Will Removal Companies Take Plants? Everything You Need to Know

When you’re preparing to move house, you’ll quickly realise it’s not just furniture and boxes that need to be transported. For many people, plants are a beloved part of their home — often collected and nurtured over years. But when moving day arrives, a common question arises: will removal companies take plants?

The answer isn’t always straightforward. While many removal companies are happy to transport plants, there are important considerations around size, weight, distance, and even regulations that can affect whether they can be included in your move.

This guide will explore everything you need to know about moving with plants, so you can plan ahead and make sure your greenery arrives at your new home safe and healthy.

Do Removal Companies Take Plants?

In most cases, yes — removal companies can transport houseplants, garden plants, and even small trees. However, there are limits. Some companies may have restrictions due to vehicle space, weight, or the risk of damage.

For example:

• Small indoor plants are usually fine to move.

  
  

• Large potted plants or trees may require special handling or equipment.

  
  

• Some companies won’t take responsibility for live plants in case they get damaged in transit.

  
  

This makes it essential to ask your chosen removal company about their specific policies before moving day.

Why Moving Plants Is Different from Other Items

Plants are living things, and moving them presents unique challenges compared to furniture or boxes:

1. Fragility – Stems, leaves, and flowers can break easily.

   
   

2. Temperature sensitivity – Extreme heat or cold inside a moving van can stress plants.

   
   

3. Water and soil – Moist soil can spill, creating a mess in the vehicle.

   
   

4. Pests and diseases – Some companies are cautious about transporting plants in case of contamination.

   
   

For these reasons, extra care and planning are needed when moving greenery.

Things to Consider Before Moving Plants

1. The Distance of Your Move

• Local moves: For shorter journeys, plants are easier to transport and survive the trip with minimal stress.

  
  

• Long-distance moves: Extended time in a hot or cold van can harm plants. Some companies may advise moving them separately in your own vehicle.

  
  

2. Type and Size of Plants

• Small potted plants are straightforward to move.

  
  

• Large pots or trees may require trolleys, straps, or even additional manpower.

  
  

3. Company Policies

Some movers will transport plants at the owner’s risk, meaning they won’t be liable if your plants suffer damage. Always clarify this in advance.

How to Prepare Plants for Moving Day

If you want your plants to arrive safely, preparation is key:

1. Stop Watering 24–48 Hours Before Moving

   
   

   Wet soil makes pots heavy and prone to spilling. Slightly dry soil is easier to transport.

   
   

2. Prune Where Necessary

   
   

   Trim back excess growth to reduce the chance of damage.

   
   

3. Use Protective Packaging

   
   

   Wrap pots in plastic or bubble wrap to prevent breakage. Place plants in open boxes to keep them upright.

   
   

4. Label Clearly

   
   

   Mark boxes with “Fragile – Plants” so movers know to handle them with care.

   
   

5. Transport Valuable or Delicate Plants Yourself

   
   

   If you have rare or sentimental plants, consider moving them in your own car.

   
   

Plants That May Not Be Accepted

There are certain scenarios where movers may refuse plants:

• Infested or diseased plants: Companies won’t risk spreading pests.

  
  

• Very large or heavy pots: These may exceed weight limits or require extra staff.

  
  

• Moves across borders: International relocations often involve strict rules on plant transportation to prevent spreading pests or diseases.

  
  

Local Moves vs Long-Distance Moves

If you’re arranging home removals Coventry, moving plants is usually simple because the journey time is short. Local movers often have more flexibility for handling delicate items like greenery.

For long-distance relocations, however, it’s worth asking whether the company recommends transporting plants yourself. A reliable removals company Coventry will be upfront about what’s practical and advise on the safest way to get your plants to their new home.

Should You Move All Your Plants?

While it’s tempting to take every plant you own, sometimes it makes sense to leave larger or older plants behind. Consider gifting them to friends, family, or neighbours, or donating them to community gardens. This reduces the workload and may even save you money.

If your new property has different light or temperature conditions, not all of your existing plants may thrive there anyway.

Moving Outdoor Plants and Garden Features

Outdoor plants can be trickier to move than houseplants. If you’re taking shrubs, flowers, or small trees:

• Dig them up carefully a few days before the move.

  
  

• Place them in pots or bags with enough soil to keep roots covered.

  
  

• Water lightly before transport but avoid saturating the soil.

  
  

Garden ornaments, pots, and features like birdbaths should be cleaned and securely packed.

Moving Plants Internationally

If you’re relocating abroad, plant transportation becomes more complex. Many countries have strict regulations about bringing in live plants due to biosecurity risks. You may need permits or inspections, and in some cases, plants may be refused altogether.

Always check the regulations of your destination country well in advance if you’re considering bringing plants with you.

Tips for Settling Plants Into Their New Home

Once you’ve arrived, help your plants recover from the stress of moving:

1. Place them in a similar light condition to what they were used to.

   
   

2. Water lightly, but don’t overdo it — plants need time to adjust.

   
   

3. Avoid fertilising straight away; give them a week or two to settle.

   
   

4. Keep an eye out for signs of stress, like drooping or yellowing leaves.

   
   

Quick Checklist: Moving Plants Successfully

• ✅ Check with your removal company about their plant policy.

  
  

• ✅ Stop watering 24–48 hours before moving.

  
  

• ✅ Prune and protect plants before transport.

  
  

• ✅ Clearly label plant boxes.

  
  

• ✅ Move delicate or sentimental plants yourself if possible.

  
  

• ✅ Help plants settle quickly in their new environment.

  
  

Final Thoughts

So, will removal companies take plants? In most cases, yes — but always check their policy and prepare properly to avoid disappointment. Small houseplants are usually no problem, while larger items or long-distance moves may require special arrangements.

For local moves, especially if you’re arranging removals Coventry, plants can generally be included with little hassle. Choosing an experienced removals company Coventry ensures your move is handled with care, from furniture to the greenery that makes your house a home.

With the right preparation and support, your plants can make the journey safely and continue to thrive in your new home.