Can You Ship Personal Items in Your Car?

Can You Include Personal Belongings When Shipping Your Car?

When preparing to ship your car, you might wonder: "Can I load personal items in my vehicle before transport?" It's a question that many customers ask as they look for convenience during the moving process. After all, if your car is being shipped, why not make the most of it by transporting some personal belongings, right?

However, shipping personal items inside your vehicle comes with a set of regulations, risks, and potential liabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain what you need to know about shipping personal belongings in your car, how AmeriFreight handles this, and offer tips to make the process as smooth and risk-free as possible.

Are You Allowed to Ship Personal Items in Your Car?

Federal Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees the rules governing auto transport in the United States. According to their guidelines, shipping personal belongings inside your vehicle during auto transport is not generally recommended. These rules are in place primarily for safety reasons, to protect both the vehicle and the transport carrier.

• Why the Restrictions? Federal law does not explicitly forbid transporting personal items in your car during auto shipping. However, many auto transport carriers restrict the amount or type of items due to liability, weight concerns, and risks of damage during transit. The FMCSA itself does not regulate the belongings within the vehicle but emphasizes the importance of keeping within vehicle weight limits.

AmeriFreight’s Guidelines

AmeriFreight advises that you should avoid packing your car with personal belongings. While small, lightweight items like clothing or blankets may be acceptable, loading your vehicle with heavy, valuable, or fragile items is discouraged. Overloading your vehicle could lead to additional costs and risks, including damage to your car and others during transport. Always make sure to ask your customer service agent about putting items in your vehicle well before your vehicle is dispatched, so that they can ensure the carrier you’re partnered with is willing to allow it. 

• Weight Limitations: Most transport companies, including AmeriFreight, recommend keeping personal items under 100 pounds. Exceeding this can lead to higher shipping costs or even delays, as overweight vehicles pose safety risks.

Potential Risks of Shipping Personal Items

While it may seem convenient to pack personal items in your car, it’s important to understand the risks and potential consequences.

1. Insurance Limitations

One major consideration is that auto transport insurance typically only covers the vehicle itself, not the personal items inside. If your belongings are damaged, stolen, or lost during transit, you may not receive compensation for those items. It’s essential to check with your auto insurance provider, but even then, most policies won’t cover personal goods inside the vehicle during transport.

2. Increased Risk of Theft

Cars being shipped cross-country often pass through various terminals and locations, sometimes left unattended during stops. Items left in the car could be at higher risk of theft, especially if they are visible through the windows. Thieves may target vehicles packed with belongings, and without adequate insurance coverage, you could face significant losses.

3. Damage Risks

Personal items inside the car can shift during transit, potentially causing damage to the vehicle's interior. For instance, heavy or unsecured items can move around and scratch upholstery, break windows, or damage the dashboard. Moreover, the added weight of personal items can affect the balance of the vehicle on the carrier, leading to potential issues with how the vehicle is secured.

How to Prepare Your Car if Shipping Personal Items

If you do decide to ship personal items in your car, following proper preparation steps is crucial to avoid potential problems.

1. Secure Your Items

Make sure all items are properly secured and won’t shift during transport. Consider using containers or bags to hold loose items, and place them on the floor rather than on seats to reduce the risk of damage. You can also use bungee cords to hold items in place.

2. Avoid Overloading

Be mindful of the weight limit set by the transport company. Overloading your vehicle can lead to extra fees and may even result in the vehicle being denied for transport. The excess weight can also put stress on the vehicle’s suspension system and affect how it rides on the carrier. Stick to lightweight items like clothing, bedding, or small household goods.

3. Inventory and Documentation

It’s always a good idea to create an inventory of the items you’re placing in the car. Take photos of the belongings and the car’s interior before shipment. This documentation will be useful in the rare case that you need to file a claim or report any issues after delivery.

AmeriFreight’s Approach to Personal Items

AmeriFreight’s Policy

At AmeriFreight, customer safety and the condition of their vehicle are top priorities. While the company understands the need for convenience when moving, it’s important to follow guidelines to ensure a smooth and problem-free auto transport experience.

• Personal Items Not Covered by Insurance: AmeriFreight emphasizes that personal items inside the vehicle are not covered by the auto transport insurance policy. Customers should be aware of the limitations and risks involved in packing personal goods in the vehicle.

• Weight and Space Considerations: AmeriFreight advises against overloading the vehicle, especially with heavy or valuable items. They recommend adhering to the general 100-pound limit and avoiding items that could cause damage or shift during transport.

Additional Fees and Restrictions

In some cases, if your vehicle exceeds the recommended weight limit due to personal items, you may incur additional charges. Furthermore, carriers have the right to refuse transport if the vehicle is excessively loaded, which could delay your move.

Tips for Ensuring Safety and Compliance

To ensure that your car and any personal belongings arrive safely and without issues, follow these tips:

• Remove All Valuables: Take out any high-value or irreplaceable items such as electronics, jewelry, or important documents. These items should be carried with you to avoid risk.

• Use Soft, Lightweight Items: If you must pack items in your car, stick to soft, non-fragile goods like clothing, towels, or bedding. These are less likely to cause damage and are easier to secure.

• Keep Items Out of Sight: Store items in the trunk or under seats to prevent visibility, which can deter theft. Avoid packing anything that is visible through the windows, as this could make your vehicle a target.

• Check Carrier Guidelines: Every carrier has slightly different rules regarding personal items in vehicles. Make sure to read and follow any specific guidelines provided by your carrier to avoid complications or additional fees.

FAQs About Shipping Personal Items in Your Car

1. Is it legal to ship personal items in a car?

While it is not illegal to ship personal items in your vehicle, it is generally discouraged by auto transport carriers due to liability issues and safety concerns.

2. What happens if my personal items are damaged during transport?

Most auto transport insurance policies do not cover personal items, so if they are damaged or stolen, you may not be compensated. It’s essential to remove valuables and keep only low-risk items in the vehicle.

3. Will adding personal items increase the cost of car shipping?

Yes, exceeding the vehicle's weight limit due to personal items may lead to additional fees. Always check with your carrier for any weight limitations or restrictions.

4. What kind of personal items can I ship in my car?

If you do ship personal items, stick to soft, lightweight goods like clothing, towels, or bedding. Avoid heavy, fragile, or valuable items, as these are more likely to cause damage or increase the risk of theft.

Conclusion

Shipping personal items in your car during auto transport might seem like a convenient option, but it comes with its own set of risks and considerations. From insurance limitations to the possibility of theft, it's important to weigh these factors before making your decision.

At AmeriFreight, our priority is to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and securely. If you have any concerns or questions about shipping personal belongings with your car, feel free to contact our team. We’re here to guide you through the process and offer the best solutions for your auto transport needs.