What items can movers NOT transport?
Quick Answer
Movers cannot transport hazardous materials (propane tanks, paint, chemicals, ammunition), perishable food, plants (interstate), pets, or personal documents/valuables. Some also refuse to move items not packed in boxes.
Federal and state regulations prohibit movers from transporting certain items. Additionally, most companies have their own exclusion lists based on insurance and safety policies.
Hazardous materials (always prohibited): propane tanks and gas cylinders, paint, stain, and solvents, cleaning chemicals (bleach, ammonia, etc.), pesticides and herbicides, gasoline, kerosene, and lighter fluid, fireworks and ammunition, nail polish remover and aerosol cans.
Perishable items: open or refrigerated food (most movers decline frozen and perishable food due to spoilage risk during transit), opened alcohol bottles.
Living things: plants (many states, including California and Arizona, restrict plant transport across state lines due to pest concerns), pets (transport separately via car, airline, or pet transport service).
Personal items to keep with you: medications, important documents (birth certificates, passports, social security cards, financial records), jewelry and cash, family heirlooms and irreplaceable items, laptop computers and hard drives with sensitive data.
Items movers may decline: anything not packed in boxes or properly protected, extremely heavy single items (safes over 500 pounds, hot tubs, etc.) without prior arrangement, and weapons (policies vary by company and state).
Before your move, review your mover's specific prohibited items list. Pack a separate bag or box of essentials that travels with you in your car.