We get it, as long distance movers, we know moving can be overwhelming, and when you add in priceless heirlooms, valuable jewelry, or your kid’s clay handprint, the stakes go way up.
When it comes to moving valuable items long distance, packing isn’t just about eco bubble, it’s about peace of mind. After decades of moving everything from Picassos to priceless Muppets for Jim Henson Studios, Harry Winston Jewelers, The Getty, and a long list of celebrities, our long distance movers have learned exactly what it takes to keep high-value items safe on the road.
Before you wrap your entire home in eco bubble, read on for our top five tips to protect your most treasured belongings during a long distance move.
One quick note before we dive in: we currently offer long distance moving services only for moves starting in California, Arizona, or Texas, our home bases. No matter where you’re moving from, these tips will help protect what matters most.
1.What Long Distance Movers Recommend You Pack and Move Yourself
Some items are just too important or too personal to hand off, no matter how pro your movers are. Things like passports, legal documents, prescription meds, laptops, and sentimental keepsakes should always be packed and stored personally.
Valuables like jewelry, watches, and family heirlooms should also stay with you. If it fits in your carry-on or car, transport it yourself. Be aware that long distance movers typically include only basic valuation, about 60 cents per pound, for lost or damaged items. That amount is based on weight, not sentimental value or actual replacement cost. For example, a six carat diamond ring weighing just a few grams would be valued at mere pennies. We’ll cover your insurance options in tip #3.
Packing your portable valuable items yourself will give you peace of mind. Your future self will thank you when you’re not tearing open boxes looking for your charger or your grandmother’s necklace.
2. Let the Pros Pack the Fragile Items
While smaller valuables, like jewelry and electronics, are safest when kept with you, larger high-value items such as artwork, antiques, heirlooms and flat-screen TVs need professional packing and handling.
That’s where the pros come in. Experienced long distance movers have the proper packing materials, expert techniques, and custom crating options to ensure your most fragile belongings are protected for the long haul.
Professional packing may take more time but can prevent damage. Ask your mover if they offer services like custom crating, packing services or personal storage.
3. Understand Your Insurance Options
When it comes to protecting your valuables during a long distance move, insurance matters, and not all coverage is created equal.
Most moving companies are required to offer basic valuation coverage, which typically reimburses you around 60 cents per pound. Think of it this way: under basic valuation, a one-pound bag of sugar is worth the same as a one-pound bag of diamonds. For high-value or irreplaceable items, that’s not going to cut it.
Ask your mover about third-party insurance providers, especially for these larger valuable items. The key is to know exactly what level of protection you have before moving day, not after something goes wrong. Watch this quick video to learn more about your insurance options on moving day.
4. Keep a Detailed Inventory
If it’s valuable, track it. Creating a detailed inventory of your high-value items is one of the simplest and smartest ways to stay organized and protected during a long distance move.
Start by listing each item, its estimated value and a brief description. Take clear photos from multiple angles, and if possible, include serial numbers or receipts. This documentation can be a lifesaver if anything goes missing or gets damaged and it’s often required for insurance claims.
You don’t need to catalog your sock drawer, but for artwork, electronics, collectibles, and anything with significant financial or sentimental value, a well-kept inventory will help you keep track of your valuables.
5. Choose Long Distance Movers With a Trusted Reputation
When you’re trusting someone with your most prized possessions, credentials and reputation matters. Do your homework and research long distance moving companies before you plan your move. Look for long distance movers who are licensed, insured and have built a strong reputation. Check client reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Google, and Yelp. Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Have they handled high-value or specialty items before? Do they offer full service packing? What happens if something goes wrong?
Proven excellence for decades gives you peace of mind. A moving company with a solid reputation has every reason to protect it by delivering exceptional service.
NorthStar Moving: Your Trusted Long Distance Movers
Okay, you can breathe easy, you’ve got the insider tips on long distance moving, and now you know exactly what to do. And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone.
At NorthStar Moving, we’ve spent more than 30 years protecting priceless belongings (and calming plenty of nerves along the way). From guiding you on what to keep close, to packing the big items with expert care and simplifying your insurance options, we’re with you every step of the way on long distance moves that start from our locations in California, Texas or Arizona.
We also offer free video chat estimates. During your virtual consultation, we’ll walk through your home with you as you show us what needs to be moved and point out anything that requires a little extra care. Ready to move with peace of mind? Give us a call (800) ASK-PROS.