When it comes to moving, packing is undoubtedly one of the most critical tasks. However, not everything in your home should go into a box. Some items are too dangerous, fragile, or irreplaceable to be packed. At Melroy Movers, we’ve been helping families in Springfield, VA, and the DMV area relocate smoothly for over 10 years, and we’ve seen the pitfalls of poor packing choices. To make your move easier, we’ve compiled a list of 10 things you should never pack when moving, ensuring that your belongings—and your sanity—stay intact throughout the process.
Hazardous Materials
First on our list are hazardous materials. This includes items like gasoline, lighter fluid, propane tanks, and fireworks. These materials are not only dangerous but are often illegal to transport in moving trucks due to the risk of explosion or fire. Always dispose of these items properly or give them away before your move. You don’t want to take any chances when it comes to your safety or the safety of those handling your belongings.
Perishable Food
Packing perishable food is never a good idea, especially if your move involves long hours in a truck. Foods like meat, dairy products, and fresh produce can spoil quickly, leading to unpleasant odors and messes. Instead, try to use up your perishable food items before the move or donate them. A clean fridge and pantry will make settling into your new home easier and stress-free.
Valuable Jewelry and Personal Documents
Personal valuables and essential documents are high on the list. Items like jewelry, passports, birth certificates, and banking documents should always travel with you. Losing these items could be devastating, and while movers are careful, it’s always better to keep these things in your immediate possession.
Plants
Plants may seem harmless, but they don’t handle moving well. They can be sensitive to changes in temperature, and most moving companies, including Melroy Movers, cannot transport them long distances. If you’re moving locally, consider transporting plants in your own vehicle. For longer moves, you might need to make other arrangements, such as giving them to a friend or donating them to a local nursery.
Flammable Items
Flammable items like candles, aerosol cans, and nail polish remover should never be packed when moving. These items pose a serious fire hazard in confined spaces like moving trucks. If possible, try to dispose of these items responsibly or carry them with you if absolutely necessary.
Firearms and Ammunition
While legal to own, firearms and ammunition should never be packed in a moving truck. These items require special handling and should be transported by the owner or through licensed gun dealers. At Melroy Movers, we always advise clients to keep firearms out of moving boxes to ensure they are handled safely and within the law.
Household Cleaners and Chemicals
Many of these contain chemicals that could spill and cause damage to your belongings or pose health risks. Items like bleach, ammonia, and pesticides should either be used up before the move or disposed of properly. Not only will this keep your other items safe, but it will also prevent hazardous leaks during transit.
Irreplaceable Heirlooms
Family heirlooms, antiques, or other sentimental items are too valuable to risk losing or damaging in a move. While movers will take every precaution to ensure safe transport, accidents can happen. It’s best to keep these irreplaceable items with you, whether it’s an antique clock, a quilt passed down through generations, or fragile keepsakes. Ensuring their safe transport will give you peace of mind during your move.
Pets
Pets are, of course, part of the family, but they should never be packed away with your belongings. Moving trucks are not equipped to handle the needs of animals, and the stress of the move could be harmful to them. Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or something more exotic, make sure they are safely transported in your own vehicle, where you can monitor them and provide comfort during the move.
Explosives
Last but certainly not least are explosives. Items like fireworks, gunpowder, or even certain pressurized canisters are not allowed in moving trucks due to the severe risk they pose. These items should either be left behind or disposed of properly before the move. Trust us—no move is worth the risk of an accidental explosion.
Our Final Thoughts
At Melroy Movers, we prioritize safety and professionalism with every move we handle. With over a decade of experience helping families in the DMV area, we understand that moving can be stressful, and we’re here to make it as smooth as possible. By following this guide when moving, you’ll not only protect your belongings but also ensure a safer, more efficient move for everyone involved.
Need help with your next move? Contact Melroy Movers today at (571) 427-0180 and let our experienced team guide you in the right direction.
