5 Items That Should Not Go to Your New House

Published: May 15, 2024

Moving to a new house can be an exciting and stressful experience. As you begin to pack up your belongings, it’s essential to remember that not everything should make the journey to your new home. Some items are best left behind or disposed of properly for safety, practicality, or legal reasons. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what not to pack when moving to ensure a smooth transition and a clutter-free new space.

1. Hazardous Materials:

One of the most crucial categories to consider when packing for a move is hazardous materials. This includes items such as paint, chemicals, batteries, and propane tanks. These materials can pose serious risks during transportation, including spills, leaks, or even explosions. Instead of packing them, it’s best to properly dispose of hazardous materials according to local regulations or donate them to appropriate facilities. By doing so, you will not only ensure the safety of your belongings but also the safety of the moving crew and your new home.

2. Perishable Foods:

While it may be tempting to pack up your pantry items for the move, perishable foods have no place in your moving boxes. Not only do they have a limited shelf life, but they can also attract pests and create unpleasant odors during transit. To avoid food waste and potential messes, consume or donate perishable items before moving day and restock your pantry at your new home. By leaving perishable foods behind, you’ll streamline your packing process and ensure a fresher start in your new kitchen.

3. Valuables and Important Documents:

When it comes to valuables such as jewelry, cash, or important documents like passports and birth certificates, it’s best to keep them with you during the move. Packing these items in boxes increases the risk of loss or theft. Instead, transport them securely in a designated bag or briefcase to ensure they stay safe and easily accessible throughout the moving process. By taking extra precautions with your valuables and important documents, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that they’re always within reach.

4. Plants:

While plants can add beauty to your home, they can be challenging to transport safely during a move. On top of that, some states have regulations for transporting certain plant species across state lines. To avoid any complications during the moving process, consider gifting your plants to friends or family members and starting fresh with new plants at your new home.

5. Unwanted or Unused Items:

Moving presents an excellent opportunity to declutter and streamline your belongings. Before packing, take the time to assess your possessions and identify items that you no longer need or use. Whether it’s clothing that no longer fits, appliances that have been replaced, or knick-knacks collecting dust, consider donating, selling, or recycling these items instead of packing them up only to clutter your new space. When you let go of all the unwanted or unused items from your old home, you will lighten your load and create a more organized and enjoyable living environment when unpacking in your new home.

As you prepare for your upcoming move, it is essential to be mindful of what you pack and what you leave behind. By avoiding packing hazardous materials, perishable foods, valuables, plants, and unwanted items, you can streamline the moving process and ensure a smoother transition to your new home. Remember to prioritize safety, practicality, and efficiency when deciding what to pack. With careful planning and organization, you can make your move a positive and stress-free experience.

For help with moving, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Massachusetts or call (978) 800-8648 for a free quote today.