You thought that once you hire relocation professionals, all you have to do is wait for your stuff to arrive at your new home? Not so fast. There are some items movers won’t move, no matter how much you pay them or beg them. To avoid any inconveniences on the relocation day, learn all about the stuff companies don’t usually transport, from the obvious things like chemicals and pets to some not so obvious, such as nail polish removers.
Things to Do Before Moving: Don’t Pack Hazardous Materials
Wondering how to move efficiently? It’s easy; just don’t pack the things that companies don’t transport. But how can you know what things can’t go on your moving to a new state checklist? Long-distance moving companies are ready to perform a lot of services, from custom crating to loading and unloading services, but they won’t do anything that’s prohibited by law, and that will put them at risk.
So lesson number one: don’t even try packing any hazardous materials. That stands for all the items that are flammable, explosive, or corrosive. Some of them are, for example:
- Car batteries
- Fireworks
- Motor oil
- Pool chemicals
- Pesticides
- Paint
- Motor oil
- Fertilizer
- Nail polish and nail polish removers
- Gasoline
Can I Pay a Higher Fee to Move Hazardous Materials?
In the majority of cases, no. Most transport companies consider that it is not worth the risk of something happening to the rest of your belongings, to the movers, or the company as a whole. That is all you need to know about safety when moving. Plus, we can guarantee you that that wouldn’t be a stress-free moving, for you nor the professionals.
List All Items In Your Free Moving Quote, In Case They’re Ready to Ship It
In case you have some stuff, and you aren’t sure if it is considered hazardous or too bulky, just put it in your quote, and the company will let you know in their feedback if it is manageable. Not all long-distance companies have the same list of things they don’t accept, so you can always try.
Do Not Offer Higher Tips for Items Movers Won’t Move
If a company said no, then it is a no. Don’t try to bribe movers on the day of the relocation; that’s not a good example of how to tip movers. Also, you would be putting those people’s jobs and safety at risk. We are aware that last-minute moving is not easy, and that any unexpected event can delay your plans, but this is not a way to get things done.
7 Most Common Items Movers Won’t Move
Besides hazardous materials, there are a few other things that can put you in a dilemma. As mentioned, every moving service provider is different, so make sure first to check if they can fulfill your special requests. However, here we would like to briefly point out some of the most common things that you shouldn’t even bother packing because most likely, they won’t be shipped to your new home.
- Plants. Will movers move plants? Surprisingly or not, a lot of people don’t even assume that plants cannot be transferred along with the rest of their household. But it’s actually illegal to transport plants over a distance longer than 150 miles if you don’t have a license.
- Perishables. Long-distance movers don’t transport perishable food because spoiled food attracts rats and other pests. However, if your belongings can be picked up and delivered within 24 hours, some companies may allow food on board.
- Pets. A lot of people are relocating to a different state with their pets, but do we really have to mention that you shouldn’t ship your pets along with other items?
- Liquor. This can vary from one state to another and their respective regulations. Some will accept alcohol that is bottled and well packed; others won’t. In case you have an expensive wine collection, find a company that has experience in packing and shipping such objects.
- Valuables. Try looking at your valuables as your moving essentials. It is something that can’t go without you, or you shouldn’t allow anyone else to handle it, whether it is jewelry, documents, or anything that has sentimental value or is irreplaceable.
- Power equipment containing fuel. For example, lawnmowers, motorcycles, and weed eaters can be loaded only after you drain the fuel. However, keep in mind to do this at least 24 hours before packing and shipping those things.
- Explosive and flammable things. Many people aren’t even aware of what all the things that are considered flammable are, so it is always better to ask the company than to assume they will take it on their long-distance journey to your new home.
What to Do With Items That Moving Companies Don’t Transport?
Don’t fall into despair. If you have the time, check how to organize a garage sale before your relocation. It doesn’t take long, and it will save you some money. You can also leave those things in storage; it is free for the first 30 days. You can always donate some stuff, like food, or give it to your friends. What’s essential is to know the terms of your company and decide on time what to do with the things that they won’t handle. If you are not using auto transport services but driving instead, you can always pack some of those things in your car and drive them to your new home safely.
