Be aware of what not to pack
Your removalist should be able to provide you with a list of “non-allowables,” which is an industry term for items expert movers will not transport. The list does not only include obvious items like gasoline and ammunition, but will also specify less-obvious things like toy chemistry sets and nail polish.
Below is a list of a few of the more common non-allowables. You may notice that alcohol is in the list… if you were to ask us, that is a good excuse to invite all of your friends over and throw a little going away party.
Think “out of the box” … literally!
- Aerosol cans (no matter what the content is)
- Flammable items (like lighters, lighter fluid, matches, and charcoal)
- Ammunition
- Fire extinguishers
- Alcohol
- Any gas in tanks or bottles (such as oxygen or propane)
- Varnishes, paints, thinners, solvents and oils
- Household cleaning products (such as bleach and ammonia)
- Nail polish and remover
- Pesticides and fertilisers
- Batteries
Less obvious items
Here’s a little piece of info which you are not probably aware of: even though they’re not harmful by themselves, perishable goods and plants also appear on removalists’ list of things not to pack. Although they are not hazardous or flammable, they could attract rodents, insects, as well as other pests that can damage your property. Typical perishables are items like:
- Refrigerated and frozen food
- Produce
- Food items which have been opened
- Indoor and outdoor plants
- Flowers
- Fresh herbs
If you are not comfortable throwing away perfectly good food, no worries. Think about donating these perishables instead to a soup kitchen, local shelter, soup kitchen, safe house, or a place of worship.
What you should keep handy and accessible
Now you are aware what you cannot pack, it is time for you to consider the items you probably should not pack. We suggest you keep personal stuff (things such as everyday necessities, things with sentimental value, and essential documents) off the moving trucks also. It is a bit similar to distinguishing between checked in and hand-carried baggage when flying: things that you normally use every day or things which would be bothersome at best (or heartbreaking, at worst) to lose you must certainly bring with you.
Items like:
- Prescription medicines
- Identification documents (social security card, birth certificate, etc.)
- Investment documents such as bonds, stocks, and securities
- Insurance policies
- Collectors items (like stamps and coins)
- Currency
It is also a good idea to put together a moving-in package which would include the kinds of things you will require for the first evening or two in your new location, no matter how fast you can unpack.
Needless to say, it is quite likely that you will still need to slate some goods of personal value for transport in the moving truck. You will probably not be able to fit your grandma’s vintage armoire into your Fiat. This can be a good time for you to begin considering a moving insurance cover.
Regardless of which way you’re considering to move — with or withouth insurance cover — do not do it alone; let Giraffe Removals & Storage help. We will ensure you get from point A to B as smoothly, efficiently and pleasantly as possible. Know more about our services, connect with one of our move experts, and get started on your move now. Call us on1300 554 552.
