Items Professional Movers Can or Should Not Transport
Congratulations on your upcoming move! Before you decide on a moving company it is best to have an in home estimate done. While getting an estimate it is important to know that your moving company may not transport certain items, due to state laws, safety and/or ethical grounds. If you have any of the items listed in this article you will want to discuss them with the moving company.
Pets and plants
If you’re planning on moving with your pet, either make arrangements to have the pet in your personal vehicle in a cage or carrier. Law states that pets may not be transported in a moving truck. In addition, plants are not allowed to be transported via moving trucks distances more than 150 miles. If you’re moving across town, your plants are safe to move, but most states prohibit long moves with plants. To find out your state’s regulations regarding the transport of plants, check with the U.S. Department of Agriculture website.
Hazardous Items
Dangerous items are defined as anything flammable, hazardous, corrosive, or explosive. Movers are obligated by law to refuse to move anything that fits these criteria. Make plans to either give these items to friends or neighbors, or call your local recycling company or fire station to find out how you can properly dispose of dangerous items. Specific items defined as dangerous include acids, aerosol, batteries, car oil, charcoal, matches, gasoline, fertilizer, weed killer, cleaning products, ammunition, bleach, nail polish and remover, fireworks, propane tanks, and loaded weapons.
Perishable items
Empty and clean refrigerators and freezers at least 24 hours prior to moving. Keep all doors to these appliances open to allow them to dry and prevent mold or mildew growth. If you are moving locally, movers may agree to transport perishable items if they are properly packed and require no servicing—however, you are at the mercy of your movers.
Irreplaceable items
Sensitive belongings such as personal records, address books, photos, car and house keys, financial statements, check books, bonds, stocks, software, and medications are best transported in your personal vehicle in case your movers are delayed or items are lost or damaged.
Moving companies usually will not move jewelry, cash, or other valuable items. Those are best kept in the personal vehicle so you know where they are at all times. If you have a lot of valuables, there are specialty companies with the required security officers to provide service. This is safest for you and the movers.
Regardless if you are moving local or venturing on a long distance move, check with your hired movers in advance to find out what they will and will not move.
