Moving can be a daunting task, and there are many things for you to keep in mind throughout the process. With so many boxes to check (and pack), it can be easy to forget about the logistics of smaller things, like moving liquids.
Knowing how to travel with liquids safely is crucial to avoiding spills, leaks, and unnecessary stress. Whether you’re moving across town or the country, there are some things you should keep in mind when transporting everything from household cleaners to condiments.
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Where Should You Start?
If you’re going to be moving liquid, it’s vital to consider the containers you’ll be transporting liquid in and how you’ll keep them. Begin by gathering all the supplies you’ll need to do this efficiently and spill-free. It will make the process much less stressful and confusing.
Packing Liquids
It’s important to use sturdy, leak-proof containers specifically designed for liquids. Durable plastic bottles and jugs with tight-fitting caps can be used for larger quantities, like laundry detergent, beverages, and household cleaners.
Smaller quantities can be stored in travel-size bottles. If you plan on flying at any point in your moving journey, make sure these containers comply with transportation guidelines. For air travel, liquids should typically be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag.
Securing Liquids
Liquids can easily shift during transit, especially if they aren’t securely sealed or protected. Double-bagging liquids in sealable plastic bags and taping your larger containers closed will help you avoid any messes. If your liquids are in a container with a broken seal, like an opened screw off top, then you should unscrew the lid and place a layer or two of plastic wrap before screwing the lid back on.
Ensuring that any fragile containers, flammable liquids, or harsh chemicals are secure during your journey is crucial for your safety. If you plan on transporting them on your own, wrapping them in bubble wrap or newspaper is an effective way to prevent breakages that lead to spills or leaks.
It’s also a good idea to use packing tape and markers to label any fragile vessels or liquids not in their original container to avoid confusion when unpacking at your destination.
How To Travel With Liquids
Moving liquids can be tricky, especially if you plan on hiring a moving company to transport your belongings. Most moving companies have strict guidelines on what they can move, including flammable liquids, chemicals, and perishable items that pose risks to moving crews.
Taking inventory of what you need to move and considering the types of liquids you’ll be packing can help you organize your belongings and take note of what precautions you should take when packing and transporting them. Here are some categories of liquids that will require special attention during your move.
Flammable Liquids
Flammable items must be handled with care. They can be dangerous to have in a vehicle, as they could catch fire or explode.
Avoid using containers for moving flammable liquids not specifically designed for them, such as plastic milk jugs or glass bottles. These vessels aren’t able to contain spills or withstand pressure changes that might occur due to fluctuating temperatures. Instead, opt for containers made of materials that can withstand the chemical properties of these liquids.
Here are a few examples of liquids that are flammable:
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Nail Polish and Remover
- Hairspray and Hair Styling Products
- Hand Sanitizers
- Lighter Fluid
- Charcoal
- Lithium Batteries
Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can also pose a risk when moving, including damage to your belongings and dangerous chemical reactions. Using or disposing of acidic or corrosive substances is the best way to minimize these risks. The same rules for flammable substances apply to packing and transporting harsh chemicals.
Some examples of liquids containing harsh chemicals:
- Bleach
- All-Purpose Cleaners
- Ammonia
- Laundry Detergent
- Vinegar
- Dish Soap
- Pesticides
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Perishable Liquids
Perishable items can be difficult to transport, especially over longer distances. Because movers typically won’t move them, you may want to transfer perishable liquids to an insulated cooler with ice packs to maintain a safe temperature and prevent spoilage. An alternative to this is to consume or get rid of any perishable items before the journey to your destination.
Perishable liquids may include:
- Dairy Products
- Juices
- Soups and Broths
- Liquid Condiments
- Fresh Squeezed or Pressed Oils
- Certain Medications
Moving with Aquatic Pets
If you’ll be moving with aquatic animals, such as fish, you’ll want to take some extra steps to travel with them safely. Transporting your scaly friends in their aquarium can lead to spills or damage to the tank. Aquarium bags are preferable, but buckets and bins with lids are also acceptable.
Conclusion
Moving liquids doesn’t have to be a major headache if you plan ahead and use the right techniques. With a bit of organization and the right supplies, you can ensure your liquids – whether they’re cleaning products, perishable items, or even flammable substances – arrive at your new place without any spills or leaks.
By choosing sturdy, leak-proof containers and securing your items with double-bagging and packing materials, you can avoid messes and potential problems. Plus, knowing the specific needs for different types of liquids will help you handle each one with care and keep everything safe during your move.
A bit of extra preparation can make moving your liquids a lot easier and stress-free. When you take the time to pack and protect your liquids properly, you turn what could be a tricky task into a smooth part of your move. So, with these strategies in your toolkit, you can confidently tackle your move, knowing your liquids are secure and your relocation is on track for success.
Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.
