What Movers Won't Move: Items to Leave Behind or Carry Yourself
A list of items movers typically will not transport, including flammables, perishables and valuables, and what to do with each before moving day.
Movers generally will not transport hazardous materials such as propane, gasoline and paint, perishable food, live plants on long trips, pets, and personal valuables such as cash, jewellery and important documents. Check your mover’s list before moving day, and plan what to dispose of, give away or carry yourself.
Why are some items not allowed?
Hazardous items can leak, ignite or explode in a truck, putting the crew and your belongings at risk. Perishables spoil and make a mess. Some items are simply too valuable or irreplaceable to put in a truck with everything else.
Hazardous items to dispose of safely
- Propane tanks and gas cylinders
- Gasoline, lighter fluid, kerosene and other fuels
- Paint, solvents, stain and varnish
- Pesticides, fertilizers and pool chemicals
- Matches, fireworks and ammunition
- Car batteries and corrosive cleaners
Do not throw these in the garbage. Check your municipality’s household hazardous waste program for drop-off options.
Perishable and open food
Eat down your fridge and freezer in the weeks before the move. Donate sealed pantry items, and bring a cooler for what you need on the first day. Empty, defrost and dry appliances before moving them.
Things to carry yourself
- Cash, jewellery and valuables
- Passports, birth certificates, wills and other important documents
- Medications and medical equipment
- Laptops, phones, chargers and hard drives
- Keys to both homes
- Anything sentimental that cannot be replaced
Pets and plants
Pets travel with you, never on the truck. Plants can be moved locally, but in cold or hot weather they may not survive a long trip, so keep them in your vehicle. See moving with pets for planning tips.
What about appliances and tools?
Disconnect and empty appliances, drain hoses and secure loose parts. Drain fuel from lawn equipment and tools with engines. Ask about items that need special handling, such as pianos or safes; see how to move a piano. Our pricing page lists specialty item charges.
Not sure?
If you are unsure about an item, ask when you request a quote, and we will tell you before moving day.
Forge Movers’ own list, and what to keep with you on moving day, is on our policies page.
