15 Things You Should Never Move Long Distance (and Why)

Planning a long-distance move across Australia? Whether you’re looking for Brisbane to Melbourne movers or Perth to Brisbane Removalists, knowing what not to pack can save you hundreds in removal costs and hours of stress. Moving everything might seem easiest, but it’s often the most expensive mistake people make during interstate relocations.

In this guide, OzWide Movers shares 15 things you should never move long distance, why professional Removalists won’t transport certain items, and how smart decluttering can help you save money, space, and time during your interstate move. By understanding what movers won’t move, avoiding unnecessary packing, and planning ahead with a reliable long distance moving company, you’ll enjoy a safer, smoother, and more affordable relocation experience across Australia.

Quick List: What Not to Move Long Distance

1. Bulky or low-value furniture
 

2. Outdated electronics and appliances
 

3. Perishable or open food
 

4. Hazardous or flammable materials
 

5. Plants restricted by biosecurity laws
 

6. Old mattresses and bedding
 

7. Expired medications and toiletries
 

8. Bulky gym equipment
 

9. Excess glassware and fragile items
 

10. Outgrown children’s items

Why You Shouldn’t Move Everything You Own

Moving interstate isn’t cheap. Long distance movers charge based on weight, volume, and distance the more you take, the more you pay.

Decluttering before your move gives you a fresh start and reduces stress. For instance, moving a A$50 bookshelf from Brisbane to Adelaide might cost A$150 in removal fees triple its value.

Trusted professional movers Brisbane and nationwide always recommend downsizing before loading the truck. Less clutter means faster moves, safer handling, and lower risk of damage.

1. Items Not Worth Moving Interstate

1. Bulky or Low-Value Furniture

That old wobbly dining table or cheap bookcase probably isn’t worth its freight cost. Bulky furniture consumes valuable truck space and raises removal costs unnecessarily.

If it costs less to replace than to move, sell or donate it before your relocation. Use Truck Size Calculator for Moving to estimate your cubic meters and avoid overspending.

2. Outdated Electronics and Appliances

Old TVs, microwaves, or printers aren’t worth hauling across the country. Long distance movers Australia-wide frequently report damaged or obsolete electronics.

If the item’s over five years old or worth under A$200, recycle or sell it. Check your new home’s inclusions; many rentals already have appliances. Replace old whitegoods with newer, energy-efficient models when you arrive.

3. Perishable or Open Food Items

Professional Removalists won’t move perishable food, open containers, or frozen goods. Heat, leaks, and pests can cause spoilage during transit.

Donate unopened items to food banks and plan meals to clear your fridge early. Follow this golden rule: if it can rot, spill, or smell don’t pack it.
 

4. Hazardous or Flammable Materials

This is non-negotiable. Movers won’t transport petrol, paint, propane tanks, bleach, fireworks, or cleaning chemicals. These are restricted under interstate transport safety laws.

Dispose of them safely at your local waste facility before moving. Hiding hazardous items could void insurance and risk your movers’ safety.

5. Plants and Biosecurity Restrictions

Each state enforces unique biosecurity laws. For example, Western Australia and Tasmania restrict the import of certain plants, soil, and pots due to pest risks.

Gift your plants to friends or take small cuttings to regrow later. Check each state’s Department of Agriculture website for up-to-date rules before attempting to move plants interstate.

6. Old Mattresses and Bedding

Old mattresses carry allergens, dust mites, and years of wear. Moving one interstate can cost A$150–A$200 nearly half the price of a new one.

Donate or recycle your old mattress before moving. Start fresh with clean bedding and save on moving truck space and labor time.

7. Expired Medications and Toiletries

Check expiry dates on medications, lotions, and cosmetics. Movers discourage packing liquids and gels that can leak or spoil in heat.

Dispose of expired meds at your local pharmacy return bin. Bring only sealed, essential toiletries in your essentials box for your first night after arrival.

8. Bulky Gym or Exercise Equipment

Treadmills, benches, and weights are expensive to move and heavy to handle. Unless it’s high-end equipment you use weekly, sell it.

Consider joining a local gym or buying second-hand equipment later. Remember: every extra kilogram increases your interstate moving cost.

9. Excessive Glassware and Fragile Items

Packing 30 wine glasses for a move from Melbourne to Perth? Expect breakage and high packing costs.

Keep only essentials and sentimental pieces. Donate or sell the rest fragile items add packing time, cost, and risk.

10. Outgrown or Unused Children’s Items

Kids grow fast that cot or pile of baby clothes won’t fit for long. Donate outgrown items or sell them on the Marketplace.

Use your move to teach kids about decluttering and giving to others. You’ll save space and lighten the load for your movers.

What to Do With the Items You Leave Behind

Sell items on Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or host a quick garage sale. Donate furniture or clothes to Vinnies, Lifeline, or Salvation Army.

Arrange a council cleanup for unsellable goods or ask your Removalist if they offer junk removal add-ons. Start decluttering 6–8 weeks before your move to stay ahead of deadlines.

Smart Decluttering Before Your Move

Tackle one room at a time start with low-emotion spaces (garage, laundry) before tackling sentimental zones.

Apply the “one-year rule”: if you haven’t used it in 12 months, you probably don’t need it. Create “Keep”, “Donate”, and “Bin” zones to stay organized.

Essential Items You Should Keep Close

Some items must stay with you not in the moving truck:
 

• >Passports, medical and financial records
  
  > Valuables like jewelry, laptops, or hard drives
   

• > An essentials box with toiletries, chargers, clothes, and snacks
  
  > Kids’ comfort items and pet supplied
• 
  Label your essentials box clearly and load it last so it’s first off the truck when you arrive.

Make Your Long-Distance Move Easier with OzWide Movers

Ready to move interstate without the chaos? OzWide Movers offers affordable long distance moving services across Australia.

Our expert team handles everything from packing and transport to secure storage options. We’re trusted Removalists Australia-wide, ensuring your relocation is cost-effective, on-time, and stress-free.

Get your free quote today and let’s make your next move your easiest one yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What items will movers not move long distance?

Ans. Professional Removalists won’t move hazardous, flammable, perishable, or illegal items. This includes paint, petrol, propane tanks, chemicals, and plants restricted by biosecurity laws. Always check your mover’s prohibited items list before packing.

Q2. Can I move plants across states in Australia?

Ans. Not always. Biosecurity laws vary by state, especially in WA, SA, and Tasmania. Many plants require permits or must be soil-free. Check with your destination’s agriculture department before moving plants interstate.

Q3. How can I save money on a long-distance move?

Ans. Declutter early, sell unwanted items, compare multiple quotes, and move during off-peak times. Doing your own packing and using recycled boxes can also cut costs.

Q4. What should I declutter before moving interstate?

Ans. Priorities bulky furniture, old mattresses, outdated electronics, and children’s items. Use a checklist to stay organized and start sorting 6–8 weeks ahead.