Do you have a plan for keeping your items safe during your upcoming move? If you’ve hired a moving crew that will be packing your belongings as well, then you may not have to worry about getting all of the supplies yourself. If you plan to do all of the packing, then you’ll need everything from moving boxes to packing peanuts, and bubble wrap to extra padding. Aside from the proper supplies, what are the best ways to keep your stuff safe during the move? 

Here are the techniques you should know about...

Pack slowly and properly while taking inventory

The first way to keep things safer is to make sure you are packing ahead of time and packing them properly. Before you pack, keep an inventory of your belongings so that you can come up with the best strategy for how you’ll pack them and if there is anything you don’t want to bring into the new house.

Don’t pack everything the week before your move but instead, pack things a month out starting with rooms you use the least and making sure to leave a box handy for the things you’ll need first when you get to the new home. Pack things properly utilizing bubble wrap or packing peanuts in boxes, and wrap individual glass items in-between padded layers in your boxes. Then, use heavy duty tape to secure boxes and label everything with the room they belong in.

Using plastic moving boxes

One trick you may consider for your upcoming move is to choose plastic moving boxes rather than cardboard boxes. These are a more durable, easily stackable, moving box option that will save you money and time, and your belongings.

These will help you to avoid crushing items which can happen with cardboard boxes. Fill up every part of the box and be sure to use smaller boxes for heavier items like books. These can be rented and returned to the moving company after the move.

Get insurance and a declaration form

For expensive items, consider getting insurance to make sure things are covered. You can sometimes do this with a renters or homeowners policy for valuable pieces of art or heirlooms. Ask your movers about their insurance policies to protect against harm or theft.

You can also fill out a declarations form for your expensive items and submit it to your movers. The moving company will know which items are more valuable and need special attention during the move.

Get a safety deposit box

Some people choose to get a safety deposit box for the move, especially for storing things like paperwork or jewelry during the move. That way, you don’t have to worry about moving them during the big move, but instead, they will be protected until you get things settled. Just be sure not to put anything in there that you’ll need immediately, like your money or identification.

Keep valuables with you or family

If you’re still not sure about some of your valuables, consider storing them from friends or family for now. They can hold onto your valuables during the move so that you can pick them up at a later time. Then you won’t have to worry about moving them with all of the bulky boxes and wondering if they made it safely.

The best thing you can do during the moving process is to communicate with your movers on your needs, preparing ahead of time, and taking extra measure throughout the process. These are the best tips for keeping items safe during your upcoming move.