What Items Do Removal Companies Not Take?

Most standard removal companies will not take hazardous materials, perishable items or oversized items.

In some cases, removal companies may also refuse to take valuable, delicate or sentimental items. 

If you’re planning a move and aren’t sure what items removal companies can or can’t take, we can help. This guide will unpack the different solutions available for even the bulkiest of items.

Looking for professional movers? Get in touch with The Box Co. today to discuss your specific needs and get a quote for a flexible, secure removal.

 

What Items Aren’t Accepted by Removal Companies?

 

Removal companies will generally not accept: 

Perishable Goods - any items that can be easily spoiled (such as food items).

Live Animals - Removal companies will not transport live animals or pets. For this, you will need to use a specialist company that has the correct equipment. 

Hazardous Materials - This includes explosives, toxic substances or flammable liquids like petrol or paint thinner.

Illegal Items - Removal companies will not transport illegal items, substances or materials.

Large or Specialised Items - items that are excessively heavy or oversized, such as a piano or certain equipment, will usually require specific transportation. For some companies, like The Box Co. you can contact the team for a custom quote for oversized items.

 

 

Why Can’t Removal Companies Take Certain Items?

 

There are various reasons why removal companies can’t take certain items, including:

 

Safety

Removal companies cannot take any items that could be a danger to them. For example, hazardous, toxic, flammable or explosive materials could put them at risk.

Similarly, removal companies will not take perishable goods in case they attract pests and create problems.

 

Legal obligations

Transporting illegal items would lead to serious legal consequences for removal companies.

 

Specialist equipment

Standard removal companies are unlikely to have the equipment needed to transport oversized items or live animals. However, it's always worth asking first before contacting a number of different companies.

 

What Items Are Removal Companies Not Responsible For?

 

It depends on the terms and conditions of the move. It also depends on whether the company policy includes a level of insurance.

However, as well as the previously mentioned items, some removal companies will not transport items of high sentimental value, important documents (like passports or legal documents) or valuables like cash and jewellery due to risk of damage during the move. 

If transporting delicate or valuable items, owners are advised to mark boxes as ‘fragile’ to give the movers a heads up that they should be extra careful with these items.

Also, items should always be property packaged using things such as bubble wrap or furniture covers to protect them from damage during the move.

It’s also worth thinking about insurance for an extra layer of protection when it comes to transporting valuable items. 

If you’re unsure what to do with specific delicate or valuable items when moving, our team at The Box Co. can offer expert guidance about what to do and the best way to move your items as safely (and securely!) as possible.

 

What Should I Do With the Items That Removal Companies Won’t Take?

 

For items that removal companies won’t move for you, you have a few different options. 

Donate the items to a local charity. 

Dispose of the items.

Transport them yourself - if you need to, you can even hire a van to help. 

Look for specialist removal services (for things like instruments or large equipment).

Self-storage during the move, until you are able to move the items in.

 

Are My Items Secure During A Move?

 

The best removal companies will make sure that your items are safe and secure at all times.

Whether it’s professional packing and unpacking to minimise damage or offering content insurance by the box, companies like The Box Co. prioritise the safety of your items.

 

What To Consider Before Hiring A Removal Company

 

Before hiring a removal company, you should think about.

 

Prohibited items

Each removal company will have a list of items that they won’t take.

Before you hire a removal company, you might want to compare and check that your items are suitable. Get this information up front before you start packing - it can save you a lot of time and stress!

 

Safety of items

You want to ensure that your belongings are going to be safe during the move. When comparing removal companies, check what practices they have in place to keep your items secure.

For example, do they offer packing services to make sure your boxes are handled with care? Do they have insurance available? Do they recommend any best practices like marking fragile boxes or using special materials?

If you’re unsure, get in touch with The Box Co. Our team of experts can answer any moving doubts you may have.

 

Get A Moving Quote

 

At The Box Co., we can provide personalised quotes for removal services based on your specific needs. Simply email us at hello@theboxco.co.uk with as much information as possible about your move and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Whether you have a fixed moving date or are just inquiring at this point, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll be happy to help you find a suitable solution for a smooth moving experience.