Can you put stuff in your car when it gets shipped?

While it is technically legal to ship personal items or boxes in your car or trunk during car shipping, the specific policies and stipulations vary among shipping companies. It's essential to consult with your chosen provider to understand their preferences and any potential restrictions.

Hauling vehicles from one location to another is a complex process that requires professional expertise. A common query is whether personal belongings can be packed in the shipped vehicle. The answer varies from one moving company to another. Several service providers allow a limited weight of personal belongings inside the car. Still, some may have strict policies prohibiting any form of goods in the vehicle during transit.

The Basics of Relocating Personal Belongings in Your Vehicle

Moving, long-distance travel, and short trips often require moving personal belongings in your vehicle. For convenience and cost, many people move items in their car. Packing your vehicle safely and efficiently is essential whether you're moving small appliances, clothes, books, or fragile items like decorative pieces.

Consistently distribute your belongings' weight evenly in your vehicle. Keep heavy items at the bottom and light ones on top. This prevents damage and keeps your car balanced. Make sure nothing falls or moves, which could make driving dangerous. Cover fragile items with blankets or padding to prevent breakage. Moving hazardous items like electronics or chemicals requires special care.

Regulations Regarding Hauling Items in Your Automobile

Understanding personal property loading regulations is crucial when relocating. Auto transport companies typically ban personal items. The Department of Transportation (DoT) prohibits carriers from transporting anything other than motor vehicles, supporting these specialized movers' main purpose. Safety, efficiency, and business specialization are the main goals.

Some companies may let you pack a few non-valuable items in the trunk up to a quarter of the back seat's size, but this is still a grey area. Highway patrol officers and weigh stations may fine items over 100-200 lbs. Shifting items in your car is risky because the auto mover's insurance usually covers only the vehicle.

The Risks and Consequences of Loading Items for Moving

Before opting to use your car as a transport medium for your personal belongings, it's essential to understand the risks associated with such a decision. One of the significant risks is damage to your items during transit. If the vehicle is involved in an accident, it can result in a significant loss due to damage to the items. Furthermore, some delicate belongings may not withstand the vibrations and bumps typical during vehicle transport. It's well worth considering how well your items can handle such conditions.

A further consideration to weigh is the potential for theft. Items left in plain sight can be an enticing target for thieves. Additional risks come in potential fines or penalties if your vehicle's weight exceeds the limits set out by your carrier service or local road regulations. Therefore, vehicle owners must be aware of these potential consequences before packing their cars with personal items during shipping.