What Should I Not Pack for Removals?

16 March 2026

Removal companies cannot transport hazardous materials, flammable liquids, gas cylinders, firearms, ammunition, or perishable food. You should also keep valuables, important documents, medication, and irreplaceable items with you on moving day rather than putting them on the van.

Items Removal Companies Cannot Transport

These items are prohibited by law, insurance policies, or health and safety regulations:

Hazardous and Flammable Items

Petrol, diesel, and other fuels
Gas cylinders (BBQ, camping, patio heaters)
Fireworks and flares
Paint thinners, turpentine, and solvents
Weedkillers and pesticides
Car batteries and acid
Aerosols in bulk quantities

Weapons and Explosives

Firearms and ammunition (must be transported by the licensed owner)
Knives classified as weapons
Crossbows

Perishable Food and Living Things

Frozen and refrigerated food (won't survive hours in a van)
Open food containers
Plants in soil (risk of pest transfer and soil spillage)
Pets (obviously, but worth stating)

Items You Should Keep With You

These aren't prohibited, but they're better kept in your own car on moving day:

Valuables — jewellery, cash, watches, small electronics
Important documents — passports, birth certificates, house deeds, insurance policies
Medication — prescription medicines and first aid supplies
Keys — for both properties, plus any alarm codes or gate fobs
Phone chargers and laptops — you'll need these before boxes are unpacked
Essentials box — kettle, mugs, toilet roll, tea bags, snacks, change of clothes
Children's essentials — favourite toys, school uniforms, car seats

What About Alcohol and Cleaning Products?

Sealed bottles of wine, spirits, and beer are generally fine to transport, though breakage risk means professional wrapping is advisable. Household cleaning products in sealed containers (bleach, washing up liquid, etc.) are acceptable in small quantities. Open or leaking containers should be disposed of before the move.

How to Handle Prohibited Items

Gas cylinders — return to your gas supplier or take them in your own vehicle with proper ventilation
Fuels and chemicals — dispose of at your local household recycling centre (Bournemouth's is at Millhams Road, Kinson)
Perishable food — use up, give away, or take in a cool bag in your car
Firearms — transport yourself in a locked case as per your licence conditions

Need Help Preparing for Your Move?

Our team can advise on any items you're unsure about. Get a free quote or call 01202 113 255. We also offer a full packing service where our team handles all the wrapping and boxing for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can removal companies move plants?

Most removal companies will move a few small houseplants as a courtesy, but they aren't covered by insurance. Large plants in heavy pots and outdoor plants in soil are generally not transported due to the risk of soil spillage and pest transfer. We recommend moving treasured plants in your own vehicle.

What happens if a prohibited item is found on the van?

If a crew member finds a prohibited item (such as a gas cylinder hidden in a box), they are required to remove it from the vehicle for safety reasons. This can cause delays to your move. Being upfront about all items during the quoting stage prevents these issues.

Should I empty my fridge before moving day?

Yes. Defrost your freezer at least 24 hours before the move and empty both the fridge and freezer. Use up perishables in the week before, give food to neighbours, or transport essentials in a cool bag. Removal companies will move the empty fridge/freezer unit, but not the food inside it.