Non-Allowable Items – What Movers Cannot Transport

For safety and regulatory compliance, professional moving companies are prohibited from transporting certain items. Velocity Moving and Storage follows all Department of Transportation regulations and cannot transport hazardous materials or illegal items.

Hazardous Materials – Strictly Prohibited

Flammable and Combustible Items

• Gasoline, kerosene, and fuel oil
• Propane tanks and cylinders
• Lighter fluid and matches
• Fireworks and ammunition
• Charcoal and charcoal starter fluid
• Aerosol cans including spray paint and cleaning products
• Nail polish and nail polish remover
• Rubbing alcohol in large quantities

Corrosive and Toxic Materials

• Acids and acid-containing batteries
• Bleach and ammonia-based cleaners
• Pool chemicals and pesticides
• Car batteries with wet cells
• Drain cleaners and oven cleaners

Explosive Materials

• Fireworks and flares
• Loaded firearms
• Ammunition
• Blasting caps

Perishable Items

For health and safety reasons, we cannot transport:

• Frozen foods unless the move is same-day local
• Refrigerated foods
• Fresh produce with short shelf life
• Open food containers
• Perishable items requiring refrigeration

Note: For local same-day moves, we can transport refrigerated items if properly packed in coolers.

Living Things

We cannot transport pets, including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and fish. Plants cannot be transported for long-distance moves. For local moves, small household plants can be accommodated.

Valuables and Irreplaceable Items

While not prohibited, we strongly recommend you personally transport:

• Cash, coins, and currency
• Jewelry and precious stones
• Important documents such as birth certificates, passports, and deeds
• Family photos and heirlooms
• Medication and medical supplies
• Laptop computers and external hard drives
• Collections including stamps and coins

Disposal and Transportation Options

Before Your Move

• Use up hazardous materials before moving day
• Donate unopened cleaning supplies to friends or neighbors
• Take hazardous materials to designated disposal facilities
• Transport valuables and important items in your personal vehicle

For Firearms

• Guns must be unloaded and stored separately from ammunition
• Trigger locks required
• Must be packed in a locked case
• Check state laws for interstate moves

Items Requiring Special Handling

These items can be moved but require special preparation:

• Propane tanks must be completely empty and purged
• Lawn mowers must have fuel and oil drained
• Scuba tanks must be empty with valve open
• Fire extinguishers are acceptable if properly sealed

Questions About Non-Allowable Items

If you’re unsure whether a specific item can be transported, contact us before your move. Our experienced team can provide guidance on alternative transportation options, proper disposal methods, and special handling requirements.

Contact Velocity Moving today at 212-666-3030 with questions about what can and cannot be moved.

Note: This list is not exhaustive. Federal and state regulations may vary. Always check with your moving company if you have questions about specific items.