Should you move Foodstuffs?

Freezer removals and freezer contents are a subject that often generates some debate when talking about domestic removals.

We should nail our colours to the mast and state openly that, in our opinion, it is always preferable to try and run down your freezer stores in the weeks prior to your removal so that you can move a thoroughly defrosted freezer.

In some cases, that advice might be seen as something of a no-brainer. 

Clearly, if you are going for a long distance removal involving intermediate overnight stops then taking frozen food with you is going to be a non-starter. Apart from anything else, as things start to defrost in transit you run the risk of water leaking out into our vehicle and on to your other possessions.

As a matter of policy, we must reserve the right to refuse to accept freezers and contents that have not been emptied and defrosted.

There is another reason, even on short-duration moves and that arises from the possibility of unforeseen delays.

We know of one case, not through Total Care Removals, where some people making their way to their new home, passed their removal vehicle with their household possessions in it on the road. No big deal you may think except that the vehicle concerned was on the side of the road, broken down and apparently on fire around the engine area!

So, the unforeseen can happen and lead to delays. That is going to be bad news for any frozen or perishable foodstuffs you have entrusted to your moving company. Auckland and Christchurch residents, i.e. your new neighbours, won’t thank you for taking delivery of a lot of rotting and odorous foodstuffs!

We’re very happy to discuss your individual requirements in much more detail but our general advice is not to try and move frozen or other perishable foodstuffs.