When the giant moving truck pulls up in front of your home, it looks like it could fit just about anything. Professional movers and packers can do a lot with the space they have in that truck, but there are a few things that you should never pack on a moving truck.
Now, some of these things might seem obvious. If you have a pack of 20 bottle rockets hanging around somewhere, obviously don’t put them in the moving truck because they pose a threat to the rest of your belongings (not to mention the drivers!) But even some common household items and substances should never be placed on a moving truck.
Here’s a list of everything you can’t bring, and why.
Flammable Substances
Most people can pick out the obvious flammable substances such as lighter fluid or gasoline (neither of which can go on the moving truck, obviously). But not many people would pause before throwing a bottle of nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol from the medicine cabinet into a box to be packed on the truck – yet both substances are very flammable, and could pose immediate danger to the drivers of the truck, and to all of your possessions.
So be on the lookout for the following, and do not pack them onto the moving truck.
- Gasoline
- Diesel Fuel
- Lighter fluid
- Matches
- Acetone / Nail polish remover
- Paints and stains
- Paint thinner
- Motor oil
- Other oils (lamp oil, linseed oil, etc.)
- Kerosene
- Spray adhesives
- Nail polish
- Wood varnish
- Alcohol
Explosives and Combustibles
Going back to our fireworks example from the introduction, most people know to avoid obvious explosives, but there are quite a few items considered explosive or combustible that could very easily be overlooked when packing. Batteries for instance should not be placed on a moving truck, because they could potentially explode.
One of the main issues with a moving truck is not only the fact that it is a closed environment with many objects packed tightly together, but also that the truck is traveling long distances over occasionally bumpy roots.
In order to avoid any type of unexpected explosion, do not pack the following:
- Oxygen tanks
- Ammunition / Firearms
- Fireworks
- Engine fluids
- Fire extinguishers
- Propane tanks
- Hair sprays
- Alcoholic beverages
- Antifreeze
- Batteries
Perishables
Even if you are moving a relatively short distance, it is never advisable that you bring perishable food onto a moving truck. Any type of food spoilage could lead to some extremely unpleasant odors clinging to everything else in that truck. Make a plan to use up all perishable food starting about three weeks out from moving day to avoid the situation.
Household Cleaning Products
Household cleaning products are also not allowed on moving trucks, due to the potential for dangerous fumes filling up the moving truck. Many cleaners have harsh chemicals which can become very dangerous if inhaled.
Do not pack any of the following household cleaning items:
- Bleach
- Ammonia
- Aerosols
- Detergents
- Liquid cleaners
- Air fresheners
- Wood polish
Living Things
Most people make a joke here about packing their teenagers onto the moving truck (sorry, no can do!), But again, the term “living things” applies to more than people.
No pets can be transported on a moving truck, whether they are crated, sedated, etc. There are far too many risks. Instead, homeowners are always advised to make any special arrangements they need to transport their pets well in advance of moving day.
Living things also includes plants. If you need to transport houseplants, you may need to make other arrangements, or clear enough space in your own vehicle to safely get them to your new home.
If you ever have questions about whether or not certain items should go on a moving truck, be sure to call your moving company and ask. They will always be happy to explain what can and can’t be packed. Many will also provide helpful lists or guides as well.
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Niv Orlian is an online marketer and the Co-Founder of DO Online Marketing, a Chicago based company that helps local businesses such as Golan’s Moving & Storage, acquire, manage, and retain local customers online.
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