Moving in Chicago? If you’re like most people anticipating a move, one of your top concerns is to protect valuables while moving- that are most valuable to you. Whether your challenge is navigating the elevators in a high-rise in the Loop or managing weather conditions along Lake Michigan, knowing how to protect your valuables while moving is crucial for a successful relocation.

Essential Strategies for Protecting Your Belongings

Preparation and planning are the keys to everything arriving in one piece and secure.

  • Inventory and Documentation – Start by writing down the items that you’re most concerned about. Your list should include serial numbers, warranties, and appraisals. Take photographs of each item before they’re packed or taken by movers, and make digital copies of all important documents.
  • Invest in Professional Packing and Packing Materials – Professionals like the team at Joey’s Movers understand the importance of protecting your artwork, heirlooms, and other valued items. High-quality packing materials include custom crating for artwork, museum-quality wrapping materials, climate-controlled containers, and specialized packaging for electronics. Using these will make a real difference in assuring your things arrive in one piece and undamaged.

Room-by-Room Protection Guide

Everybody’s decorating style and furnishings are unique to them, but the room-by-room protection guidelines below generally apply to most homes.

  • Living Room – May contain flat-screen televisions that require custom crates; photographs that require corner protectors for frames and acid-free paper for wrapping artwork; and special protection for antique furniture. Fragile decorative items also require special wrapping.
  • Bedrooms – May contain family heirlooms that require special protection. Mirrors need to be carefully wrapped; jewelry needs to be packed in secure containers; digital copies of documents should be uploaded to the cloud and valuable clothing should be packed in special containers.
  • Kitchen & Dining Rooms – Fine china and crystal should be wrapped individually and packed; high-end appliances need special cushioning and attention; valuable cookware should be secured. Wine collections require special crates and handling.

Insurance and Liability

You must have adequate coverage for everything you’re relocating. Make sure your moving company has full-value protection, released value coverage, third-party insurance, and specialty item coverage. You may also want to secure additional rider policies for high-value items.

💬Frequently Asked Questions

1️⃣ What is the best way to transport valuables when moving?

Best practices include:

  • Personally handling items that are irreplaceable.
  • Secure insurance coverage
  • Document the condition of all your belongings before they are moved
  • Work with reputable, highly regarded Chicago movers

2️⃣ How can I ensure that my valuables are safe when I move?

  • Hire licensed, bonded movers
  • Maintain visual supervision
  • Use tracking devices like Apple AirTag
  • Keep inventory lists of what is being moved
  • Take photos of everything that is being moved

3️⃣ How can I prevent movers from stealing my stuff?

Research moving companies thoroughly and only hire companies that are bonded, insured, experienced, and highly reputable. Check review sites and credentials, and monitor loading and unloading.

Chicago-Specific Considerations

When you’re planning a move in Chicago, protecting your valuables also requires consideration of elements that are unique to the city.

  • Weather Protection – Chicago has highly changeable weather that can have a significant impact on your valuables. If you’re moving temperature-sensitive items, you need to be conscious of winter cold and moisture, summer humidity, wind, and other environmental concerns.
  • Building Requirements – If you’re relocating into one of Chicago’s high-rise apartment or condominium buildings or a structure with tight hallways, corners, or staircases, special attention will be needed. It’s a good idea to investigate loading dock and elevator rules as well as any additional insurance requirements imposed by your building. Moving companies will need to be apprised of your special needs items so that they can be sure to have the appropriate equipment.

Professional Services

When you’re moving fine art, electronics, pianos, wine or record collections, or antique furniture, it’s advised that you arrange for specialized moving services like those offered by Joey’s Movers. They will arrange for special packing and equipment to ensure that your treasured items arrive safely, without damaging your new location.

DIY Protection Methods

If you’re moving yourself instead of using professionals, make sure you’re familiar with professional packing techniques for special items, including double boxing, distributing weight appropriately, and generous use of cushioning. Taking the time to label special care items and using secure sealing methods will also help provide peace of mind on moving day.

To protect valuables while moving requires careful planning, proper materials, and attention to detail. Working with a reputable Chicago moving company will remove all the stress so you can focus on settling into your new home. For more information on the services offered by Joey’s Movers, call us today.