Transporting cargo in private vehicles is a not very recommended practice. It is a very tempting option because it involves saving money on hiring a specialized company or renting an adapted vehicle for it, but it presents a series of other drawbacks. We show you interesting tips related to moving by car.
Reasons why you should not do a move in your car
A commercial vehicle can serve to carry out the move of the smallest objects, as we will see later. However, to transport furniture, appliances and heavier items it is better to use a transport vehicle with the appropriate size and conditions.
The service we provide from Horizont Atlantic solves all these issues, both those of space and safe transport as well as occupying public space. You must keep in mind that you cannot park on all streets to unload all your belongings. Depending on the type of move, you will need to request a permit from the public administration. All those procedures are handled by moving companies.
Things from your move that you can carry in your car
The DGT establishes in articles 13, 14 and 15 of the Traffic Code that cargo can be transported in a sedan-type car, provided that it does not affect the driver's driving capacity and does not protrude from the car's dimensions.
According to this formula, the recommendation to move cargo in the car is limited only to objects that are not very heavy and, if necessary, use tension straps and belts to keep them immobilized. An option that always works is to carry those belongings in the rear area of the vehicle, since you can carry cargo with the seats folded down.
Another tip is not to rely on safety devices such as airbags or seatbelts as the only elements to protect cargo. These systems are designed to protect and secure people, so with dangerous loads they could lose their function.
How to make the move in a commercial vehicle?
You can carry things on top of the car as long as you follow the rules imposed by the DGT. This means I can load a mattress in my car, but it should not exceed the vehicle's own dimensions.
In this sense, a first indication to move with your own car is to use all available space, placing heavier items at the bottom, without obstructing the driver's view and disassembling belongings to take up less space.
Finally, you must make sure that the fuel tank is full and accept that the journey will require greater fuel consumption. Along with this, don't forget to check the general condition of your car: brake fluid, tire pressure and oil level.
Transporting cargo in private vehicles should only be limited to objects that are not very bulky, as otherwise it puts the vehicle's stability at risk and there is a greater risk of an accident. For moves, the best option is to use professional vehicles or companies in the sector.
Frequently asked questions about transporting furniture in a private car
Is it legal to transport furniture in my private car?
Yes, as long as: the cargo is well secured (without protruding more than 10% front/rear), does not obstruct visibility or signage, does not exceed the vehicle's MMA (maximum authorized weight on technical sheet) and, if it protrudes more than 1 meter, carries the standard V-20 signal. Fines for improperly secured cargo: 200-500 €.
How much fits in an average car?
Average sedan-type car (Golf, Focus, Corolla): 400-500 liters of trunk with rear seats folded, equivalent to ~1 m³. A large SUV reaches 1.5-2 m³. Van type Berlingo or Doblo: 3-4 m³. For a complete apartment move you would need 15-30 trips with a sedan, clearly impractical.
What if I rent a van myself?
For very small moves (studio, room in shared apartment) it can be cost-effective. Sprinter-type van rental: 60-90 €/day + gas + comprehensive insurance + possible loading/unloading without help. Total for small move: 200-350 €. Equivalent to professional service with specialized company, without warranty or RC insurance on furniture.
What is the real risk of damage to furniture transported without professional?
High. Most damage comes from: loading without protection (collisions with other boxes), improper tying (furniture falling on curves), unloading without equipment (falls when unloading). Your car insurance DOES NOT cover damage to your own cargo or furniture. Professionals provide: blankets, covers, straps, loading technique, RC insurance and experience.
When DOES it make sense for me to transport in my car?
Only for very specific things: important documentation, money, jewelry, critical computer equipment, delicate plants, valuable paintings, pets. These always go with you and not in the moving truck, even if you hire professional service. For the bulk of furniture, always professional.
If you've made it this far it's because you were considering doing it on your own, so compare with the figure ahead: a move with equipment, vehicle and insurance in Tenerife is contracted with fixed price, no fines, no round trips and without risking furniture. Ask for a quote and decide.
