Michael Turner
Select an XL, SUV or van option when carrying two or more checked suitcases (28–32 in) plus a carry-on; choose a standard sedan only for one medium suitcase and a personal bag. Use the app’s Schedule feature at least 30 minutes before city pickups and 60–90 minutes before airport departures or rush-hour travel; the scheduling tool also supports reservations up to 30 days ahead.
Enter an exact pickup point (curbside, terminal curb, short-term parking) and add a clear note about trunk access via the “Add note” or “Contact driver” field. Immediately message the assigned driver after a match: state the number and approximate sizes of large bags and confirm whether they can load items into the trunk. If you need stops for bag drop-off, use the app’s multi-stop option rather than asking the driver to detour without confirmation.
Packing and loading tactics: place heavier suitcases at the bottom and wheels-first toward the rear, compress soft items into a duffel or tote to fill gaps, and remove easily detachable items (garment bags, shopping totes) before arrival so loading takes less than two minutes. For oversized items such as strollers or long sports equipment, reserve a van or cargo-capable vehicle to avoid refusals at pickup.
Payments and courtesy: keep payment information current, add a modest tip in the app for handling multiple large items ($3–8 typical depending on effort), offer brief assistance if the driver prefers, and cancel only after confirming the driver cannot accommodate your baggage to reduce the risk of a cancellation fee. If a driver refuses because of space constraints, request a rebooked scheduled ride in the same session rather than waiting curbside.
Reserve an XL or SUV 30–45 minutes before pickup when carrying two checked suitcases plus hand bags
Vehicle selection: Choose XL, SUV or Van for three or more large suitcases; select sedan or Comfort for one–two checked bags. Typical trunk volume ranges (approx.): compact sedan 300–380 L, midsize 420–500 L, full-size 500–650 L, SUV 600–1,000 L, minivan 1,000–1,500 L. If total bag count exceeds two checked items (23″ each) or combined volume >150–200 L, upgrade to XL/SUV/Van.
Quick capacity check
Measure bag dimensions (length × width × height) and calculate total liters or simply count 23″ suitcases: 1–2 fit most midsize cars; 3+ require larger vehicle. Allow 20–30% extra space for handles and odd shapes. Soft-sided bags compress better than hard-shell cases; swap one rigid case for duffel to avoid an upgrade.
Loading and driver communication
Message the assigned driver immediately after acceptance: “Hi – I have 2 large suitcases and 2 small bags; will trunk space be OK?” If driver confirms, offer exact pickup time and request help with heavy items. If driver declines, cancel and select a larger category; avoid last-minute cancellations that may trigger penalties.
Pack heavier items near wheels and place upright suitcases on the trunk floor. Collapse telescoping handles, turn wheels inward, and stack soft bags on top. For airport pickups allow an extra 10–15 minutes for trunk loading and vehicle inspection by driver.
Extras: Reserve a vehicle earlier during peak hours or bad weather. Tip a driver who assists with bulky items. For protection from rain and wind, bring a compact shelter tool – see best sturdiest umbrella for a reliable option.
Choose the right vehicle type for your number and size of suitcases
Select an SUV or minivan for three or more large checked bags; a standard sedan handles up to two medium checked suitcases plus a carry-on.
| Suitcase count and size | Approx. cargo volume (cu ft) | Recommended vehicle type | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 carry-ons (22″) or 1 medium checked (24–26″) | 12–16 | Sedan | Place one carry-on in cabin; if trunk is tight, stack bags diagonally or fold a small rear armrest. |
| 2–3 medium checked (24–26″) or 1–2 large checked (28–32″) | 25–35 | Compact/ midsize SUV or wagon | Use 60/40 split rear seat folded for extra length; remove parcel shelf to increase vertical clearance. |
| 3–4 large checked (28–32″) | 40–60 | Full-size SUV | Load largest items first near the wheelwell; collapse headrests to gain a few inches of height. |
| 4–6 mixed large suitcases, golf bags, or boxed items | 70–150 (depends on seat configuration) | Minivan | Fold or remove second/third row seats; allocate one seat row for passengers, remaining area for baggage. |
| 6+ pieces or oversized items (bike box, furniture, appliance) | 300+ | Cargo van / small box truck | Check cargo floor length and interior height before selecting; secure items with straps or cargo nets. |
Measure major bag dimensions (length × width × depth in inches) and compare against trunk or cargo area specs listed by the vehicle class. For multi-passenger trips, subtract passenger space from available cargo volume when planning packing and seat choices.
Specify bag count, dimensions, and handling notes in the app
Enter precise counts and measurements in the dedicated fields or trip notes: format each item as “Qty × L×W×H (imperial) – (metric) – weight”. Example: “2 × 28×20×12 in (71×51×30 cm) – 23 kg each; 1 × 22×14×9 in (56×36×23 cm) – 8 kg”.
Use standard size categories for quick clarity: carry-on ~22×14×9 in (56×36×23 cm), medium checked ~24×16×11 in (61×41×28 cm), large ~28×20×12 in (71×51×30 cm), extra-large ~32×22×14 in (81×56×36 cm). State individual or total weight when any bag exceeds 23 kg (50 lb).
Keep handling notes short and actionable. Accepted examples to paste into notes: “Fragile – hard-shell; trunk access required; 2-person lift”, “Bulky item – requires folding; must fit vertically”, “Stroller folded – can fit in trunk”, “Bike partially disassembled – wheels off, frame protected”. Avoid long descriptions; use commas and semicolons.
If pickup or dropoff involves stairs, narrow corridors, or elevator restrictions, state floor number and steps count: “3rd floor, 12 steps – no elevator”. For curbside loading windows add estimated load time: “load time 4–6 min”.
Attach one clear photo of packed items when possible: single photo showing sizes on a common object (doorframe or car trunk). If the app has tags such as “oversized” or “assistance required”, select them and repeat key details in the notes.
When total pieces exceed three or total weight exceeds ~40 kg, notify the driver via in-app message after dispatch and offer a short reminder in notes: “Heavy load – driver assistance appreciated; arriving 2–3 min early”.
Pick pickup spot and allow extra time for loading at airports or stations
Schedule pickup 15 minutes after scheduled flight arrival at airports; add 25–30 minutes if passport control or customs apply; at rail or bus terminals, plan 5–10 minutes after scheduled arrival.
Choose arrivals curbside, a designated ground-transport zone, or the short-term parking exit depending on airport or station rules; when drivers must wait in a cell phone lot, plan an extra 10–20 minutes for transfer from lot to the pickup door.
For three or more large suitcases, allocate an additional 10–15 minutes for trunk loading; if stairs, narrow corridors or elevators are involved, add another 5–10 minutes to account for maneuvering and placement.
Confirm terminal number, exit door, baggage claim carousel or platform via the app message and send a photo of the exact pickup spot when possible; staying at the specified door shortens search time and reduces curbside violations.
Expect curbside or commercial-vehicle fees at many airports (commonly $3–10); if a fee applies, factor in a few extra minutes for payment or relocation to a permitted zone.
Use terminal baggage carts or porter services when available and add 3–7 minutes to fetch a cart plus 2–5 minutes to return it after loading; porters typically speed the process but require a small tip and brief coordination.
For oversized sporting gear or mobility aids, notify the driver ahead and add 10–20 minutes because securing, folding ramps and extra handling take longer than standard bag loading.
During peak hours at major hubs, expect arrival-area loops and traffic delays: add 10–30 minutes in morning and evening peaks and allow drivers to stage legally rather than double-park at the curb.
If local rules prevent curbside access, arrange to meet at the closest permitted door or short-term lot and avoid blocking taxi lanes or emergency exits while moving bags into the vehicle.
Message the driver beforehand to confirm trunk space and loading assistance
Send one concise message immediately after requesting the ride and another 10–15 minutes before pickup stating exact item count, outer dimensions, and approximate weight, then ask if the driver can load and whether folding rear seats are needed.
Checklist to include in a single message
Number of items (e.g., 2 large suitcases, 1 carry-on). Dimensions per item in inches or cm (24×16×10 in, 60×40×25 cm). Estimated weight per item in kg or lb (e.g., 23 kg / 50 lb). Bulk/odd shapes (bike box, golf bag, tripod case). Need for seat folding or rear-door access. Stair or elevator at pickup point. Offer to tip for heavy lifting.
Short, copy-paste templates
Light load: “Hi – 2 medium suitcases 24×16×10 in + 1 backpack; total weight ~18 kg. Will these fit in trunk and can you help load? Thanks.”
Heavy or bulky: “Hi – 1 large case 32×20×14 in (~28 kg) plus a tripod case. Can you confirm trunk space and if you can assist loading? I can add a $5–10 tip for help.”
Fragile gear or odd shapes: “Hi – camera cases (hard shell) and 2 soft bags; one case 18×12×8 in, fragile. Can you confirm space and agree to handle gently? See packing reference: best digital camera for action shots under 200“
If the driver declines to assist or trunk is too small, cancel and request a vehicle rated for larger cargo or a van-style option. Tip guideline: $2–5 for light help, $5–15 for heavy or multiple items; increase for stairs or long carries.
Prepare, secure, and label bags for quick transfer and easy identification
Place the heaviest case at the bottom and keep each piece under 20 kg (44 lb) for single-person handling; mark the exact weight on a small taped sticker (example: “18 kg”).
Protect and fasten
- Pad fragile contents using rolled clothing, bubble wrap, or padded pouches; insert a thin rigid sheet between garments to avoid crushing.
- Lock all zipper pulls using TSA-approved locks and fasten a luggage strap across the middle to prevent accidental opening.
- Secure external pockets using small zip ties; carry a pocket cutter or scissors to remove them at destination.
- Wrap handles with a 5 cm band of high-visibility tape and add a matching mark near one wheel hub for night spotting.
- Cover soft cases with a weatherproof cover or apply water-repellent spray to fabric shells before travel when rain is forecast.
Label for instant recognition
- Attach two tags per piece: one on the main handle and one hidden inside a flap. Include full name, primary phone, and destination stop or flight/train number.
- Use color-coded tags: red = fragile, green = carry-size, blue = checked-size. Keep a matching color note on your phone’s lock screen for quick reference.
- Print a small QR sticker (approx. 2×3 cm) that links to an emergency contact page; laminate using clear packing tape.
- Mark an exterior side with a bold 2–3 character code (initials plus a numeral) using a permanent marker for rapid visual match in low light.
Quick-transfer routine: collapse telescopic handles, align wheels toward the vehicle opening, group cases by stop order, load heaviest-first. Carry a pocket checklist card: “weight label – tags present – locks engaged – fragile flagged.”
FAQ:
Can I request a larger car in the Uber app if I have several suitcases?
Yes. When you open the app, select the ride option that matches the number of passengers and amount of luggage — for example, choose UberXL, SUV, or a premium larger vehicle if available. These options provide more trunk and cabin space than a standard car. If you are unsure which option will fit all bags, pick the next size up. If the app shows limited availability, you can also wait a few minutes or try a different pickup location where drivers for larger vehicles are more common.
Are there extra charges for taking large or heavy luggage in an Uber?
Most of the time there is no separate luggage fee charged by the app. Airport pickups can include airport access or facility fees that are added to the fare; those are not luggage-specific. Drivers may refuse or ask for additional payment if an item is unusually large, hazardous, or requires special handling. If a driver asks you to pay extra through a private arrangement, end the trip and request a different vehicle through the app or report the issue to support so it is handled through official channels. You can also add a tip in the app for any extra help with loading.
How do I tell the driver how much luggage I have before they arrive?
There’s no dedicated luggage field in most versions of the app, but you can contact the assigned driver after the match. Use the call or message button in the trip screen and give a short clear description, for example: “Hi — I have three large suitcases and one carry-on; will that fit in your car?” If your items include awkward shapes (bike, stroller, surfboard), state dimensions or say whether the item can be folded. Contacting the driver a few minutes after they accept the trip gives them time to confirm or cancel so you can request a larger vehicle without delay.
What should I do for Uber pickup at an airport with luggage?
Open the app and set your pickup point to the airport terminal. Many airports show specific curbside pickup zones or lot locations in the app — follow that suggestion and the airport’s signage. After the driver accepts, send a short message with your precise location (e.g., “Outside door 3, near the taxis, carrying two checked bags”). If there are long walkways or restricted curbs, use the app’s instructions or airport pickup map to meet the driver at an approved spot. Allow a little extra waiting time for luggage loading and check whether the airport charges any pickup fee that will appear on your receipt.
What if a driver refuses to take my bulky items once they arrive?
If a driver refuses after arriving, stay polite and ask for the reason — it may be a legitimate safety or space concern. If the vehicle cannot handle the load, cancel and request a larger option (UberXL, SUV) or place a new request. If the driver demands extra cash or behaves unprofessionally, end the contact through the app and report the incident via Help so support can review it. For very large goods (furniture, large appliances), consider a specialized delivery or moving service instead of a standard ride service to avoid repeated problems.
