Shipping your car can simplify a long-distance move, but what about the items inside it? You might see the empty space in your vehicle as a great opportunity to transport a few extra boxes. While you can often pack personal belongings in your car for transport, it’s not as simple as loading it up. Understanding the rules and best practices is essential for a smooth, damage-free experience.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about packing your car for shipping. We will cover the specific rules most auto transport companies have, what you can and cannot pack, and how to prepare your vehicle properly. Following these steps helps ensure your car and your belongings arrive safely at their destination.
The First Rule: Always Check with Your Transport Company
Before you place a single item in your vehicle, your first step should be to contact your auto transport provider. Every company has its own set of rules regarding personal items. Some may have a strict no-items policy, while others may allow a certain amount of cargo for an additional fee or as part of their standard service.
Failing to confirm these policies can lead to unwanted surprises. Your vehicle could be rejected at pickup, or you could face unexpected fees. A quick phone call or email to customer service to clarify their specific guidelines on weight limits, item placement, and prohibited articles will save you time and potential headaches.
Understanding Weight and Volume Restrictions
Most carriers that permit personal items impose a weight limit, typically around 100 pounds. This restriction is not arbitrary; it’s in place for safety and regulatory reasons. The Department of Transportation has strict weight regulations for commercial trucks, and every extra pound counts. An overloaded transport truck can be a safety hazard and may be subject to fines, which could be passed on to you.
The 100-pound limit generally includes items like clothing, soft linens, and books. Think of it as the equivalent of one or two large suitcases. It is crucial to keep these items contained and stored out of the driver’s sightline, usually in the trunk or cargo area below the window level. Overloading your vehicle can also put undue stress on its tires and suspension during loading and transit, potentially leading to damage.
Valuables and Fragile Items Don’t Belong
It is critical to understand that auto transport insurance does not cover personal belongings left inside your car. The carrier’s insurance policy is designed to cover damage to the vehicle itself, not its contents. For this reason, you should never pack valuable or irreplaceable items.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Electronics (laptops, tablets, cameras)
- Jewelry and watches
- Important documents (passports, financial records)
- Cash or medication
- Sentimental items and family heirlooms
Similarly, fragile items like glassware, art, or antiques should be transported through other means. The shifting and vibrations during transit can easily cause them to break. Pack these items securely and move them with your household goods or carry them with you.
How to Secure Items Properly
If you are packing items in your car, they must be secured. Loose objects can become projectiles during transport, causing significant damage to your car’s interior. Imagine a heavy object sliding across your dashboard or breaking a window from the inside.
To prevent this, pack your belongings in soft-sided bags or well-taped boxes. Place them securely in the trunk or rear cargo area. Make sure nothing is packed above the window line, as this can obstruct the driver’s view when loading and unloading your vehicle onto the transport truck. Proper packing not only protects your car’s interior but also ensures the safety of the transport operator.
Preparing Your Vehicle for a Safe Journey
Beyond packing, a few vehicle preparation steps are necessary for safe transport.
Fuel Level: Your gas tank should be no more than one-quarter full. A full tank adds significant, unnecessary weight to the vehicle. More importantly, it can be a fire hazard during transport. A quarter tank provides enough fuel for the driver to load and unload the car without issue.
Car Alarm: Disable your car alarm before the driver arrives. An alarm that goes off during transit can be a major nuisance, potentially draining your battery and disturbing the driver. If you’re unsure how to disable it, consult your owner’s manual.
General Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in good working order. The battery should be charged, the tires properly inflated, and there should be no significant fluid leaks. The carrier needs to be able to start and drive the vehicle, so make them aware of any operational quirks beforehand.
A Smooth Transport Experience
Packing personal items in your car during shipping is possible, but it requires careful planning. By communicating with your transport company, respecting weight limits, leaving valuables out, and properly securing your belongings, you set the stage for a successful move. Taking these extra preparation steps protects your car, your items, and ensures a hassle-free transport process from start to finish.
