When planning a move, it’s important to be aware of what items moving companies cannot legally transport due to federal regulations enforced by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). These rules are in place for safety reasons, protecting both the moving crew and your belongings. Here’s a list of common items that most U.S. moving companies, including Charming Movers, are not allowed to transport, along with alternative solutions for handling them.

Why Is This Topic So Important?

Understanding what movers can and cannot legally transport is crucial for ensuring safety and avoiding delays on moving day. By being aware of these restrictions, you can plan ahead, handle or dispose of prohibited items properly, and ensure a smoother, safer move with no last-minute surprises. At Charming Movers, we prioritize transparency and safety to make your moving experience hassle-free.

Some Things That Can’t Be Moved…

• What Are Hazardous Materials? Hazardous materials include anything that poses a risk to health, safety, or the environment. These items are typically flammable, corrosive, explosive, or toxic. Examples of Hazardous Materials:
  • Gasoline and fuelPropane tanksLighter fluidFireworksAmmunitionPaints, paint thinners, and stainsHousehold cleaning chemicals (bleach, ammonia)PesticidesFertilizersMotor oils and antifreeze
  Why They Can’t Be Moved: Hazardous materials pose a risk of fire, explosion, or chemical exposure during transport. DOT regulations strictly prohibit moving these items in standard moving trucks to ensure the safety of the crew and the public.
• What to Do Instead: Safely dispose of hazardous materials at a local recycling center or hazardous waste facility. Alternatively, you can transport small amounts of household chemicals in your own vehicle, if it’s safe to do so.

Clients of Charming Movers must drain any equitment of gas and fuel, such as lawnmowers and leaf blowers. Not only are we prohibited from transporting gas, your equiptment being drained ensures no spillage on your cherished belongings.

• Perishable FoodWhat Qualifies as Perishable Food? Perishable food includes any food items that can spoil, rot, or become unsafe to eat due to changes in temperature or time.Examples of Perishable Foods:
  • Fresh produce (fruits, vegetables)
  • Meat, poultry, and seafood
  • Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
  • Frozen food
  • Opened or partially consumed foods
  Why They Can’t Be Moved: Moving trucks are not refrigerated, and long-distance travel can cause perishable food to spoil, leading to foodborne illness. Moving companies are prohibited from transporting perishable food to prevent health risks.What to Do Instead: If possible, consume or donate perishable food before moving day. Local food banks or shelters may accept donations. You can also pack a cooler with ice if you need to transport perishable food yourself.
• PlantsWhy Can’t Plants Be Moved? Many moving companies are prohibited from moving plants, especially across state lines. This is because different states have regulations to prevent the spread of pests, diseases, or invasive species.What to Do Instead: If you’re moving locally, you can transport plants in your own vehicle. For long-distance moves, consider giving your plants to a friend or family member or researching local plant shipping services. Some states may require inspections or permits to transport plants, so check with your new state’s agriculture department.

• What Qualifies as Flammable? Flammable items are materials that can easily catch fire under certain conditions.Examples of Flammable Items:
  • Charcoal
  • Kerosene
  • Matches
  • Propane tanks (from grills, RVs)
  • Aerosol cans (such as hair spray or cleaning products)
  Why They Can’t Be Moved: Flammable items are a significant safety hazard during transport. Any sudden change in temperature or pressure could cause them to ignite or explode, endangering the moving crew and your property.What to Do Instead: Use up or safely dispose of flammable materials before your move. If needed, you can transport small amounts of flammable liquids in your personal vehicle if it’s safe.
• Valuables and Personal DocumentsWhat Are Considered Valuables? While moving companies may not legally be prohibited from transporting valuables, many have policies advising against it. High-value or irreplaceable items are better handled by the owner to avoid loss or damage.Examples of Valuables:
  • Cash and currency
  • Jewelry and precious metals
  • Important documents (passports, birth certificates, tax records)
  • Stock certificates and deeds
  • Family heirlooms or antiques
  • Collectibles (stamps, coins)
  Why They Shouldn’t Be Moved by Movers: Valuable items can be easily misplaced or damaged during transport. Moving companies typically offer only limited insurance coverage, so it’s best to transport valuables yourself to ensure their safety.What to Do Instead: Carry your valuables and personal documents with you during the move. Keep them in a secure bag or box and transport them in your personal vehicle.

• Compressed GasesWhat Qualifies as Compressed Gas? Compressed gas includes materials stored in pressurized containers, which can be dangerous if punctured or exposed to extreme temperatures.Examples of Compressed Gases:
  • Oxygen tanks
  • Scuba diving tanks
  • Propane tanks (for grills)
  • Helium tanks (for balloons)
  Why They Can’t Be Moved: Compressed gases are highly volatile and can explode if damaged or improperly handled, making them too dangerous for transport by moving companies.What to Do Instead: If you have compressed gas tanks, arrange for safe disposal, return them to the supplier, or transport them yourself if it’s safe and legal to do so.

This list comprises a few of the most common household items that cannot be moved by moving companies, including Charming Movers, in compliance with DOT regulations. To see a full, comprehensive list, please reference your moving proposal. We are happy to answer any questions about prohibited items and how to handle them through the moving process, so don’t hesitate to reach out! 301-738-2202

Stay Safe by Knowing What Movers Can’t Move

Before your moving day, it’s important to review what items are prohibited by DOT regulations. At Charming Movers, we prioritize safety and adhere to all federal regulations to ensure a secure move. Understanding these rules will help you plan your move efficiently and avoid complications. If you’re unsure about any items, feel free to contact our team, and we’ll help guide you through the process.

Moving is stressful enough — let us handle your belongings while you focus on transporting the items that can’t go on the truck!