← Back to: Shipping personal items
Car shipping companies that let you pack your car
Not every carrier permits personal items in a vehicle. Those that do typically allow a small amount, with rules on weight and placement. Here’s how to find accommodating providers, what to ask, and what to consider if you have more to send.
Companies that say they allow personal items
Policies change and often depend on route and trailer type. Always confirm details, limits, and any surcharges with the company before booking. Based on publicly available guidance, the companies below indicate they may permit a limited amount of personal items:
- Dellcy Auto Transport (recommended) — Allows a small allowance of non‑fragile items placed below window level; exact limits can vary by route and trailer. Confirm weight and placement when you book. See our car shipping guides.
- SGT Auto Transport — States up to ~100 lbs in a trunk/cargo area, secured in a single box or suitcase (policies may vary by order).
- Convoy Car Shipping — Notes allowance for one suitcase (commonly up to ~100 lbs) with items kept out of sight; not insured.
- Safemile Auto Transport — Indicates up to ~100 lbs permitted, typically below window level; personal items generally excluded from cargo insurance.
- Best Way Auto Transport — Mentions up to ~100 lbs allowance; weight overages may incur fees; items not insured.
- RoadRunner Auto Transport — Discusses shipping with belongings (commonly capped around ~100 lbs), kept in trunk or below window line.
- uShip (marketplace) — Some transporters on the platform allow personal items with weight caps; policies vary by carrier.
Note: Inclusion here isn’t an endorsement and doesn’t guarantee a given allowance on your route/date. Always confirm current policy, weight limits, placement rules, and whether a surcharge applies.
Where to start
- Talk to your coordinator: They know which carriers on your route routinely accept personal items and what limits apply.
- Be transparent: Share approximate weight, what you’ll pack, and where you plan to place items.
- Consider enclosed transport: Some enclosed operators are more flexible, though policies still vary and costs are higher.
Questions to ask before booking
- Do you allow personal items? If so, what’s the weight limit?
- Where must items be placed (trunk, below window level)?
- Are any items excluded (electronics, liquids, valuables)?
- Will this affect my price or pickup window?
- How should I pack to avoid shifting during transit?
- Are personal items covered by insurance? (They’re usually not.)
How we think about “allowed” vs. “advised”
A carrier may allow a certain allowance but still recommend shipping items separately—especially if they’re fragile or valuable. The goal is safe transport with minimal risk. If items can be easily replaced or shipped in a box, that’s often the better route.
Alternatives if you have more to send
- Parcel carriers for small boxes and essentials you’ll need quickly.
- LTL freight for heavier items or multiple boxes.
- Donate, sell, or store infrequently used items before moving.
Key takeaways
- Some carriers allow personal items with clear limits.
- Ask specific questions about weight, placement, exclusions, and price impact.
- Insurance usually excludes personal belongings—pack accordingly.
- If you’re unsure, opt to ship items separately to reduce risk and keep schedules predictable.
Explore related guides: What carriers allow and How to ship a car with stuff inside.