Professional moving companies maintain strict policies about specific items they cannot transport during relocations. These restrictions protect both customers and moving crews while ensuring compliance with federal transportation regulations. Understanding what packers refuse to handle helps homeowners prepare properly for their move and avoid last-minute complications on moving day.
Most reputable companies, including any moving company in Santa Clarita, CA, categorize restricted items into six main groups, each with distinct safety and logistical concerns that make professional packing impossible.
Dangerous and Hazardous Materials
Moving companies universally refuse hazardous substances due to Department of Transportation regulations and safety protocols. The most common dangerous items include gasoline, oxygen bottles, lighter fluid, matches, propane cylinders, nail polish remover, paints and paint thinners, and fireworks.
These materials pose serious risks during transport. Temperature changes inside moving trucks can cause containers to expand, leak, or even explode. A single paint thinner spill could damage an entire truckload of belongings, while propane cylinders become extremely volatile when jostled during transit.
Professional packers lack the specialized equipment and licensing required for transporting hazardous materials. Federal law mandates specific containers, vehicle certifications, and handling procedures that standard moving companies don't possess. The liability alone makes these items completely off-limits.
Fresh Food and Perishable Items
Perishable goods create multiple problems during moves. Food spoilage can attract pests, create unpleasant odors, and potentially damage other belongings if containers leak. Temperature-sensitive items like dairy products, frozen foods, and fresh produce deteriorate rapidly inside non-refrigerated moving trucks.
Most moving companies recommend consuming or donating perishable food before moving day. For long-distance moves, even refrigerated items can become problematic, as trucks may sit for days during transport. The short window between packing and delivery makes proper food preservation nearly impossible.
Some movers make exceptions for sealed, non-perishable pantry items, but anything requiring refrigeration gets rejected immediately. Smart homeowners start using up their perishables weeks before their scheduled move date.
Valuable Documents and Irreplaceable Items
Personal documents, financial records, and high-value items require special handling that most packers cannot guarantee. Birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and tax documents are simply too important to risk losing in a moving truck.
These items should travel with you personally, stored in a secure folder or lockbox. Moving trucks occasionally get delayed, diverted, or, in rare cases, experience theft. Keep essential documents accessible throughout your move to handle any unexpected situations that arise.
The same logic applies to expensive jewelry, family heirlooms, and cash. Professional movers typically recommend carrying these items personally rather than packing them with household goods.
Living Plants and Animals
Plants and pets require specialized care that standard moving services cannot provide. Most houseplants struggle with the temperature fluctuations and darkness inside moving trucks. Many states also have agricultural restrictions that prohibit certain plant species from crossing borders.
For plants, consider giving them to friends or selling them before moving. If you must transport plants, plan to move them yourself in a climate-controlled vehicle with proper ventilation.
Pets obviously need constant attention, food, water, and bathroom breaks during travel. Professional pet transportation services are available for long-distance moves, but they require planning and specialized arrangements.
Damaged or Leaking Containers
Any container showing signs of damage gets rejected immediately. Open boxes, cracked containers, and leaking packages create liability issues for moving companies. Spilled contents can damage other belongings and create safety hazards for the moving crew.
Before packing day, inspect all containers for cracks, loose lids, or signs of previous leaks. Replace damaged boxes and ensure all containers seal properly. This simple step prevents delays and protects your other belongings during the move.
Moving crews work quickly and efficiently, but they cannot stop to repair damaged packaging on moving day. Having everything properly contained keeps the process smooth and stress-free.
Items with Extreme Sentimental Value
While not technically restricted, many moving companies recommend handling extremely sentimental items personally. Family photos, wedding albums, children's artwork, and inherited treasures carry emotional value that cannot be replaced through insurance claims.
Consider packing these items yourself and transporting them in your personal vehicle. If professional packing is necessary, clearly mark boxes containing sentimental items and discuss their importance with your moving crew beforehand.
Taking photos of valuable sentimental items before packing provides documentation in case of damage. This extra step gives peace of mind and helps with any potential insurance claims later.
Planning Around Packing Restrictions
Understanding these restrictions helps create a smoother moving experience. Start identifying restricted items several weeks before your move date. This gives you time to properly dispose of hazardous materials, consume perishable foods, and make alternative arrangements for valuable items.
Most moving companies provide detailed lists of restricted items when you book their services. Review these guidelines carefully and ask questions about anything unclear. Proper preparation prevents moving day surprises and keeps your relocation on schedule.
The investment in understanding packing restrictions pays off with a more organized, efficient move that protects both your belongings and your peace of mind.
Contact Us
Planning a local or long‑distance move in Southern California? AQMS National Moving (Affordable Quality Moving & Storage) offers full‑service moving solutions from packing and transport to storage and unpacking with free in‑home estimates.
Santa Clarita Office: 25701 Springbrook Ave, Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Phone: (661) 254-7823
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, give them a call or fill out the form online to get started with your moving plan.
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