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CAN I SHIP MY CAR WITH STUFF IN IT?
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Jason
“My truck was delivered in pristine condition, and I easily released payment to shipper via uShip's website and that was it! So easy.”
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“In every interaction with the team members they have gone above and beyond to ensure I was satisfied with the results.”
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Liz
"It was relatively easy to find a shipper and payment was pretty seamless."
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Jim
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Brian
"I can find that hard to deliver item a dependable driver and research their past feedbacks on the platform."
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Rebecca
"Our boat arrived in perfect condition."
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Jonathan
"Have used uShip twice to ship a motorcycle purchased out of state. The entire experience has been top notch each time."
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Sheleigh
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Stephen
"uShip provides a service that is unlike anyone else on the planet and I am thankful for it!"
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Alaina
"Wonderful service!!!!! Felt safe and comfortable with how they do payments too! Shipment went better and quicker than expected!!"
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Tony
"The delivery went without a hitch and I cannot say enough good things about the shipper!"
When Shipping a Car, Can You Pack It with Personal Items?
Yes, you can ship your car with items inside. If you're wondering, "Can I pack my car with personal or household items when shipping?"—the answer is generally yes. However, the rules around this can vary.
Currently, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has not explicitly prohibited or approved the practice. While some car shipping companies allow customers to pack personal belongings in their vehicles, it’s important to check with your carrier to ensure compliance with their policies.
Is It Legal to Ship Your Car with Stuff Inside?
Yes, it is technically legal to ship your car with personal items or boxes inside, including in the trunk. However, car shipping companies have their own policies regarding what they allow. If you're asking, "Can I ship my car with stuff in it?"—the answer depends on your carrier's specific rules.
Before shipping, review your transport provider’s guidelines to understand any restrictions, weight limits, or liability concerns. This will help you avoid unexpected fees or issues during transit.
It Can Cost More to Ship Your Car with Things in It
Car shipments have weight limits based on the vehicle's make and model. Exceeding these limits can lead to additional charges or, in some cases, a rejected shipment.
Most car shipping companies allow up to 200 lbs. of personal items inside the vehicle before extra fees apply. However, costs can vary depending on the distance. For example, shipping a car with belongings inside across the continental U.S. is typically more affordable than shipping a fully loaded vehicle to Hawaii.
To determine whether shipping your car with items inside will increase your costs—and to understand your specific weight limits—communicate directly with your carrier. You can easily do this through uShip’s platform after creating a listing.
Pros and Cons of Shipping Your Car with Stuff in It
Pros
- Save space in your moving truck – Placing household items in your vehicle can free up valuable space in your moving truck.
- Protect fragile or valuable items – Packing certain belongings in your car allows you to secure them yourself, reducing the risk of damage from being loaded and unloaded multiple times.
- Convenient for small items – Tossing a few boxes in the trunk, clothes in the backseat, or even a couple of lamps up front can make your move easier.
Cons
- Weight limits and extra costs – Most car shipping companies allow up to 100 lbs. of additional weight for free, but exceeding this limit may result in extra fees.
- Carrier-specific policies – Not all car shipping companies permit personal items inside vehicles. It’s essential to check with your carrier in advance to avoid issues.
- Theft risks – If you're shipping your car cross-country, unsecured or visible belongings could attract thieves. Take necessary precautions to safeguard valuables.
Shipping Items in Your Car Can Be Risky
Most car transport services recommend keeping personal items below the window line or in the trunk to minimize the risk of theft.
If you're wondering, "Can you put stuff in the car when shipping?"—the answer is yes, but there are risks involved. Car carriers don’t travel directly from pickup to delivery; they make stops for refueling and rest breaks. A vehicle loaded with visible belongings can attract unwanted attention, increasing the risk of theft, broken windows, or forced entry.
Unfortunately, in most cases, damages or stolen items are not covered by the carrier’s insurance, meaning the responsibility falls on you.
To protect your belongings, follow the same precautions you would when leaving your car in a public parking lot: hide valuables, keep nothing in sight, and always lock your doors.
Shipping Your Car and Belongings Together: Best Practices
Shipping personal items in your car always comes with some risk. Poorly packed items can shift during transport, potentially causing damage to both your belongings and your vehicle. However, following these best practices can help minimize risks and avoid unnecessary costs:
- Avoid shipping high-value items. Expensive or irreplaceable belongings are best transported separately to prevent loss or theft.
- Keep items out of sight. Store boxes, bags, or suitcases where they can’t be seen through the windows to reduce the risk of theft.
- Pack fragile items carefully. If you must ship fragile belongings, use proper packaging to protect them from shifting or breaking.
- Don’t overpack. Excess weight can lead to additional shipping costs and may exceed carrier limits.
- Check with your car shipping company. Always confirm your carrier’s policies before placing items in your trunk or backseat.
- Leave the driver’s seat empty. Your car will likely be driven onto the transport truck, so keep the front seat clear for accessibility.
By following these guidelines, you can reduce potential issues and ensure a smoother shipping experience.
Ship with uShip
Shipping your car with uShip is a simple, efficient, and reliable way to transport your vehicle—whether it's across the country or just a few states away. If you're wondering, "Can I ship my car with stuff in it?"—the answer is yes, but it’s important to confirm with your carrier before booking to ensure compliance with their specific policies.
Unlike many traditional car shipping companies, uShip connects you with top-rated carriers that may allow personal items in your vehicle during transport. However, each carrier has its own weight limits, restrictions, and guidelines, so clear communication is key to avoiding any surprises.
With transparent pricing, flexible scheduling, and a user-friendly platform, uShip makes it easy to compare carriers, find the best rates, and communicate directly with transport providers. Whether you're moving, relocating, or simply need to ship your vehicle with a few extra belongings, uShip helps you find a solution that fits your needs and budget.
