Most movers in California will not move hazardous or flammable items such as gasoline, propane tanks, paint thinner, fireworks or ammunition, and they generally do not move pets or perishable food. You should also keep valuables like cash, jewelry, medications and important papers with you instead of on the truck.
Hazardous and flammable items
These items can catch fire, leak or explode in a closed truck, so movers commonly refuse them:
- Gasoline, oil and lawnmower or generator fuel
- Propane tanks and lighter fluid
- Paint thinner, solvents and many aerosol cans
- Pool chemicals, bleach and strong cleaners
- Fireworks, matches and ammunition
- Car batteries
Tip: Drain fuel from lawn equipment before move day. Many Los Angeles area cities run household hazardous waste drop-off events for items you do not want to keep.
Perishable food
Fresh, frozen and open food can spoil or attract pests, especially in Southern California heat. Plan to eat down your fridge in the week before you move, and carry a cooler for anything left.
Plants
For a short local move, it is often easier and safer to carry plants yourself in your car. Plants can be damaged in a hot truck. Ask your mover what they allow.
Pets
Pets should never ride in a moving truck. Move them in your own car or arrange a sitter for the day. Keeping pets in a closed room or away from the home during loading is safer for them and the crew.
Items to keep with you
Even when a mover will take them, these are better in your own hands:
- Cash, jewelry and collectibles
- Medications
- Passports, birth certificates, tax papers and other documents
- Laptops, hard drives and phones
- Keys, chargers and a change of clothes
Items that need special planning
Some things can be moved but need advance notice:
- Pianos and safes: tell us size and weight so we bring enough movers and equipment.
- Large furniture that needs disassembly: beds, desks and sectionals. We offer furniture disassembly and reassembly.
- TVs and art: original boxes or proper packing help. Ask about our packing and storage services.
Why these rules exist
Rules about hazardous items protect your belongings, the crew and the public. A small leak of fuel or chemicals can ruin furniture and create a fire risk. A clear list before move day also keeps your move on schedule, since the crew will not need to stop and sort out problem items.
Before-move checklist
- Walk through your garage, kitchen and bathrooms for chemicals and fuel.
- Use up or dispose of perishables.
- Pack a personal bag with valuables, medications and documents.
- Plan for pets and plants.
- Tell your mover about pianos, safes or heavy pieces.
Our Los Angeles apartment moving checklist has more planning steps.
FAQ
Will movers move propane tanks or gasoline? Generally no. Flammable fuels and pressurized tanks are commonly refused.
Can movers move my plants? Policies vary. For local moves, carrying plants yourself is often best.
Will movers move my pet? No. Pets should travel with you.
Should I let movers carry jewelry and documents? It is safer to keep valuables and important papers with you.
Questions about your items?
Giant Movers 365 is a licensed California mover (CA Mover MTR 0192654, USDOT 3963538) based in Canoga Park with 20+ years of experience. We handle local moves, apartment moves and moves within California. Call (310) 988-5051, 8 AM to 9 PM daily, and ask us about any item.
