Things Not Allowed on a Moving Truck (and Why)

Publish Date: June 6, 2025

Last Modified Date: June 6, 2025

Category: Moving Checklists & Planning, Moving Trucks

Tags: Tags: aerosal, alcohol, apartment cleaning, budget, cash, fertilizer, gardening, gasoline, guns, hireahelper, kevin, kitchen cleaner, movers, moving tips, moving truck, pesticide, plants, u-haul, u-pack, uhaul, upack, upass, ups, workers

Packing for a move is already a big job without the need for last-minute surprises, which is why it helps to know what is not allowed on a moving truck before you accidentally pack a prohibited item. Some banned moving items are restricted for safety or legal reasons, while others just aren’t covered under insurance if something goes wrong.

Below, we’ve explained what can’t go on a moving truck and why, along with a few smart tips to help you pack with confidence, avoid last-minute delays, and keep your belongings safe from start to finish.

Perishables: Items That Can Spoil on the Truck

These banned moving items mainly include food and houseplants:

Frozen foods
Refrigerated foods
Open or half-used foods
Most kinds of produce

Tip: If you’ve got some perishable food you won’t finish in time for your move, why not donate it? Give any unopened food to a local charity pantry or food bank before you pack.

Houseplants fall in this category, too, since they don’t hold up well in the extreme temperatures often found in the back of a moving truck.

Aside from the risk of spoiled food or wilted plants, transporting perishables, especially plants in soil, can attract pests. This is why movers typically won’t allow them.

Combustibles and Other Dangerous Items

Transporting a gallon of ice cream in the back of a moving truck is a bad idea, but it is legal. Transporting a gallon of gasoline is not. Thankfully, it’s entirely safe and lawful to put that lawn mower on your moving truck, provided you drain all the oil and gasoline out of it first.

There are plenty of other items that fall into this category, some of which might surprise you:

Perfume
Gasoline
Paint and pool chemicals
Fertilizers
Pesticides and weed killers
Aerosol cans
Kitchen cleaners
Nail polish remover

Generally, if it’s explosive or combustible, it’s not going.

To be clear, some items may or may not be forbidden, depending on the moving company or the rental truck you’re using. U-Haul allows loading propane tanks onto their trucks, but Budget does not. Meanwhile, U-Pack’s list of prohibited items includes spear guns having charged heads. So it’s always best to ask for the rules and policies when you’re renting your truck.

If you’re moving with a major van line, check the company website for what is and isn’t allowed. Here is the United Van Lines list, which best reflects the industry standards.

Plants, Pistols, and Alcohol

Crossing state lines with certain plants or guns can be illegal. Even when you’re just driving through, every state’s laws apply. To protect yourself and avoid having anything confiscated, check these U.S. state laws for plants and firearms before your move to ensure compliance.

“[Movers] can, and they should, [refuse to move an item] if something isn’t safe to load. Movers have to follow strict policies when it comes to what goes in the truck, especially with anything hazardous or restricted.”

Laws prohibiting the interstate transport of alcohol tend to be less restrictive, provided it’s for personal consumption. Still, double-check with the states you’ll be entering.

Valuables, Antiques, and Irreplaceable Items

This category includes items that either have incredible sentimental value or are difficult and time-consuming to replace if lost during the move.

So, it’s best to keep the following items with you at all times during your move:

Shoeboxes full of cash (don’t label them “CASH”!)
Checkbooks, credit cards, ATM cards, insurance cards, and policies
Official documents, like birth/marriage certificates, social security cards, passports, visas, residence cards
Sentimental valuables and family heirlooms
Bank statements, financial records, mortgages, stocks/bonds
Tax returns
Medical/dental records and any medications/prescriptions
Works of art
Laptops, PCs, and any work-related documents and research papers

Final Thoughts

The list of what’s not allowed seems pretty long. But getting your packing list right the first time could save time in the long run. Take the steps necessary to ensure that you, your stuff, and your truck all make it there safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack cleaning supplies in a moving truck?

It depends. Some basic supplies like sponges or unopened soaps are fine, but liquids like bleach or anything flammable (like aerosol sprays or ammonia) usually aren’t allowed. If you’re unsure, check the label or ask your mover before loading day rolls around.

What happens if movers find prohibited items?

Most movers will set the item aside and let you know right away. It’s not meant to slow you down; they’re just following safety and insurance rules. You’ll need to make another plan for that item, whether that means tossing it or taking it in your own vehicle.

Can movers refuse to transport items?

They can, and they should, if something isn’t safe to load. Movers have to follow strict policies when it comes to what goes in the truck, especially with anything hazardous or restricted. A quick heads-up before the move can save everyone time and trouble.

What to Know Before Moving Into a City Apartment

Author: Kevin The Mover

Publish Date:

Last Modified Date: June 6, 2025

Category: Loading & Unloading Guides, Moving Day

Tags: Tags: 5 things, apartment hunting, atlanta, boston, boxes, cheap movers, chicago, city, detroit, dumpster, free boxes, hah, hireahelper, houston, insurance, kevin, la, las vegas, lists, los angeles, miami, movers insurance, moving, new york, nyc, san diego, san francisco, st.louis, stairs

Moving to a new apartment isn’t always easy. Tight spaces, unclear rules, and even hidden fees can quickly derail your carefully laid plans.

To help you avoid any moving-day surprises, we’ve put together this guide on what to know before moving into a city apartment. By the end, you’ll know how to avoid the unexpected costs of moving into an apartment, understand your building’s lease terms and regulations, and learn how to avoid fines.

Know What Date and Time You Can Move In

Moving can be disruptive, and apartments aren’t particularly known for being soundproof. Even if you’re mindful, you can make a lot of noise coming back and forth with boxes or rearranging furniture. Quiet hours often apply in apartment communities, so you may have to plan around them.

Traffic, noise ordinances, and general rules can also affect your move-in. If your building uses an elevator, there may be specific hours or days that management allows you to book it.

Depending on your complex, you may have to move in on a Saturday. Others might specify that you have to move on a weekday when foot traffic is lighter. Check your building’s move-in policies in advance if you have time constraints for getting everything moved in.

Plan the Best Places to Park Your Moving Truck

Moving into an apartment is often more complicated than relocating to a house with a clear driveway. And if you live in the heart of a big city, it can be even harder. Ask your management office about hours, time limits, permits, and where you need to park. If you need a permit, apply as soon as possible so processing times don’t delay your move-in.

Some buildings offer a rear service entrance or loading dock. This can make things easier since you have a designated place to park, but you may have to schedule a block of time to use it.

Ask About Your Apartment’s Unloading Policy

Before moving day, ask your building management about how and where unloading works. Some apartment complexes require you to unload onto a staging area and move your truck away from the loading dock or service entrance as quickly as possible.

“A COI is a Certificate of Insurance. It lets your apartment complex know that your moving company is insured and provides important coverage details, such as policy limits, effective dates, and other key details.”

Others won’t allow you to leave items out, or they’ll require you to keep clear paths for egress. Don’t forget to inform your moving team of any rules or requirements.

Bonus Tip: Know Where to Dispose of Boxes

Many buildings set specific rules for how to dispose of moving boxes and packing materials. Even if a recycling bin is available, they may ask that moving debris not be placed there to prevent it from filling up too quickly.

Your building manager can tell you the preferred way to dispose of boxes. You can also try giving away empty boxes on social media. Or, if you unpack quickly, the movers might be willing to haul the boxes away for you.

Take Floor Protection Seriously

Many buildings require floor protection to prevent damage in shared areas, especially those with hardwood or tile flooring. For example, an area with nice hardwood or marble flooring may require Masonite: wooden hardboards that can prevent damage to the floor while you’re shifting furniture. If you need it, make sure your movers have one on hand. Some buildings may have hardboards available to lend you, so ask ahead of time.

And don’t stop at protecting just the floor. Some management companies require additional protection in doorways and stairwells.

Familiarize Yourself With Your Movers’ Insurance

Most licensed moving companies have to provide basic liability insurance. However, some buildings in big cities require proof of moving insurance or even the purchase of extra policies. That way, if an accident happens, they can recoup the cost quickly. Without insurance, you could be left with hidden apartment move-in fees.

“Even if you’re mindful, you can make a lot of noise coming back and forth with boxes or rearranging furniture. Quiet hours often apply in apartment communities, so you may have to plan around them.”

If you need proof of insurance, tell your moving company as soon as possible. They’ll need time to get a COI form from the office and return it with all the necessary paperwork from their own insurance company. The building may not let you move in if you don’t have the proper paperwork filed, so check carefully.

Review City Apartment Moving Rules

There’s plenty more to know to make your move seamless. Check with your apartment complex about common rules like:

Building move-in hours: Confirm whether there are set moving hours listed in the lease.
Elevator reservations: If you need an elevator reservation, familiarize yourself with the process in advance. Make sure you book the reservation early to get the best date and time for moving day.
COI requirements: A COI is a Certificate of Insurance. It lets your apartment complex know that your moving company is insured and provides important coverage details, such as policy limits, effective dates, and other key details.
Noise and disturbance levels: Evenings and weekends may be subject to noise restrictions. While you shouldn’t be particularly loud while moving, you also want to avoid a costly fine for violating regulations.
Fire safety regulations: While you move, avoid any fire safety violations. Ensure that you never obstruct fire exits or safety equipment.
Parking: Know where to park your moving truck (and where guests should park if friends or family are coming to help you).

Prepare for a Smooth City Move

Ready to make your move as smooth as possible? Check out our moving checklist to make sure you have all the necessary supplies, such as dollies, stretch wrap, and moving blankets.

Additionally, if you’re moving on a narrow city street or to the top of a towering apartment building, let us know. We make budgeting for apartment moves easy by providing clear, upfront quotes from local moving companies. Compare services and book trusted, vetted, and highly rated movers through HireAHelper’s online platform.

How To Pack a TV for Moving

Author: Kevin The Mover

Publish Date: May 15, 2025

Last Modified Date: June 27, 2025

Category: How To Pack, Pro Packing Guides

Tags: Tags: 4k, electronics, february, flatscreen, football, hireahelper, kevin, kevin the mover, lcd, led, liquid, mounting, movers, moving, moving insurance, moving tv, nfl, philips, plasma, soccer, sony, super bowl, super bowl party, superbowl, transport, tv, tv mount, tv myths, uhaul

Moving with a TV can be intimidating, especially if you have an old-school tube TV or a very large flat screen. The heavy weight, large size, and unique shape of these (and most other) TVs mean they probably won’t fit in your typical moving boxes.

Our packing experts are here to explain how to protect your TV from scratches, electrical damage, and cracks. We’ll guide you on how to pack a TV for your move safely — whether you’re transporting personal belongings or hiring a moving company.

Supplies Needed to Pack a TV Safely

The supplies you’ll need vary depending on your TV’s size and weight, but here’s what we find typically works best:

Packing materials for protection:

TV Box (original or moving box): If you don’t have the box your TV came in, you may be able to find a similar-sized box at Home Depot or U-Haul.
Bubble wrap: Cushion your television with multiple layers of bubble wrap so the screen doesn’t break during transit.
Packing paper or packing peanuts: Fill empty spaces in your TV box so the TV doesn’t move around.
Moving blankets: If you aren’t using a box, cover your TV with moving blankets to prevent scratches. Stock up on stretch wrap to hold the blankets in place.
Edge protectors: Apply these foam pieces on the corners of your flat-screen TV for shock absorption and impact protection.
TV cover (optional but helpful): A foam flat-screen TV cover or antistatic TV cover can help protect the screen during a move.

Tools and accessories for organization:

Plastic storage bags or a small container: Pack remote controls, cords, and cables in a separate bag or box so they don’t get damaged during the move. Make sure to label it, or (if using a bag) tape it to the TV’s box.
Packing tape: This is used to seal the box closed and to secure bubble wrap or other packing material around your TV.
Scissors or box cutter: Use these to cut tape, bubble wrap, and to unseal the box when you’re ready to unpack.
Permanent marker: Used for labeling. Make sure you write the labels on multiple sides of the box so it’s visible no matter where the TV is placed in the moving truck.

Step-By-Step Guide for Packing a TV

We’ve put together a clear, step-by-step guide so you can learn how to pack your TV like a pro. Whether it’s a flat screen or an older model, these tips will show you how to protect your TV—and all its accessories—so everything arrives safely.

Step 1: Clean Your TV

Dust and debris may not cause a problem while your TV is mounted or on a shelf. However, these tiny particles can cause scratches if they’re pressed or rubbed against the screen. This can happen if your TV is dirty when you nestle it in bubble wrap or foam.

Check your owner’s manual for instructions on cleaning your TV. You can typically use a microfiber cloth and a gentle electronic cleaning spray.

Step 2: Remove Parts and Accessories

Unplug cords and cables from your TV before packing it. These items will go in plastic bags, small cardboard boxes, or storage bins. You may also need to take off the TV stand or legs.

Remember to remove your Roku or other streaming device from the TV and pack your remote control separately, and be sure to clearly label any boxes and bags these accessories go into. You don’t want to waste time digging through boxes blindly for the remote or stand at your new place.

Step 3: Protect Your TV

Your screen is the most delicate part of your TV, so treat it with care. Now’s the time to apply your antistatic screen protector or other screen cover if you’re using one. You can also apply foam edge protectors.

“…your flat-screen TV should never lie flat. Place your TV upright in the moving truck, as setting it flat can put excessive pressure on the screen, which can cause it to crack or shatter.”

After you protect the screen, apply thick layers of bubble wrap over your TV. Pull the bubble wrap from one side to the other, and then secure it with packing tape. You can also cover your TV with moving blankets and secure them with stretch wrap. Avoid getting tape directly on your television, as it may damage the screen or other parts.

Step 4: Place Your TV in a Box

Gently slide your bubble-wrapped or foam-covered TV into a moving box. Ask someone to hold the box in place while you slide the TV inside. If the TV is bulky or heavy, you may also need help lifting it.

Fill gaps in the box with additional bubble wrap, packing paper, or packing peanuts. Make sure the TV is snug inside the box.

Step 5: Secure and Label the TV Box

Tape the TV box shut and label it “Fragile” or “Breakable.” Keep the box upright as much as possible.

How to Transport a TV Safely

You’re probably already well aware that a misstep or bump while handling your TV can cause scratches, dents, and loose electrical components. A drop can even shatter the screen. But don’t panic! By following certain steps, you can learn how to transport your TV safely.

Protect Your TV Before Loading

Don’t just unplug your TV and stick it on the moving truck. As we outlined earlier, your TV should be surrounded by bubble wrap or foam, then covered by a box or moving blankets.

Keep Your TV Upright

Despite the name, your flat-screen TV should never lie flat. Place your TV upright in the moving truck, as setting it flat can put excessive pressure on the screen, which can cause it to crack or shatter. A flat TV may also be more likely to break if a moving box falls on it during the drive. Label the moving box with “Please place upright” or something similar to help keep your TV safe while movers are loading and unloading it.

Choose the Right Spot for Transport

A TV should never be crammed in a trunk or tied on top of your vehicle. Set your upright TV between flat, sturdy boxes so it doesn’t slide around the moving truck.

“Remember to remove your Roku or other streaming device from the TV and pack your remote control separately, and be sure to clearly label any boxes and bags these accessories go into.”

For additional protection, secure your packed TV with straps or surround it with moving blankets.

Drive Mindfully

You should always drive carefully in a moving truck, but this is especially not the time to race through yellow lights or slam on the brakes at stop signs. Drive slowly and carefully with your TV in the truck.

Unload Your TV Right Away

Severe weather, such as frigid temps or high heat, can damage your TV. Avoid leaving it in the moving truck for longer than necessary. If you’re traveling a long distance, use a climate-controlled vehicle or run the HVAC system while you drive.

Learn more on our How to Pack Hub.

FAQs About Moving a TV

What if my TV is oversized?

Large TVs can be difficult for one person to move. Consider having a moving company load and unload your TV, or ask a friend or family member for help. Remember to bend at the knees when lifting the television to avoid straining your back.

Can I move a TV myself, or should I hire professionals?

Some people feel more comfortable letting professional movers handle fragile yet bulky items like TVs. They’ve got plenty of experience, after all! However, if you have the strength and patience, you can definitely move your own TV.

Should I remove the cords and cables before packing a TV?

Yes, you should remove cords and cables because these are tripping hazards for movers. Your TV’s wires could also get damaged during the move. Play it safe, and pack cords and cables separately.

How do you unpack a TV?

Some boxes have tearaway sides for easy TV removal. If yours doesn’t, open the top or bottom of the TV box, and then carefully slide the TV onto a soft surface. You may need help from a friend or family member. Try to keep the TV upright as you remove it.