Don't Put That on the Moving Van! 4 Types of Items That Can't Be Moved

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

1. HAZARDOUS ITEMS

For safety reasons, movers have a list of hazardous items that they can't move. Chemicals interacting with other matter, such as placing paint thinner and weed killer together on a moving truck can result in a disastrous outcome.

Some of the hazardous items that can't be moved include those, such as lighter fluid, gasoline, propane cylinders, matches, paints, paint thinners, fireworks, oxygen bottles, household cleaners, pesticides, fertilizers, weed killers, aerosol cans, pool chemicals and even nail polish remover. Be sure to check with your moving company for a complete list.

2. PLANTS

Another item you shouldn't put in a moving van is plants. In fact, there are some states with rules, regarding specific houseplants that can or cannot cross a state line. While pests and mites aren't a problem in some states, they're considered to be extremely hazardous in other states.

Furthermore, most moving companies do not want to transport plants since pests that live in the soil can easily spill into the moving truck. Even if your moving van agrees to move your plants, they may not survive, especially if you're moving a long distance since plants need sunlight and water. If you don't have room in your car for your plants, why not give them away to your neighbors and friends.

3. IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS, PHOTOS AND FAMILY HEIRLOOMS

Even if your moving company says they can carry your special valuables on their moving van, it's still a good idea to keep your important documents and photos with you. This is because these are things that can't be easily replaced.

4. PERISHABLE FOODS

Professional movers generally pack most canned food for you, but you should still consider if this is a smart idea. Of course, perishable foods cannot be carried on a moving van. It's recommended that you get rid of your perishables as well as foods in glass jars rather than carrying them with you.

You want to make room in your vehicle for more important items, and you don't want to have to worry about accidents from leaks, cracks or mold before arriving at your new home. But boxed and/or canned items, such as spices and dried fruits can be transported. For any questions about which food items that can or can't be moved, ask your moving agent.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

• Make plans to carry your pets with you and discuss any special needs your pet may have with your vet.
• As for alcoholic beverages, consider that state laws pertaining to alcohol can differ, so it's best to not move your alcoholic beverages.
• Why not take advantage of grocery delivery after arriving at your new home. You can order online for food, paper products, cleaning supplies and other essentials.
• You can put your lawn mower on the moving van, provided you've drained the gas and oil tanks.
• Consider that it's also dangerous for you to move hazardous items in your car. It's best to simply repurchase them once you arrive at your new home. In other words, don't take the risk of transporting them.

To make moving as seamless as possible, contact us to set up an appointment and find out more about wide range of professional residential and corporate moving services.