Richmond Moving Guide
What Movers Won’t Move
A straightforward guide to restricted items - what we can\u2019t load, why it matters, and how to handle each one before move day.
Every professional moving company has a list of items they cannot transport. Most of these restrictions exist for safety reasons - federal and state transportation regulations, liability, and the physical reality of what can and can’t survive a move in a truck.
The list below covers the most common categories. If you have something unusual that isn’t covered here, ask us before move day and we’ll give you a straight answer.
And if you’re trying to clear out items that won’t make the move - old furniture, mattresses, broken appliances - our Richmond junk hauling service can take it all on the same trip. For move-day muscle without a truck, see our labor-only moving help.
Hazardous Materials
Full or partially full - fire and explosion risk.
Including gas for lawn equipment, boats, or generators.
Latex, oil-based, or spray paint in any quantity.
Bleach, ammonia, pool chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers.
Acetone, lighter fluid, alcohol-based solvents.
Fireworks, gun powder, or any explosive material.
Installed in a vehicle is fine - loose batteries can leak acid.
Live Plants & Perishables
Plants can’t survive sealed in a truck for hours. Local moves are fine - ask us.
Perishables don’t survive a move well. Use a cooler for your own transport.
Bottles should be sealed and packed upright. Open containers won’t survive transit.
Live Animals & Pets
Dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles - move them yourself or arrange a pet transport service.
Not something a moving truck is equipped to handle safely or legally.
Firearms & Weapons
Must be declared before move day, unloaded, and secured by the owner. We don’t transport loaded weapons.
A small amount of factory-boxed ammunition may be allowed - ask in advance.
High-Value Irreplaceable Items
Keep it on you. We carry no liability for cash or negotiable instruments.
Irreplaceable items should travel with you personally.
Passports, deeds, wills, tax records - keep them in a bag you control.
Rare coins, art, antiques - discuss in advance. Some may require specialty handlers.
Prescription medications and critical medical devices should travel with you.
How to Handle Restricted Items
Disclose Everything in Advance
If you’re not sure whether something is allowed, tell us before move day. It’s far easier to make a plan early than to figure it out when the crew is at your door.
Use Your Personal Vehicle
Valuables, pets, medications, and documents should travel in your car where you can control them. This protects both you and us.
Empty & Disconnect Appliances
Refrigerators should be defrosted and dry. Washer drums should be secured. Gas appliances should be disconnected by a professional before we arrive.
Drain Fuel Before Move Day
Gas-powered lawn mowers, generators, and power tools should be drained of fuel and oil. This is one of the most commonly missed prep steps.
Have a Question About a Specific Item?
We’d rather sort it out before move day than deal with a problem at the door.
Get a Free QuoteCall us: (804) 801-8079