· Michael Blair
Movers refuse a fairly standard list, mostly for safety and liability reasons. Discovering it on loading day means either leaving things behind or making an unplanned trip.
Hazardous and flammable
Petrol, propane tanks, paint, solvents, aerosols, pool chemicals, fertiliser, ammunition, matches and charcoal. Anything that can ignite or leak in a hot truck.
Lawn equipment must be drained of fuel, which takes longer than people allow for.
Perishable and living
Refrigerated and frozen food, open food containers, plants and pets. Plants in particular are refused by most movers on interstate jobs and may face agricultural restrictions crossing state lines.
Pets travel with you, always.
- Fuels, propane, paint, solvents, aerosols
- Pool and lawn chemicals, fertiliser
- Ammunition and firearms — ask, rules vary
- Plants, food, pets
- Documents, jewellery, medication — take these yourself
Things you should keep with you regardless
Passports, deeds, birth certificates, medication, jewellery, laptops and anything irreplaceable. Movers often ask you to keep them and it is sound advice regardless.
Photograph any high-value item before it is loaded, with the condition visible.
Planning around it
Use up or give away chemicals and fuel in the weeks before. Drain the mower well ahead. Book a separate arrangement for plants if they matter to you.
Middle Tennessee summer moves add a real factor: a truck interior gets extremely hot, which matters for candles, electronics and anything heat sensitive.