Hiring a moving company can really take the stress out of moving. There’s so much to pack and organize that it can be overwhelming at times, but knowing you have a team of people to help with your move can relieve some of the pressure. Most items are able to be moved without any hiccoughs or troubles. Furniture, antiques, and specialty items like pianos or even hot tubs can all be moved by Swamp Rabbit Moving, so you don’t have to worry about unique items.
Items that Moving Companies Aren’t Allowed to Move
If you’re hiring a moving company for most of your belongings, you should know that there are items that movers won’t transport for you. Essentially, anything that is flammable, corrosive, or explosive. Those items include (but are not limited to):
- Aerosol cans (such as deodorant and hair spray)
- Weapons and ammunition
- Acids, ammonia
- Motor oil, antifreeze
- Gasoline, kerosene
- Turpentine, solvents
- Pesticides, fertilizer, weed killer
- Propane tanks
- Yard equipment containing fuel
- Pool chemicals
- Paints and stain
- Fire extinguishers
- Car batteries
- Cleaning supplies
- Lighter fluid or matches
- Fireworks
- Liquor
- Paint thinner
- Nail polish, polish remover
- Bleach
- Charcoal
- Lamp oil
The reason for most moving companies refusing to move these items is simply because of the hazard. Imagine if bleach spilled in the truck and got all over your stuff! We don’t advise trying to hide these items inside boxes or inside other items, as you would be liable for any damage to your belongings. If you plan to move items such as a lawn mower, be sure to empty the tank before it gets put on the truck.
If you come across any of these items while packing and getting ready for your move, either plan to discard them properly or plan to pack them with you in your vehicle.
There are items, too, that you probably shouldn’t pack. Some food items fall into that category, such as anything in mason jars or any perishable items (like food in your refrigerator). Canned items or anything that’s dried and won’t mold during the trip are typically fine to transport.
Items to Keep With You During a Move
Some other items you may want to keep with you during the move include:
- Financial statements
- Check books, cash, credit cards
- Airline tickets
- Keys
- Collections (stamps, coins, baseball cards)
- Personal documents (passport, birth certificate, Social Security cards, deed)
- Tax records
- Medicine
- Photos
- Valuable jewelry
- Stocks and bonds
- Car titles
- Cell phones
- Medical records
With the importance of these items, you don’t want to risk loss or damage. (Remember that loss and damage are not 100% unavoidable during a move. While Swamp Rabbit Moving does its very best to prevent it, we can’t guarantee that it will not happen.)
Pets may seem like an odd addition to this list, but people do try to move pets inside our moving vans. The air circulation is poor, and the temperatures are extreme in cold or hot weather.
We also recommend taking some personal essentials with you, such as shower or bath supplies, hygiene essentials, daily medication, or medical equipment. You could also pack non-perishable snacks for you and the family to get you through the drive if you have a longer trip ahead of you. (And maybe indulge in some takeout for the first night in your new home.)
For the items you do pack to be put on our truck, Swamp Rabbit Moving offers several insurance options. The insurance that is offered on every move ($0.60 per pound for each item) is the regulated minimum that all moving companies must offer, no matter what state you’re in. If you’d like additional coverage, our representatives can discuss your options with you.
Get Your Move on the Road
Ready to get your move on the road? Let the Rabbits help! We can provide a smooth, stress-free move no matter where you’re coming from or where you’re going to. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your next move!