Whether it’s for a family or a business, moving is an intricate and detailed process—even more so when it’s a long distance move. From deciding whether or not to do the move yourself or hire professional interstate movers, to figuring out moving schedules and transport routes, there’s no shortage of details to consider. In preparation for your big change, review these tips to keep your belongings safe during an interstate move from National Van Lines.
How to Keep Belongings Safe During a Long Distance Move
Your belongings are your treasures, and keeping them safe during an interstate move is important to you and a professional moving service (if you seek their help). Below are some ways you can protect your household items, whether you move alone or in partnership with a moving company.
Take photos.
There are many items in your home, and trying to remember specific details about each one is a challenge. When you take pictures of items – especially of unique, fragile, oversized, specialty or antique items – you’ll know what they looked like at the beginning of the move. It’s also a good idea to photograph them once they’ve been wrapped and prepped for transport. Save these photos to a special folder on your computer or in the cloud for easy access.
Pack carefully.
How you pack can make a big difference in the condition that your items arrive in at your new home. There are resources online for packing tips (including videos) if you’re moving yourself. One of the great benefits of hiring professional long distance movers is that many offer packing and unpacking services in their pricing.
Check your homeowner’s or renter’s indemnity and valuation policy.
Some indemnity and valuation companies cover the policyholder’s belongings while “in transit.” If a clearly-defined issue listed in your policy unfortunately occurs during your move, you may be covered just as if the damage occurred within your residence. Review your policy, and discuss these details with your provider before you embark on the journey to your new home. This is yet another great reason to take photos.
Discuss the interstate mover’s valuation policy.
In addition to checking your own policy, talk with your interstate mover about their valuation policy. While they are experts at preparing, crating and wrapping items, accidents can happen, so you’ll want to know what to do ahead of time.
Make sure everyone knows about fragile, specialty or high-value items.
Transporting your belongings to a new destination is a team effort. Ensure that everyone knows which items are fragile or highly valued (monetarily and/or emotionally) so that these items receive the proper respect and care. Working with top-rated long distance movers is a great way to make sure your most valued possessions are protected.
With over 95 years of moving experience and the wisdom that comes with it, we hope these tips help you get started. Check in with our team of professional movers to get specific details about your relocation.
Get a Free Interstate Move Quote From a Top-Rated Mover
When you’re planning a residential or commercial long distance move, choose National Van Lines to help your belongings arrive safely. Request your free interstate move quote from a top-rated relocation service now or call us at 800-323-1962.
