What should I remove from my vehicle before shipping?

Remove all personal belongings from your vehicle before shipping. This includes items in the glove box, center console, under seats, in door pockets, the trunk, and any cargo areas. Auto transport carriers are federally licensed to transport vehicles only — not household goods — and any personal items left in the vehicle are not covered by the carrier's insurance. If items are lost, stolen, or damaged during transit, you have no recourse.

Beyond personal items, remove or secure any loose exterior accessories. This includes removable bike racks, cargo carriers, ski racks, removable spoilers, and custom accessories that could come loose during transport. Retract power antennas or remove them entirely — they can snap off at highway speeds. Fold in your side mirrors if they are adjustable. Remove toll transponders like E-ZPass to avoid phantom charges while the carrier passes through toll booths. If your vehicle has a removable hardtop (like a Jeep Wrangler), it should remain installed and secured.

Some carriers allow what the industry calls "junk in the trunk" — roughly 50-100 pounds of soft items like linens, clothes, or lightweight non-perishable items packed in the trunk only. The front and back seat areas must be completely clear. However, this is at the carrier's discretion, and any items you leave in the vehicle are at your own risk. When in doubt, take it out.