Small Items of Value When Moving

Moving can be both an exciting and challenging experience. Amidst the chaos of packing and transporting your belongings, it’s easy to overlook small items of value that are easily misplaced or lost in the process. Small but valuable possessions can hold sentimental or monetary significance, making it essential to pay attention to them during the move. In this guide, ABC Moving Systems explore the importance of handling small valuables carefully and offer practical tips to ensure their safekeeping throughout the moving journey.

ABC Moving Systems Recommendation for Small Items of Value

SECURE YOUR SMALL VALUABLES

Small Valuables include . . . cash, credit cards, checkbooks, jewelry, watches, precious metals and gems, keys, smart phones, important medicines, small expensive electronics, designer sunglasses, wallets, passports, etc., etc. Also all firearms and ammunition.

       

During the weeks surrounding your move, many people come and go . . . realtors, their clients, open house attendees, friends and relatives, children’s friends, babysitters, nannies, cleaning services, TV and cable installers, exterminators, various contractors, etc., etc.

This is a very busy time . . . you have “a hundred things to do”. The first thing to do . . . SECURE YOUR SMALL VALUABLES.

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DO’s and DON’Ts

DO . . . pack your small valuables into a small box or container and take them OFF SITE. Put them in a secure place, such as a locked car or a self storage unit. This way after your move you can immediately locate these important items.
DO . . . immediately after moving . . . account for your small valuables, so you don’t misplace them after the move, or worse case scenario . . . accidentally dispose of them during the unpacking process.

DON’T . . . leave small valuables “laying around” in reach of others . . . before, during or after your move.
DON’T . . . “hide” money or small valuables inside items to be moved, such as furniture, clothing, bags, etc. Small valuables can fall out of these items when being moved. In addition, during this very busy time, it’s easy to forget your most recent “hiding place”.
DON’T . . . accidentally dispose of small valuables during the unpacking process. It can happen.

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Moving companies have very limited liability for small valuables.

Common sense and personal accountability dictates that you personally SECURE YOUR SMALL VALUABLES . . . in advance of your move.

Inventory and Catalog Your Valuables

When moving, it’s crucial to take care of even the smallest items of value. One essential step is to inventory and catalog your valuables using apps, spreadsheets, or lists. These tools help you stay organized and ensure nothing gets lost in the process. Apps like Sortly or MoveAdvisor offer user-friendly interfaces for documenting belongings with descriptions and photos, accessible anytime, anywhere.

Spreadsheets, like Excel or Google Sheets, provide customizable options for meticulous tracking. Simply list items, their conditions, and their designated boxes for effortless unpacking later. Don’t forget to note high-value possessions like jewelry, electronics, and important documents. Such detailed records can also serve as insurance documentation in case of any unforeseen mishaps during the move.

By dedicating some time to this task, you’ll have peace of mind and a smoother moving experience, knowing that your cherished possessions are accounted for throughout the journey.

Packing Fragile Keepsakes

• Wrap delicate items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent damage.
• Use sturdy boxes that are appropriately sized for the keepsakes to minimize movement during transit.
• Place crumpled paper or packing peanuts at the bottom and top of the box as cushioning.
• Arrange the fragile items in the center of the box, away from the edges.
• Fill any gaps with additional packing material to prevent shifting.
• Label the boxes as “Fragile” and “This Side Up” for careful handling.
• Consider using specialized packing materials, such as dish packs or wardrobe boxes, for specific keepsakes.
• If you have valuable antiques or artworks, consider professional packing services, such as ABC Moving Systems Los Angeles.
• Transport highly sentimental items yourself, if possible, to ensure their safety.
• Keep an inventory list of all packed fragile keepsakes for easy reference and tracking.

Taking extra care when packing fragile keepsakes is vital to preserving their sentimental and monetary value during the moving process. By following these tips, you can rest assured that your cherished possessions will reach your new home intact and ready to bring you joy once more.

Securing Valuable Jewelry

When moving, securing valuable jewelry is of utmost importance to avoid loss or damage. Follow these simple yet effective steps to ensure the safety of your precious pieces:

1. Keep Jewelry Separate: Place your valuable jewelry in a separate box or container, away from other belongings, to reduce the risk of misplacement or entanglement.
2. Utilize Ziplock Bags: For smaller items like rings and earrings, use individual ziplock bags to keep them organized and prevent them from getting mixed up.
3. Pad and Cushion: Line the jewelry box with soft padding or fabric to create a gentle cushioning layer for the pieces to rest on.
4. Avoid Mixing with Cleaning Supplies: Store jewelry separately from cleaning supplies or liquids to avoid potential damage caused by spills or leaks.
5. Carry On Your Own: If possible, keep valuable jewelry with you during the move, rather than packing it in a box that goes with the moving truck.
6. Insure Your Jewelry: Consider getting insurance coverage for your valuable pieces to provide added protection and peace of mind.
7. Take Photos: Before packing, take clear photos of your jewelry for documentation in case of any insurance claims or for identification in case of loss.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your valuable jewelry remains safe and secure during the moving process, and you can look forward to adorning yourself with your treasured pieces in your new home.

Safeguarding Important Documents

1. Organize and Sort: Gather all important documents like passports, IDs, birth certificates, and financial records in one place.
2. Secure Portable Folder or Envelope: Place the documents in a sturdy, portable folder or envelope that’s easy to carry.
3. Make Copies: Create digital copies of each document and store them securely on a password-protected device or cloud storage.
4. Use Fireproof Container: Consider using a fireproof container to provide an extra layer of protection against potential hazards.
5. Label Clearly: Clearly label the folder or envelope as “Important Documents” to distinguish it from other boxes.
6. Hand Carry: If possible, transport the important documents yourself, rather than including them in boxes with the moving company.
7. Lockbox or Safe Deposit Box: For highly sensitive documents, consider using a lockbox or renting a safe deposit box for temporary storage.
8. Inform Trusted Individual: Inform a trusted family member or friend about the location of the documents for added security.
9. Update Address: If applicable, update your address on important documents to ensure they are relevant for your new location.
10. Check Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any specific regulations regarding document storage and security at your new destination.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your important documents are well-protected and readily accessible during the move, reducing stress and potential complications. Keeping these valuable items safe will allow you to focus on settling into your new home with peace of mind.

Handling Electronics and Gadgets

When moving, handling electronics and gadgets requires special attention to avoid damage. Back up data before packing to prevent data loss. Detach cables and keep them together in labeled bags for easy setup later. Whenever possible, use the original packaging to protect devices during the move.

For items without original boxes, wrap them in bubble wrap or anti-static foam to shield from impact. Label boxes containing electronics as “Fragile” to ensure careful handling. If moving long distances or in extreme weather, consider climate-controlled transportation. Add a screen protector to devices with screens to minimize scratches.

For gaming consoles, remove discs and secure the drive. Gather user manuals and warranties in one place for easy access. Test each item after unpacking to ensure proper functioning in your new home. Following these steps will safeguard your electronics and small items of value, ensuring they continue to serve you well in your new space.

Transporting Valuable Artwork and Collectibles

• Professional Packing: Consider hiring art movers or professionals experienced in handling delicate items for utmost care.  ABC Moving Systems has qualified personnel to assist with art packing.
• Custom Crating: Get custom wooden or cardboard crates built for each valuable artwork or collectible to provide maximum protection during transit.
• Secure Wrapping: Wrap each piece in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap before placing it in the crate.
• Label Fragile: Clearly label the crates as “Fragile” to ensure cautious handling throughout the moving process.
• Climate-Controlled Transport: Opt for climate-controlled transportation to protect artwork from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
• Art Insurance: Check your moving insurance or get additional art insurance coverage to safeguard against any unforeseen incidents.
• Photographic Documentation: Take detailed photographs of each artwork and collectible for insurance purposes and condition verification.
• Keep Inventory List: Maintain an inventory list of all transported items and their condition to track them effectively.
• Avoid Stacking: When loading the moving truck, avoid stacking heavy boxes or furniture on top of delicate artworks or collectibles.
• NEVER . . . Lay Flat:  Never lay pictures or artwork flat . . . always stand upright in the appropriate wooden or cardboard crates or containers.
• Unpacking Prioritization: Unpack and place artwork and collectibles first in your new home to minimize potential handling risks.

Transporting valuable artwork and collectibles demands extra caution, but with proper planning and professional assistance, you can ensure the safe arrival of these treasured items to your new abode.

Dealing with Cash and Financial Instruments