What Movers Can’t Take (and What to Do Instead)
Some things shouldn’t ride in a moving truck. Some are dangerous, some won’t survive the trip, and some are simply too important to let out of your sight. Here’s how to plan for them.
Hazardous and flammable items
A closed truck in Valley heat is no place for anything that can leak, ignite or give off fumes. Plan to use these up, give them away or dispose of them properly:
- Paint, paint thinner, stains and solvents
- Gasoline, motor oil, lighter fluid, kerosene and lamp oil
- Propane tanks and other compressed gas
- Pool chemicals, pesticides and weed killer
- Bleach, ammonia and strong cleaning chemicals
- Car batteries, fire extinguishers, nail-polish remover and matches
- Ammunition and fireworks
Drain gas and oil from lawn mowers, trimmers and other small engines before moving day. Many cities and counties run household hazardous-waste drop-off days or sites. Check your city or county website for options near you.
Perishable food
Refrigerated and frozen food won’t survive a day in a truck. Eat down the fridge and pantry in the weeks before you move, and pack a cooler for anything you want to bring in your car. Empty and defrost the fridge the day before.
Plants
Plants usually don’t do well in a dark, hot truck. Move them in your own vehicle if you can. Don’t water them for a couple of days beforehand, to cut weight and leaks. Moving out of state? Check that state’s agriculture rules first, since many restrict plants that could carry pests.
Pets
Pets always travel with you, never in the truck. Moving day is noisy and stressful for animals, so plan a quiet room or a sitter. See moving with pets.
Valuables and important papers
Keep these with you from start to finish:
- Jewelry, cash, coins and collectibles
- Passports, birth certificates, deeds, titles and financial records
- Prescription medications
- Laptops, hard drives and family photos you can’t replace
- Keys, remotes and garage openers for both homes
Why the rules exist
These rules protect your belongings, the crew and everyone on the road. One leaking can of solvent can ruin a truckload of furniture, and one flammable can turn a hot afternoon into a disaster. When in doubt, ask us before moving day.