What Movers Will Not Pack (Hazardous, Perishables, Valuables, Documents)

Nothing derails a moving day faster than discovering your movers can't take half your belongings. Picture this: the truck is loaded, you're ready to go, and suddenly you're left scrambling with a pile of items that can't legally travel with your furniture. Avoid the stress—know exactly what stays behind and why, so you can plan ahead and enjoy a seamless move.

What's Changed in Moving Restrictions for 2026

The moving industry has tightened regulations in recent years. Here's what's new:

• Stricter battery rules: Lithium-ion batteries (e-bikes, hoverboards, large power stations) now require special handling or separate transport due to fire risks
• Enhanced hazmat documentation: Dubai Municipality now requires movers to maintain detailed logs of any rejected hazardous items
• Updated insurance exclusions: Many insurers have expanded the list of items not covered, including smart home devices and high-end electronics unless specifically declared
• E-waste disposal requirements: Old electronics must now be disposed of through certified e-waste facilities, not regular garbage

Items Professional Movers Can't Pack or Transport

Even full-service professional packers have restrictions on what they can handle. These limitations exist for safety, liability, and practical reasons.

Understanding these restrictions helps you prepare properly. For the full moving process, see our guide on how movers and packers work.

Category 1: Hazardous Materials

These items are prohibited on moving trucks for safety and legal reasons:

Flammable Items

• Gasoline, kerosene, propane tanks
• Lighter fluid and matches
• Aerosol cans (hairspray, spray paint, cooking spray)
• Nail polish remover (acetone)
• Paint thinner and solvents
• Pool chemicals

Explosives

• Fireworks
• Ammunition
• Flares

Corrosive Materials

• Car batteries
• Acids (including some cleaning products)
• Bleach (in large quantities)
• Ammonia-based cleaners

Other Hazardous

• Pesticides and herbicides
• Fertilizers
• Motor oil
• Fire extinguishers
• Oxygen tanks

What to do: Dispose of these properly before moving. Dubai Municipality has hazardous waste disposal guidelines.

Category 2: Perishable Food

Food items that can spoil during transport:

Never Move

• Frozen food
• Refrigerated items (dairy, meat, seafood)
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Opened food packages

Can Move (With Caution)

• Sealed canned goods
• Unopened dry goods (pasta, rice, cereal)
• Spices in sealed containers
• Bottled water and drinks

What to do: Use up perishables before moving. Transport temperature-sensitive items in a cooler in your car. Consider donating unopened non-perishables.

Category 3: Plants

Living plants have special considerations:

Why Movers Avoid Plants

• Temperature sensitivity in hot trucks
• Water and soil can spill and damage items
• No insurance coverage for plant loss
• Potential pests (for international moves)

Your Options

• Transport in your own vehicle (AC recommended)
• Ask if movers will transport in truck cab (not cargo)
• Gift or sell plants before moving
• For valuable plants, use specialty plant movers

Category 4: Valuables and Personal Items

These items are too valuable or sensitive to pack in boxes:

Important Documents

• Passports and visas
• Emirates ID and driving license
• Property deeds and tenancy contracts
• Birth/marriage certificates
• Insurance policies
• Medical records
• Financial documents (bank statements, investments)
• Educational certificates

Valuables

• Cash and checkbooks
• Jewelry and watches
• Collectibles (coins, stamps)
• Family heirlooms
• Irreplaceable photos and albums

Electronics Data

• Laptops with sensitive data
• External hard drives
• USB drives with important files

What to do: Keep these in a personal bag that stays with you throughout the move. Never put them on the truck.

Category 5: Pets

Animals cannot be transported with household goods:

Why

• Temperature control issues
• Stress and safety concerns
• Legal transport requirements
• Not covered by moving insurance

What to do: Transport pets in your own vehicle, or use pet transportation services. See our pet moving guide for detailed advice.

Category 6: Prescription Medications

Keep all medications with you:

Concerns

• Temperature sensitivity
• May need access during move
• Controlled substances have legal requirements
• Can't be easily replaced if lost

What to do: Pack in your personal bag or essentials box.

Category 7: Weapons

Special handling required:

In Dubai

• Licensed firearms require specific transport permits
• Knives and swords: movers may decline
• Antique weapons: may need documentation

What to do: Transport legally-owned weapons yourself with proper documentation.

Category 8: Items Movers Handle but Won't Insure

Some items can be moved but typically aren't covered by insurance:

Limited/No Coverage

• Artwork (unless specifically declared and appraised)
• Antiques and collectibles
• Wine collections
• Musical instruments
• Cash, jewelry, precious metals
• Items packed by owner (not professional packers)

For high-value items, see our insurance and claims guide.

Your Essentials Box: What to Pack Yourself

Items you should keep with you on moving day:

First-Night Box

• Toiletries and medications
• Pajamas and change of clothes
• Phone chargers and cables
• Snacks and water bottles
• Toilet paper and hand towels
• Basic cleaning supplies

Important Items Bag

• All documents listed above
• Valuables and jewelry
• Keys (old and new home)
• Wallet and cash for tips/expenses
• Laptop and external drives

For a complete list, see our moving checklist.

What Happens If You Pack Prohibited Items?

If movers discover prohibited items:

• They may refuse to load them
• You may need to find alternative transport
• Hazardous items could delay your move
• Damage caused by prohibited items isn't covered
• In extreme cases, crew may stop the move

International Moves: Additional Restrictions

For international relocations, these items are also restricted:

• Any food items (most countries)
• Plants and seeds
• Soil and rocks
• Animal products (leather, fur)
• Prescription drugs without documentation
• Country-specific prohibited items

Pre-Move Declutter Checklist

Before packing day, dispose of or relocate:

• ☐ Aerosol cans
• ☐ Cleaning chemicals
• ☐ Paint and solvents
• ☐ Propane/gas tanks
• ☐ Car chemicals (oil, coolant)
• ☐ Batteries
• ☐ Expired medications
• ☐ Perishable food

Frequently Asked Questions

Can movers pack my liquor collection?

Yes, sealed bottles can be packed and moved locally. Specialty wine movers are recommended for valuable collections.

Will movers pack my TV?

Yes, TVs are standard items. They should use specialty TV boxes or full wrapping. See our guide on packing fragile items.

Can I pack cleaning supplies?

Most sealed, non-hazardous cleaners are fine. Avoid bleach, ammonia, and aerosols.

What about my kids' toys with batteries?

These are fine. The concern is with large batteries (car, industrial), not small household batteries.

Will movers take my fridge with food in it?

No. Fridges must be emptied and defrosted 24 hours before moving to prevent mold and water damage.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what movers won't handle helps you prepare properly. Keep valuables with you, dispose of hazardous materials, and prepare an essentials bag for moving day.

Ready to plan your move with Dubai's most trusted movers? Our team will walk you through exactly what we can and can't transport, ensuring zero surprises on moving day. Get your free quote online or call us directly at +971 55 301 3309 for instant assistance.