What things not to pack when moving: List of non-allowables

You need to remember a million things when moving. For example, items that you need to load onto the truck. But did you know that there are certain items that you should not pack when moving? Paradise Moving & Storage has created a list of non-allowables that you should be aware of.

Potentially dangerous items

Now, you might be wondering, “What could possibly be dangerous in my household items?”. Well, there are quite a few things that fall into this category. These may include:

• Aerosol cans. These can explode under pressure or high temperatures.
• Paint and paint thinners. These are typically flammable and can cause fumes that are harmful if inhaled.
• Fire extinguishers. They contain compressed gas that can explode under certain conditions.
• Propane tanks. Even empty tanks can pose a risk due to residual gas.
• Household cleaners. Many cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be hazardous.
• Pesticides. These can be toxic and should be handled with care.
• Motor oil and gasoline. These are highly flammable.
• Alcohol. High-proof alcohol is flammable.
• Batteries. Certain types of batteries (like car batteries) are considered hazardous materials.
• Ammunition. It’s usually prohibited by moving companies due to the risk of accidental discharge.

So, what should you do with these items? It’s best to use them up before you move if you can. If you can’t, consider giving them away to someone who can use them. And if all else fails, make sure you dispose of them properly and safely according to your local regulations.

Food

Perishable items like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meats can spoil during the move, particularly if it’s a long-distance one. Imagine opening a box to find spoiled food — not quite the welcome gift you’d want in your new home.

Here’s a detailed list of products that are considered perishable:

• Meat. This includes beef, pork, and lamb. Any kind of processed meats like sausages or cold cuts also fall into this category.
• Poultry. Chicken, turkey, duck, and any other bird meant for consumption.
• Fish. Whether it’s salmon, cod, or canned tuna, fish is highly perishable.
• Eggs. This includes not just fresh eggs, but any food items that contain raw eggs.
• Dairy products. Milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, and cream are all perishable.
• Cooked leftovers. If you’ve cooked a bit too much and have leftovers, it’s better to throw them away or consume them before moving.
• Cut or chopped fruits and vegetables. Once fruits and veggies are cut, they become perishable.
• Bread. Fresh bread, especially those without preservatives, can go stale or grow mold quickly.
• Potatoes. Raw potatoes are quite hardy, but cooked potatoes (like mashed or boiled) are perishable.

Also, food containers that have already been opened can cause trouble. They can attract pests, and the last thing you need while settling into your new place is an unexpected visit from some unwanted guests.

It’s always a good idea to consume as much of your perishable food as possible before the move. You could even host a farewell meal with your friends and family to help use up your supplies. Alternatively, you could donate unopened non-perishables to a local food bank. This way, not only are you reducing wastage, but you’re also helping someone in need.

Plants

Moving plants requires a bit more thought than some of your other household items. You see, plants are living things that need care and attention, especially during a stressful event like a move. They’re sensitive to changes in light, temperature, and movement. A long, jostling trip in the back of a moving truck could be a death sentence for your beloved green friends.

Furthermore, if you plan on moving across state lines, you should be aware that some states have stringent regulations on which plants you can bring with you. This is because introducing plants from outside their borders may pose a risk of spreading pests or diseases. 

If you’re planning a short-distance move, consider moving your plants in your own vehicle where you can control the conditions better. You can also ask friends or family if they’d like to adopt some of your plants.

For larger plants that can’t be easily transported, you might want to consider taking cuttings. These are much easier to transport and you can enjoy watching them grow in your new home.

And don’t forget, giving away your plants doesn’t mean you’ll be plantless in your new home. This could be your chance to explore local nurseries or garden centers and discover new types of plants that thrive in your new location.

Pets

Your pets are more than just animals — they’re part of your family, the ones who greet you with joy when you come home, and your faithful companions. When it comes to moving, you can’t exactly pack them in bubble wrap and place them in a box.

Unfortunately, professional movers won’t move pets. It’s not because they don’t like animals or anything. On the contrary, it’s for the safety and comfort of your pets. Imagine being stuck in a moving van for hours, surrounded by boxes — not very pleasant.

So, while you’re planning your move, make sure to also plan how you’re going to safely transport your pets. This could mean a comfortable pet carrier for smaller animals or ensuring there’s enough space in your vehicle for larger pets.

Valuables and documents

Now, let’s talk about those precious items and important documents that make your heart skip a beat just thinking about them getting lost or damaged.

Moving companies usually have a policy against transporting these items because these items are incredibly valuable, and the risk of loss or damage is too great.

So, what falls under this category? Here’s a list for you:

• Valuables. This includes jewelry, collections (like coins or stamps), expensive electronics, and other high-value items. These are items that have significant monetary or sentimental value.
• Important documents. These are birth certificates, social security cards, passports, legal documents, tax returns, and financial statements. Basically, anything that would be a nightmare to replace.
• Cash and cards. It might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. Keep your cash, checkbooks, and credit/debit cards with you.
• Keys. Whether it’s your house keys, car keys, or safety deposit box keys, keep them close.

The best way to handle these items is to keep them with you during the move. If you’re moving a long distance, consider a safe deposit box or a fireproof safe for added security.

Remember, while your movers are there to help, there are some things that you need to take responsibility for. So, pack a personal bag with these essentials and keep it with you at all times. If you have additional questions about what is allowed or forbidden for transporting in a moving truck, don’t hesitate to contact Paradise Moving & Storage. Our professional movers are always ready to share their wisdom and help you relocate locally or even between states.