Forbidden & Hazardous Items in Interstate Moving – FMCSA Guidelines 2025

Every year, the FMCSA and DOT seize thousands of household moves because of prohibited hazardous materials. One can of paint thinner, a single propane tank, or a bottle of bleach hidden in a box can result in fines up to $175,000, forced unloading, or total shipment rejection. At Illinois Movers Inc., we strictly follow federal law — here’s exactly what you cannot pack for any interstate move.

Forbidden items interstate moving - FMCSA hazardous materials guide

9 Classes of Hazardous Materials Banned from Household Goods Shipments

According to FMCSA 49 CFR Part 173 and PHMSA, the following are strictly prohibited:

Class 1 – Explosives

Fireworks, ammunition, blasting caps, dynamite, flares

Class 2 – Gases

Propane tanks, scuba tanks, aerosol cans (over 1oz), CO₂ cartridges, fire extinguishers

Class 3 – Flammable Liquids

Gasoline, kerosene, paint thinner, nail polish remover, lighter fluid

Class 4 – Flammable Solids

Matches, charcoal, oily rags, magnesium

Class 5 – Oxidizers & Peroxides

Bleach, pool chemicals, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia

Class 6 – Toxic & Infectious

Pesticides, weed killer, medical waste

Class 7 – Radioactive

Any radioactive material

Class 8 – Corrosives

Battery acid, muriatic acid, drain cleaner

Class 9 – Miscellaneous

Lithium batteries (loose), dry ice over 5.5 lbs, magnets

Everyday Items You Didn’t Know Are Forbidden

Common Item	Why It’s Banned	Alternative
Paint & varnish	Flammable liquid	Donate or dispose locally
Car batteries	Corrosive acid	Recycle at auto shop
Charcoal & lighter fluid	Flammable solid/liquid	Buy new at destination
Nail polish & remover	Flammable	Dispose or gift
Cleaning supplies	Corrosive/toxic	Use up or donate
Propane tanks (BBQ)	Compressed gas	Sell or leave behind
Aerosol cans	Pressurized gas	Use up or recycle
Fertilizer & pesticides	Toxic	Hazardous waste facility

        Critical: Even if sealed, even if “just one can” — these items are federally prohibited. DOT inspectors can and do open boxes at state lines.
    

What Happens If Prohibited Items Are Found?

FMCSA penalties are severe:

Shipment placed on immediate hold
Forced unloading at nearest weigh station
Fines up to $175,000 per violation
Possible criminal charges
Entire load rejected and returned at your expense

How Illinois Movers Inc. Keeps You 100% Compliant

We perform a mandatory hazardous materials inspection before every interstate load. Our crews are DOT HazMat trained and will:

Walk through your home with a prohibited items checklist
Safely remove and document any banned items
Provide disposal resources or temporary storage
Complete FMCSA-required documentation

Licensed USDOT #2628513 | MC #914433 | CMA Certified Trusted Mover | 4.8★ on Google.

Frequently Asked Questions – Forbidden Items & FMCSA Rules

Can I pack a small can of spray paint?

No — even sealed aerosol cans are prohibited.

What about my BBQ propane tank?

Absolutely not — must be emptied and purged by a professional.

Are batteries allowed?

Installed in devices only. Loose lithium batteries are banned.

Can I bring my cleaning supplies?

No — bleach, ammonia, drain cleaner are corrosives/toxics.

What if I accidentally pack something?

We’ll find it during inspection and remove it — no judgment, just compliance.

Do you help dispose of hazardous items?

Yes — we partner with local hazardous waste facilities in every Illinois city.