Searching for a good gift to give the car lover in your life? Or maybe the newly licensed driver? Or really, anyone with a driver’s license? We end up spending so much time in the car in one single year, so it’s worth it to have some nifty gadgets and cool accessories along for the ride. Step up your gifting game with these awesome picks that are sure to excite any driver.
Read our list of the top 10 best car accessories for your next awesome gift below.
Our Top 10 Best Car Accessories for Gifts
Dash Cam
Having a dash cam capturing every drivers’ actions on the road can actually protect you in the case of an accident. Plus it’s fun to go back and watch the tape if something exceptionally wild happens. This Garmin Dash Cam is a bit of an investment, but it captures 1080p video and records your GPS location to show when and where incidents happen. If your recipient doesn’t have one, they’ll definitely need and appreciate this new gift for their car. If the Garmin is too expensive, they have plenty of budget dash cams with some only around $30.
Roadside Kit
One thing that every driver should have in the car is basic emergency kit. From one of the most trusted automotive brands, AAA prepares drivers for any emergency with this 42-piece roadside kit. It contains a basic first aid kit, jumper cables, 2-in-1 screwdriver, flashlight and other road safety essentials. Giving the gift of additional safety is always appreciated, but hopefully they’ll never have to use what is inside.
Bluetooth Transmitter
Outdated car stereos and unusual headphone jacks (you know the one) can make it impossible to enjoy your own music in your car. But by using a bluetooth transmitter, you can jam out to your playlist as long as you want. You can also answer hands-free phone calls, monitor the quality of your car battery and find FM channels. If someone in your life wants to listen to their spotify playlist on the road, this is one of the best accessories to receive for their car.
Heated Seat Cushion
If your area gets cold in the winter, you know how uncomfortable leather seats can be before your car is warm. Newer models often have heated seats as an extra comfort amenity. If your car doesn’t have that option, these heated seat cushions do just the trick. You’ll be cozy and warm in no time.
Pet Safety Harness
You wouldn’t let your child ride without a seatbelt on, so why should a pet be any different? This crash-tested pet safety harness is certified by the Center for Pet Safety. There is a variety of sizes and colors available, and it also has the option to attach a leash at the neck. Now Rover can safely tag along with his family on car rides.
Emergency Escape Tool
If you ever have to get out of the car in an emergency, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper tools within reach. This USB Emergency Escape Tool plugs right into your car charger for easy access. It features a seatbelt cutter and a spring-loaded window punch for tempered glass. It also comes with two USB ports, allowing you to still charge devices.
Trunk Organizer
For anyone who’s notorious for keeping his or her life’s possessions in the car, or for the busy parent driving all around town to keep up with after school activities, gift them the beauty of a trunk organizer. Not only will the car stay clean, things will be easier to find instead of hiding underneath seats or between cushions. This ultimate trunk organizer also comes with a insulated cooler bag, perfect for refreshments on a road trip.
Parking Assistant
In tight spaces, such as small garages or narrow parking lots, squeezing your vehicle into the proper spot can be a tough job. Having a parking assistant tell you when your front bumper is too close can ease some of that stress. This particular parking assistant has an easy-to-read traffic signal display removes any risk of guessing how much space you have left. This unique car gift is one that many have never seen before, and we all know someone who needs this.
Windshield Cover
Does anyone like scraping ice and snow off of the windshield after a storm? Nope. You can’t go wrong gifting a windshield cover to protect the car from Mother Nature. A magnetic windshield cover stands against heavy winds, especially with security ties and flaps that tuck into the car doors.
Car Care Kit
If you know someone whose neat freak tendencies continue into the car, give them an ultimate care kit. Chances are they’ll already own it, but they won’t mind the restock in supplies. The Armor All Complete Car Care Kit includes protectant, glass wipes, tire foam and what you’ll need to wash and wax the car. If you’re feeling extra generous, offer to wash their car yourself and add another component of care to the gift.
After you’ve treated your favorite car enthusiast to some amazing gifts, have them thank you by taking you on an ultimate road trip. Get a free quote and ship your car anywhere around the world with Schumacher Cargo Logistics!
It’s moving day. The heavy furniture is packed into a trailer. Your belongings are put away in boxes and loaded into the car. The place is empty, but now what? Before handing over the key, do yourself– and the next inhabitants– a favor by cleaning the home. While it may be tempting to hire someone offering move out cleaning services, it can save you a lot to DIY it.
So how clean should a house be when moving out? That depends. If you’re a tenant, a deep clean could be the difference between getting your security deposit back or not. But if you’re a homeowner and not on a lease, doing a final sweep is still the neighborly thing to do.
As experts in moving household goods and vehicles around the country or overseas, we’ve seen our fair share of clean, empty homes. Use our move out cleaning checklist as you prepare for your big move.
House Cleaning Tips
Before you get started, keep these tips in mind:
When packing, do not pack your cleaning supplies. Set those aside and clearly mark them so they aren’t stashed into the moving van before you’re ready.
Open windows to air out any smells left by cleaning supplies.
If you’re on a lease, read through it very carefully for any sneaky fine print that requires certain cleaning standards.
Use microfiber towels instead of paper towels or plain rags. These are eco-friendly, reusable and streak-free.
Deep Cleaning House Checklist
Use this first checklist to get a general start on cleaning the home:
Vacuum every room. Mop any tile, linoleum or laminate floors. Apply a treatment oil to wood flooring. If the carpet is extremely dirty, rent a carpet cleaner.
Dust everything. This includes corners, fans, window sills, built-in shelves and cabinets, lights, and any other permanent fixture in the home.
Remove any nails, hooks and similar hardware. Repair these holes with some spackle, then repaint the spot. This will give the wall and rest of the room a fresh look.
Repair any damaged wall fixtures like a clothing rack or lighting fixtures.
Wipe down all the doors, trim, baseboards and crown molding.
Clean all windows– both sides– with a streak-free glass cleaner.
After you’re done with the initial groundwork, follow these cleaning checklists for specific rooms in your home.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
Use grout cleaner on tiled areas. Apply it early so it has time to work.
Clean out the exhaust fan.
Use special bathroom cleaner, usually with a bleaching agent, on the toilet. Clean all surfaces of the toilet.
Scrub the shower and tub with a soap scum fighting cleaner.
Clean the countertops, sinks, towel racks, lights and any storage areas.
Clean the mirror with a streak-free glass cleaner.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
If the refrigerator, oven, microwave or other appliances are staying, clean the interior and exterior of those. Take advantage of the oven’s self-cleaning feature, if there is one.
Clean the floor below and wall behind the appliances.
Empty out cabinets, drawers and shelves, then dust the insides. Wipe down the front of cabinets.
Scrub the countertops, backsplash and sink.
Clean out the exhaust fan and garbage disposal.
Living Room, Office and Bedroom Cleaning Checklist
Dust light fixtures, ceiling fans and any built-ins. Then wipe down with an all-purpose cleaner.
If applicable, clean out the fireplace and chimney.
Dust window blinds and sills.
Clean out air vents and replace filters.
Outdoor Home Cleaning Checklist
Clean out the gutters of any leaves, twigs or build-up from rain and snow.
Sweep dirt, grass and other debris out of the walkways.
Mow the lawn, bag up fallen leaves, and do basic grooming of any other landscaping.
Replace burnt out bulbs in exterior lights.
Clean out dirty outdoor trash cans or recycling bins.
Moving Tips from Schumacher Cargo Logistics
Moving out of your old home and into a new, unfamiliar place can be a daunting and exhaustive process. Keep your head on straight and use our packing tips and moving guide to help ensure a smooth move. Heading to foreign lands? Our international moving guide will also keep you on the right path.
With 40 years of moving and shipping experience, the moving specialists at Schumacher Cargo Logistics know how to safely get your items from Point A to Point B. Whether it be within the same area code or halfway across the world, call our moving specialists today to get a free quote on our services.
We’ve all heard a handful of funny laws that make you wonder the backstory of its creation. For instance, did you know it’s illegal to stick an ice cream cone in your back post in Alabama and Georgia? This was to prevent thieves from luring away other people’s horses. These weird laws extend to driving in the US as well.
It’s a common misconception that it is illegal to drive barefoot. While a little unusual, it is legal to drive barefoot and safer than driving with high heels, flip-flops or heavy boots. However, there are actually more crazy driving laws in every state.
Take a look at our list of the weird driving laws in every state below.
50 Weird State Laws for Drivers
Alabama Weird Driving Law: No Blindfolds
It is illegal to drive while blindfolded. Because that really had to be blatantly stated.
Alaska Weird Driving Law: No Dogs on the Roof
It is illegal to tie a dog to the roof of your car. However, there is no mention of tying a dog to a different spot on the car, or tying a different animal to the roof.
Arizona Weird Driving Law: No Going Back
You know what they say, “keep moving forward.” In Arizona, you cannot drive a car in reverse on a public road.
Arkansas Weird Driving Law: No Honking
In Little Rock, the state’s capital, it is illegal to honk your car horn anywhere that serves cold drinks or sandwiches after 9 p.m. So don’t even think about getting the Sonic waitstaff’s attention this way if you need a late night snack.
California Weird Driving Law: No Robes
It is against the law for women to drive in a housecoat, so no dropping off the kids at school in your robe.
Colorado Weird Driving Law: No Black Cars
In Denver, it is illegal to drive a black car on a Sunday. Maybe their hearses are pink?
Connecticut Weird Driving Law: No Hunting
Don’t go painting your car bright orange or camouflage; it is against the law to hunt from a car.
Delaware Weird Driving Law: No Changing Clothes
In Fenwick Island, you’re not allowed to change your clothing inside a car. You’ll have to find a changing station or restroom to put on your swimsuit.
Florida Weird Driving Law: No Animal Parking
You must feed the parking meter if you tie an elephant, goat or alligator to it. You know, normal pets.
Georgia Weird Driving Law: No Driving Through Fun
It is illegal to drive through a playground. The swing set can’t support your car anyways.
Hawaii Weird Driving Law: No Hazard Movement
It is illegal for any vehicle motion to use its hazard lights. You’ll have to stop completely before hitting that hazard button.
Idaho Weird Driving Law: No Elderly Bikers
In Idaho Falls, it is against the law for anyone over the age of 88 to ride a motorcycle. Looks like Grandpa isn’t getting a Harley Davidson for his 90th birthday.
Illinois Weird Driving Law: No Driving Without a Wheel
It is illegal to drive a car without a steering wheel. So take that RC car off your wish list.
Indiana Weird Driving Law: No Sales on Sunday
It is against the law to sell cars on Sundays. No mention of buying a car, though.
Iowa Weird Driving Law: No Dumping
In Mount Vernon, it is illegal to throw your Red Ryder onto the highway. Sorry, Ralphie.
Kansas Weird Driving Law: No Chicken Transport
You won’t find a KFC along Kansas Avenue in Topeka; it is against the law to transport dead poultry on this road.
Kentucky Weird Driving Law: No Animal Intimacy
It is illegal for your pet to molest a vehicle in Fort Thomas, however “molest” is not clearly defined. To be safe, keep Fido’s “dancing” to a minimum.
Louisiana Weird Driving Law: No Driving Without Racing
By law, a woman’s husband is required to wave a flag in front of her car before she can drive it. Ladies, start your engines.
Maine Weird Driving Law: No Buying on Sundays
It is illegal to buy a car on Sunday. Maybe Maine and Indiana can team up to form some kind of loophole dealership.
Maryland Weird Driving Law: No Swearing
In Rockville, it is against the law to swear from a vehicle. Not too sure how you can enforce that if a car’s windows are closed.
Massachusetts Weird Driving Law: No Gorillas
You cannot drive with a gorilla in the backseat. Looks like King Kong’s got shotgun.
Michigan Weird Driving Law: No Reading in the Street
It is illegal to sit in the middle of the street and read a newspaper. iPads and Kindles have swiftly avoided this law.
Minnesota Weird Driving Law: No Dirt
You will be considered a public nuisance if your truck leaves mud, dirt or sticky substances on the roads in Minnetonka. Better find your nearest carwash.
Mississippi Weird Driving Law: No Honking
Do not honk your horn in Oxford, otherwise you may scare nearby horses. Not starting any stampedes here.
Missouri Weird Driving Law: No Honking Someone Else’s Horn
You cannot honk someone else’s horn in University City. If you really gotta toot a horn, make sure its your own.
Montana Weird Driving Law: No Sheep Without Supervision
You must have a chaperone if you are driving sheep in your truck. Sheep can get pretty reckless, y’know.
Nebraska Weird Driving Law: No Mountain Driving
On mountain highways, drivers must stay to the right. But there is no mountain in Nebraska…
Nevada Weird Driving Law: No Camel Riding
It is illegal to ride a camel on the highway. Maybe this spittin’ animal prefers to do so on the sidewalk, anyways.
New Hampshire Weird Driving Law: No Inhalation
It is illegal to inhale bus fumes with the intent of “inducing euphoria.” The kids will have to find other ways to pass time.
New Jersey Weird Driving Law: No Custom DUI Plates
If you are convicted of driving while intoxicated, you may not apply for a personalized license plate. But what if it said “Drunk Driver”?
New Mexico Weird Driving Law: No Cab Grab
Cab drivers may not reach out and pull potential customers into their taxis. That would be a terrifying situation.
New York Weird Driving Law: No Disrobing
In Sag Harbor, it is illegal to disrobe while in your car. If your Friday night date is going well, find someplace else to continue the evening.
North Carolina Weird Driving Law: No Cemetery Joyride
It is illegal to drive through a cemetery if you are not there to dig a grave or bury someone. So no swerving between the headstones for fun.
North Dakota Weird Driving Law: No Pennies
It is against the law to put a penny in an automatic parking ticket machine. You’ll have to pay for parking with other currency, like a normal person.
Ohio Weird Driving Law: No Shorts
In Cincinnati, taxi drivers may only wear shorts from May 16 through Labor Day. Hopefully the cab’s AC is good to go for those dog days of summer.
Oklahoma Weird Driving Law: No Comics
It is against the law to read a comic book while driving. You’ll have to pull over if you want to see the end of Superman’s epic fight.
Oregon Weird Driving Law: No Car Doors Open
It is illegal to leave your car door open for longer than “necessary.” Do you think police officers have stop watches to time you and enforce this law?
Pennsylvania Weird Driving Law: No Driving Without Flares
When driving on a country road at night, drivers must stop every mile to set off flares and wait 10 minutes for livestock to cross the road. Better factor that into your estimated arrival time.
Rhode Island Weird Driving Law: No Racing Horses
It is against the law to ride a horse down the highway for the purpose of racing or testing the speed of the horse. Because racing is the most absurd way to use a horse, isn’t it?
South Carolina Weird Driving Law: No Trash
In the vacation town of Hilton Head, it is unlawful to store trash in your vehicle. You don’t want rats in your car.
South Dakota Weird Driving Law: No Driving Until 14
You can get your driver’s license starting at 14 years old. That’s just… alarming.
Tennessee Weird Driving Law: No Hunting Except Whales
It is illegal to shoot any game other than whales from a moving vehicle. You know, because of the ocean that Tennessee is totally next to.
Texas Weird Driving Law: No Wipers No Car
You must have windshield wipers to register a car. But the windshield overall is optional.
Utah Weird Driving Law: No Racing Birds
Birds have the right of way on highways. Because their tax money is what paid for those streets.
Vermont Weird Driving Law: No Backfire
In Rutland, it is illegal for cars to backfire. Why? You might wake someone up.
Virginia Weird Driving Law: No Women Driving
In Waynesboro, it is illegal for a woman to drive her car down Main Street unless her husband is walking in front of it waving a red flag. Red flags must be a popular wedding gift then.
Washington Weird Driving Law: No Lawbreaking Without Notice
Any motorist with criminal intentions must stop at the city limits to call the chief of police as he or she is entering town. Do you think any criminal is that honest, though?
West Virginia Weird Driving Law: No Roadkill Untouched
While incredibly disgusting, it is perfectly legal to eat roadkill.
Wisconsin Weird Driving Law: No Handlebars
It is illegal for a bicyclist to ride with his or her hands off of the handlebars. Look, ma! My hands are still on the handlebars!
Wyoming Weird Driving Law: No Gates Open
You risk a $750 fine if you do not close a gate over a road, river, stream or ditch behind you. Because a closed gate will definitely keep predators from the farm pastures.
Bonus…
Washington, D.C. Weird Driving Law: No Half Driveway
You can be ticketed for not completely pulling your car into your driveway. You knew you could be ticketed on your own property.
About Schumacher Cargo Logistics
Schumacher Cargo Logistics is a leader in international car shipping and moving services. With over 40 years of experience since 1977, we can move your goods around the world with ease.
If you’re ready to start driving with the weird road laws of the US get a quote to import your car today!
Driving on the Autobahn is a dream of many motorists that aren’t near Europe. The idea of long roads with unrestricted speed limits is enough to get people to fly out and visit. Even though people make this trip, many non natives don’t actually know how to drive on the Autobahn which actually has rules and customs. To help with that we’ve created a guide for the Autobahn below.
It’s known across the world as the German highway with no speed limit. But it’s more than that. For speedsters and auto fanatics, the Autobahn is the ultimate place to take your shiny new sports car, especially with luxury European automakers close by.
Where is the Autobahn? How long is the Autobahn?
The word autobahn translates to “motorway,” so technically speaking, any country has an autobahn. However, the Autobahn references Germany’s highway system. Since Austria and Switzerland also speak German, their highways are also called autobahn.
The Autobahn in Germany is 12,993 km (8,073 miles) long. To compare, the United States’ highways are 77,540 kilometers (48,180 miles) combined. When you think about the size of the United States and the size of Germany, the length and density of the Autobahn is impressive.
Autobahn Speed Limit – Myth or Fact?
Famous for being the fastest highway in the world, there actually are speed limits on the Autobahn, believe it or not. Specific limits are posted near urban areas, like Frankfurt, Berlin and Munich, or for construction and heavy traffic. These limits will be posted as black numbers with a red outline on a white circular sign.
Outside of these areas, there is a recommended top speed of 130 kilometers per hour (50-80 mph). These will be posted as white numbers on blue square signs. While there are a few sections of the Autobahn without a speed limit, it’s wise to not go above 130 km/h, especially if you’re new to this highway.
You’ll see electronic signs that display “dynamic speed limits,” giving live updates to control traffic if there is an accident, construction, severe weather or special road conditions. Some may even show different limits for the specific lane that you’re driving in, so pay close attention to these.
Autobahn Highway Laws
Like every road system, there are traffic laws that all drivers must obey. Some of these are obvious, but some are specific to the Autobahn.
It is illegal to pass on the right. You can pass only on the left.
Stay in the right lane, especially if you’re new to the Autobahn. The left lane is for drivers going extremely fast or for passing vehicles in the right lane.
Stopping, parking, u-turns and backing up on the Autobahn is illegal.
It is illegal to run out of gas on the Autobahn; it’s seen as a preventable circumstance and it leads to stopping, which is illegal.
Entering and exiting is only allowed on the marked interchanges.
Pulling over onto the shoulder is prohibited, unless your car breaks down.
Autobahn, Germany Travel Tips
The following tips aren’t as mandated as the laws above, but they are social customs that every driver on the Autobahn should follow.
Triple check your mirrors before changing lanes. Because cars travel so fast on the Autobahn, someone may come zipping up when there was no one there a second ago.
Most rental cars will have standard transmission. If you’re used to automatic, you can pay extra for that or quickly learn how to drive standard.
Police don’t run speed radar the way they do in the United States. Instead, there are cameras in area with strict speed limits that will take a picture of your license to deliver an electronic ticket. Just because you don’t see a police car doesn’t mean you’re off the hook.
Rest stops and service stations are available every 40-60 km. Drivers are encouraged to take a break at these areas every 100 km (or two hours) as the highway can be draining. These stops can include gas stations, cafes, restrooms and hotels.
Embrace the local driving culture. German drivers don’t need as much elbow room as Americans do on the road, so don’t take it personally if it seems like a fellow driver cut you off. Chances are they thought you had plenty of space.
Helpful Terms to Know When Driving in Germany
Sprechen Sie Deutsch? Learn the following terms to help you out when driving in Germany, Austria or Switzerland.
Ausfahrt = exit; posted on road signs to indicate a rest stop or on/off-ramps.
Stau = traffic jam; you’ll hear radio announcements informing drivers where there is congestion or even stopped traffic.
Unfall = accident; another term you may hear on the radio or see on electronic live-update signs.
Rettungsgasse = free lane; during a Stau, the stopped traffic forms an open lane to allow emergency vehicles to pass through, especially for accidents on the Autobahn.
Shipping Cars to and from Germany
Ready for life in the fastest lane? You can export your car to Germany from the United States with Schumacher Cargo Logistics. As an auto shipping specialist, we regularly ship cars to Germany. There’s no one better to trust your vehicle with. We’ll get your car to Germany safely and efficiently, so you’ll be burning rubber in no time! We offer a handful of shipping services to Germany.
Want a taste of the German auto life, but can’t quite make it to Deutschland? You can now import a car to the United States from Germany with Schumacher Cargo Logistics, too! Interested? Get your free shipping quote from the moving specialists at Schumacher Cargo Logistics now, and we can get started today.
From finding a new home to getting accustomed to the new culture and lifestyle, moving is already a stressful feat on its own. Especially when it’s an international move. The last thing you want to worry about is transporting your vehicles and household goods from Point A to Point B. That’s why choosing a trusted moving company for international shipping is vital to a successful relocation.
How Much Does A Moving Company Cost?
Get at Least Three Quotes
Request and compare estimates from at least three separate reputable shipping companies. You can see the differences between how much different moving companies charge you. Check every detail on these quotes, including the time frame, shipping method, packing materials, and if there are any fragile or precious items in the shipment.
Additionally, the final cost of your shipment will depend not only on the amount of items included. There’s also the space it takes up and the special services provided by the company, like door-to-door delivery or packing and unpacking for you; these features can drive the cost up or down. Deciding which special services are most important to you will help determine which company to choose.
How to Evaluate Moving Companies
Start your research early
Waiting until a few weeks before your move may put you in a tough spot. You run the risk of a hefty upcharge for the last minute accommodations, or you may not even find a company with available space for your items. So don’t put it off until the last minute. You’ll want to do extensive research on which companies ship to your desired port, what items you’re allowed to ship, and how past customers enjoyed their experience with their company. Give yourself plenty of time to decide.
Licenses, Accreditations and Memberships
One of the most important considerations is the company’s licensing and accreditations. Since these are given based off of industry-wide standards and qualifications, you’ll have a third-party guarantee whether a company is worthwhile or not.
The most prestigious accreditation for a moving company to have is the FIDI/FAIM membership. FIDI is the Federation of International Movers, and it is considered a worldwide standard for top quality movers. The FIDI Accredited International Mover (FAIM) Quality Management Programme is a quality certification reserved for the best international moving companies.
Other licenses to look for are:
FMC – Federal Maritime Commission
AMSA – American Moving and Storage Association
IAM – International Association of Movers
DOT – Department of Transportation
OTI – Ocean Transport Intermediary
NVOCC – Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier
Tracking Information
You feverishly refresh the “track package” page while waiting for an online order to arrive. Why shouldn’t you have the same comfort when moving? One of the greatest advantages of modern technology is the ability to keep track of your shipment status. Choosing a company that gives you this option can relieve the tension of wondering when your household goods will appear.
Experience with Foreign Ports and Customs
An international move is completely different than a domestic move. Each country has its own customs protocol and requires different shipping documents. Shipping with an experienced international moving company that knows how to handle these logistics will make your move much smoother.
Ship with Schumacher Cargo Logistics
Schumacher Cargo Logistics fulfills all of these expectations listed above. That’s what makes us one of the top international moving companies. We offer plenty of shipping services designed for a variety of customers. Get your free moving quote today!
