The moving process is hectic, to say the least. We know how tedious packing can be, and it will be frustrating to do all the packing, only to reopen the boxes to retrieve items that the moving company won't take just because you were not aware of these items.
But since we've been in the house removal industry for over a decade, we want to save you the agony. In today's article, we want to give you a list of what movers will not take. Let's jump right into item #1.
House removals companies don't take hazardous materials. These may include a wide range of materials, including but not limited to pool chemicals, aerosol containers, pesticides and fertilizers, paint and paint thinners and fire extinguishers. They also don't take explosives, including radioactive materials, fireworks, primers, ammunition, black powder, etcetera. Flammables like charcoal, lamp oil, petrol, lighter fluids and kerosene are also off-limit. These are just examples of what most removal companies will not take, but you need to consult with your removal company for their list of hazardous items.
This leaves you with two options. You can decide to dispose of the hazardous items safely and buy what you'll need in your new house. You can also decide to transport them yourself. If you settle for the former, you'll have to adhere to the strict disposal guidelines. So, consult with your house removal company. You can also read the label on the chemicals to determine the best disposal strategy. Suppose you've opted to transport the hazardous materials. Check the instructions on the label on how to transport them safely. The label may also have the best disposal strategy.
Moving vans don't have temperature control. There are high chances that perishable food will go bad during transit. Perishable food can be messy if loaded in the van. Again, they may attract insects, which will worsen the situation. If you bring perishable food in the moving van and it ruins the house removal company equipment, you may be liable for the damages and be required to pay, which is an additional expense.
The best way to go about it is to transport the perishable food with you in the car. But an even better strategy is to clear perishable foods weeks before the move. Create a meal plan around the foods available in the fridge, freezer and cupboard weeks leading to the move. If there's some still remaining, you can donate to charity or even give out to neighbours. You can also have some as snacks during the move.
On the same breath, once your refrigerator is clear, clean it. You should defrost the refrigerators 24 hours before the move. So that it doesn't leak and cause havoc, destroying other items packed in the van.
Pets and live plants are living things. It only makes sense that you travel with them instead of loading them in the crammed moving van together with other household items. Additionally, given that the moving van is closed completely, it's dark inside. It can be extremely hot or cold, depending on the season. It's not ideal for pets or live plants.
For that reason, you'll need to move with your pets and plants in your car. If you are not sure how to go about it, you can check our moving house with a cat guide and tips for moving house with a dog. We've also covered extensively how to move with a houseplant.
While most moving companies are trustworthy, you will want to move valuable items yourself. High-value items that can be damaged during transit are best transported in your car. The same goes for sentimental items. Irreplaceable items like family heirlooms and photo albums are part of what movers will not take. You should also transport high-value items like laptops, jewellery, or tablets. Again, you should safely pack documents like marriage certificates, passports and academic papers and have them with you in the car.
Power equipment like lawnmowers, motorcycles or weed eaters can't be transported if they still have fuel. Often, house removals companies transport these items individually. And even then, you must ensure you've used all the fuel. If not, you should drain it out and ensure the equipment is not used 24 hours, leading to its transportation for the safety of the removals crew.
Different house removal companies have a different list of items they will not take. So, it's important to consult your company before you pack to avoid frantically going through the moving boxes to retrieve the non-allowable items on the moving day.
Even when you feel that what's on the list is not as dangerous and should be transported by the moving company, avoid the temptation to sneak these items into your moving boxes and into the van. You'll be putting the movers in danger.
Removal companies don't take the items mentioned above for several reasons. One, removal companies are prohibited from moving some things like hazardous materials. Apart from that, there's the issue of safety. And lastly, for some, it's simply a matter of common sense, which is the case for perishable foods.
Now that you understand what movers will not take, are you ready for that move? 1 Van 1 Man Removals offers low-cost removals services in York and its environs. We've moved businesses, homeowners, renters, and even students for over a decade. Our expertise is beyond question. Whether you want us to move your household content or pieces of furniture, we are ready. Simply reach out to us for a fast, efficient and seamless move.