What Moving Companies Will and Won’t Move in South Africa: FAQ Guide

Items Moving Companies Typically Transport

Q: Will movers handle my furniture?

Absolutely. Your beds, couches, tables, and wardrobes are what movers handle every day. Most reputable moving companies even offer options to take apart and reassemble large furniture items – just be clear if you require this service beforehand and check if it’s included in your quote. 

Q: Can movers transport large appliances like refrigerators or washing machines?

Yes, with proper preparation. Make sure your fridge is defrosted at least 24 hours before moving day, and empty and disconnect washing machines and dishwashers to drain all the water. Surprise leaks can damage your own or other people’s furniture and moving insurance doesn’t generally cover damage due to leaks.

Q: Do movers handle electronics like TVs, computers, or sound systems?

Yes. Electronic equipment will be transported safely if it is properly packed. If you’ve kept the original boxes, fantastic – use those. If original boxes aren’t available, most moving companies offer special wrapping and padding at a reasonable cost. 

Q: What about personal belongings like clothing and kitchenware?

Yes, these and general household items are standard for any move. Just pack them in sturdy boxes and label everything clearly. Mark the room each box should go to at your new place – most furniture movers will place the boxes accordingly and save you tons of time unpacking. Many companies also offer all-inclusive packing services if you’re short on time or energy.

Q: Can movers handle office equipment or IT infrastructure?

Yes. Office chairs, desks, printers, monitors, and basic IT equipment are routinely transported by professional movers. However, most movers don’t disconnect cables, dismantle computer and other network setups, or reconfigure these at your new location.

Q: Will they move outdoor items like braais, garden furniture, or tools?

Yes. Outdoor furniture, gardening equipment, and properly cleaned braais (barbecues) are acceptable for transport. Items like trampolines, jungle gyms, or large garden ornaments must typically be dismantled before moving day. Be sure to clean garden items thoroughly to remove dirt, as movers may refuse excessively dirty items that could damage other belongings.

Q: Can movers transport my vehicle?

Many moving companies can arrange this, either directly or through partners who specialize in vehicle transport. Book this well in advance (2-4 weeks recommended) as it may involve additional documentation and always check your vehicle mover’s insurance policies. 

Q: Can my moving company transport plants?

Generally, yes. Most moving companies will assist with transporting plants and will try their best to avoid any damage. However, it’s important to understand that moving trucks can be extremely hot or extremely cold and lack airflow as well as light. While these conditions are usually not a problem during short moves, it’s a risk to keep in mind for long distance relocations.

Items Moving Companies Won't Transport

Q: Will a moving company transport my pets?

No, standard moving companies don’t transport animals for safety and legal reasons. This includes fish, birds, and any other live animals. However, many can refer you to certified pet relocation services that specialize in safe pet transportation with appropriate ventilation, temperature control, and compliance with animal welfare regulations.

Q: Are movers allowed to carry hazardous materials?

Anything flammable, explosive, or corrosive is a hard no. This usually includes gas bottles, petrol, paint, cleaning chemicals, and pesticides. These restrictions exist for safety reasons and are mandated by transportation regulations across South Africa. Check your moving company’s list of prohibited items before your move.

Q: Will they move perishable food or frozen goods?

Usually not. Food can spoil, attract pests, or leak during transport, especially during long-distance moves or if delays occur. Most movers specifically exclude food items from their services, particularly for moves that exceed a few hours. Non-perishable, sealed food items may sometimes be accepted.

Q: Should I pack my jewelry and important documents in the moving boxes?

No. Valuable personal items, important documents, financial instruments, and irreplaceable memorabilia should always be transported personally. Moving companies explicitly exclude liability for these items in their standard insurance policies. For security and peace of mind, keep these items with you during the relocation process.

Q: Will a moving company transport a firearm?

Absolutely not. Moving companies generally don’t have the required licensing to transport firearms and your safe must be completely empty before transportation. Work with a registered firearm mover for safe transportation.

How to Handle Restricted Items

Q: How should I dispose of hazardous materials before moving?

Take old paint, chemicals, cleaning supplies, pesticides, or other hazardous materials to your local municipal waste management site, which typically offers safe disposal services. For gas bottles, contact your supplier about return or exchange options. Never include these items in regular moving boxes or dispose of them in standard household waste.

Q: What’s the best approach for relocating pets?

Engage a licensed pet relocation specialist at least 3-4 weeks before your move date. These services handle all aspects of pet relocation, including veterinary examinations, necessary documentation, appropriate travel crates, and door-to-door delivery with minimal stress to your animal. 

Q: How do I arrange vehicle transportation between provinces?

Ask you mover if they can assist, or contact a registered vehicle transport company. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for standard vehicles, and ensure comprehensive transit insurance is included in your quote. For vintage, luxury, or specialized vehicles, consider enclosed transport options with additional security features.

Q: Can movers help with transporting firearms legally?

Only through certified partners. Legal firearm transportation requires proper licensing documentation and must be handled by specialized security transport services that comply with the Firearms Control Act. Your moving company can often recommend appropriate service providers who specialize in this niche.

Q: Who should handle fragile, valuable, or oversized items like pianos, art, or antiques?

Specialist movers with expertise in handling high-value or uniquely challenging items are recommended. These services typically involve custom crating, specialized insurance, and teams with specific training. Request detailed quotes well in advance as these services often have limited availability.

Professional Moving Tips for a Smooth Relocation

• Get detailed documentation: Request a written quote that clearly outlines all services, exclusions, and potential additional charges.
• Be ruthlessly honest with your movers: Don’t spring surprises on them on moving day about extra items or difficult access.
• Create a dedicated plan for restricted items: Set aside a day to deal with pets, firearms, and hazardous materials well before the move.
• Begin packing methodically: Start 3-4 weeks before your move, clearly labeling boxes with contents and destination rooms. Create a separate area for items that movers won’t transport.
• Review insurance coverage thoroughly: Understand the extent of your moving insurance and consider supplemental coverage for high-value items.
• Take photos of valuable items before they’re packed: This makes insurance claims much easier if something gets damaged.
• Prepare an essentials box: Pack a separate box with immediate necessities for your first 24 hours at the new location, and transport this yourself.
• Clear your calendar for moving day: Take the day off work and don’t make serious travel plans for the same day (such as booking airline tickets). Trying to work or handle other commitments while moving is a recipe for disaster.