Answered by Katherine Broome

February 7, 2022

If you or your spouse are in the military, undoubtedly you have been through a move or two. If this is your first military move, then you might not know what to expect, meaning what the movers will and won't move. To learn more about military moves, read on.

What Military Movers Can’t Take

Every moving company has a list of items they cannot take, whether that company is for civilians or the military. Since you’re doing a military move, you must follow the rules, otherwise, you might end up footing the bill for your move (you could even face fraud charges and face punishment).

Here is the list of items that are prohibited by military movers:

• Vehicles - cars, trucks, vans, boats, RV’s, travel trailers, airplanes, tractors, etc.
• Ammo that you privately bought (as in not military provided ammo)
• Anything living – fish, birds, dogs, cats, etc.
• Building materials and cordwood – it is considered trash, unfortunately
• Hazardous materials – Unfortunately, you cannot have the military movers pack your explosives, propane gas tanks, poisons, corrosive materials, flammable items, or paint
  • This also includes household cleaning supplies and automotive cleaning supplies. Since you can’t take any of these items, make sure you use them before up you move

Since movers cannot move these items, you will need to find other accommodations. You can drive your personal vehicle and pack those items with you.

Packing Tips

When packing for a military move it is important to make an accurate and thorough inventory for the movers. Here are some other crucial tips for your next military move:

• Know what your specific weight allowance is before you start packing
  • This is important since it will be a guide as to how much to bring, and how much to chunk
• If you want to pack food, only pack non-perishable items in cans
• ALWAYS keep sentimental and important items with you
  • This will ensure that those items don’t get lost (or possibly stolen)
• Also, make sure to keep your important documents with you
• Remember to pack an essentials bag for every person in your home. This bag needs to include:
  • Electronics
  • Snacks
  • Medications
  • Chargers

Conclusion

Overall, military moves don’t have to be difficult. When evaluating your move, make sure you steer clear of packing items that are on the prohibited list. If you want to keep any of those prohibited items, make sure you take them with you in your own vehicle.