7 Essential Things to Keep in Your Car When Relocating

June 8, 2023 / Posted in Moving Tips
Diana Road

A talented writer from Wichita, Kansas, with a passion for helping people navigate the stressful process of moving. With her extensive knowledge of the moving industry, Diana has become a go-to resource for useful info

Are you planning a move to a new place and have found yourself unprepared for the trip? Well, worry no more. Today we’re talking about essential things to keep in your car when relocating. From snacks to first aid kits, it’s important to ensure you have everything you require for a smooth journey. Let’s dive in!

Guy looking under the hub
Let's see what needs to be kept and moved in your four-wheeler

When deciding what to keep in your car, it is critical to consider your emergency supplies and roadside aid box. It is also crucial to provide ownership paperwork, a car manual, and spare keys for your movers in case of unforeseen events. Fill half of your tank with grass and check your car’s cooling and antifreeze levels. If you are relocating on a budget, learn how to pack your possessions in the back of your vehicle or consider hiring professionals if all of this is too much for you.

#1 Safety and Emergency Items Are Essential Things to Keep in Your Car

If you’ve ever wondered what to have in your car in case of an emergency, know that we’re here to help you find the answers needed to move safely and stay safe on the road. The list of things to have in your car should contain auto repair and maintenance tools, important paperwork, a first aid kit, and anything else you think would be useful. Most automobiles require the same things to always have in your car at all times, and we covered some in the list below for the sake of stress-free relocation.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a must-have component in any vehicle. It can assist you in responding to small accidents or injuries before expert assistance comes. Bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, scissors, pain medications, and a first-aid guidebook should all be included in it. It is critical to inspect and replenish your kit regularly to verify that everything is current and ready to use.

Reflective Triangles and Flares

Reflective triangles and flares are essential safety tools for drivers in case of a roadside emergency or breakdown. They alert other drivers to slow down and steer clear of the affected area. Reflective triangles, in particular, can be placed behind the vehicle to warn approaching traffic. Flares, on the other hand, emit bright light and smoke to provide a warning signal to drivers in proximity. These are the things you should keep in your car for any potential emergencies.

Fire Extinguisher

This is essential safety equipment that can help combat small fires before they become uncontrollable. It is important to have one at any place where there is a potential fire hazard and especially if you are long-distance moving. Be sure to check the expiration date and have it refilled or replaced regularly. Don’t wait for a crisis to happen – be prepared.

Jumper Cables

When your automobile battery dies unexpectedly, jumper cables can really come in handy. They come in a convenient package of two cables, each having a clamp on one end. Simply connect one clamp to the terminals of a dead battery and the other to the terminals of a working battery. You can quickly jump-start your car after a few minutes of charging. It is critical to use jumper wires with caution and to have a set on your hands.

Emergency Tire Repair Kit

Any driver should have this kit in their vehicle or learn how to use it. Blown tires can happen at any time and without warning, whether you’re cross-country moving or merely commuting to work. With a repair kit on hand, you can quickly and safely patch up a puncture and be back on track. It’s a simple investment that can save you a lot of hassle and relocation stress.

Spare Tire

Finally, if there is no life in your old one, and the chances of repairing it are paper thin, you have to have a spare tire on hand. This is a must-have for any vehicle, especially if you are relocating to another state alone. It provides peace of mind knowing that in the event of a flat, you won’t be stranded on the roadside.

However, it’s important to make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and in good condition before you just drive away – don’t forget to check it before hitting the road to your new home. If you forgot to inspect it, visit the next gas station and check the air pressure of all of your tires while there.

#2 Have Some Roadside Assistance Items in the Trunk

Besides the relocation essentials above, it’s always a good idea to have some roadside assistance stuff in your trunk as well. A lug wrench and jack are a must, but consider adding a flashlight, spare batteries, straps, and rope. A waterproof blanket and some non-perishable snacks might also come in handy. These small preparations can make a big difference in unexpected situations that may occur during any trip.

Get Reliable Moving and Car Shipping Services Get A Quote

Tow Straps and Rope

Consider investing in a good-quality tow strap or rope. Tow straps are often stronger and can support more weight than rope. However, whichever solution you choose, be sure it is securely attached to your vehicle and that you use safe towing procedures to avoid accidents. Check out this video below for a quick rundown of things to always keep in your car.

Jack and Lug Wrench

The jack is required to raise the vehicle off the ground, while the lug wrench is used to remove and tighten the wheel lug nuts. Having this equipment on hand can save you time and money while changing a tire or doing routine maintenance. It’s usually a good idea to become acquainted with your vehicle and these objects before putting them to use.

Flashlight and Batteries

It’s usually a good idea to keep a flashlight and extra batteries in the back of your vehicle. Having a reliable light source can make all the difference whether you have a flat tire on a dark road or need to navigate through a power outage. So, the next time you go shopping, remember to include a flashlight and a few pairs of batteries on your list.

Girl in front of a broken car
What are good things to keep in your car - emergency essentials are a must

#3 Leave Spare Keys For Cross-Country Movers

If you’re hiring long-distance movers to help you relocate, it’s always a good idea to leave spare car keys with them. In case anything unexpected happens during the move, like your car keys getting lost or misplaced, ensure that movers have access to a spare set. It’s a small but important precaution to take for a smooth and stress-free relocation. Plus, you won’t have to worry about tracking down a locksmith or arranging for a new set of keys to be made while relocating to a new city.

#4 Copy Ownership Documents and Leave Them in the Glove Compartment

It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to pack a house, but it’s always better to be prepared than to find yourself scurrying, even if you are relocating at the last moment. One thing you should find time to do, as it can help your movers immensely, is to make copies of all your automobile ownership documents and leave them in your glove compartment.

These papers should include:

  • Receipts,
  • Vehicle title deed,
  • Insurance info,
  • Manual,
  • Listing on car specifications.

By doing this, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to dig around for important papers, and your movers will have the information they need to handle your belongings with care.

Include the Car Manual if You Have One

When it comes to owning an automobile, one important document that should be kept close is the car manual. It contains valuable information about your vehicle’s features, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It’s always a good idea to have it with you in case of a crisis, and it will be a great help to your car shipping company as well.

A person holding car keys
Leave spare keys, ownership info, and manual for your long-distance movers

#5 Fill Half of the Tank With Gas

It is important to remember to fill half of the tank with gas before leaving your vehicle to the auto transport company. This will ensure that your four-wheeler has enough fuel to be moved from one location to another without any issues.

Plus, it helps your company to easily load and unload the vehicle from the trailer without worrying about running out of gas during transport. It’s a simple relocation hack that can spare you auto-shipping mistakes and time.

Ensure You Have Antifreeze and Coolant Nearby

Relocating your vehicle can be stressful, but don’t forget to prepare it for the relocation by ensuring you have antifreeze and coolant nearby. These fluids are essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and preventing damage from freezing or overheating.

Be sure to double-check that you have enough of each fluid and that they are easily accessible to your movers if they need to refill them. A little preparation ahead of time can save you a lot of trouble later.

A mechanic refilling a car with antifreeze
Be sure there is enough of both fluids in your vehicle before you hand it over

#6 You Can Pack Some Household Objects in the Vehicle

When relocating to a new state, there are always household objects that have to be packed and transported. While some may require the help of professionals, there are many smaller possessions that can easily fit into your vehicle in case you are driving your automobile to your new home. Belongings on the list below can all be packed into boxes and loaded into your trunk:

  • Bedding,
  • Clothing,
  • Shoes,
  • Books,
  • Dishes,
  • Toiletries,
  • Plants.

This is a great way to relocate on a budget and ensure that your valuables are safely transported to your new location.

Make Sure You Know What Objects Movers Won’t Relocate

Before you go on with your adventure, it’s important to be informed of items your movers won’t move so that you can plan to squeeze them into your trunk properly. Be sure to review your company’s list of prohibited stuff ahead of time and organize everything accordingly to avoid any surprises on a relocation day.

Common examples include hazardous chemicals, flammable liquids, perishables like food, and plants. Pets and personal valuables are also typically excluded, so if you are relocating with pets, leave them a free spot in the back as well.

Pack Your Things in the Trunk Just the Right Way

To successfully pack your belongings in the trunk, begin with the heaviest containers on the bottom. Put them near the back for further stability. Fill up the gaps between the crates with lighter stuff and smaller bags. To save space and keep it tidy, use packing cubes or compression bags. Keep your everyday stuff accessible and hold all the loose goods safe with bungee cords or cargo nets.

A car packed for long-distance moving
Create a list of all the stuff that you have to relocate in your vehicle

#7 Know That There Are Objects You Should Remove From the Vehicle Before the Move

It’s important to remember that before handing over your vehicle to a shipping company, you should remove any objects that could potentially damage it or pose a safety hazard during transport. This includes loose objects, GPS devices, gadgets, phone holders, food, junk, personal valuables and documents, and air fresheners. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so take a quick inventory of your car and remove any non-essential items from it.

Reach Out to the Auto-Transport Company for Car Shipping Services and Have a Stress-Free Relocation

Relocating can be exciting and stressful at the same time, especially when it comes to deciding between driving your four-wheeler or shipping it. But rather than just driving all the way to your new location, you should think about hiring a reputable company, such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving. Our reliable auto transport services will save you time and a lot of hassle, allowing you to have a stress-free relocation and enjoy your new location with ease.

Open carrier loaded with cars on the road
You can choose between open and enclosed carriers for transporting your vehicle

Let Our Long-Distance Moving Company Steer You in the Right Direction

Whether you’re relocating to a nearby state or across the state or the country, Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With our experienced team and the best long-distance moving services, you can trust that we’ll get you and your vehicle to your new home safely and efficiently. You won’t have to worry about “What should I keep in my car?” as we will do all the heavy lifting for you. Contact us today, and let us help you navigate the road ahead.

Get a guaranteed price

      Flat Price Moving & Auto Shipping

      © Copyright 2024 © Flat Price Autotransport. All Rights Reserved.
      Download Moving Checklist
      Get a Free Estimate 888-647-0024