Moving Checklist for the Things Your Movers Won’t Pack
When it’s time to pack for a move, there’s a lot to do. You have to buy moving supplies, such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, etc. You have to set a packing schedule, throw a packing party and in general make time for sorting through and packing away your belongings.
An alternative is hiring local and long distance movers, like Allied Van Lines, to pack your belongings for you. However, there are certain things your movers cannot – or shouldn’t – pack. See the following moving checklist so you’re aware of what these items are and can strategize about what to do with them before the movers arrive.
Potentially Dangerous Items
Cross country movers often have a moving checklist with hazardous items they cannot move – and they’ll likely refuse to pack them as well. These items can include, but aren’t limited to:
- Gasoline
- Oxygen bottles
- Lighter fluid
- Matches
- Propane cylinders
- Nail polish remover
- Paints and paint thinners
- Fireworks
If it’s dangerous for moving companies to move these items, then it’s dangerous for you as well. Most of these items can be easily replaced and repurchased upon arrival at your new home. That means it’s not worth the risk to transport them.
Food
In general, movers will pack most food for you. However, you’ve got to consider whether it’s a good idea. At Allied, we recommend you throw out any food in glass jars and anything perishable, instead of trying to transport them to your new home, as they can crack, leak or mold before arrival. On the other hand, non-perishables like boxed or canned items, dried fruits, spices, or oils usually transport well. If you have any doubts about what food items your movers will not move, simply ask for clarification.
Valuables and Documents
Whether or not your moving company has an internal policy about transporting customers’ valuables, you should consider keeping any valuables with you at all times during the move. That’s because even if movers could reimburse you for the items, they’re typically things that can’t truly be replaced for sentimental reasons. Valuables can include, but aren’t limited to:
- Family photos
- Jewelry
- Heirlooms
- Collections (coins, stamps, etc.)
- Cash
- Important documents (deeds, wills, bonds, stocks, etc.)
Hopefully this moving checklist of items to not pack has been helpful to you. Before considering what to have movers pack, always ask yourself the following questions:
- Can this item be repurchased once we arrive?
- Would I be devastated to lose this item?
- What will I need while traveling (applies to moving documents, passports, etc.)?
Contact Allied Van Lines today for a
free quote on packing, transporting and other services.
Additional Moving Checklists