METCALF MOVING BLOG
Household Move? Know What Movers Won’t Move
While it may seem like movers are magical helpers who can make light work of even the most challenging move, they have limitations. There are certain prohibited items that movers cannot move and other items that are restricted, requiring careful planning, paperwork, or preparation. Before tackling your next household move, it’s best to understand what the movers can help with and what you may have to make separate plans for.
Prohibited Items
As much as professional movers are here to help you, unfortunately, there are some items they are not allowed to move. Usually, movers are not allowed to transport hazardous materials, which could include things like flammable gasses or toxic chemicals. Some of the most common prohibited items include:
- Chemicals for lawn treatment
- Gunpowder or other firearm ammunition
- Toxic poisons or chemicals
- Automobile batteries
- Caustic cleaning products
- Live animals
If you have these toxic items in your house, it is best to dispose of them using proper environmental regulations. The homeowner must move their household pets and live animals.
Proceed with Caution
Movers are allowed to move certain items in your home, pending you give your moving company proper notice ahead of time. Moving companies can move these items if they have written notice but are not liable for any damage during the moving process. These items are best categorized as “move at your own risk,” acknowledging the inherent risks in asking a moving company to help. Some common items to proceed with caution include:
- Alcoholic bottles and beverages
- Fuel storage containers
- Scuba Tanks
- Power Tools
- Batteries used for personal mobility devices
Remember that the average temperature could also impact how well these items survive transport. Check the weather before your move and remove any batteries or gas tanks that could sustain damage with unusually high or low temperatures.
Better to Move Yourself
While a moving company is more than happy to move your belongings, the personal nature of some items often makes them a better candidate for the homeowner to move. The homeowner should always move sentimental or non-replaceable items. Some items that are best to hold onto during the move include:
- Photo Albums or Wedding mementos
- Heirloom Furniture or Decor
- Jewelry
Due to their sensitivity, certain personal items are better to keep on hand during the move. Keep personal identification and banking information in a private box, kept on hand throughout the relocation. Personal items to consider including are:
- Checkbooks and Account Information
- Passports and Identifying Documentation
- Personal Files
- School Records
- Medical Records
- Title Documents
In the case of an accident or loss, these items could be difficult and time-consuming to replace. Having the homeowner move these items is a safe bet and can prevent unwanted headaches to replace lost or damaged items.
Moving Simplified
Knowing ahead of time what your movers can help with and what you need to move yourself can save time and energy. Contact us for assistance with your move. Get a free quote and simplify your move with a professional moving team on your side.
