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Planning a move and wondering what to hand off vs. keep control of? Local moving companies in St Louis handle the heavy lifting, but knowing what stays in your hands makes the whole move smoother, faster, and safer.
Your move deserves a plan, not a panic. Get a free quote today → Contact Us | Get a Quote
Why the Divide Matters
Professional local movers in St. Louis are trained, insured, and equipped for bulky furniture and fragile items, but certain belongings are better kept in your personal care for liability, sentimental, or safety reasons. This breakdown tells you exactly what goes where.
Room-by-Room Breakdown
- Living Room:
- Movers handle: Sectional sofas and recliners, TV stands and bookshelves, lamps, and framed artwork.
- Pack yourself: Flat-screen TVs (use the original box if possible), game consoles, and remotes.
- Kitchen:
- Movers handle: Large appliances like the fridge and range, and boxed dishware and pots.
- Pack yourself: Perishable food, open liquids, spices and oils, and knives (wrap securely and carry yourself).
- Bedroom:
- Movers handle: Bed frames, mattresses, dressers, and nightstands.
- Pack yourself: Jewelry and valuables, important documents, and prescription medications.
- Home Office:
- Movers handle: Desks, office chairs, boxed books, and filing cabinets.
- Pack yourself: Laptops, hard drives, external drives and USBs, and all personal documents including passports, contracts, and deeds.
- Bathroom:
- Movers handle: Bathroom furniture and mirrors.
- Pack yourself: Medications and first aid supplies, open toiletry containers, and hazardous cleaners or sprays
- Garage / Basement:
- Movers handle: Furniture, shelving, and lawn mowers (with gas drained).
- Pack yourself: Gasoline, paint and chemicals, propane tanks, and firearms and ammunition.
Don’t leave your move to chance. Leave it to the pros. McGuire Moving & Storage is ready when you are. → Contact Us | Fill Out a Quote Form
The Golden Rule: If It’s Irreplaceable, Keep It With You
No matter how experienced the crew, irreplaceable items (heirlooms, legal documents, prescriptions, and high-value electronics) should always travel in your personal vehicle. Local movers in St. Louis carry cargo insurance, but some losses simply can’t be undone.
Quick Tips Before Moving Day
Label clearly. Color-code boxes by room so movers know exactly where everything goes, with no second-guessing at the new address.
Defrost the fridge. St. Louis movers cannot move a fridge with standing water. Defrost at least 24 hours before the move.
Disassemble when possible. Bed frames, cribs, and large shelving units move faster when broken down. Ask your movers if disassembly is included in the service.
Pack a move-day bag. Keep a personal bag with one day’s essentials (chargers, snacks, IDs, and keys) so nothing critical ends up buried in a box.
Ready to Move Smarter in St. Louis?
Knowing what to hand off and what to keep close makes moving day far less stressful. McGuire Moving & Storage brings the experience, equipment, and care that local moving companies in St. Louis and families across the region have trusted for nearly 80 years. Whether you need full-service packing or just reliable help with the big stuff, the team at McGuire Moving & Storage is ready to make your next move your smoothest one yet.
Your St. Louis move starts with one click — no obligation. → Contact Us | Get My Free Quote
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Louis Movers
Will movers pack everything in my home, or just the big stuff?
Most local moving companies in St Louis offer full-service packing covering furniture, boxed items, and fragile goods. Medications, valuables, and hazardous materials are excluded for safety and liability reasons.
Can movers transport my flat-screen TV?
Yes, but it’s safest in its original box. If you no longer have the box, let your movers know in advance. Many bring TV-specific packaging materials.
What items are movers not allowed to move?
Hazardous materials (gasoline, propane, paint, chemicals), perishable food, live plants, firearms, and open liquids are typically not permitted on a moving truck. Always confirm with your moving company beforehand.
Should I be home during the move?
Yes, being present lets you direct the movers, answer questions, and make sure personal items are accounted for before the truck leaves.
How far in advance should I book local movers in St. Louis?
Booking 3–4 weeks ahead is recommended, especially during peak summer months. Last-minute availability isn’t always guaranteed.
