Tips for Moving Valuables & Antiques

Posted on 14/10/2024

Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to transporting valuable and antique items. These cherished possessions often hold not just monetary value, but also sentimental significance. Ensuring their safety during a move requires careful planning, the right materials, and possibly professional help. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive guide to help you move your valuables and antiques safely and efficiently.

Assess and Catalog Your Valuables

Before you even begin packing, it's critical to assess and catalog all your valuable items. This step helps in several ways:

• Insurance: A detailed inventory with photographs can simplify the process of insurance claims in case any item gets damaged or lost.

• Organization: Keeping a record ensures that nothing is overlooked during the move.

• Valuation: Understanding the worth of your items helps in arranging the appropriate level of insurance coverage.

Create a spreadsheet or use specialized software to document each item's description, condition, value, and any identifying marks. Take clear, high-resolution photos from multiple angles to capture all details.

Get Professional Appraisals

If you own highly valuable antiques or collectibles, it's a good idea to get a professional appraisal before the move. This will provide you with an accurate valuation, which can be essential for insurance purposes. Look for accredited appraisers who specialize in the type of items you own.

Secure Proper Insurance

Standard homeowner's insurance policies often do not cover valuable items to their full extent during a move. You'll want to look into supplemental insurance options:

• Full Value Protection: Movers offer this insurance at an additional cost, covering the full replacement value of your items.

• Third-Party Insurance: Some specialized insurance companies offer policies tailored for high-value and antique items.

Regardless of the option you choose, it's crucial to understand the terms and what exactly is covered. Always keep copies of your appraisals and inventory lists in a safe, accessible place.

Choose the Right Moving Company

Not all moving companies are equipped to handle valuable and antique items. Look for movers who have experience and positive reviews in transporting high-value goods:

• Specialized Services: Some companies offer specialized handling and packing services for valuable items.

• Credentials: Ensure the company is licensed and insured, and check for any complaints or disputes with the Better Business Bureau.

• References: Ask for references from past clients who have moved similar items.

Packing Materials and Techniques

Packing valuable items requires more than just placing them in a box. Here are some effective techniques and materials to use:

• Quality Boxes: Use sturdy, high-quality boxes designed for moving. Double-wall boxes offer additional protection.

• Padding: Bubble wrap, foam peanuts, and soft packing paper can help cushion your items and prevent movement.

• Custom Crating: For especially fragile or awkwardly shaped items, consider custom-built crates.

• Safeguard Framed Art: Use corner protectors and secure the glass with tape to prevent shattering.

When packing, remember to:

• Wrap each item individually: Use materials like acid-free tissue paper, bubble wrap, and foam sheets.

• Fill all gaps: Ensure that items don't move inside the box by filling empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper.

• Label boxes clearly: Mark boxes as "Fragile" and specify which side should face up.

Climate Control

Some antiques and valuables are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Exposure to extreme conditions can cause damage such as warping, cracking, and fading. Consider the following options:

• Climate-Controlled Storage: If you're storing items temporarily, ensure the storage facility offers climate control.

• Climate-Controlled Moving Van: Some moving companies offer climate-controlled transportation options for sensitive items.

Transporting Jewelry and Small Valuables

Jewelry and other small valuable items require special attention:

• Keep with You: Whenever possible, transport small valuables such as jewelry and important documents personally.

• Safety Deposit Box: For added security, consider placing these items in a safety deposit box if you cannot carry them with you.

When carrying these items, use a sturdy, lockable container and keep it within your sight at all times during the move.

Special Considerations for Fine Art

Fine art pieces, including paintings and sculptures, need special care:

• Soft Packing Materials: Use acid-free materials to avoid any chemical reactions that could damage the art.

• Protective Coverings: Invest in art-specific packing materials such as puncture-resistant soft plastic or Tyvek.

• Consult a Conservator: For extremely valuable or fragile pieces, consult an art conservator for specific packing and handling advice.

Unpacking and Setting Up

Once you've safely transported your valuables, it's equally important to carefully unpack and set them up:

• Inspect Items: Before removing any packing materials, inspect each item for signs of damage. Report any issues to your moving company or insurance provider immediately.

• Clean Hands: Make sure your hands are clean and dry to prevent contaminating the items as you handle them.

• Use Appropriate Tools: If disassembling crates or boxes, use appropriate tools and care to avoid damaging your items.

Final Thoughts

Moving your valuables and antiques requires more than just ordinary planning and packing. Each step, from cataloging and appraisals to insurance and choosing the right moving company, is crucial for ensuring their safety. Use high-quality packing materials and consider professional help for specialized items. By following these tips, you can minimize the risks and ensure that your cherished possessions arrive at your new home safely.

Remember, the key to a successful move lies in attention to detail and careful planning. With the right approach, you can protect your valuable and antique items, preserving both their material and sentimental value for years to come.