Everyone has things that are very valuable to them – items that are expensive, irreplaceable, maybe even sentimental. When it’s time to move to a new home, save yourself from worry by planning ahead for for the safe transport of these belongings. Here are a few tips to keep your valuables safe on every step of their journey.
Document High-Value Items
It’s a good idea to make a list of your high-value belongings before you move. Share this list with your Moving Consultant or Coordinator. It will help him/her determine the total value of your move and which items need special care when packing, transporting and unpacking them. High-value items should automatically include anything with a value of more than $3,000. Other examples include:
Antiques
Art (hanging or standing)
Gaming systems
Clocks
Designer clothing and accessories
Exercise equipment
Expensive appliances and furniture
Fine china and crystal
Firearms
Home audio and video systems
Hot tubs
Memory foam mattresses
Pianos and other musical instruments
Precious stones and metals
Tanning beds
Wine
Insure for Added Protection
Professional moving companies will offer Valuation coverage. This is the amount of liability that the mover assumes for your goods while in their care. Most often, you can choose between Standard Liability and Full Value comprehensive protection, and each plan comes at a different cost. Ask your Moving Consultant for more information.
Your items may also be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy. Not sure if yours are covered? Provide the list you made to your insurance agent and ask!
Pack Carefully
Hiring professional packers, even just for your most valuable or hard to move items, will save you time and worry. They know how to maximize the use of packing materials, padding and stretch wrap for optimal protection. In addition, they can create custom wooden crates for large, fragile or unusually shaped items. Leave in place anything you want the moving crew to pack (keep dishes in the cabinet, artwork on the wall, collectibles in the hutch, for example). It’s easier and safer to pack them that way.
If you choose to pack your high-value items yourself, please pack them in the presence of your moving crew leader/driver, who is responsible for inspecting everything for safety before it is loaded into the truck. Pack in the original cartons whenever possible, or use professional-grade moving boxes and bubble wrap or foam for cushioning. Secure or remove loose parts, handles, or hardware, and secure doors with straps. Pack delicate pieces individually, wrapping in protective padding, and place them in double-walled cartons with separate compartments. Label the boxes as fragile, and inform your movers.
Your valuables are important to us too. If you have additional questions about moving them safely, or would like help packing or transporting them to your new home, contact the experts at Bisson today.
