When it’s time to pack up for your house move, there’s a lot to do. Not only do you have to purchase all the proper moving supplies, such as tape, boxes, and bubble wrap, you have to create a packing schedule, sort through your belongings, pack everything up, and label it. A time-saving alternative is to hire your movers to pack your stuff for you. However, there are some things movers won’t pack for you, either because they are dangerous, perishable or illegal. Here’s a look at some of those items.
Potentially Dangerous Items
Your movers won’t pack or transport hazardous items such as:- Gasoline
- Oxygen tanks
- Lighter fluid
- Matches
- Propane cylinders
- Nail polish remover
- Fireworks
- Paints and paint thinners
Food
Movers will pack most food for you, but is it really a good idea? Before moving, you should just throw out any food in glass jars and anything that is perishable, rather than transporting them to your new home. They can easily crack, leak or grow mold before they even make it to your place. That being said, non-perishables such as boxed or canned items, spices, dried fruits, or oils typically transport well. Have doubts about what food items the movers will touch? Call and ask.Valuables and Documents
Your moving company may have a policy about transporting customers’ valuables, but even if they don’t, consider keeping any valuables with you at all times. Even if movers could reimburse you for those items, they are usually things that can’t be replaced because of the sentimental value. Valuables include:- Family photos
- Heirlooms
- Jewelry
- Collections (coins, stamps, etc.)
- Cash
- Important documents (deeds, bonds, wills, stocks, etc.)

Questions to Ask Yourself
Before you consider what items you want the movers to pack up and move for you, ask yourself these questions:- Can I repurchase this item once I arrive in the new home?
- Would I be devastated and upset to lose this item?
- What would I need while traveling (moving documents, passports, etc.)?
Contact Moving Proz
For a free moving and packing quote, contact us in Overland Park, Lawrence or Kansas City.