Renting a portable moving container is a great solution for all of you who want to save big money on your relocation. These portable containers have many advantages. Apart from their cost, they come in handy because you can use them as a temporary storage during your relocation process. But, keep in mind they are not made to hold every piece of item you have in your possession! Some packing rules apply here, too. So, before renting it, you will need to know what not to pack inside your moving container. And in order to prevent a catastrophe and save your items from a possible damage, we will provide you with a list of the most common things that are not allowed inside a moving container. With our help, you won’t have any problem during your move. Here is what most moving container companies will refuse to transport.
Plants or anything alive
If you like your plants and want for them to survive your move to a new home, don’t place them in your moving container. There isn’t enough sunshine for them, and they might get damaged from the other stored items if you don’t pack properly. But, this isn’t why having plants inside a moving container is not allowed. Many states want to prevent the possibility of spreading different kind of diseases, harmful insects, and invasive plants. Hence, they have different laws about which kind of plants you can and cannot import.
Because of this, don’t put them in a moving container but take them with you on your moving day. And also, remember to check with State Plant Regulatory Officials before the relocation which plants you can take with you. This is a must if you are getting ready for a long distance move. What is also a must for any type of move are reputable movers. Reliable movers, such as Wailea Movers Hawaii and similar ones can help you with your relocation. With good movers by your side, there is nothing to worry about.
Know what not to pack inside your moving container. Take care of your plants, as they can’t survive the move inside a container.
Valuable items and belongings of sentimental value
Don’t get us wrong, moving containers are a safe option for your items. But there is still a small chance your belongings will break or damage during your relocation. For this reason, moving container companies have certain policies about the transportation of your valuables. Accidents happen all the time. It will be the best for you to pack them in separate boxes and have them nearby. Here is what not to pack inside your moving container:
- Money
- Jewelry
- Furs
- Electronics
- Credit cards
- Family heirlooms
- Financial documents
- Medical, dental, school records
- Cell phones
- Rare collectibles
If there isn’t any other way for you to transport these items, this is how you could protect them. Before putting your valuables inside a moving container, learn about your company’s liability options first. Moving container companies can offer you two levels of liability: Contents protection option and Container only option. They can provide you with a certain degree of protection, but know that there isn’t a way for you to get a full compensation for an accident.
Keep your money and credit cards nearby, as it is safer and smarter!
Pack fragile items the right way
Not all fragile items are on our list of what not to pack inside a moving container. But if you decide to transport them this way, packing them properly will be crucial. If you don’t know how to safely pack your belongings, then there is packing and unpacking assistance you might need when moving your breakables that is available to you. It is good to know when to ask for help, as it can save you from a lot of trouble.
Hazardous material
Hazardous materials can be very dangerous, especially during the move. For this reason, almost every moving container company won’t allow you to pack in your moving container anything from the list below. Since you can’t transport them, you will need to get rid of them (in a safe way) before your move. Don’t get frustrated because of this. Keep in mind your other items will be safer without them. Also, you can easily replace them after you move to your new home. So, what is considered dangerous to pack inside your moving container?
- Acids
- Loaded guns
- Gasoline
- Motor oil
- Pesticides
- Fire extinguisher
- Ammonia
- Poisons
- Batteries
- Aerosols and so on…
These items are potentially explosive so make sure you are well-informed about them and about the best ways to dispose of them. If you don’t know if some item is hazardous, ask your moving container company. Better safe than sorry!
Perishable food
This is something you definitely do not want to pack inside your moving container. First of all, packing perishable food can attract unwelcomed guests like rats and bugs. And secondly, the chance of them to spoil and then spill is high. Instead of tossing them before your move, find someone who would appreciate your donation and help them. Canned food is usually welcome in your moving container, but here is what you should avoid packing at any cost:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Ice cream
- Refrigerated food
- Opened pantry food
- Butter
- Opened beverages
Empty your refrigerator before the big move and give it to someone who will appreciate it.
Final tips on what not to pack inside your moving container
Before you proceed with your relocation, don’t forget about these three things.
- Proper disposal. Now that you know what not to pack inside your moving container, think of their disposal. Don’t just toss them away! They can be very dangerous if you don’t dispose of them properly. If it is necessary ask professionals to help you with it.
- Insurance coverage. Every item inside a moving container needs to be considered as valuable if it means to you. They are yours so you will want to transport them without a scratch. Don’t forget to contact your insurance provider in case something happens.
- Don’t rush. When you think of what not to pack inside your moving container, it is important not to rush. Getting things done faster isn’t always better. If you have a plan and get things done step by step, you will make better decisions. This is most certainly a better option. The organization is key to a successful relocation. Work smart, not hard.