Before you pack and load your items, please read this section. You must know what you can ship and which you cannot. To ensure the safety of all moving companies, there are certain rules and regulations. You should also pack only some items yourself. Hiring professional moving services to pack your exercise equipment properly may be necessary. This list is only a guide on what not to pack. Contact your moving company if you have specific questions.
You have lots of things to think about when you are moving. But there are many other things you should refrain from packing. It would help if you always considered your safety and the safety of your moving team and truck.
Avoiding Unnecessary Items for Efficient Packing
These are the eleven things you should not pack for a move. Even though some of these tips may seem obvious, many people have learned what to avoid packing the hard way. These tips will help you avoid making the same packing mistakes.
1. Cleaning Products for the Home
Bleach can emit dangerous fumes or ignite a fire when mixed with other chemicals inside the moving van. Remember that the moving truck's back temperature can quickly reach high levels. These high temperatures may cause chemicals to become toxic or fatal gasses. You can rent a moving truck from Enterprise Truck Rental or utilize portable storage containers on SMARTBOX.
2. Lighter Fluid
Avoid packing lighter fluid as it's highly flammable. It could burn and combust in the hot truck's back.
3. Fertilizer with Weed Killer
Have a green finger? Refrain from including fertilizer or herbicide when you plan to pack your garden tools and have them loaded onto the truck's back. Fertilizers and weed killers are also highly flammable and should not be stored in warm conditions.
4. Move the Kitchen to Avoid Perishables
You should never pack food, plants, or living objects in the moving truck. They can get damaged, die, or even rot. It would help if you refrained from packing frozen food, refrigerated foods, or food that has been opened. Dry foods in sealed packages are usually fine.
5. Ammunition
It may seem obvious, but ammunition should never be transported on the back of moving trucks. If the ammunition becomes hot, a deadly situation can occur. You should only transport and pack ammunition in an air-conditioned, cool vehicle. Keep ammunition and firearms separate.
6. Battery for Cars
The back of moving trucks is unsuitable for transporting car batteries because they could leak, posing a potential fire risk. Leaking car batteries may also cause burns and injuries to moving personnel.
7. Move Documents
You may have to consult your moving documents during the move. However, if your boxes are scattered among many others, it will be impossible to find them. If you encounter a problem or have an argument with the mover, having your moving documents handy will come in handy.
8. Cash, Jewelry, Deeds, and Other Valuables
Refrain from packing your valuables in the boxes of the moving trucks. You can't be sure your valuables won't go missing or stolen, so it's best to keep them on you.
9. Items That Are Flammable, Explosive, or Corrosive:
These items are considered “What NOT to Pack When Moving” for several reasons:
- Acid: Acids can be highly corrosive and pose a risk of leaking or spilling during transportation, causing damage to other belongings or the moving vehicle.
- Aerosols: Aerosol cans contain pressurized contents, which can be hazardous if punctured or exposed to high temperatures. They are also considered flammable and can pose a risk of explosion.
- Ammonia: Ammonia is a strong and potentially toxic chemical. It can release harmful fumes and should be handled with caution. Accidental spills or leaks during transportation can result in health hazards.
- Bleach: Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and cleaner but can be hazardous if it comes into contact with other chemicals, especially ammonia. Mixing Bleach with certain substances can release toxic fumes.
- Charcoal: Charcoal is highly flammable and can pose a fire hazard if not properly stored or handled during transportation. It also produces carbon monoxide, a toxic gas, when burned in enclosed spaces.
- Chemistry Sets: Chemistry sets often contain various chemicals and substances that may be dangerous if mishandled or mixed. They may have specific storage and handling requirements that make them unsuitable for regular packing and transportation.
- Fireworks: Fireworks are explosives and are highly dangerous to transport. They can accidentally ignite, leading to serious injuries or damage.
- Fertilizer: Fertilizers often contain chemicals, such as nitrates, that can be potentially hazardous. They can react with other substances and may cause fires or explosions.
- Gasoline Poisons: Gasoline and gasoline-based products are highly flammable and can cause fires or explosions. They are prohibited from transportation due to the significant safety risks involved.
- Kerosene: Like gasoline, kerosene is a flammable liquid that poses fire and explosion hazards during transportation.
- Lighter Fluid: Lighter fluid is highly flammable and can release flammable vapors. It can be hazardous if accidentally ignited or exposed to high temperatures.
- Matches: Matches are flammable and can ignite easily. They can cause fires if not properly stored and handled during transportation.
- Motor Oil: As a hazardous waste, it can pollute the environment if it leaks or spills while being transported. It requires specific disposal methods and should be packed with something other than regular belongings.
- Nail Polish and Nail Remover: Nail polish and nail polish remover typically contain flammable and potentially toxic chemicals. They are not recommended for packing due to the risk of leakage or spillage.
- Paint: Paints often contain volatile chemicals and solvents. They can release fumes, and spills or leaks can cause damage to other items during transportation.
- Swimming Pool Chemicals: Swimming pool chemicals, such as chlorine and pool shock treatments, can be hazardous if mishandled or improperly stored. They can release toxic gasses and should be handled by professionals.
- Thinners: Thinners, such as paint thinner or solvent, are highly flammable and can emit harmful vapors. They should be handled cautiously and are unsuitable for regular packing and transportation.
- Vehicle Battery: Vehicle batteries contain corrosive acids and should be handled carefully. They can leak or release gasses, and improper handling during transportation can lead to damage or injury.
- Weapons: Weapons, including firearms and ammunition, have strict legal regulations and safety requirements for transportation. Consistently with local laws and regulations when transporting such items is essential.
It's crucial to follow the guidelines and regulations set by authorities, including transportation and hazardous materials regulations, to ensure the safety of yourself, the moving crew, and your belongings.
10. Perishables: How to Dispose of Them
Food and plants may spoil or die in transit. It is best to empty the refrigerators and freezers at least 24 hours before loading. Open the doors of the appliances to allow them to dry and reduce the risk of mold growth and bad odors.
11. Transport of Certain Articles That Is Not Permitted
If these items are placed in their care without their knowledge, the movers will not be held responsible. These articles are safe but may cause problems if your shipment is late or items go missing.
You can avoid this if you carry all sentimental and irreplaceable items. You can, for example:
- Accounting Statements
- Address Books
- Airline Tickets
- Check out the Books
- Collecting coins
- Computer Disks
- Jewellery and Sterling Silver
- Keys for Cars
- Market Stocks
- Medicine
- Pictures
- Photos and Albums
- Research Projects
- School Records
- Stamp Collection
- Tax records
- Videos for Personal Use
Conclusion
It's essential to prioritize safety and follow the rules and regulations regarding moving. Certain items should not be packed or transported due to their hazardous nature or potential for damage. Hiring professionals for reliable moving services can ensure that your belongings are handled safely and efficiently. Remember to avoid packing items such as cleaning products, flammable substances, ammunition, valuable items, and perishables. Taking precautions and being mindful of what not to pack can avoid potential risks and make your moving process smoother and safer.
