Prohibited Items Movers Won’t Move – What Not to Pack

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Imagine having gone through the entire havoc of packing and sorting through your stuff just to find out that your local movers won’t be able to transport some of the goods. The list of unwanted or prohibited things in the moving truck varies from one company to another, and learning what are the items movers won’t move for you can be quite distressing.
To help you avoid having to repack your belongings on the day of the big move, we’ve done the legwork of research and prepared a brief guide on the topic.

Mover carrying boxes.

Why Are There Some Items Movers Won’t Move

As you have probably guessed, it is all about safety. No matter the distance of your move, it is crucial that you find a reputable local moving company that considers the safety of your possessions their main priority. To avoid misplacement or damage to your belongings, reputable movers make sure to respect safety standards and health regulations when moving your items. Keep in mind that every company has different policies, but most movers won’t move certain goods because there’s a risk of injury or damage to the following:

  • Company representatives involved in moving
  • Their means of transportation and the rest of the company’s property
  • Your goods inside the truck
  • The goods of other customers
  • Possible harm to the environment
  • Health risks to the general public

If you want to relieve moving stress levels, you should opt for calling a relocation company such as Seattle Professional Movers to help you with packing stuff and all sorts of moving services. But there are some things we are simply not allowed to transport to your new home. Depending on the type of goods, there are legal restrictions on some items, like some types of hazardous materials that could potentially damage your belongings or the property of other customers. Additionally, some things are too fragile or too valuable, and professional movers will avoid packing and transporting that type of goods.

Movers carrying items out of truck.

Some moving companies won’t be able to pack and transport all of your belongings due to legal restrictions and safety regulations.

Combustible Items and Other Hazardous Materials

Similar to hazardous material, combustible and flammable items are too dangerous to transport and must be disposed of properly. You have been thinking about throwing your nail polish in a box? Think again. Movers will not pack and transport anything that is extremely flammable under the right conditions. It is dangerous to move flammable or hazardous items for your movers and it is dangerous for you as well.
Keep in mind that those items can be easily replaced or repurchased once you settle into your new home to avoid any possibility of something catching fire inside a truck. The combustible, flammable, and hazardous items include, but are not limited to:

  • Aerosols
  • Paint
  • Gasoline
  • Matches
  • Lighter fluid, kerosene, and propane tanks
  • Oxygen bottles
  • Pool chemicals
  • Motor oil
  • Lamp oil
  • Pesticides
  • Nail polish removers
  • Fireworks

You should include these into your moving to-do list and learn how to dispose of them.

Combustible spray cans.

Combustible and flammable goods are not allowed in the cargo.

Use Your Vehicle for Relocating Pets

If you’re moving with pets, know that under no circumstances can any living and breathing organisms be transported inside the moving trucks, even from one part of Seattle to another – air conditions inside those vans are poor, and temperature can be extreme. Assuming that you believe that pets have the right to safe transportation, it would be best to transport your furry friend in your vehicle or find other means of transportation for your best friend. And since we are mentioning vehicles, you are probably wondering do you need a car in Seattle? This depends on your future location, but you’ll probably need one to get around more easily.

Dog at truck door.

Pets are not to be transported inside the moving vans due to poor conditions.

Think Twice About Relocating Your Beloved Plants

Setting off to your new home without your beloved lush vegetation is not an option? Be aware that local movers might not want to transport your plants to your new home. This rule is mainly because your local movers cannot make any guarantees as to the safe transport of your plants. Bear in mind that plants can be an excellent parasite and pest transmitters during transportation, and due to the unrivaled fragility of your beloved vegetation, it is suggested that you pack and bring the plants yourself.

Potted plants in front of wall.

Relocate your beloved vegetation with your vehicle.

Movers Will Not Transport Explosives

This rule might seem pretty obvious, but you would be surprised at what some people try to move. According to state administrative regulations, moving companies are not allowed to transport ammunition, black powder, primers, or even souvenir explosives. They present a high risk to the people involved, as well as your property and the environment.

Items not safe for transport.

It is not legal to transport explosives with your moving company as they present a higher risk during transportation.

What About Perishable Food?

Any of your goods with an expiration date will not make it to the truck and to your new home. Your movers won’t be able to keep perishable things cool during transport, and it can attract insects and easily damage other goods. The transportation of such items is unsanitary and not allowed. However, some companies have different policies and may allow you to carry your food for short-distance moves. Anyhow, it is best to contact your local moving company for further guidance on this matter.
On the other hand, snacks and refreshments are the most commonly forgotten things to pack for a moving day. You and your movers will need the energy to handle the whole process with ease. Therefore, be sure to have a food plan for a relocation date, and don’t forget to stay hydrated.

Various dishes on table.

Give away or donate your perishables before the move.

Transporting Your Valuables

As for moving hacks for carrying personal and financial documents, heirlooms, jewelry, or cash – it is generally a good idea to keep them with you during your move. Moving companies have different policies on that, but it is always better to be safe than sorry before the packing.

Valuable antique watch with case.

Make sure to carry your family and personal belongings with you.

Tips to Minimize Mistakes Before You Start Packing

Since many restricted things are likely to be found in your garage or with your household supplies, it is best you follow our tips to minimize mistakes along the way. Create a summary list such as this one, and make sure to have it done before you begin with the packing phase or start searching for tips on how to pack glasses for moving and also how to pack books for moving.

Request a Free Moving Quote and Be Ready for Your Local Move

Contact local professionals in your area, such as Seattle Professional Movers, to give you further advice on the list of prohibited things and a free moving quote for our services. You can further discuss your moving options with our moving experts via phone or you can fill out an online form with the details of your move, and you will be contacted as soon as possible with further advice by our top-tier moving experts. While you’re at it, be sure to check what are some of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle, and find the one that suits your needs. If you’re relocating locally with a family, you can also search among the best school districts in Seattle to find the best ones for your little ones.

Tips on How to Donate the Rest of Perishable Items

It is highly recommended that you don’t try and sneak some food in the moving truck. Know that it might cause catastrophic consequences to the rest of the cargo, so you should think of other options to dispose of your perishable items. Donations of food are always welcome and greatly appreciated, so make sure to contact your local food bank or other organizations in and around Seattle that can come to your home and collect the rest of your perishable items for free.

Select and Dispose of Hazardous Materials

Based on the information from your movers, it is highly recommended that you make a “prohibited cargo” checklist and find a way to dispose of them before the packing even begins.

People carrying boxes out of house.

By organizing your items and planning ahead, your load will be lightened and ready for the big move.

How to Dispose of Hazardous Waste Before Moving?

As previously mentioned, it is essential to research the local legalities of the disposal before you throw your hazardous materials in the garbage. See if your community collects HHW year-round garbage or has exchange areas for unused paints, pesticides, and automotive products. Additionally, you can look for a central location where you may be able to drop off some of your goods for recycling or proper disposal.
Be ready to downsize and get rid of perishables on time, and if you are still unsure of what can and cannot be moved, don’t hesitate to contact Seattle Professional Movers.