Removal companies will not take hazardous materials, perishable goods, live animals, or high-value personal documents and valuables. Knowing what can and cannot go in the van before moving day saves last-minute stress and helps keep everyone and your belongings safe.
Hazardous materials
Anything flammable, corrosive or explosive is usually off-limits. This includes petrol, paint thinners, gas bottles, fireworks, bleach and other strong cleaning chemicals, and aerosols. These items can leak or ignite in transit, putting people and other belongings at risk. Most can be used up before the move or taken to your local recycling centre.
Perishable goods
Fresh, frozen and open food can spoil quickly in a removal vehicle, especially on longer journeys. It may also attract pests or leak onto other items. It is best to run down the contents of your fridge and freezer in the weeks before the move, and to pack a small box of snacks and drinks to take with you.
Live animals
Pets should never travel in a removal van. Dogs, cats, small animals, fish and birds all need to travel with you in your own vehicle, or with a friend or specialist pet transport service.
High-value personal documents and valuables
Passports, birth certificates, financial paperwork, cash, jewellery and items of sentimental value should stay with you throughout the move. Keeping them in a labelled bag that travels with you means they are never misplaced.
Unusual items we can move
While some items are best left out of the van, others simply need specialist handling. With over 20 years’ experience, we regularly move items that many removal firms would turn away, including:
Pianos – our piano removals service covers upright and grand pianos, using specialist equipment and careful wrapping to protect every instrument.
Heavy safes – our heavy safe movers use hydraulic dollies and stair climbers to move domestic and commercial safes safely.
If you are not sure whether something can be moved, just ask. We are always happy to talk it through.
