).
Shipping car and belongings together: The steps to follow
- Check the Rules: Auto transport companies have rules about shipping personal items because of weight limits and safety regulations set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Overloading can lead to fines, delays, or refusal to pick up your car.
- Understand the Limits: Most car shipping companies have strict guidelines on what and how much you can pack inside your car. They will likely ask you to keep the cargo area empty or limit the weight of items you can include.
- Be Aware of Risks: Shipping a car with belongings inside increases the chance of damage. Items can move around and scratch or dent the interior. Also, personal items inside the car may not be covered by the shipping company’s insurance.
- Find a Flexible Company: Some companies, allow you to pack a small amount of personal items, usually around 100 pounds, secured in the trunk or below the window line. Look for car shipping companies that allow you to pack your car.
- Communicate with Your Shipper: Before you decide to pack your car, talk to the transport company. Ask about their specific rules, weight limits, and what their insurance covers. Confirm those details when shipping car and belongings together.
In short, while you can ship car a with belongings inside, it’s important to know the rules and risks associated with doing it. Always communicate with your car shipping company to ensure a smooth auto transport experience.
How to ship car with belongings: Precautions to take when shipping a car with stuff inside
Secure personal items
Beyond the basics of packing, consider utilizing vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and soft items to save space and keep things compact. This method not only maximizes the amount of stuff you can ship with your car but also adds an extra layer of protection against moisture, which is particularly important if your vehicle will be transported through different climates.
For electronics and other sensitive devices, use their original packaging if possible, as these are designed to protect the item during transport. If the original packaging isn’t available, wrap these items in anti-static bubble wrap and securely place them in a box that’s filled with foam peanuts or more bubble wrap to prevent movement.
Labeling each box with its contents and “FRAGILE” (if applicable) can also be helpful, not only for your own organization but in the rare case that someone else needs to handle your items during the shipping process. It’s a small step that can contribute significantly to the safety of your belongings.
Hiding personal items
While the idea of hiding items in your car might seem straightforward, there are creative ways to ensure your belongings remain out of sight. For example, consider using non-transparent storage bins for storing items within the car. These can be stacked in the trunk or backseat, offering an organized and discreet way to transport personal items. Furthermore, custom car storage solutions, like under-seat bins or over-the-seat organizers, can also be utilized to maximize space and keep personal items and belongings remain hidden to the best of your ability.
Remember, the goal is not just to prevent theft but also to avoid tempting would-be thieves. A car that appears empty is far less likely to be targeted than one visibly packed with belongings inside.
Shipping a Car With Belongings Isn’t Without Risk
Insurance and Liability
It’s important to understand the limits of your insurance policy when shipping a car with items inside. Most car shipping insurance policies cover damage to the vehicle itself but not the personal items inside. This means if your items are stolen or damaged during transit, you may not be compensated unless you have arranged for additional coverage.
Some insurance companies offer personal property insurance that can be added to your existing policy or purchased as a standalone. This type of insurance can provide peace of mind, covering the value of your items against theft or damage. However, make sure to read the fine print; some policies may have limitations on coverage for items left in a vehicle.
Before shipping, create a detailed inventory of all items you plan to ship inside your vehicle. This inventory should include photographs, descriptions, and, if possible, receipts or appraisals for valuable items. This documentation can be crucial in the event of a claim.
Mitigating Risks
When choosing a shipping company, don’t just focus on price. Consider their track record, the range of services they offer, and their policy on shipping personal items inside your car. Ask for references or look for online reviews to gauge past customers’ experiences.
Another way to mitigate risk is to personally meet with the driver who will be transporting your vehicle. This allows you to discuss any concerns and establish a direct line of communication with you and your car shipper. Additionally, some car shipping companies offer GPS tracking services for your vehicle during transit, providing real-time updates on its location and status.
Use Common Sense When Shipping Stuff With Your Car
Choosing What to Ship
When deciding what belongings and items to pack in your vehicle, consider the items’ exposure to temperature extremes. Electronics, for instance, can be damaged by extreme cold or heat, so it might be safer to transport these items with you or via a more controlled environment.
Also, think about the potential for leakage. Items like liquids, creams, or anything that could spill should be packed in sealed bags and containers to prevent damage to the vehicle interior or other belongings.
Preparing for the Worst-case Scenario
In addition to preparing an inventory, consider sharing a copy of this list with a trusted friend or family member. This way, if something happens to your copies, you have a backup. Additionally, researching your rights and understanding the claims process with the auto transport company can save you a lot of headaches if you need to report lost or damaged items.
Final Checklist and Pre-shipment Preparations
Before handing over your car for shipping, perform a final walkthrough of the vehicle. Check that all personal items and belongings are securely packed and hidden, verify that you’ve removed all important documents and valuables that you didn’t intend to ship, and ensure the car is in good condition for transport. Take photos of your vehicle from various angles to document its condition pre-shipment.
Lastly, ensure clear communication with your car shipping company regarding pick-up and delivery times, the process for reporting issues, and any last-minute questions you might have. This final step is crucial for a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience.
If you have any questions about shipping a car with stuff inside feel free to call the auto transport professionals at Convoy Car Shipping.
