Move Antiques and Keep Them Safe

Of course you want to make sure that you keep your antiques safe during your entire move. But with such intricate pieces and delicate materials, it makes moving antiques a risk. There can be things that happen during a move that are outside of your control. However, it’s important to try to cover all possible scenarios with your valuable and treasured items. When you take the proper precautions, you give yourself the best chance of keeping your antiques as safe as possible.

Take a Thorough Inventory

This is one of the services On the Move can help with, but should you decide to move on your own, you will want to do a complete inventory. First, write down all of the antiques you have. Take a walk around your home and make sure you don’t miss any. Write down everything you know about the items including brand names, type, any damage to them, etc. It’s especially important to write if they have chips or marks to fabric areas. You will want to be able to document damage that happens during the move, if there is any.

Time for Appraisals

This is the ideal time to have your antiques appraised. Considering you have everything inventoried, now you should find a licensed appraiser to let you know exactly what your items are worth. Find a trustworthy appraiser by getting referrals from your friends or asking your On the Move advisor.

Verify Your Insurance

You may have insurance policies on some of your valuables, or you may have insurance through your home owner’s policy. Now is the time to see what is covered during transit. Keep in mind that you also have access to insurance when you use a reputable mover like On the Move. Determine how much coverage you need during transit and make sure you have what is required for your items.

Packing for Protection

You will want to have plenty of blankets, foam, and bubble wrap available if you are going to move antiques yourself. If you are using a mover, they will have these items on hand. You can also use newspaper or brown paper to wrap intricate finials, feet, or other protrusions to keep them from breaking off. For glassware, use plenty of wrap but also make sure they go into secure boxes. Antiques that are small, like jewelry, watches, and pins, may be better kept on your person. It depends on if you are flying to your destination or driving where you can keep things close to you. Or, use a reputable mover with a trustworthy team. Label everything clearly and make sure inventory is taken before moving and once you arrive.