What Removalists Can and Can't Move in NSW
One of the most common questions we get asked is: “Can you actually move this?”
A lot of people think removalists have a massive list of things they won’t touch. The truth is, we can move pretty much everything in a normal house – furniture, whitegoods, boxes, garage stuff, the lot.
The things we can’t move usually come down to a handful of items that are either dangerous or create insurance problems. It’s a much shorter list than most people expect.
Knowing what’s what before moving day just makes everything easier.
What We Can Move
For a standard house move in NSW, removalists can handle:
- Furniture (beds, couches, tables, wardrobes, you name it)
- Whitegoods (fridges, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers)
- TVs and electronics
- Boxed household stuff (clothes, kitchen gear, books, decorations)
- Garage items (tools, bikes, outdoor furniture, mowers)
- Kids’ toys and furniture
- Office desks and home setups
Basically, if it’s part of your everyday life at home, it can go on the truck.
What We Can't Move
The restrictions are mainly around flammable or hazardous stuff. In NSW, most removalists won’t transport:
- Petrol or fuel containers
- Motor oils
- Paints and thinners
- Solvents and chemicals
- Other flammable liquids
It’s not that they’re awkward to move – it’s that they’re dangerous inside a closed truck and usually aren’t covered by insurance. Even a small leak can create fumes or other hazards during the trip, so these are always the customer’s responsibility.
Why These Rules Exist
There are three main reasons:
Fire risk – Moving trucks aren’t ventilated like regular vehicles. Flammable liquids can turn dangerous fast.
Insurance – Most removalist policies don’t cover hazardous goods. Carrying them can void the cover for your entire load.
Transport laws – Some substances fall under dangerous goods regulations, and standard removal trucks aren’t licensed for that.
These aren’t just made-up rules. They’re there to protect your stuff, the crew, and everyone else on the road.
What to Do With the Stuff We Can't Move
If you’ve got flammable or hazardous items, your best options are:
- Take them in your own car
- Use them up before the move
- Drop them at your local council’s disposal service
- Arrange specialist transport if it’s something you really need moved
Most homes only have a small amount of this stuff, and it’s usually pretty easy to sort out separately.
What People Get Wrong
A lot of people think we won’t move things like:
- Fridges with food still in them
- Plants
- Garage clutter
- Electronics
- Gym equipment
None of these are a problem. Removalists are set up to move entire houses, not just the easy bits. The “no-go” list is way smaller than people think.
How to Avoid Drama on Moving Day
It’s pretty straightforward:
- Be honest about what you’ve got
- Set aside any flammable or hazardous items beforehand
- Ask early if you’re not sure about something
Most issues happen when restricted items turn up unexpectedly on the day. Just let us know ahead of time.
The Bottom Line
For most moves in NSW, removalists can take almost everything you own.
The handful of things we can’t move exist for safety and legal reasons, not because we’re being difficult. Once you know what they are and plan around them, there’s nothing to worry about.
Moving house is way less complicated than people think—and with a bit of prep, it all goes smoothly.