Packing Guide: Items Not to Pack

Read this section before doing your own packing and loading. It is important that you understand which items you can and cannot ship in order to avoid moving mistakes. There are rules and regulations that govern all movers to help ensure safety.

There are also items you should not pack yourself, for example you may need professionals to pack up your exercise equipment correctly. The following list serves as a guide only on what not to pack. If you have any specific questions, contact your moving company.

Flammable, corrosive or explosive items:

  • Acid / Gasoline Poisons / Charcoal / Lighter Fluid
  • Fertilizer / Paints / Car Batteries / Matches
  • Nail Polish & Remover / Ammunition / Liquid Bleach / Stern
  • Aerosols / Kerosene / Pool Chemicals / Chemistry Sets
  • Fireworks / Pesticides / Motor Oil / Paint Thinner
  • Batteries / Loaded Weapons / Weed Killer / Ammonia
  • Lamp Oil / Propane Tanks / Cleaning Fluid
Dispose of perishables such as food and plants that may die or spoil in transit. You should empty your refrigerator and freezers of food at least 24 hours before loading. Keep the appliance doors open so the appliance will dry out and prevent the growth of mold and odor. The van line agent may agree to transport perishables if they are properly packed and require no servicing in transit and the shipment delivery is less than 150 miles and within 24 hours.

Some articles are not accepted for transportation. The moving company assumes no responsibility should these items come into his/her possession without his/her knowledge. Although these articles do not create a physical threat, it can create problems if your shipment is delayed or items lost. This can be avoided if all irreplaceable, sentimental items are carried with you. For example:
  • Address Books / Files / Personal Video Tapes
  • Air Line Tickets / Financial Statements / Photos and Albums
  • Car Keys Furs Research Projects
  • Bond /Deeds/Tax Records / School Records
  • Check Books / Jewelry / Sterling Silver and other valuable items
  • Coins / Letters / Stocks / Stamp Collection
  • Computer Software/Disks / Medicine