10 Tips for Moving Valuable Possessions.

Business Editors

WARREN, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 20, 2003

It's springtime, and more House For Sale Signs are propping up throughout the country. If you're planning on moving this year, before long, you and your family may be preparing to pack up. Protecting your valuables, especially fragile and expensive works of art, antiques and collectibles, can be particularly challenging. Here are 10 tips from the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies, leading insurers of valuable articles such art, antiques and jewelry:

Hire expert movers. Many people check references and ask if their mover has experience in packing and moving the type of objects they own. Unfortunately, they often fail to inquire if their mover will transport their possessions on climate-controlled trucks with air-ride shock absorbers that minimize road vibration. In addition, people should ask how long the moving trip will take and what security measures will be taken during a trip.

Assess condition and make repairs. Examine all objects for damage and repair them prior to the move. For example, make sure that paintings are securely attached to their frames.

Record all possessions. Document every object and its condition. It is better to videotape than photograph each item. Videotaping will enable you to record the item from multiple angles. Keep the videotape in a safe place such as a bank vault during and after the move, so it is not accidentally lost or destroyed.

Decide who packs what. You should pack jewelry and negotiable and other important documents. Let the movers pack fragile items. In most cases, moving companies are liable only for items they pack.

Clean your hands. To prevent damaging porous materials such as ceramics and lacquer finishes or corroding metals, make sure your hands are clean, dry and free of lotions before you begin moving objects. Alternatively, put on a pair of cotton or surgical gloves. Also remove rings, watches and bracelets and make sure that buttons and belt buckles will not come in contact with the objects you are about to handle.

Handle objects carefully. Small or light objects may be moved around your home in a padded tray or basket. Lift larger items by the base or body, never by handles or extended limbs. Likewise, lift furniture by gripping the frame or base, not arms or legs. Framed artwork should be moved in a vertical position by handling a secure area of the frame. Take special precautions to avoid touching the front or back surfaces of a painting or drawing.

Determine appropriate shipping containers. Many valuable items should not be packed in cardboard cartons. Museum-quality crates should be specifically constructed for each item. These crates are shock-absorbent, water-resistant and tamperproof. When moving computers and stereo equipment, use original boxes that were designed for the piece of equipment. If original boxes are not available--call your local electronics store to see if they have a spare.

Select appropriate packing materials. Wrap small objects and sculptures in acid-free paper, not newsprint. Tape the wrapping closed so it does not unravel. Fill in the crate or carton with packing material to prevent movement during shipping.

If you must store it, keep it in a safe place. Like your movers, the warehouse you select should specialize in antique and fine arts storage. The facility should offer a high level of security, fire protection and water protection, and it should be well maintained. A smelly warehouse may indicate mold, mildew or fungus. Make sure that loading dock doors are protected and motion sensors are installed throughout. In addition, the facility should require visitors to sign in and sign out, and it should have a computerized inventory system.

Check insurance coverage. The liability of movers is often quite limited. Find out what type of insurance they carry by requesting a certificate of insurance. Prior to your move, check with your agent and broker if your homeowners or other insurance policies cover "goods in transit."

Member insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies form a multi-billion dollar organization providing property and casualty insurance for personal and commercial customers worldwide through 8,000 independent agents and brokers. Chubb's global network includes branches and affiliates throughout North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. Additional information on Chubb can be found on the Internet at www.Chubb.com/personal.