Many people wonder if they can ship a car with luggage or belongings inside. This post explains the regulations, risks and alternatives.
Carrier Policies
Most carriers prohibit personal items due to safety and insurance limitations. Some may allow small, secured items under 100 pounds.
Risks of Shipping Personal Items
Items can shift during transport, causing damage or theft. Carrier insurance typically does not cover personal belongings.
Alternatives
Ship your belongings separately or rent a small moving container. Consider driveaway services if you must transport items with the vehicle.
Other ways people ask this question
ship car with personal items, transport car with luggage, shipping car loaded with stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it legal to ship a car with personal items inside? It’s not illegal, but most carriers prohibit it and their insurance won’t cover personal items.
- Will items in my car be insured? No. Carrier insurance covers only the vehicle itself, not its contents.
- What happens if I leave items in my car anyway? You risk damage, theft and potentially voiding the transporter’s liability.
Related Resources
- How to Ship a Car to Another State
- Car Shipping Cost & Pricing
- Vehicle Transport Options
- State-to-State Car Shipping Guide
When shipping a car across states, there are numerous factors to consider beyond simply booking a carrier. In addition to the route and service type, you should research the reputation of various auto transport companies, compare quotes carefully and read customer reviews. Seasonality can influence prices, with higher demand during summer and snowbird migrations. Always confirm the carrier’s insurance coverage and ask about communication during transit. A reputable broker or carrier will answer your questions, provide clear documentation and help you prepare your vehicle properly.
Preparing your vehicle involves cleaning it inside and out, removing personal belongings, disabling toll transponders and checking for leaks. Document the car’s condition with photos and ensure the gas tank is around a quarter full to keep weight low. On the day of pick‑up, inspect the vehicle with the driver and sign the bill of lading, which serves as your receipt and inspection report. Upon delivery, re‑inspect your car, note any changes on the bill of lading and make final payment. To learn more about the car shipping process, visit How to Ship a Car to Another State.