Once you have done your diligence and decided on a moving company for your upcoming move, it’s also important to think about what types of things that moving companies will not move for you. Whether you are moving to a new neighborhood or moving across the country, part of a successful move is paring down on what you cannot take with you and finding solutions for some of these items that your movers won’t move. Taking a look at our list early will help you be better prepared on the day of your move so that you don’t have any unwelcome surprises!
1.- Food
Unless you use a specialized moving company with refrigerated trucks, your movers will not be able to move food safely. As you are getting closer to your moving day, be mindful of your shopping lists and try to pare down your perishable goods with each week that you get closer to your move. Although, no one likes waste, once you get to the moving day, throw away your perishable food items. Movers can and will move canned goods, however, the time, energy, and space in the truck that it takes is often not worth the trouble of taking your canned goods with you. We recommend searching your area for churches or food banks to take your canned goods off your hands before you move.
2.- Scuba Gear
If you are an avid diver, this one is an important thing to know regarding your favorite gear. Nearly all moving companies have policies that prohibit them from moving your Scuba gear inside their trucks. Since Scuba gear contains pressurized oxygen and gasses it has to be handled cautiously and correctly to avoid the potential for exploding. On a moving truck, this gear will be likely to move around and get bumped, as well as unexpected issues like accidents are also possible, so your movers will not move this equipment. Make sure you have space and a safe plan to move this gear yourself if you want it to go with you.
3.- Family Heirlooms
Although most moving companies will not refuse to move heirlooms like the two items above, it is heavily suggested that you find a way to take important family items with you instead of having the movers put them in the truck. Any move comes with a certain amount of risk to your belongings, whether you are doing it or the moving company is, so things like family heirlooms are best kept out of harms’ way. Even though movers have policies for liability coverage, that is at market value and not the price you paid or sentimental value, so consider moving these items yourself.
4.- High-Value Items
Items such as art collections, jewelry and other collectibles are frequently items that movers will decline to move. Many moving companies offer full-value protection and as such, they will refuse to be on the hook for items like money or a high-value card collection that is at significant risk of damage during a move. Have a plan ready to take your most valuable assets with you so that they make it to your new home safely and securely.
5.- Nail Polish Remover and Nail Polish
If you are thinking about packing up your nail polish and taking it with you, just know that it won’t be courtesy of your moving service! In case you didn’t know, under certain conditions that arise in the moving process like extreme heat or exposure to flame, nail polish and remover are highly flammable. Because of this, moving companies will refuse to take on the risk of these items. Our recommendation is that you dispose of this collection and just restock once you are moved into your new home.