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.