Planning a move means knowing not only what we can move, but also which items fall outside a standard moving service. A few things require special handling, special licensing, or simply cannot be transported safely by a moving crew.
Below is a list of items that we do not usually move. This does not mean your move has to be complicated. In many cases, we can point you toward the right solution or help you plan around these items so nothing slows down your moving day.
Every move is different, so if you have a specific item in mind, the best step is to talk with us directly before your moving date.
Have a special item? Just ask.
This is a general list of items we do not usually move. Please give us a call at 1.281.810.2595 to discuss your specific move needs, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
Items We Do Not Usually Move
Here is a list of things that we do not usually move for you. If any of these apply to your move, reach out so we can talk through the best options for your situation.
- Baby grand pianos. These require specialized equipment and handling.
- Extremely heavy items, such as safes. Weight and safety limits apply.
- Extremely valuable items, such as jewelry, paintings, chandeliers, and fine wines. High-value items are best transported personally.
- Ammunition, firearms, and combustible items. These are restricted for safety and legal reasons.
- Appliances connected to, or items containing, gas. Gas connections should be handled by a qualified professional.
- Cars. Vehicle transport is a separate specialized service.
- Pets. Animals cannot be transported in a moving truck.
Not sure about a specific item?
Every move is unique. Contact Great Movers Houston to discuss your specific needs, and we will do our best to accommodate them or guide you to the right solution.
Restricted Items at a Glance
Use this table to quickly understand why certain items are not part of a standard move and what your next step might be.
| Item | Why It's Restricted | Suggested Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| Baby grand pianos | Require specialized equipment and handling | Ask about a specialty piano mover |
| Safes & extremely heavy items | Weight and safety limits | Call us to discuss options |
| Jewelry, paintings, chandeliers, fine wines | Extremely high value and fragility | Transport personally when possible |
| Ammunition, firearms, combustibles | Safety and legal restrictions | Handle separately per regulations |
| Gas-connected or gas-containing items | Require professional disconnection | Have a qualified pro disconnect first |
| Cars | Separate specialized service | Use a dedicated auto transport service |
| Pets | Cannot travel in a moving truck | Transport in your own vehicle |
Why Are Some Items Restricted?
There are a few common reasons an item falls outside a standard moving service. Understanding these can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises on moving day.
Safety and liability
Items like safes and baby grand pianos carry weight and handling risks. Combustible items, ammunition, and firearms pose safety hazards that a standard moving crew cannot manage in a shared truck.
Value and fragility
Extremely valuable or fragile items such as jewelry, fine art, chandeliers, and fine wines are best kept with you. Transporting them personally reduces risk and gives you full control over these irreplaceable items.
Legal and specialized requirements
Some items, like gas appliances, cars, and certain regulated goods, require professional handling, special licensing, or a dedicated service. Pets, of course, always travel with their families rather than in a moving truck.
How to Plan Around Restricted Items
A little preparation makes moving day easier. Here are a few simple steps to handle items outside a standard move.
- Make a list. Note any items from the restricted list that apply to your move.
- Disconnect gas appliances early. Arrange a qualified professional before moving day.
- Set aside valuables. Plan to personally transport jewelry, art, and other high-value items.
- Arrange specialty services. Book a piano mover or auto transport service in advance if needed.
- Call us with questions. When in doubt, contact us so we can help you plan the details.
We're Here to Help You Plan
Knowing what we do not usually move helps your moving day go more smoothly. For everything else, from furniture to boxes to full home and office relocations, Great Movers Houston is ready to help.
If you have a special item or an unusual situation, reach out. We will do our best to accommodate your needs or connect you with the right solution.