Removalists will move almost anything in your home — but not quite everything. Some items are unsafe to transport, some are illegal to carry without special handling, and some are just too important to put on a truck.
Here's what removalists won't move, what you should take yourself, and how to prepare the tricky items.
Every removalist has its own list. Always check with yours before moving day.
Quick list — don't pack these: gas bottles · petrol and oil · paint and thinners · pool chemicals · fireworks and ammunition · car batteries · aerosols and lighter fluid · perishable food.
Dangerous goods: won't be moved
These items can leak, ignite or react — especially in a hot truck in Darwin:
- Petrol, diesel and motor oil
- Paint, paint thinners and solvents
- Pool chemicals — chlorine and acid
- Fireworks and flares
- Car batteries
- Aerosols and lighter fluid
- Some cleaning products, fertilisers and weed killers
Use them up, give them away, or dispose of them properly at a waste transfer station. Ask your local council about hazardous waste drop-off.
Gas bottles (LPG)
Most removalists won't carry LPG cylinders — BBQ, camping or patio heater bottles — unless you provide a certificate from an accredited gas cylinder test station confirming the cylinder has been purged.
The easier options: - Swap your bottle at a service station exchange before you move, then pick up a new one after - Carry it yourself in an upright, ventilated position (check the safety rules first)
Items that need preparation
| Item | What to do |
|---|---|
| Lawn mowers, whipper snippers, chainsaws | Drain fuel and oil; clean off grass |
| BBQs | Remove the gas bottle; clean the grill and drip tray |
| Fridges and freezers | Empty, defrost and dry at least 24 hours before |
| Washing machines | Drain; fit transit bolts if you have them |
| Sharp garden tools | Cover blades; bundle together |
| Outdoor furniture | Clean and dry to stop mould and mess |
Plants
On local Darwin moves, some removalists will take pot plants. On interstate moves, many won't, because states have biosecurity rules for plants, soil and fruit. Check the rules for your destination before you go.
Firearms and ammunition
Most removalists won't move ammunition. Firearms have strict storage and transport laws. Talk to your removalist and check the NT and destination state rules well before moving day.
Things you should move yourself
Even if a removalist will move them, keep these with you:
- Passports, birth certificates, wills and contracts
- Medication
- Cash, jewellery and small valuables
- Laptops and hard drives
- Keys for both homes
- Your essentials bag for the first night
See the essentials list in our Ultimate Moving Checklist.
Food
Removalists generally won't move perishable food. Run down your fridge, freezer and pantry in the two weeks before your move. Unopened, non-perishable food is usually fine on local moves.
Pets
Pets never travel in a removal truck. Plan for them to go with you or with a pet transport service.
Not sure about an item?
Ask before moving day — it's much easier than finding out when the crew arrives.
✎ Edit: Link to your full prohibited items list or terms.
Get a free quote · or read Is Removalist Insurance Worth It?
Frequently asked questions
Will removalists move gas bottles?
Generally not. Most removalists won't carry LPG cylinders unless you provide a certificate from an accredited gas cylinder test station confirming the cylinder has been purged.
Can removalists move my lawn mower?
Usually yes, once the fuel and oil have been drained. Ask your removalist about their requirements.
Will removalists move plants?
Some will move pot plants on local moves, but many won't on interstate moves because of biosecurity rules. Check before moving day.
What should I move myself instead of the removalist?
Important documents, medication, cash, jewellery, small valuables, keys, and anything you'll need on the first night.