Although relocating can mark an exciting new chapter, it also brings lots of stress and challenges.
A key element you can easily overlook, amid all the other tasks, is what you should not pack. These items are often overlooked until the last minute, but they are prohibited for safety or legal reasons.
Let us review a list of objects you should avoid including in your packing boxes for moving. We are also sharing some guidance on managing these problematic items to help prevent unnecessary complications.
Why Certain Items Are a No-Go
Moving agencies have specific guidelines on what they will and will not transport. Practicality, safety, and sometimes legal restrictions take precedence.
Imagine shifting crucial records or hazardous substances in a moving box that gets lost or damaged. Some objects are best excluded from the relocation van. Being aware of the checklist below in advance will avoid any last-minute issues.
In addition to safety concerns, certain restrictions are in place to protect both movers and your belongings. For instance, transporting hazardous materials poses risks not only to the moving crew but also to your property, as leaks or spills could cause irreparable damage.
Similarly, losing access to critical items like documents or medications during transit could disrupt your move and lead to unnecessary stress.
Hazardous Materials
It is essential to recognise that some household items are classified as hazardous, even though packing for a move can seem otherwise straightforward.
Removal companies cannot ship these due to the associated risks. This category includes chemicals, flammable substances, and toxic items, such as:
- Paints and varnishes;
- Fertilisers and pesticides;
- Propane tanks and lighter fluid;
- Cleaning products like ammonia and bleach.
These substances can cause fires, explosions, or toxic leaks, making them quite dangerous. Make sure these objects are either properly disposed of or arranged for alternative transit before moving day.
Many cities offer hazardous waste disposal programmes, so check your local options. You can also transport your cleaning products in your car, ensuring they are securely packed to prevent spills.
Perishables
Perishable food is another category that is sometimes neglected. No one wants to deal with the hassle of unpacking on moving day only to find a box full of wilted lettuce or spoiled yoghurt.
These items include fresh vegetables, dairy products, and frozen meals. Similarly, remove all types of meat, poultry, and seafood.
Therefore, plan to consume or donate your produce before the move. Consider also donating all unopened items to local food banks.
Check your refrigerator and make sure it is empty, clean, and defrosted at least 24 hours before the movers arrive on transfer day. This will prevent any lingering odours from permeating your new home.
Important Documents
Each of us has a drawer or folder filled with essential documents that are rarely accessed. Moving provides the perfect opportunity to review and organise these files.
However, the most critical aspect is not to pack them with everything else because they are too valuable to risk losing.
Keep in mind that important paperwork includes birth certificates, passports, and financial records, such as tax returns or bank statements. Medical files, insurance policies, vehicle titles, and property deeds are similarly sensitive.
You should keep this type of documentation with you throughout the move. Moving firms strive to ensure safe delivery, but sometimes, objects disappear or get damaged.
Keeping these records with you ensures that, regardless of what happens on departure day, you can access them promptly.
Sentimental and High-Value Items
Common sense dictates that family heirlooms, valuable jewellery, and sentimental possessions are not permitted under relocation policies. For belongings of significant worth, the risk of damage or loss is too high.
Most reputable removal companies offer insurance. However, the compensation for lost or damaged items does not match their significance. Thus, consider transporting these objects yourself.
These belongings include valuable watches and jewellery, family artefacts and heirlooms, in addition to personal scrapbooks and photo albums.
It goes beyond their financial worth. If something holds deep personal significance, it is important to keep it close.
It is best to arrange alternative, secure delivery options. Otherwise, you can pack them in a dedicated bag throughout your journey.
Pets and Plants
Although it appears straightforward, transport companies cannot carry living beings. This includes your plants as well as your beloved pets.
Moving animals in crates or on the moving van, can be stressful and frightening for them. Similarly, plants can suffer from a lack of light, water, and care during the journey.
For pets, whether you are organising professional pet transportation or travelling with them yourself, always make prior arrangements. Ensure they have sufficient food, water and a comfortable space during the move.
As for plants, you can choose to ship smaller ones yourself, depending on the distance. For long-distance relocations, consider giving some plants to neighbours or friends who can provide a nurturing environment.
Medications and Health Supplies
Another essential category to keep with you is medications and medical supplies. Relocation services do not carry these for valid reasons.
Imagine needing a vital prescription during a long journey only to find it on the moving van. Keep these items easily accessible, especially if you have specific health needs or specialised medical equipment.
Noteworthy items include prescribed medications and over-the-counter pills, such as allergy medications or painkillers.
Having your health supplies readily available helps ease worries, as unforeseen circumstances can arise during a move.
Weapons and Firearms
If you own firearms or other weapons, you must exercise extra caution during your move. Typically, removal firms do not move these objects due to legal and safety regulations.
Firearms, in particular, require specialised handling and often need to be carried by authorised professionals. Adhering to all local regulations for safe transportation, you can move these items yourself for short distances.
For longer journeys, you can consult an expert agency specialising in the legal transportation of firearms to ensure everything is managed correctly.
Alcohol and Spirits
Resettling can be tricky if you have a well-stocked alcohol collection. While not all alcohol is prohibited from transport, there are often strict regulations regarding the quantity and packaging methods.
It is advisable to consume or donate what you can before the move, as opened bottles or cases of alcohol are likely to be rejected. If you decide to ship alcohol, ensure the bottles are securely packed and sealed.
Consult your removal provider about any specific quantity restrictions. Alternatively, consider hosting a moving day party with neighbours and friends.
This allows everyone to celebrate together and reduces the number of bottles you need to transfer.
Conclusion
Preparing for a move requires careful thought and planning.
It is quite common to underestimate packing hazardous chemicals, perishable items, invaluable records, and sentimental possessions. That is why taking the time to properly handle these challenging objects will make your move more organised, safer, and smoother.
On a packing day, the last thing you need is to have to deal with an otherwise preventable incident. So, take a moment to step back and ensure you are following this checklist.
