What Moving Companies Won’t Move: Things to Know Before You Hire
Posted on: Friday, August 22nd, 2025
Moving can be stressful, but knowing what items moving companies won’t handle makes the process easier. Some items are too dangerous to transport, while others need special care or personal attention. This guide explains what you can’t pack in the moving truck and why. We’ll cover dangerous materials, food items, valuables, pets, plants, and large furniture. Understanding these rules helps you plan better and choose the best movers for your needs.
Hazardous Materials
Moving companies can’t transport dangerous materials because of strict safety rules from the Department of Transportation. These include explosives, gas tanks, paint, cleaning products, and chemicals. Items like propane tanks, gasoline, and pool chemicals must stay behind. If you have these items, you need to dispose of them safely or move them yourself. Following these rules keeps everyone safe and avoids fines.
Perishable Items
Food and other items that spoil quickly need special planning during a move:
- Plan Ahead: Check all food items before moving day and eat, give away, or throw out what you can’t take
- Secure Packaging: Use coolers with ice for items you must bring, like frozen foods or fresh groceries
- Consider Personal Transport: For long moves, take perishable items in your car to keep them cold.
Valuables and Important Documents
Keep your most important items with you during the move—pack documents like passports, birth certificates, and bank records in a secure folder or small box. Take jewelry, cash, and family photos in your vehicle. If you have valuable artwork or antiques, tell your moving company ahead of time so they can plan special handling. Keeping irreplaceable items close reduces the chance of losing them.
Plants and Animals
Your pets and plants need special care during moving day:
- Plants: Cut back overgrown branches, secure pots so they don’t tip, and water them lightly to prevent spills
- Small Animals: Put pets in carriers with good air flow, add their favorite blanket or toy, and pack food and water for the trip
- Large Animals: Hire a pet transport service for big animals, and make sure you have health certificates and plan rest stops for long trips
Large or Oversized Items
Big items like pianos, pool tables, or huge furniture need extra planning. Measure these items before moving day and tell your moving company the exact size. Take apart large pieces when possible to make moving easier. Check that your new home can fit these items and warn movers about narrow doors or steep stairs that might cause problems.
Items of High Sentimental Value
Items that mean a lot to your family need extra protection:
- Proper Packaging: Use strong boxes, bubble wrap, and packing materials to protect fragile family treasures
- Clear Communication: Tell your moving company which items are special so they can handle them carefully
- Personal Transport: Consider moving irreplaceable items yourself to avoid any chance of damage
Contact Us
Dunmar Moving Systems is here to assist you with all your moving and storage needs. Reach out to us through the following methods:
- Phone: (804) 409-0790
- Email: info@dunmar.com
- Website: www.dunmar.com/contact-us
For a free moving quote, please visit our Get a Free Quote page.
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