If you are embarking on a long-distance move, you will likely be bringing plenty of things with you. If you plan on shipping your car, it might seem reasonable to pack it up with some of those belongings. However, is shipping a car with personal items possible? Let’s take a closer look at the answer to this common question.
Is it legal to ship items in my car?
The Department of Transportation hasn’t specifically outlawed shipping a car with personal items. Though it is technically legal, many auto shipping companies prefer that you don’t do it. Most companies have their own preferences for shipping a car with items inside so you will need to check with your specific shipping company. For those that do allow it, there are typically stipulations involved with shipping personal items.
What factors affect what I can bring?
Weight Limit: Auto carriers have strict guidelines with regard to weight. Since they are usually carrying multiple vehicles, you need to be mindful of the carrier’s overall weight. If the carrier is too heavy, the driver could be subject to fines. This is one reason many shipping companies do not allow for personal items to be shipped inside the vehicles.
Risk of Theft: In addition to weight regulations, many carriers are also conscious of the risk of theft. On an open carrier, people can see inside the vehicles. When the driver takes breaks, it’s possible that people will notice your personal items and valuables inside your vehicle and try to break-ins. This is yet another reason why packing personal items is usually frowned upon.
Why it is NOT recommended to pack personal items when shipping your car:
Even if an auto transport company does allow you to pack some personal items in your car, it may not be the best idea. For starters, as mentioned before, this puts you at a greater risk of theft. In addition, your items are likely to shift during transport which could result in damage both to the items and the interior of your vehicle. Finally, there is no guarantee that your car will arrive on time so you don’t want to be stuck without items that you need. For these reasons, it is best not to pack personal items inside your car during shipment.