Shipping car and belongings together: What carriers allow

When shipping car with stuff inside, carriers must balance safety, weight, and scheduling. Can you ship car with stuff inside? Yes, most carriers allow a modest amount of personal belongings when shipping car and belongings together—typically under specific conditions. While policies differ, the guidelines below are consistent across the industry for those looking to ship car with stuff inside.

Common allowances for shipping car with stuff inside

Weight limit: Many carriers allow roughly 100 lbs (about a couple of small suitcases). Some accept more, others permit none—always confirm in advance.
Placement: Items should be in the trunk and footwells, below window level, and out of sight.
Type of items: Soft goods, clothing, linens, and basic household items that aren’t fragile or high‑value.

Common exclusions when shipping car and belongings together

Electronics, cash, jewelry, sentimental or irreplaceable items
Liquids, hazardous materials, perishables, firearms
Loose items that can move or interfere with loading

Open vs. enclosed transport for shipping car with stuff inside

Open trailers are the most common and cost‑effective option for shipping car and belongings together. Because vehicles are exposed to weather and visibility, carriers are often more restrictive when you ship car with stuff inside on open trailers.

Enclosed trailers offer additional protection and discretion for shipping car with stuff inside. Some enclosed carriers are more flexible when shipping car and belongings together (still usually with weight and placement rules). Expect a higher price for enclosed service regardless of personal items.

How shipping car and belongings together affects pricing and timing

Extra weight can reduce available carrier options or require rebalancing loads, affecting pickup windows.
Some carriers impose a surcharge or revise the quote when personal items are present.
In peak seasons, carriers may require empty vehicles to stay on schedule.

Best practices when shipping car with stuff inside

Confirm the allowance and any surcharges before booking.
Pack light, secure items tightly, and keep them below windows.
Avoid fragile or valuable belongings—insurance usually excludes them.
Photograph the interior and exterior at pickup and delivery, and note any concerns on the Bill of Lading.

When to avoid shipping car and belongings together

If you have more than a small allowance or anything valuable, consider sending boxes through parcel or LTL freight instead of shipping car and belongings together. This reduces risk and keeps your vehicle compliant with carrier policies. For a step‑by‑step guide on how to ship car with stuff inside safely, see How to ship a car with stuff inside.

FAQs about shipping car with stuff inside

Is 100 lbs a hard rule? No. It’s a common reference point, not an industry standard. Confirm the exact amount with your coordinator.

Will a roof box be allowed? Typically no; external cargo can affect clearances and safety. Ask before assuming it’s okay.

Are items insured? Generally not. Cargo insurance covers the vehicle itself.