Moving household goods is always a hectic experience. Even though we do our best to remove as much stress as possible, packing every single thing you own and transporting it across the country takes a lot of effort. We know you have a million things to think about, like finding a job or a great school for your children, but there is still one more thing you should think about: ensuring the protection of your household goods.
How to Keep Household Items Safe During a Move
There are a number of steps you can take, after securely packing your belongings, to make sure the moving process runs as smoothly as possible. Protect yourself from the unexpected when moving household goods with these essential tools.
1. Valuation
Valuation is the most practical way to protect your belongings when working with cross country movers. You can speak with a National Van Lines agent about available valuation packages. Even though we have high standards for our movers and drivers, the unexpected can still effect a move. In the event of lost or damaged goods, valuation makes repair or reimbursement of these items the responsibility of the van line.
This protection comes in various plans with various deductibles, including a no-deductible plan. Your National Van Lines agent can tell you more about these plans available for your move. One of the greatest benefits of valuation is that it doesn’t affect homeowner’s insurance premiums.
2. The Inventory Sheet
Every professional moving company will provide you with some form of an inventory sheet. Sometimes, you are provided an inventory sheet to fill out yourself and sometimes agents are able walk through your home with you to complete the document. This document verifies the items you are moving and what condition they are in. If you have any problems with lost or damaged items, your mover will first check this sheet to make sure the item in question was on the truck.
Inventory is also a great help in the rare case a missing item is found. When necessary, an inventory sheet makes it easier to verify which customer an item belongs to and return it to them. For help completing this key step, read our detailed guide on how to create a moving inventory list.
3. Reliable Professional Packing Services
Packing is your first line of defense and the most important. Professionally packing items, using quality, professional packing material, is the best way to prepare your items for their long distance trip. Moving household goods across the country is no small feat, but any loss or damage will be minimal to none with the right materials and packing techniques. Make sure you label boxes in an organized and noticeable way, as well. Doing so will help separate your household goods from others on the truck.
4. Understand How Your Items Are Protected
Typically, most professional packing services offer different types of protection coverage. Here are two basic but very different types of coverage.
Basic Carrier Liability – This coverage would pay 60 cents per pound per article for loss or damage, and is included at no additional charge. But it is extremely limited coverage – for example, a 20 pound television would be settled for $12.
Full Replacement Value – This coverage is equal to the repair or replacement cost at current prices. A deductible option can reduce the premium, if desired. Be sure to discuss this with your moving counselor.
Organization and protection will always be key to a successful long distance move. Don’t let your household goods move across the country without the best protection possible. Before hiring a residential moving company, verify they offer these vital services and are committed to meeting rigorous standards for protecting your belongings during relocation.
Contact Us for Household Moving Services Nationwide
National Van Lines is a trusted commercial and residential moving company. Our network of moving agents provides expert relocations, including packing, storage and transportation solutions. For assistance, call 800-323-1962 or request a free moving quote now.
