Ship a Car with Stuff Inside: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re moving to a new location, you may need to transport your car, and you may want to transport some of your belongings in it. Shipping a car with stuff inside can be a cost-effective and efficient way to move your belongings. However, knowing the regulations and restrictions on shipping a vehicle with items inside and the best practices to ensure your belongings arrive safely is essential. This guide will discuss everything you need to know about shipping a car with stuff inside.
1. Is it Legal to Ship My Car with Stuff Inside?
Shipping a car with stuff inside is legal, but there are restrictions on what you can ship and how much you can ship. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the transportation of vehicles and goods in the United States. According to FMCSA regulations, the total weight of the car and its contents cannot exceed the weight limit specified by the carrier. Additionally, the carrier must be informed about the items inside the vehicle and the weight of those items.
2. What Are the Risks of Shipping a Car with Stuff Inside?
There are several risks associated with shipping a car with stuff inside. Your belongings may shift during transit, causing damage to the vehicle or the items inside. Your items may also be stolen, especially if they are valuable. In addition, shipping a car with items inside may increase the vehicle’s weight, which can affect the handling and fuel efficiency of the car.
3. What Items Can You Ship Inside Your Car?
You can ship many items inside your car, including clothing, bedding, books, and small electronics. However, there are some items that you should not ship, such as hazardous materials, firearms, and flammable liquids. Check with your car shipping company for specific restrictions on what you can and cannot ship.
4. How Do You Prepare Your Car for Shipping with Stuff Inside?
Before shipping your car with stuff inside, there are several steps you should take to ensure that your vehicle and your belongings arrive safely.
Cleaning Your Car
Clean your car thoroughly before shipping it, both inside and out. This will make it easier to inspect the vehicle for any damage before and after shipping.
Checking Your Car’s Battery
Make sure your car’s battery is fully charged and in good condition. A dead battery can cause problems during transit.
Checking Your Car’s Fluids
Check your car’s fluids, including the oil, coolant, and brake fluid, and make sure they are at the appropriate levels. This can help prevent damage to your car during transport.
Removing Personal Belongings
Remove all personal belongings from your car except the items you are shipping. This includes any loose items in the trunk or on the seats and any personal documents or valuables. It’s important to note that car shipping companies are not liable for any personal belongings left in the car.
5. How Do You Pack Your Belongings in Your Car for Shipping?
When packing your belongings for shipping, taking the necessary precautions to ensure they arrive safely is essential.
Choosing the Right Containers
Choose sturdy containers that can withstand the vibrations and jolts of transportation. Use plastic containers with lids or cardboard boxes that can be securely taped shut.
Securing Your Belongings
Make sure your belongings are tightly packed and cannot shift during transit. Use packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam peanuts to protect your belongings. Use cargo nets, tie-downs, or bungee cords to secure your containers in place.
Protecting Your Belongings
Wrap fragile items such as glassware and electronics in bubble wrap or packing paper. Place towels or blankets around the furniture to protect it from scratches and dents. Seal all containers with tape to prevent them from opening during transit.
6. How Should a Car Shipping Company Be Selected?
Your vehicle and possessions will arrive securely and on time if you choose the proper car shipping company.
Researching Car Shipping Companies
Research car shipping companies online and read reviews from other customers. Look for companies with a good reputation and a proven track record of success.
Getting Quotes
Contact several car shipping companies and request quotes. Ensure the quotes include all fees and charges and any restrictions on what you can ship.
Checking for Licenses and Insurance
Verify the car shipping company’s insurance and license status. Ask for proof of insurance and check with the FMCSA to verify the company’s license.
Reading Reviews
Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the company’s level of service and customer satisfaction.
7. The Price of Shipping a Car with Stuff Inside?
The price to ship a car with items inside can differ depending on a number of variables.
Factors Affecting the Cost
The factors that can affect the cost of shipping a car with stuff inside include the distance of the shipment, the size and weight of the vehicle, the type of shipping service you choose, and the number of things you are shipping.
Getting a Quote
Contact several car shipping companies and request quotes. Ensure the quotes include all fees and charges and any restrictions on what you can ship.
8. How Long Does it Take to Ship a Car with Stuff Inside?
The time it takes to ship a car with stuff inside can vary depending on the distance of the shipment and the type of shipping service you choose.
9. What Should You Do After Your Car is Delivered?
After your car is delivered, there are several steps you should take to ensure that everything arrives safely.
Inspecting Your Car
Inspect your car thoroughly for any damage. Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage immediately, and report it to the car shipping company.
Checking Your Belongings
Check your belongings to ensure everything arrives safely and nothing is missing.
10. Conclusion
Shipping a car with stuff inside can be a convenient and cost-effective way to move your belongings. However, taking the necessary precautions to ensure your vehicle and belongings arrive safely is essential. Choose a reputable car shipping company, pack your belongings securely, and follow the guidelines provided by the company. Don’t forget to remove any personal belongings from your car except for the items you are shipping. With the proper preparation and some research, you can safely ship your car with stuff inside.
5 Unique FAQs About Shipping a Car with Stuff Inside
Q. Is it legal to ship items inside your car?
A. Yes, it’s legal to ship items inside your car, but there are restrictions on what you can ship. Car shipping companies typically only allow personal belongings such as clothing, bedding, and small electronics.
Q. What happens if my car gets damaged during shipping?
A. If your car gets damaged during shipping, you should report it to the car shipping company immediately. Most companies have insurance that will cover any damage.
Q. Can I leave some gas in my car during shipping?
A. Yes, you can leave a small amount of gas in your car during shipping, but keeping the tank less than a quarter full is recommended.
Q. Do my license plates need to be taken off before transporting my car?
A. It is based on the state in which you reside. While some states demand that you take your license plates off, others do not. For precise requirements, check with your local DMV.
Q. Can I track my automobile while it’s being shipped?
A. The majority of auto shipping firms do offer tracking data so you can keep tabs on the status of your shipment.
