When you’re planning a move, it’s easy to assume your movers will handle everything. But the truth is, there are certain things movers just can’t take, either because it’s unsafe, illegal, or simply not allowed.
Whether you’re doing a big house move or a quick van job across North London, here’s what to keep in mind before the movers show up.
Dangerous Materials Movers Can't Move
Movers are prohibited from transporting dangerous materials because of strict safety regulations. These materials pose risks such as fire, explosion, or contamination, and are best handled by specialized carriers. Common dangerous items movers can’t move include:
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Flammable Liquids: Gasoline, paint thinners, and kerosene pose serious fire hazards.
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Aerosols: Items like spray paint and bug spray can explode in transit.
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Corrosive Substances: Battery acid or strong cleaning agents can damage other items and cause spills.
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Explosives: Fireworks, ammunition, and other explosive materials are strictly prohibited.
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Toxic Substances: Pesticides, fertilizers, and some chemicals can be harmful to people and the environment.
For these materials, you can consult specialized carriers or dispose of them safely through local authorities. For more tips on preparing for a safe move, check out our House Removals London page.
Perishable Items Movers Can't Move
Movers usually won't take perishable stuff like food because it can spoil and get contaminated. Moving trucks often lack the right temperature controls to keep these items fresh. Here’s a list of things movers usually won’t move:
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Food: Fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and seafood are all at risk of spoiling.
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Temperature-Sensitive Items: Items like refrigerated medications, cosmetics, and personal care products may require special conditions to keep them from spoiling.
To deal with perishable items, use coolers or insulated containers with ice packs for short moves. For longer distances, look into hiring a refrigerated transport service.
Live Animals and Plants: Why Movers Avoid Transporting Them
While you might think your pets or plants can be moved with your belongings, movers generally avoid these for several reasons:
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Animal Welfare: Moving trucks are not designed to handle live animals. They lack ventilation, temperature control, and proper care facilities for pets, which can cause stress during transit.
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Legal and Regulatory Restrictions: Various countries and states have laws regarding the transportation of live animals and certain plants.
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Liability Concerns: Special care is needed to move both pets and plants, which is often outside the scope of standard moving services.
For pets, use professional pet relocation services that specialize in animal transport. For plants, hire a plant transport service that provides climate-controlled environments to keep them healthy during the move.
For more help with managing special items during your move, consider our Man and Van North London services.
Valuables and Personal Items Movers Can't Move
Movers will typically avoid transporting certain high-value or personal items to ensure they’re kept secure. These items are often better in your care during the move. Common valuables movers can't transport include:
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Cash and Financial Documents: It's safer to transport cash, passports, legal papers, and important financial records yourself.
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Jewelry and Precious Stones: High-value jewelry should be kept with you, or be insured if being transported by professionals.
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Important Personal Documents: Birth certificates, medical records, and legal documents should stay with you to ensure their security.
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Irreplaceable Items: Family heirlooms, irreplaceable photos, and other sentimental items are better in your possession.
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Collectibles and Antiques: Collectibles and antiques may require extra care, special packaging, or additional insurance. Movers may recommend a specialized art or antique transport service.
For peace of mind, keep these valuables with you during the move or use professional packers and movers who specialize in valuable item transport.
Restricted or Illegal Items Movers Can't Move
There are also items that movers simply cannot transport due to legal restrictions. These include:
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Firearms and Ammunition: Legal permits are required for transporting firearms or ammunition.
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Explosives and Fireworks: These items are dangerous and prohibited by all moving companies.
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Controlled Substances: Illegal drugs and unregistered medications cannot be moved.
Be sure to check local laws before moving restricted items and arrange for the appropriate transport services.
FAQ Section
1. Why can’t movers move dangerous materials?
Movers avoid transporting dangerous materials like flammable liquids, explosives, and toxic substances due to strict safety regulations and potential risks during transport. For hazardous materials, consult specialized carriers or local authorities for safe disposal.
2. What perishable items can’t be moved by movers?
Movers won’t transport perishable foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, or meat, as these can spoil without proper refrigeration. It’s best to consume or donate these items before moving.
3. Can movers move live animals?
Most movers won’t move live animals due to welfare concerns and local regulations. For pet transportation, consider hiring a pet relocation service that ensures proper care during the move.
4. Can movers move valuable or irreplaceable items?
High-value items such as jewelry, documents, or family heirlooms should be transported by the owner, not movers. This ensures the safety and security of these items during the move.
5. What restricted or illegal items can’t be moved?
Movers cannot transport illegal items such as drugs, firearms, or explosives. Always check your local regulations to ensure you’re complying with the law.
By understanding what your movers can’t move, you can plan ahead and avoid delays or issues on moving day. For more help and professional guidance on your upcoming move, be sure to Contact Gago Movers. Our team is here to assist with any questions or specific requirements you may have, ensuring a smooth and organized move.