Items your Movers Won’t Move

When you begin sorting through your household items to determine what to pack and what not to pack, there are items you may be surprised to find out CAN’T be packed or moved by a moving company you hire. These restrictions can vary by state but are put in place to keep the moving company and your valuables as safe as possible. To help alleviate some of the stress of moving, let us break down the items that are typically off limits for a local moving company like Warehouse Services.

Items Prohibited by Law

Certain items are prohibited by law to be carried by a moving company. Items that are simply illegal to transport include:

·      Hazardous Materials: If it’s flammable, explosive or toxic it’s a no go. Items like gasoline, propane tanks, paint, cleaning supplies, and household chemicals can’t be transported by a moving company.

·      Perishable Goods: Food, drinks, and other perishable items can spoil during transit and create a mess. Donate unopened items to your local food pantry or pack these items in your personal vehicle.

·      Firearms and Ammunition: While some movers might transport these items under specific conditions, it’s generally best to handle firearms yourself.

·      Live Animals: This seems obvious but it’s better to say it. Pets, birds, and other animals are not allowed on moving trucks. They require special care and transportation.

Since we’ve covered the basic items that movers are prohibited by law from transporting, let’s address items that a moving company may choose not to transport for various reasons. These items, while not hazardous, require more attention and care than what they can provide on the truck. These include the following items:

·      High-value items: Jewelry, legal documents, passports, collectibles, and cash are items better left with you. While movers have insurance, it might not cover the full value of these items.

·      Plants: Moving plants can be risky as they can be damaged during transport or introduce pests to new areas.

·      Special Equipment: Specialized equipment such as medical equipment, artwork, or antiques might require specialized packing and handling, which your movers may not be equipped to provide. Warehouse Services is equipped to handle crating valuable items as well as oversize items such as pianos.

Knowing what your movers can and can’t transport will help you plan your move more efficiently. To help you prepare for your move and be ready for the moving company to arrive we recommend decluttering your home and getting rid of unwanted items before your move to save you time and money. We also suggest you pack valuables yourself and keep them on you or in your personal vehicle during the move, so they don’t get misplaced.

The most important tip is to communicate with your mover. Be upfront about what items you need to move and ask about specific restrictions or requirements. The staff at Warehouse Services is highly trained and skilled at executing many types of moves for our clients. We encourage you to reach out to us to discuss your upcoming needs to see how we can help make your move and transition to a new home smooth.