It’s important to get everything moved to your new home without issue. That’s why you hired a professional Austin moving company! But did you know there are things they can’t move? Knowing ahead of time can help you prepare and avoid surprises and delays on moving day.
Professional moving companies are well-equipped to handle the transportation of most items. Some specialty items may require different licensing or insurance, causing legal issues. Other items may be considered hazardous or prone to spoilage, causing safety concerns. Antiques and collectibles could bring up liability issues.
Let’s break it down and look a little deeper into the items you may need to make alternate arrangements for on moving day:
Commonly Restricted Items:
- Hazardous Materials—Certain substances, flammable liquids, explosives, or gases may fall under local regulations and be restricted from professional handling and transportation. A moving company cannot transport things like oxygen tanks, acids, antifreeze, cleaning products, fireworks, ammunition, paint products, pesticides, and other chemicals. Make arrangements to move these items on your own.
- Perishables—Food and other perishable goods are prone to spoilage, especially in a hot truck. They could attract pests or leak en route to your new home. Pack up the pantry and refrigerated goods in separate boxes and coolers, and plan to tote those in your own vehicle. This protects your goods, your health, and the moving company.
- Living Things—It goes without saying that your kid won’t ride in the back of a moving van, but the restriction on living things also applies to your plants. Soil can house pests, which presents a liability for moving companies, and you risk losing your plant in a hot truck.
- Sensitive Documents & Items—Protect yourself and your belongings by securely transporting irreplaceable documents, official transcripts, and high-value jewelry on your own. Reputable moving companies carry insurance to cover the cost of your items in the case of an accident or damage, but money from insurance will not be able to replace an item with sentimental value or official documents.
- Liquor—This will vary from company to company. Some moving companies will agree to transport closed containers of alcohol or liquor as long as they are well-packed, and others may refuse. This is especially true if you are moving across state lines, where regulations vary. Age restrictions can also come into play when it comes to handling alcoholic drinks. Ask your moving company about their policy if you have any questions.
- Firearms—Most moving companies can transport unloaded guns, but you must make alternate ammunition arrangements. If you have firearms, it’s a good idea to speak with your moving company and ask about their policy.
- Equipment—Some equipment, like lawnmowers and weed eaters, is gas-powered. If your equipment has any remaining gas and oil, the moving company will likely be unable to transport it for you.
- Antiques & Oversized Items—Specialties like antiques, pianos, art collections, and gun cases bring rules and regulations. If the antique or collectible is irreplaceable, arrange your own transportation. Large, oversized, and heavy items may incur additional costs, so ask your moving company about the rules surrounding these items.
Handling Non-Allowables:
- Disposal—If you have paints, solvents, fertilizers, or other hazardous materials you want to dispose of rather than move to your new home, contact your local hazardous waste disposal center for guidance. Austin has specific locations designated to safely dispose of these items in accordance with local regulations.
- Transportation—If you plan to transport hazardous materials restricted by the moving company, ensure they are well sealed to prevent spills and securely accommodate them in your vehicle.
- Donations—If you are driving a long distance and can’t keep the temperature stable for the duration of the trip, you can donate perishables to a local food bank. Plants that won’t be moving in with you can be sold or rehomed with friends, neighbors, or community gardens.
- Personal Carry—Always keep your important and sensitive documents, such as IDs, birth certificates, social security cards, and insurance, with you. Pack a box of essentials that is readily accessible and protected.
Professional Austin moving companies can handle most items, but communication is key! When in doubt, it’s time to find out! If you are unsure whether your movers can transport something, ask them for a list of restricted items so you can plan accordingly and prevent delays on moving day. It’s also a good idea to ask about additional fees and costs for certain items to avoid surprises on your final bill.
For help with all your specialty, oversized, and antique items and collectibles, make sure you choose a moving company experienced in handling them with care. The professionals at AB Moving & Storage in Austin are ready to answer your questions and help you easily navigate your move. Contact us for a free quote today!
