Hiring professional residential movers is a great way to simplify your relocation. However, even full-service movers have their limitations. In fact, there are some items that they will not be able to move at all. What are these items, and what should be done with them? Let’s find out:

Perishable Food

If you are moving locally, you might be allowed to send your perishable food items with your movers. Perishable food is not allowed by long-distance movers because it can be difficult, and often impossible, to keep the items from spoiling. Either plan to consume all your perishables before moving or dispose of them.

Flammable Cleaners

Bleach, ammonia, and other flammable cleaners will not be allowed to hitch a ride on a moving van. Thankfully, most of your household cleaners are easy to get rid of. Either plan to use them up before you move, or simply pour them down the drain or toss them into the garbage.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are combustible, so your mover is unlikely to transport them no matter the distance of your move. It’s not a huge loss since they need to be replaced on a regular basis, so the best thing to do is to properly dispose of your fire extinguishers before moving. Ask your local fire department if they accept drop-offs or take them to a hazardous waste disposal facility.

Household Plants

Although your moving company might be willing to relocate your plants, it’s not a good idea because they have little chance of surviving the trip. You’re better off taking your favorite plants with you then giving the rest away to friends and family.

Firearms and Ammunition

Relocation companies will not transport firearms and ammunition. If you are comfortable relocating these yourself, then do some research to find out how you can do so without breaking laws in the state you are moving to. If you don’t want to attempt this on your own, you can make arrangements with a specialty shipping company.

Oil and Gasoline

Most movers will relocate your yard maintenance equipment, but you must make sure that these items are completely emptied of all oil and gasoline. To dispose of these substances, contact your local city hall to find out what options are available in your area. If you have grills that use propane tanks, remove the tanks and contact a local propane provider to get information about disposal.

Fertilizers

Since some fertilizers can be combustible, they will have to be given a new home or disposed of before your move. Solid fertilizers without pesticides can go in the garbage. If you have liquid fertilizers without pesticides, solidify the liquid using cat litter, dirt, or paper towels then throw the container and its contents in the garbage. For fertilizers that do contain pesticides, contact your local hazardous waste department for instructions.

Large Fluorescent Lightbulbs

Since fluorescent bulbs contain mercury gas, your mover will not risk relocating them because breakage could pose health and safety risks to the movers and drivers. You can give your bulbs away or follow local regulations for disposal. Some areas allow you to throw fluorescent lightbulbs in the trash while others require the use of hazardous material disposal services.

Do you want more information about how to handle items that your long-distance movers won’t move? What about a free moving cost estimate? Contact us at Solomon and Sons Relocation Services today!