3 TIPS FOR MOVING COLLECTIONS

Over the years many homeowners have taken collecting to a level never before seen in America. Over the years we have seen massive collections that sometimes take up entire homes. (Picture a 3,000 square foot home completely filled with giant Fairground Organs…) Moving these collections is often a very time-consuming and expensive job. Also, not all moving companies should be trusted with moving someone’s prized collection of Star Wars figures or Art Deco furniture. Mishandled, misplaced or just plain stolen items; hiring the wrong moving company can be disastrous.

Here are three tips for moving collections.

1. Do it yourself – If the collection is small enough to move yourself it is always a good idea to do so. This eliminates any possibility of damage, loss or theft. Also, sometimes collectors forget exactly what they have and once a moving company has handled the collection it becomes a “He-said-she-said” situation which never is good.
2. Document everything - If the collection has to be moved by a moving company, document what you have by taking pictures, listing conditional issues, labelling exactly what’s in boxes and keep for your records. When the moving company does start packing and loading, let them know that you have documented the items and their conditions. This makes them aware that they are on the hook with any discrepancies.
3. Inspect thoroughly at the new home - Make sure to inspect and document any discrepancies with the moving company before they leave. If any damage or losses need to be claimed, it is important to have this documented to help make any insurance claims which may ensue. Once the moving company leaves, these issues can become a matter of interpretation by an insurance company and may be reason for the denial of the claim.

The William C Huff White Glove Moving and Storage Company takes extra steps to advise clients (and even non-clients) on how to best be prepared for moving collections. A few years ago we highly recommended that a Star Wars collector make sure their collection stayed with them during the move from New England to Florida, even though William C Huff Company was not moving them. That person was fortunate that they did as it did turn out that other items did turn up missing.

The William C Huff White Glove Moving and Storage Company have moved many prized collections over the years. Some of these collections have been worth millions and, there have never been any issues of loss or damage. We take pride in having earned a spotless reputation and we work hard to maintain it by carefully selecting and training our staff at the highest level.