Overview

Even full-service movers have limits. Common items movers won’t transport include perishable food, valuables like cash and jewelry, hazardous chemicals, live plants, and pets. For a smooth move, plan to handle these items yourself, and always check with your moving company for any additional restrictions.

5 Things Movers Will Not Move

Many people who move for the first time (and even some who've moved numerous times) think that the moving company they hire will just come, pack up, and head to the desired location. While this is mostly true, there are some things that moving companies will not pack into their trucks. Below are five common things movers won’t move.

1. Food

Most reputable moving companies will not move food, especially fresh, frozen and sugary-sweet foods. These foods can attract mice and other critters and become a breeding ground for food-borne illness. Before you move, try donating excess food to a local charity.

2. Valuables and Cash

If you plan on moving heirlooms, jewelry, money, securities, antiques, or any other valuables, it's best to move them yourself. Although professional movers carry the appropriate insurance coverage, save yourself the time and hassle of trying to replace lost or damaged items by packing these items yourself.

3. Hazardous Chemicals

Movers will not transport volatile chemicals such as gasoline, turpentine, solvents, and other dangerous materials. It would be best if you weren't transporting them either. Dispose of them properly before moving.

4. Flowers and Plants

Due to the abundance of rules and regulations regarding plants and flowers' transportation, moving companies refuse to carry them. Further, plants and flowers do not thrive in a moving truck's cool, dark environment. Transport these items yourself or give them to friends and family before you move.

5. Pets

When moving pets, it’s important to never place them in the back of a moving truck. Most moving companies refuse to transport animals in this way due to the potential risks to their safety and well-being. Always make arrangements for your pet to travel safely and comfortably, either in your personal vehicle or through a professional pet relocation service.

While these five items are things movers won’t move, the moving company you have chosen may have more restrictions. To ensure a stress-free move, speak to them about they won't transport in their moving truck.