What Do Movers NOT Move?
As moving day approaches, it can seem almost impossible to get everything packed and ready for the movers. Many people are surprised to learn, however, that there are many items which cannot, or should not, be packed for transport with your moving company. The following are items which should never make it into the truck on moving day.
Perishables
No matter the distance of your move, perishable or living items should never be sent with a mover. Notwithstanding a virtually industry-wide policy against transporting perishables, even a short delay in transit can create a real mess at your destination! Perishable items that should not be packed include:
Food and drink
Temperature-sensitive medications
Pets
Live plants
Specialty Items
Certain large, specialty items should always be moved by an experienced specialist, as these items require a specific expertise outside the realm of most general movers. Many such items also require special packaging, crating and handling equipment, which most movers will not have on hand. Examples of these items could include:
Hot tubs
Large fish tanks
Pool tables
Large glass-top tables
If you are unsure about your moving company's ability to safely transport your specific items, always ask well in advance. If your moving company is unable to complete the move themselves, they can often provide a referral to a qualified specialist mover. Be sure to talk with a Get Your Move On specialist that can help you plan for the big day.
Valuables
In preparation for your move, it's always best to set aside items of value, particularly those which can be easily transported yourself. These items could include:
Cash
Jewelry
Important documents (birth certificates, marriage licenses, etc.)
Family heirlooms
Expensive clothing
Electronics
Remember that even the best moving companies often have a reimbursement cap in the event of damage or loss to property, so in the unlikely event that your things become lost or damaged, you may be unable to recoup the full value of your items. The best way to ensure that these items make it safely to your destination safely is to simply transport them yourself.
Volatile Materials
Given the often dramatic fluctuations in temperature your items may experience in the cargo area of a moving truck, as well as the unavoidable jarring and friction which your items will undergo in transit, it is essential that any flammable, corrosive, explosive, combustible or otherwise volatile materials be transported separately. Materials such as the following should never be included in boxes moved by a professional moving company:
Fireworks
Propane tanks
Bleach
Fertilizer
Ammunition
Most moving companies maintain a strict policy against transporting these and other similar items. If you are unsure whether your item is safe to transport, be sure to ask your moving company in advance!