At Move Masters, safety and legal compliance come first. To protect people, property, and shipments, certain categories of items cannot be transported or are only moved under special conditions. Reviewing this policy before packing helps prevent delays, claims issues, and unexpected costs.
Scope and liability
- Move Masters complies with applicable federal and local regulations, including transportation safety rules and industry best practices.
- Shipments must not contain prohibited items; inclusion may void coverage, delay service, or result in disposal according to law.
- Move Masters is not liable for loss or damage arising from the inclusion of prohibited or non-recommended items.
- Strictly prohibited items
Not accepted for transport under regulatory and safety requirements:
- Explosives and pyrotechnics: fireworks, ammunition, detonators, blasting caps.
- Flammable or combustible liquids: gasoline, kerosene, solvents, paint thinners, large quantities of paint.
- Compressed or pressurized gases: propane cylinders, butane cartridges, oxygen tanks, CO₂ tanks.
- Hazardous, toxic, or radioactive substances: corrosives, pesticides, strong acids/alkalis, radioactive materials.
- Live animals and most live plants without pre-approved arrangements and compliant containment.
- Perishables requiring strict temperature control: certain foods, biological materials, or items with cooling agents.
Recommendation: Remove these items from the shipment entirely and dispose of or transport them in accordance with local laws and safety guidelines.
- Items not recommended for transport
May require special handling, added documentation, or are safer to move personally:
- High-value or irreplaceable items: antiques, fine art, collectibles; ship only with documented value and coverage.
- Sensitive musical instruments: pianos, string instruments vulnerable to humidity/temperature swings.
- Electronics and data devices: desktops, servers, AV gear; consider original packaging and data backups.
- Flammable household products: aerosol cans, alcohol-based solutions, certain cleaners and polishes.
Tip: If transport is necessary, notify a Move Masters coordinator to discuss specialized packing, climate considerations, and additional insurance options.
- Items carriers typically avoid
Not illegal, but commonly advised for personal transport:
- Foods in glass jars or easily breakable containers.
- Firearms and edged weapons; may require permits, separate cases, and owner transport.
- Perishable groceries: frozen, chilled, or dry goods prone to spoilage.
Tip: Moving these personally minimizes breakage, spoilage, and compliance risks.
- Items recommended for personal transport
Best kept under the owner’s custody at all times:
- Jewelry, cash, negotiable instruments, and small valuables.
- Passports, IDs, legal/medical documents, titles, and sensitive records.
- Prescription medications and personal medical devices.
- Small personal electronics: phones, tablets, laptops, external drives.
- Fragile keepsakes: photographs, heirlooms, one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Recommendation: Carry these items with you rather than loading them onto the moving truck.
Client guidelines and best practices
- Consult a Move Masters manager before packing to confirm transportability and any special requirements.
- Remove strictly prohibited items prior to load day; document disposal where applicable.
- For borderline or sensitive items, consider personal transport or certified specialty shippers.
- Photograph, inventory, and insure high-value pieces; retain appraisals and receipts.
- Clearly label boxes with “Fragile,” “This Side Up,” and “Temperature Sensitive” where relevant.
- Use original manufacturer packaging when available for electronics and instruments.
- Separate and stage personal-carry items the day before loading to avoid accidental packing.
Packaging and preparation tips
- Use UN-rated or purpose-built containers for any allowed chemical products; seal and cushion to prevent leakage.
- Avoid mixing incompatible items (e.g., batteries with metal objects) and cover terminals on loose batteries.
- Maintain stable temperatures for sensitive goods during staging; avoid garages and hot vehicles.
- Confirm elevator reservations, dock access, and building rules that may restrict certain materials.
Compliance and verification
- Move Masters may conduct visual verification at origin to ensure compliance and safety.
- If prohibited items are discovered, they must be removed before loading; additional labor or delays may apply.
- Local ordinances, HOA rules, and building policies may impose stricter limits; these take precedence.
- Policy updates may occur to reflect changes in law or safety standards; the most current version governs service.
For clarification on a specific item or to arrange specialized handling, contact a Move Masters relocation coordinator in advance. Planning early helps ensure a safe, compliant, and efficient move for every shipment.
Contact us
Phone: +1 (888) 711-4778
Email: [email protected]
Address: 1000 WAIIKI ST HONOLULU HI 96821-1235