What Long Distance Movers Won't Move (Complete Non-Allowable Items List)

Every moving company has a list of items they won't transport — called "non-allowable items." Knowing this list before moving day prevents costly surprises and ensures your move goes smoothly.

Hazardous Materials (Movers NEVER Transport These)

These are items that pose a safety risk during transportation:

• Propane tanks (BBQ, camping)
• Gasoline and other flammable liquids
• Paint and paint thinners
• Cleaning fluids and solvents
• Pesticides and herbicides
• Pool chemicals
• Batteries (car batteries especially)
• Compressed gas cylinders (oxygen tanks, fire extinguishers)
• Ammunition and gun powder
• Fireworks
• Nail polish remover (acetone)
• Lighter fluid

These are prohibited by federal law during interstate transportation on civilian vehicles. Dispose of them at your local household hazardous waste facility.

Perishable Items

• Open food packages
• Frozen foods and refrigerated items
• Produce and fresh foods
• Plants (most movers won't transport, and some states prohibit certain plants)

Eat or donate pantry items before your move. Most movers will transport canned goods and sealed non-perishables.

Live Animals and Plants

• All living animals (pets, livestock, fish)
• Live plants (many movers refuse; some states restrict plant transport)

Plants are often restricted at state borders due to agricultural regulations. Check the regulations for your destination state.

High-Value Items (Handle Yourself)

Movers technically can transport these, but it's wise to carry them yourself:

• Cash and financial documents
• Jewelry and watches
• Coin or stamp collections
• Important legal documents (passports, birth certificates, wills)
• Medical records
• Irreplaceable photos and heirlooms
• Laptops, tablets, and electronics with sensitive data

What to Do With Non-Allowable Items

• Hazardous materials: Contact your local sanitation department for household hazardous waste disposal days
• Propane tanks: Exchange at hardware stores or gas stations
• Paint: Many hardware stores accept leftover paint for recycling
• Plants: Give them to friends or neighbors, or donate to local plant swaps
• Food: Donate non-perishables to a local food bank
• Valuables: Keep them with you during the move

Ask Your Mover for Their Specific List

Every company's non-allowable items list is slightly different. Ask for their complete list during the quoting process so you're not caught off guard on moving day.