What Won’t Movers Move?
Though we might have a general idea about what needs to be moved for a move, there’s always something that we forget, leading to confusion and frustration when moving day arrives. It would be great to have a simple checklist to check to ensure we don’t forget anything. If only there was a way to make sure you know what movers won’t move, you might think of it.
Well, friends and neighbors, there is such a thing, and we’ve created it in this detailed guide.
If you’re moving into a new home, you need to make sure that you’re aware of what, in your home, moving won’t move, so when moving day rolls around, you don’t get caught unawares and end up frustrated and disappointed.
Let’s take a look at what won’t movers move.
Anything Living
While some movers will transport pets and plants, many moving companies have strict policies against moving these items. This is because pets and plants can be easily injured or killed during the move, and movers are not responsible for any damage that may occur. If you have pets or plants that you need to move, it is best to find a company that specializes in moving these items.
Flammable Items
There are some items that movers won’t move due to the fire risk. This includes anything flammable, such as gasoline, paint, cleaning fluids, paint thinners, or gasoline and oil. Also, any type of fireworks is also usually prohibited.
If you have questions about whether something can be readily moved, it’s always best to ask the moving company ahead of time.
Firearms and Ammunitions
Professional movers generally will not move these items for your firearms and ammunition. There are a few reasons for this. Primarily, it is due to liability reasons.
If something happened during the move and a gun were to go off or ammunition was to detonate somehow, it could cause serious damage or even death. Even if the chances of something like this are slim, it’s not worth the risk to most professional moving companies.
Additionally, many states have laws prohibiting the transport of firearms and ammunition by anyone other than a licensed firearms dealer. So even if a moving company was willing to take on the liability, they would likely get in trouble with the law if they were caught transporting these items.
Foods
There are certain food items that professional movers won’t move because they may leak or crack in a container and spill. These include items like oils, bottles of vinegar, ketchup, and salad dressing. If these items are in containers that are not sealed, they can leak and create a mess.
If you are moving these types of items, it is best to pack them in a way that will prevent them from leaking or breaking. Additionally, most movers are unwilling to transport perishable items due to the short time frame they need to move.
Items That Need Preparation before Relocation
It is commonly assumed that movers will move anything that is not bolted down, but this is not always the case. Some items, such as lawnmowers and chainsaws, need special preparation before relocation.
These items need draining of all fluids and have the proper paperwork. Other items, such as grills, must be generally cleaned and all the parts fastened. Moving is a big undertaking, and preparation is important.
Knowing what items movers will not move will save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run. Lastly, movers won’t move refrigerators unless they are properly prepared. Make sure to disconnect and defrost your refrigerator at least 24 hours before the move.
Other items, such as grand pianos, may be too delicate to be moved without precise packing. If you want moving services specializing in moving your piano and other instruments. They are reliable and experienced transportation companies to help make sure your instruments will arrive safely.
Valuable Personal Items
While most professional movers will transport your more common belongings, some items won’t move. This is for insurance purposes, as these items are more likely to be damaged or lost in transit. Valuables such as jewelry, antiques, collectibles, and art are usually best kept with you during a move. You can transport them yourself or hire a specialized company to handle them.
Too Big or Too Heavy
This usually includes hot tubs, commercial refrigerators, safes, and other similar items. In some cases, you may be able to hire an oversized moving company to help with these items, but it’s best to sell or donate them before you move.
Hazardous Items
Most movers will not move hazardous items that are usually considered too dangerous to transport and could cause an accident. If you have any of these items, you must dispose of them before the move. When it comes to propane, oxygen, and scuba tanks, movers will not move these items unless they are empty.
For safety reasons, it is best to empty these tanks before moving day. This will ensure they cannot leak or cause other safety hazards.
What Won’t Movers Move
Knowing what won’t movers move is crucial if you are preparing to move. Some items, like open containers and hazardous materials, are obvious no-nos. But there are other items you might not realize movers would not touch.
It is paramount to know what these items are so you can make other arrangements for them. Knowing what the movers would not be able to move, you can plan accordingly and ensure everything goes smoothly on moving day.
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With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.
