Painted vases, grand pianos, and heirloom furniture – antiques are amazing reminders of the past and have a unique value. So when moving these beloved pieces – whether to a new country or just to a nearby senior apartment complex – it’s important to take extra care to ensure your items arrive intact at their new home.
While this isn’t the simplest process, there are some steps you can take to make your move a bit smoother.
Take Photos of Each Item
You want to take pictures of all your antiques before loading them. First, because it will help with insurance claims should anything happen to them during the move, and second because it’ll make it much easier to organize the items once you arrive.
Take multiple pictures of each item from different angles, as well as any important paperwork you have regarding its origin or provenance. If you’re moving a particularly important piece such as a family heirloom, consider writing down and taking a picture of the story associated with it, as this can further be used to protect it and its value.
Pack Properly
When packing your antiques, you’ll want to make sure that nothing moves around or is subjected to too much jostling. That means using the right boxes and packing materials for each item. For example, use pillows and bubble wrap to protect fragile items, such as glass or porcelain.
You’ll also want to make sure to keep heavier items on the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.
Label Everything
Labeling boxes is especially important when dealing with antiques because it’s one of the sure ways to make sure everything arrives at the right destination.
Label every box, including which room it should be placed in. For example, if you have a large painting that needs to be hung in the living room, make sure that it’s labeled accordingly.
You should also include an inventory list of what’s inside each box, as well as any special instructions regarding how to handle it. This way, if something is missing or damaged in transit, you’ll know precisely which item is affected and can take the proper steps to resolve it.
Find Professional Help
When moving antiques, it’s always a good idea to hire professional movers who specialize in handling delicate items. They’ll have the right materials, equipment, and experience necessary for ensuring that your items arrive safely at their intended destination.
Start by asking family and friends for recommendations, or look online for reputable companies in your area. And always read reviews and check out the company’s website before making a decision.
Moving antiques can be a daunting task, but taking these steps can help make the process much smoother. From taking pictures of your items to finding professional movers with experience in handling delicate items, taking the time to do things right is the best way to ensure all your valuable antiques arrive at their new home safely and intact.
