When it is time to relocate to another state or country, one of the many concerns you will encounter is how to get your items safe and damage-free to your new home. Indeed, accidents are inevitable. However, there are ways to minimize the risk. You can maximize the chance that all your items remain in their excellent condition while in transit until they reach their intended destination.
So if are worried about your fragile items or your family’s heirloom getting broken or lost while moving, international removalists share five ways to keep them unscratched throughout the removal process.
1. Hire a reputable removal company
Professional removalists are your best partner when relocating to a new house. Regardless of the moving distance, they can help you in many ways. In addition to moving your items from your old house to your new residence, they can also pack your items on your behalf.
Investing in professional packing services is an excellent way of ensuring that your items are packed expertly. So no matter what happens while in transit, everything will remain safe and damage-free because they are packed using the right equipment and techniques.
For instance, if the vehicle suddenly stopped in the middle of the road for whatever reason, you have peace of mind that all your items won’t bump into each other, leading to damage. Removalists are equipped not just with the proper supplies but with the right packing methods as well. They know how to properly position everything in a way that nothing will fall or move even an inch during the move.
An experienced removal company knows what factors will pose risks and what to anticipate. Thus, they can avert such issues even before they damage your goods. Most importantly, they provide liability coverage to any unavoidable item damage.
2. Use only high-quality packing materials
Getting professional packing services does not always mean that you let the pros pack all your items. You have the option to let them pack the fragile items alone, especially if you have a limited budget.
When it comes to packing your items, always use high-quality packing materials. Ask your removalist if they can provide you with all your required packing supplies.
- Start with the right boxes. Most people think that big is always better. However, if you only have a few small items to pack, it is not safe for them to be in a huge box. A slight movement can lead to damage. Heavier items can end up crushing the lighter ones. Thus, you must get sturdy moving boxes of different sizes.
- Get some packing papers and bubble wrap. To ensure the safety of your glass or breakable items, packing papers and bubble wrap are great assets. Wrap your items individually before stacking them over each other.
- Protect your furniture with moving blankets or plastic wraps. Proper padding will prevent your furnishings from getting any tears or scratches during the move. So make sure to wrap your furniture with either a moving blanket or a plastic wrap. These will provide the cushioning you need to ensure the safety of your goods.
3. Fill any empty spaces
When a moving box is not filled all the way, it can be crushed by another box or the items inside can bump into one another. And this can result in significant damage. So it is best to fill all the empty spaces with packing papers, blankets or towels. This is the only way to make sure that everything in the box remains in position and nothing will collapse throughout the move.
4. Make adjustments to your insurance coverage whenever necessary
The moment you know that you are relocating, you must contact your insurance company. Inform them about your removal and determine if your current policy covers your items during the move. They must explain to you what items will be covered while in transit, what kind of damage is covered, and how you will make claims. Don’t forget to ask your chosen removal company the same questions so you won’t be getting redundant coverages.
And in the event that your current policy does not provide the coverage you need, make the necessary adjustments right away. For instance, you might need to add a rider to cover your valuable and expensive items.
5. Always keep your valuables with you
Priceless items like expensive watches, jewelry, wedding bands, and cash must be kept with you at all times. Different people will go in and out of your house so make sure that all these items are safe with you during the move. Pack them smartly and keep them in a small bag that you can carry at all times, along with your other personal items and travel essentials.
Making sure that all your items are safe throughout the removal process does not have to be stressful. With a bit of planning and expert help, everything will arrive at your new house safe and sound. Most importantly, you will have enough time and energy to settle in your new home fast and easy – enroll your kids in a reputable school,meet your new neighbors, beautify the garden, and make your new property a comfortable living space for you and your family.
AUTHOR BIO
Craig Jones is the Managing Director at Aussiemove, Australia’s largest independent moving alliance. Craig is a respected member of the removalist network in Australia, having served in senior positions, including the President of the removal industries governing body, the Australian Furniture Removals Association (AFRA). With 23 years of experience at Aussiemove, he has the skills and the highly trained team to move families safely and reliably, in Adelaide, across Australia and around the world.