Move Household Items in an Enclosed Trailer

Can I ship household items in an enclosed trailer alongside my car?

Yes, in many cases. Enclosed auto transport trailers carry 2–6 vehicles and often have floor space around the vehicles. For a small extra freight charge, many carriers will accept boxes, crated furniture, and other household goods loaded into the trailer alongside your vehicle. This is different from items packed inside your car — both options are available.

What's the weight limit for items inside my vehicle during enclosed transport?

Most carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items packed inside your vehicle (in the trunk or cargo area, below the window line). Items must not block visibility or sit in the front seat. For enclosed transport, some carriers are more flexible than open transport, but 100 lbs is the standard baseline — confirm with us when booking.

What types of household items can travel in the enclosed trailer?

Boxed goods, small furniture (chairs, ottomans, lamps), crated artwork and mirrors, electronics in original boxes, musical instruments in hard cases, sports equipment, and antiques all travel well. Large items like sofas, refrigerators, washers, or dryers require a dedicated moving truck — an auto transport trailer is not the right tool for those.

How much does it cost to add household items to enclosed transport?

If items fit inside your vehicle, the cost is usually $0–$100 extra (depending on weight). If you need items loaded loose in the trailer alongside the vehicle, expect $150–$400 depending on volume and route. This is still significantly cheaper than hiring a separate moving pod or LTL freight shipment for a small load.

Is enclosed transport better than open for fragile household items?

Yes. Enclosed trailers fully shield contents from weather, road debris, and sun exposure. For fragile items like artwork, mirrors, antique furniture, or electronics, enclosed transport provides the same protection that museums and collectors rely on. Open trailers expose everything to the elements.

Can I use an enclosed trailer instead of a moving truck for a small move?

For a small move (just a few boxes and one or two pieces of furniture along with a vehicle), an enclosed auto transport trailer is often a smart, cost-effective solution. You're shipping your car anyway — why not consolidate? You avoid hiring a moving truck, driving it cross-country, paying for fuel, and returning the truck.

Do you ship cars with boxes and furniture cross-country?

Yes. We handle coast-to-coast enclosed transport with personal items included. Whether you're relocating from California to New York, Florida to Texas, or anywhere in between, we can ship your vehicle and a reasonable quantity of household goods together in a single enclosed trailer.

What is NOT allowed in an enclosed trailer for moving?

Hazardous materials (gasoline, propane, paint), firearms and ammunition, food and perishables, plants, and anything prohibited by DOT regulations cannot travel. Large appliances (refrigerators, washers, dryers) and oversized furniture (sectional sofas, mattresses) are not practical in an auto transport trailer.

How do I prepare boxes and furniture for enclosed trailer transport?

Double-box fragile items with foam padding. Wrap furniture in moving blankets or stretch wrap. Label boxes clearly. Disassemble what you can — table legs off, drawers removed and taped. Flat-pack boxes should be bound together. Items inside your vehicle should be in the trunk, under 100 lbs, and below the window line.

How long does cross-country enclosed moving take?

Most coast-to-coast routes take 7–14 days for enclosed transport. Shorter regional moves (under 800 miles) are typically 3–7 days. Expedited enclosed transport is available on most routes — call (216) 412-4411 if you need a tight deadline met.