So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and move. You’ve hired local movers and are ready to pack up and start anew. Packing is often the most daunting part of the process, with every item in your home suddenly demanding your attention and decision-making skills. Only some things need to make the journey with you, though.
Some items are better off left behind, sold, donated, or safely disposed of. Our guide can steer you in the right direction. Think of it as a manual for what not to pack, helping ensure a smoother move and a less cluttered future.
Avoiding Unnecessary Items for Efficient Packing
Here are eleven things that you shouldn’t pack when moving. Even though many of these tips seem obvious, people have had to learn what not to pack the hard way. These tips can help you to avoid the same packing mistakes.
1. Cleaning Products for Home
When mixed with other chemicals in the moving van, bleach can produce dangerous fumes and ignite fires. The temperature in the back of a moving van can quickly reach dangerous levels. The chemicals may become toxic or deadly gasses at these high temperatures.
2. Lighter Fluid
It is highly flammable. It may burn and ignite in the back of a hot truck.
3. Fertilizer with Weed Killer
Do you have a green thumb? Do not include herbicide or fertilizer when packing your garden tools to be loaded on the back of a truck. Fertilizers, weed killers, and other chemicals are highly flammable. They should never be stored in warm temperatures.
4. Moving the Kitchen to Avoid Perishables
Never pack living or edible objects, such as plants, in a moving truck. They could get damaged, die, or even rot. You should avoid packing refrigerated, frozen, or opened food. It is usually okay to store dry foods in sealed packages.
5. Ammunition
Although it may seem obvious to some, ammunition should not be transported in the back of moving vehicles. A deadly situation could occur if the ammunition gets too hot. Only transport and store ammunition in a cool, air-conditioned vehicle. Separate ammunition from firearms.
6. Battery for Cars
Transporting car batteries in the back of moving trucks is not advisable, as they may leak and pose a fire risk. The leaking car batteries can also cause injuries and burns to the moving personnel.
7. Transfer Documents
You should consult your moving documentation during the move. If your boxes are strewn among many others, you will not be able to find them. The moving documents will be useful if you disagree with the mover or encounter a problem.
8. Cash, Jewelry, Deeds, and Other Valuables
Avoid packing valuables into the boxes of moving trucks. Keep your valuables close to you. You never know if they will be stolen or lost.
9. Items that are Flammable, Corrosive or Explosive
The following items are not recommended for moving.
- Acid: Acids are highly corrosive. They can leak or spill during transport, damaging other items or vehicles.
- Aerosols: Aerosol cans are pressurized and contain contents that can be dangerous if punctured or exposed to extreme temperatures. These aerosols are also flammable, and they can cause an explosion.
- Ammonia: can be a powerful and toxic chemical. Handle it with caution, as it can emit harmful fumes. Health hazards can be caused by spills and leaks that occur during transport.
- Bleach: Bleach can be a powerful disinfectant, but it is hazardous when mixed with other chemicals—ammonia. Bleach can emit toxic fumes when mixed with certain substances.
- Charcoal: Charcoal can cause a fire when not handled or stored properly. When burned in enclosed areas, it also produces toxic carbon monoxide.
- Chemistry Sets: Many chemistry sets contain chemicals and substances which can be hazardous if handled incorrectly or mixed. Some may require special handling and storage, making them unsuitable to be packed and transported in a standard manner.
- Fireworks: Transporting fireworks is dangerous because they are explosives. Accidental ignition can cause serious injury or damage.
- Fertilizer: Fertilizers contain chemicals such as nitrates that are potentially hazardous. They may react with other substances, causing fires and explosions.
- Gasoline Poisons: Gasoline, gasoline, and gasoline-based products can be highly flammable. They may cause explosions or fires. Transporting them is prohibited due to the safety risks.
- Kerosene: Like gasoline, it is a highly flammable liquid that can cause fires and explosions during transport.
- Lighter Fluid: This fluid can be highly flammable and emit flammable vapors. If accidentally ignited or exposed to high temperatures, it can be dangerous.
- Matches: Matches can easily ignite and are flammable. If not handled and stored properly, they can start fires.
- Motor Oil: Motor oil is a hazardous waste that can pollute the atmosphere if it spills or leaks during transport. This waste requires special disposal and should be packed with something other than regular items.
- Nail Polishes and Nail Polish Removers: Nail and nail polish removers typically contain flammable or toxic chemicals. It is not recommended to pack them due to the possibility of spills or leaks.
- Paint: Paints contain solvents and volatile chemicals. The fumes and leaks may cause damage to the other items.
- Swimming Pool Chemicals: Swimming pool chemicals such as shock treatments and chlorine can be dangerous if mishandled. These chemicals can emit toxic gases and should only be handled by professionals.
- Thinners: Thinners are highly flammable, and they can release harmful vapors. These products should be cautiously handled and unsuitable for normal packing or transportation.
- Vehicle Battery: Vehicle Batteries contain corrosive acid and should be handled carefully. The batteries can leak gasses or cause damage if improperly handled.
- Weapons: Transportation of weapons, such as firearms and ammunition, is subject to strict safety and legal requirements. Transporting these items in compliance with local laws is important.
To ensure the safety of the moving crew and the items you’re moving, it is important to adhere to all the rules and regulations established by the authorities.
10. How to Dispose of Perishables
Transported plants and food can spoil or die. Empty the fridges and freezers 24 hours in advance of loading. The doors should be left open to let the appliances dry out and to reduce the chance of bad smells and mold.
11. Transport of Certain Articles That Are Not Permitted
The movers are only responsible if these items were placed in their care with their knowledge. These items are safe but may cause issues if you have a late shipment or if something needs to be added.
This can be avoided if you only carry irreplaceable and sentimental items. You can do, for instance:
- Accounting Statements
- Address Books
- Airline Tickets
- Browse the Bookstore
- Collecting coins
- Computer Disks
- Sterling Silver Jewellery
- Keys for cars
- Market Stocks
- Medicine
- Pictures
- Photos and Albums
- Research Projects
- School Records
- Stamp Collection
- Tax records
- Video for Personal Use
Conclusion
Packaging for a move can be daunting, but knowing what items to exclude from your packing list can make the process much smoother and more efficient. Remember, certain items like hazardous chemicals, perishables, and irreplaceable belongings are better off being left out of your moving boxes.
Following these guidelines makes your move more practical and reduces the risk of damage during transit, saving you unnecessary worry. By excluding these items, you make the job of packing easier for yourself and ensure a safer, more streamlined transition to your new home.
Enlisting the help of reliable moving services such as The Long Distance Moving Company of Sarasota Co can reduce stress and potential hazards and ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
As you embark on your moving journey, remember that it’s not just about what you’re bringing but also about what you choose to leave behind. It’s a chance to declutter and start fresh in your new space.
Remember that you don’t have to tackle it even when it seems daunting. The Long Distance Moving Company of Sarasota Co’s professional team is here to assist, ensuring a seamless and efficient moving experience. Reach out to them today for a hassle-free move.
