A moving truck can get very hot, it crosses state lines, and your shipment may be in transit for days. Some items are unsafe to carry under those conditions and others are simply too important to be out of your hands.
Hazardous materials
Movers cannot transport items that are flammable, corrosive or explosive. Common household examples:
- Gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid and propane tanks
- Paint, paint thinner, varnish and stains
- Aerosol cans
- Bleach, ammonia and pool chemicals
- Fertilizer, pesticides and weed killer
- Fireworks and ammunition
- Car batteries and loose lithium batteries
- Nail polish remover and charcoal
Use them up, give them to a neighbor, or take them to a local household hazardous waste site. Drain fuel and oil from mowers, trimmers and generators before moving day.
Perishable food
Frozen, refrigerated and open food can spoil and attract pests. Plan meals to empty the fridge and freezer in the last two weeks, and donate unopened shelf-stable food you do not want to move.
Plants
Plants rarely survive days in a dark trailer, and some states restrict bringing certain plants in. Check your destination state’s agricultural rules, and consider taking a few favorites in your own vehicle or giving plants to friends.
Keep these with you
- Cash, jewelry and collectibles
- Passports, birth certificates, Social Security cards and titles
- Financial, medical and school records
- Prescription medication
- Laptops, phones and backup drives
- House, car and safe deposit keys
- Family photos and other things that cannot be replaced
Items that need special handling
Pianos, safes, pool tables, large aquariums, grandfather clocks and fine art can usually be moved, but tell your coordinator in advance so the right equipment and crating are scheduled.