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Moving home or office comes with a long to-do list, but one thing many people don’t think about is this: What removal companies won’t move? It’s a question worth asking early, because certain items are restricted for safety, legal, or insurance reasons.
At Gago Movers, we aim to make every move as safe and efficient as possible. That includes being clear about what can and can’t go in the van.
Items Most Removal Companies Will Not Move
Whether you're hiring house removal services in London or planning a long-distance relocation, here are the most common things movers will not handle:
1. Hazardous Materials
These include:
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Paints, solvents, and varnishes
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Gas bottles (e.g. BBQ canisters)
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Fireworks or flares
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Cleaning chemicals or bleach
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Batteries (especially car batteries)
Transporting these can be dangerous and is often restricted under UK law. You can find a detailed explanation in this UK government guide on hazardous goods transport.
2. Perishable Foods
If it needs refrigeration or has already been opened, it’s best not to pack it.
Most movers, including Gago Movers, advise customers to clear their fridge and freezer before moving day. Spoiled food can damage other belongings and attract pests.
3. Live Animals & Plants
Moving with pets? You’ll need to arrange separate transport for them.
As for plants, many removal companies won’t take them due to the risk of soil spills or damage to delicate foliage.
You can read more about this on AirTasker’s UK guide to items movers don’t take.
4. Valuables, Cash, and Important Documents
We recommend transporting the following yourself:
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Jewellery or cash
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Legal papers and ID documents (passports, wills, etc.)
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Laptops, tablets, or other expensive electronics
This is not just about company policy, it’s about peace of mind. Keep these with you to avoid any risk of loss.
5. Weapons and Ammunition
This one’s obvious: firearms, ammunition, and anything considered a weapon under UK law are strictly off-limits.
If you need help with secure disposal, the UK Home Office provides guidelines on firearm handling and transport.
What You Can Do Instead
If you have items movers can’t transport:
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Donate them to a local charity.
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Dispose of them safely using your local council’s waste services.
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Store them short-term in a secure facility. Gago Movers offers storage solutions in London for items you can’t move on the day.
Expert Tip from Gago Movers
Before the big day, ask your movers for a checklist. At Gago Movers, we provide every client with a clear packing guide so there are no surprises on moving day.
You can also read our guide on packing tips to make sure you're only boxing up items that are safe to transport.
FAQ: What Removal Companies Won’t Move
Q1: Can movers take paint or flammable items?
No. Paints, oils, and anything flammable are considered hazardous and can’t go in the van.
Q2: Do movers transport plants?
Most won’t. Some may agree if the plant is well-sealed and not soil-heavy, but it depends on the distance and risk.
Q3: Are laptops and valuables okay to leave in boxes?
It’s better to keep valuables with you. While movers may carry them, insurance may not cover damage or loss.
Q4: Will movers take food or frozen items?
No. Movers generally avoid any perishable or refrigerated food due to spoilage risks.
Q5: Can movers handle firearms or knives?
Absolutely not. Anything that could be considered a weapon is forbidden by law and moving company policies.
Contact Gago Movers
Need help with your move or have questions about what you can bring?
Address: 28A Western Ave, London W3 7TZ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 3488 4660
Email: [email protected]
Let Gago Movers guide you every step of the way.
Please feel free to contact us for a free quote.