Moving day is approaching, you’ve started packing, and the boxes are piling up. But before you seal every box and hand it over to your movers, there’s one important question to ask:
Are you sure everything you’re packing can actually be transported by a moving company?
Many moving companies have restrictions on certain items because they may be hazardous, illegal to transport, or unsafe to carry in a moving truck.
Knowing what movers won’t move can help you avoid last-minute surprises and make your moving day much smoother.
Here’s what you should know before you start packing.
1. Gasoline and Other Flammable Fuels
Gasoline, diesel, and other highly flammable fuels are generally not accepted by professional moving companies.
This includes fuel stored in:
- Gas cans
- Containers
- Portable fuel tanks
- Other non-approved storage containers
If you have fuel-powered equipment, such as lawnmowers or other outdoor equipment, check with your moving company about how it should be prepared before moving day.
2. Propane Tanks and Gas Cylinders
Propane tanks and gas cylinders can pose serious safety risks during transportation.
These may include:
- BBQ propane tanks
- Camping gas cylinders
- Large propane tanks
- Other compressed gas containers
Always ask your moving company about their specific policies before attempting to transport these items.
3. Paint, Chemicals, and Hazardous Materials
Many household chemicals cannot be safely transported in a moving truck.
Examples may include:
- Paint and paint thinner
- Gasoline
- Pesticides
- Bleach
- Strong cleaning chemicals
- Pool chemicals
- Other toxic or corrosive substances
Instead of packing these items, consider disposing of them through an appropriate household hazardous waste program.
4. Fireworks and Explosives
Fireworks and explosives are among the items professional movers will not transport.
These materials can present significant fire and safety risks during transportation.
If you have fireworks or similar items at home, make sure they are handled and disposed of according to applicable local regulations.
5. Perishable Food
Perishable food can spoil during transportation, particularly during longer moves.
Examples include:
- Fresh meat
- Frozen food
- Dairy products
- Opened refrigerated items
Try to use up perishable food before moving day. For longer-distance relocations, it’s generally better to avoid transporting items that require refrigeration.
6. Plants and Certain Outdoor Items
Plants can be difficult to transport, particularly when moving across provincial or international borders.
Some plants may also be subject to specific transportation or agricultural restrictions.
If you’re moving from Canada to the USA, check applicable border requirements before transporting plants or other regulated biological materials.
7. Valuable or Irreplaceable Personal Items
While some moving companies may transport valuable belongings, it’s often best to keep certain items with you.
Consider personally transporting:
- Passports
- Birth certificates
- Important financial documents
- Jewelry
- Cash
- Sentimental items
- Other irreplaceable belongings
Keeping these items with you ensures they remain accessible and reduces unnecessary risk during the move.
8. Certain Batteries and Battery-Powered Items
Some batteries can present safety concerns during transportation, particularly damaged or leaking batteries and certain types of high-capacity batteries.
Before packing battery-powered equipment, check with your moving company about any restrictions.
Why Do Movers Refuse Certain Items?
Moving companies restrict certain items primarily because of safety.
Hazardous materials can create risks involving:
- Fire
- Explosions
- Chemical exposure
- Leaks
- Damage to other belongings
Professional movers have a responsibility to protect their crews, customers, vehicles, and the belongings being transported.
If you’re unsure whether something can be moved, the best approach is to ask your moving company before packing it.
What Should You Do If Movers Won’t Transport Something?
Don’t wait until moving day to find out that an item can’t go on the truck.
Instead:
- Create a list of questionable items.
- Ask your moving company about their policies.
- Identify items that need special disposal.
- Arrange appropriate disposal or transportation.
- Keep important personal belongings with you.
A little preparation can prevent unnecessary delays and last-minute stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items do movers usually not move?
Movers commonly restrict hazardous materials, flammable fuels, explosives, certain chemicals, and other items that could create safety risks during transportation.
Can movers transport food?
Policies vary. Non-perishable food may be accepted by some moving companies, while perishable or refrigerated items are often restricted.
Can movers transport plants?
It depends on the type of plant and the destination. Cross-border moves may have additional restrictions, so always check applicable requirements before moving plants.