Moving can be a stressful experience, but it doesn't have to be. Knowing what items cannot go on a moving truck can help make the process smoother and more efficient. Perishable items, such as food, plants, and animals, are not allowed on moving trucks. This is especially true for long-distance moves.
If you want to bring perishable goods to your new home, you'll need to plan ahead and arrange for refrigeration. Hazardous materials are also prohibited from moving trucks. These can be physical, chemical, or biological and can harm people, animals, or the environment. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and other federal agencies have regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials that must be followed.
This includes items like ammunition and gasoline, as well as seemingly harmless items like nail polish and chemistry sets for children. In addition to hazardous materials and perishable items, moving companies will not transport personal or sentimental items. It's important to review the list of disallowed items before packing so that you can separate these prohibited items from the rest of your belongings. If you have questions about a particular item, contact your moving coordinator for clarification.
If you are unable to move an item yourself, consider the options for transporting it separately or using a packing service. Moving companies don't want to deal with dust from furniture or crumbs on the couch, so it's important to clean up before they arrive. If your move will be picked up and delivered within 24 hours, the moving company may allow perishable goods to be transported as long as they are properly packaged. Finally, it's recommended that you carry important sentimental or personal items with you at all times during the move.
