From your bathroom medicine cabinet to that daunting kitchen junk drawer, there are plenty of items to sort through before your move. But while you’re organizing, you shouldn’t only be looking for belongings to pack—you’ll also need to keep an eye out for those you shouldn’t. Use the following list to enjoy a safer moving experience.

3 Items Not to Pack When Moving

1. Perishables

Long-distance trips are not kind to refrigerated or frozen foods. If you don’t want to throw out the contents of your fridge before heading out, donate them to a drive or give them to a friend. Even if you’re just moving across town, it’s easy for snacks to be forgotten at the bottom of a box during those first few weeks of unpacking. To prevent pest infestations and foul smells in the new place, you should also get rid of any open snack boxes, produce, or fresh herbs before heading out.

2. Explosives

If you were to get in a car accident on the road, and your densely packed moving truck was compressed, explosive items could destroy the contents of your home, as well as cause injuries or even fatalities.

Therefore, it’s important to get rid of all explosive items and repurchase them for your new place. This includes all aerosol cans, propane and oxygen tanks, fire extinguishers, ammunition, and lithium-ion batteries.

3. Flammables

In addition to a car wreck, the inside of the metal moving truck could get extremely hot during a long day trip, or a few hours parked in the sun. In this scenario, flammable items can also do significant damage.

Before you leave, arrange for a get together to finish the contents of your alcohol shelf, and throw away any outdoor fire starters, like charcoal or lighter fluid. You should also dispose of household cleaners, paints, varnishes, nail polish, and acetone remover.

Once you’ve assembled your “don’t pack” list, turn to Hercules Moving & Storage of the Greater Cincinnati area to help with the rest. This company serves residential and commercial customers, so you can relocate to a new apartment or begin your corporate expansion with ease. From packing to lifting and storage, they will help you through every stage of your move. Call (513) 251-2593 to speak with a staff member or visit the website to request a free estimate.