Leave prohibited or hazardous materials off the truck
Do not place flammable, explosive, corrosive, pressurized, or otherwise hazardous materials in ordinary moving boxes. Common examples may include gasoline, propane cylinders, ammunition, fireworks, paint thinner, certain cleaners, pesticides, pool chemicals, and aerosols. Restrictions vary, so a familiar household product should not be assumed acceptable. Ask the carrier for its prohibited-item checklist before packing begins. Identify restricted products by their labels rather than guessing, and do not conceal them in unmarked containers. Wake County provides household hazardous-waste guidance and facilities for eligible materials; use that guidance instead of putting hazardous waste in household trash or a moving shipment. Source: Wake County — Household Hazardous Waste Facilities, https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/waste-recycling/facilities/household-hazardous-waste-facilities
Carry essentials and sensitive records yourself
Some belongings may not be hazardous but still should remain under your control. Keep prescription medication, identification, passports, keys, payment cards, checkbooks, financial and legal records, moving documents, and necessary medical devices in a clearly labeled personal bag. Include anything needed during transit or immediately upon arrival: phone chargers, basic toiletries, a change of clothes, children’s necessities, and pet supplies. Avoid loading the only copy of a critical document or the keys needed to enter the destination.
Compare food, plants, valuables, and temperature-sensitive goods
Food and plants require separate decisions. Use or donate opened and perishable food before the move unless the carrier explicitly accepts it under the planned conditions. Refrigerated or frozen items can spoil when temperature control and delivery timing are uncertain. Plants may be restricted by the carrier or unsuitable for prolonged heat, cold, or darkness. Irreplaceable and high-value belongings also deserve a different plan. Carry jewelry, cash, small collections, family photographs, original documents, and sentimental objects when practical. For artwork, electronics, instruments, or other fragile property that cannot travel with you, disclose each item and ask about packing requirements, handling limits, valuation terms, and exclusions before accepting the quote.
Use the carrier’s checklist as the final test
Household rules of thumb do not replace the carrier’s written policy. Before sealing the last boxes, request the prohibited-items list and compare it with every garage, shed, kitchen, bathroom, utility-room, and outdoor item. For each questionable item, record the product name and ask whether the carrier will transport it, whether special preparation is required, or whether you must use another lawful option. Do not drain, dismantle, or repackage equipment until you have the relevant instructions. Add accepted specialty items to your moving inventory so the estimate reflects their handling needs. For broader planning, use the Raleigh moving resources at /resources/ and the moving inventory guide at /resources/moving-inventory-for-quotes/. If you need help distinguishing transport from packing support, review /services/packing-services/.