No. As a parent, your number one concern should always be the safety of your little one(s). This is especially important when it comes to moving day! Concerned about vehicle safety during your move? Wondering if it’s safe to use your child’s car seat in a moving truck? While it’s not illegal, there are safer options for your little ones. Here you can discover a better alternative and learn what to do if a moving truck is your only choice.
Is It Safe for My Child to Ride In a Moving Truck?
Again, the answer is no
According to Mayo Clinic, “The safest place for your child’s car seat is in the back seat, away from active airbags. Airbags in the front seat are made to protect the head and face of an adult-sized person in a seat belt. It can be dangerous to place the car seat in the front seat, and the airbag inflates.” While no active laws prohibit a child from riding in front of a car, we advise you to follow state laws regarding safety. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) lists state laws regarding child safety seats, seatbelts, and violation fines.
U-Haul moving truck rentals seat 2-3 passengers (depending on the size) and DO NOT provide a back seat. Most of our trucks are equipped with airbags and may not satisfy local requirements for car seats. Young children and those in car seats should not be seated in the front seats of U-Haul equipment. Most people needing a car seat for infants/toddlers while moving prefer to drive an additional vehicle for their family members and rent a U-Haul truck. If this is not an option for your family, here’s what we recommend:
Alternative Options
U-Box
For larger families or those with only one driver, we recommend driving your vehicle and moving your belongings with U-Box Moving containers. You might be thinking, “What is a U-Box container?” U-Box is a portable moving and storage solution! U-Box containers are perfect if you need extra time with your move or temporary storage where you are living now or moving to. They are spacious and durable, so you can be sure your belongings are safe and secure.
This way, you can load all your belongings into a U-Box when you have limitations. Better yet, add Moving Helpers and enjoy a full-service, hands-free move! Moving Help® service providers can help you deliver, pack, load and store your U-Box container. Sounds like a win-win situation!
A Second Driver
You can have a second driver take the child with the car seat, then they can follow you in the moving truck. This way, your kids are safe in the backseat of the second car. Giving you peace of mind for their safety.
What If I’m a Single Parent and Have to Take Them In a Truck Rental?
When traveling alone with your child in a rental truck, following best practices for child safety in the front seat is important.
- Disable the airbags to prevent potential injuries.
- Adjust the seat as far from the dashboard as possible.
- Ensure the proper installation of safety seats.
Remember that not all moving trucks allow airbag disabling, so check with the rental company for available features. For added assurance, visit your local police or fire station for a child safety seat check if needed.
When moving with kids, it is important to always put their safety first. Keep best practices in mind and stay informed for a safer move.
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