Moving Tips For Packing Valuable Items

Whether you have just one or two particular items of value to move, protecting them adequately can ensure that they arrive safely and intact.

– Have each item appraised, if possible, and take color photographs from various angles for your records. Keep copies of sales receipts and any insurance information as well.

– Make sure that the mover’s inventory list description and value matches your records. For items that exceed $!00 per pound value, the mover will have to create a High Value Inventory List in order for your belongings to be adequately insured.

– Place heavy pieces in small boxes and lighter items in larger boxes or containers to make moving them easier. Keep in mind that movers insurance typically pay insurance claims calculated per pound, so if you have a heavy item that is damaged or lost, the payment might be significantly less than the object’s value.

Regarding packing antiques or any fragile possessions, keep pictures, mirrors and artwork upright in a sturdy, flat box. Do not lay them flat, since another box could be put on top of them and they might .break. Place bubble wrap or other packing material around each piece and around the inside perimeter of the box, too. Always try to keep glass vases, bowls, etc. in their original containers if possible, which will already have thick Styrofoam cushioning and dividers to help keep them in one piece.

Clearly mark each box to indicate that very fragile items are inside, and make sure to point these boxes out for the moving crew, so they know to use extra care in handling and not to stack anything that is marked fragile.

Pack cameras, televisions and computers in their original boxes if you have them, but if not, wrap three or four layers of cushioning around each item and place them in separate boxes that have additional padding in the bottom and on the sides. You can buy Styrofoam to use when packing electronics.

Read the insurance limits and other information that your moving company provides. Their insurance coverage may not be adequate and you need to know before your move if you should purchase more insurance to protect your valuables.