Items That Can't Be Moved by a Man and Van in the UK
- The London Man And Van
- Dec 27, 2025
- 4 min read
Moving can be stressful enough without worrying about whether your chosen moving service can handle all your belongings. If you’re considering hiring a man and van service in the UK, it’s crucial to know what items are off-limits. Many people assume a man and van can move anything, but there are strict rules and regulations that limit what can be transported. Understanding these moving restrictions UK will save you time, money, and potential legal trouble.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the items man and van cannot move, explain why these restrictions exist, and offer practical advice on how to handle these tricky possessions.
Why Some Items Are Prohibited in Man and Van Moves
Man and van services are popular for their convenience and affordability, especially for small to medium moves. However, these services operate under specific man and van rules designed to ensure safety, legality, and insurance compliance.
The UK government and transport authorities regulate what can be transported on public roads. Some items are considered hazardous or require special handling, licensing, or equipment. Moving these without proper arrangements can lead to fines, accidents, or damage to your belongings.
The main reasons for prohibited moving items UK include:
Safety risks: Items that are flammable, explosive, or toxic pose dangers during transport.
Legal restrictions: Certain goods require licenses or special permits.
Insurance limitations: Many man and van companies exclude hazardous items from coverage.
Vehicle capacity and equipment: Some items need special vehicles or equipment to move safely.
Knowing these reasons helps you understand why some possessions can’t be moved by a typical man and van service.
Common Items Man and Van Cannot Move
Here’s a detailed list of the most common items man and van cannot move in the UK. If you own any of these, you’ll need to make alternative arrangements.
1. Hazardous Materials and Dangerous Goods
These include anything classified as dangerous goods removal items:
Flammable liquids and gases: Petrol, diesel, propane, butane, aerosols, paint thinners.
Explosives: Fireworks, ammunition, flares.
Corrosive substances: Acids, bleach, batteries with acid.
Toxic or infectious materials: Pesticides, medical waste, chemicals.
Man and van companies avoid these due to strict transport laws and safety risks. For example, moving petrol cans or fireworks without a specialist license is illegal.
2. Large or Heavy Machinery
Items like industrial equipment, large generators, or farm machinery often exceed the weight or size limits of a man and van vehicle. These require:
Special vehicles with lifting equipment.
Trained operators.
Permits for oversized loads.
Trying to move these with a man and van can cause damage or accidents.
3. Live Animals and Plants
Transporting live animals or plants is generally not allowed by man and van services. Animals require:
Proper ventilation.
Temperature control.
Specialized care during transit.
Plants may be subject to agricultural regulations, especially when crossing borders.
4. Perishable Food Items
Fresh food, especially frozen or refrigerated goods, cannot be moved by a standard man and van. These items need temperature-controlled vehicles to prevent spoilage.
5. Illegal or Stolen Goods
Obviously, any illegal items or stolen property are prohibited. Man and van companies have the right to refuse transport and report suspicious goods.
6. Personal Documents and Valuables
While not always prohibited, many man and van services advise against moving important documents, cash, jewellery, or other valuables due to insurance limitations.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Some items fall into grey areas where moving restrictions UK depend on the specific service or vehicle used.
Furniture with Hazardous Materials
Older furniture may contain hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint. Man and van companies usually refuse these unless properly certified for safe handling.
Vehicles and Motorbikes
Most man and van services do not transport cars or motorbikes. These require specialized transporters or trailers.
Firearms and Weapons
Transporting firearms requires strict licensing and is generally not allowed by man and van services.
How to Handle Items That Can’t Be Moved by a Man and Van
If you discover you have items man and van cannot move, here are some practical steps:
Use Specialist Removal Services
For dangerous goods removal or heavy machinery, look for companies specialising in those areas. They have the right equipment and licenses.
Dispose or Sell Prohibited Items
If you have hazardous materials like old paint or chemicals, check local council guidelines for safe disposal. Alternatively, sell or give away items like plants or perishable food before moving.
Separate Valuables and Important Documents
Keep valuables and important documents with you during the move to avoid loss or damage.
Plan Ahead for Pets and Plants
Arrange separate transport for pets or plants with companies that specialise in animal or plant transport.
Tips to Avoid Moving Problems
Ask your man and van provider upfront about their restrictions.
Make a detailed inventory of your belongings before booking.
Label hazardous or fragile items clearly.
Check insurance coverage for your possessions.
Research local regulations if moving across borders within the UK.
