If you’re relocating, there are so many factors to consider: How should you pack? What company will you hire? What do you need to know about keeping safe and storing valuables during a move? For many people, that last question is the toughest in residential moving. Your family heirlooms, antiques or other valuables are too precious for you to risk damaging in transition.
To help you rest easy that your most important items make it to their new home safely, here are a few key tips to consider when packing and storing valuables:
1. Purchase padlocks and use them to protect as many valuables as possible
It’s as true for the goods you’re moving as it is for your house: locks are the bedrock of good security. You wouldn’t leave home without locking your doors, right? Likewise, you shouldn’t start packing without securing your valuables. Invest in padlocks to safeguard boxes, bags and other containers that need extra security. Locks made of steel alloys are especially useful — featuring higher security ratings and protection that’s harder for criminals to break.
2. Pack sensitive items appropriately so they can be kept near you throughout the moving process
When you want to add protection to your important documents, sentimental possessions or other valuables, keep them near you in the move. Don’t pack your Social Security cards, birth certificates, bank records, etc., in boxes that could get lost in transition. Instead, carefully pack these sensitive items in containers kept with you during relocation. That way, you won’t have to worry they’re misplaced or damaged in the moving process; they’ll be by your side the whole time.
3. Add and maintain insurance on your valuable items during the moving process
Adding insurance gives you more peace of mind in your move. Why? When you insure your belongings, should anything happen to them, you’re covered. Talk to your movers or insurance company about options for keeping valuables safe during a move. That extra coverage could make all the difference in how stress-free — or stressful — your move is.
4. Consider using safety deposit boxes or other forms of secured storage, as needed
Some items are irreplaceable. For expensive jewelry or certain heirlooms, rent a safety deposit box or other secured storage to protect your goods. For a set fee, you’ll be able to safeguard these treasures. Then, when you’re settled in your new home, you can access them any time.
5. Avoid posting moving updates on any form of social media
- Today’s criminals are savvy enough to check social media for information. This means when you’re casually posting about your moving day, you could also be letting thieves know you’re a target. Avoid sharing any personally identifying information such as addresses, valuables, timeframes, etc during packing. Your friends and family can visit your new home once you’re safely living in it.
Planning a move sometime soon? Whether you’re changing neighborhoods, cities or time zones, safety is important. Take the steps above to make sure your move goes smoothly and your goods remain unharmed. That way, you’re free to enjoy your new home — along with all your precious items.
