If you're planning a big move, you want to make sure that everything goes off without a hitch. You've hired the movers, and you've started to pack. There's just one thing you haven't taken care of yet—the antiques. If you have antiques that you'll be moving, you need to make sure that they're properly taken care of throughout the process. That process begins with you. Here are four steps you need to take to make sure your antiques survive the move.
Conduct a Thorough Inventory of Your Antiques
Before you start packing for your move, you need to conduct a thorough inventory of all your antiques. Your inventory should cover each of the antiques you own as well as the condition of each item. To get a proper inventory, be sure to go from room to room and log each antique. Take note of any damage or blemishes each item might have. Be sure to take a picture of each antique. This will provide you with a description of the item as well as a permanent record of its pre-move condition.
Have Your Antiques Appraised Before You Move
The next thing you should do is have your antiques appraised. You might have a good idea of what your items are worth, but for insurance purposes, it's important for you to know exactly what your antiques are currently valued at.
Purchase a Separate Insurance Policy for Your Antiques
Once you have your antiques inventoried and appraised, you'll need to purchase a separate insurance policy for them. Even if you choose a moving company that insures against damage, you'll still want to have your own coverage to protect the actual value of your antiques.
Talk to Your Movers
Before you start packing your antiques, be sure to speak to the moving company you've hired. Let them know that you'll be moving antiques to your new location. This will ensure that they understand the special handling needs that your belongings will require. It will also alert them to the fact that they'll need to provide additional shipping protection for your valuables.
Moving to a new home is never easy. Moving with antiques adds a whole new dimension of difficulty to the endeavor. If you have antiques, be sure they're protected throughout the move. The information provided here will help you prepare your antiques for the big move. For more helpful tips on how to safely move your antiques, be sure to speak to your moving company or visit sites like http://www.bekins.com to find a mover near you.
