It’s finally time to move, and one has to prepare for the long-distance movers properly. You should start making a record of all items you want to keep and transport at least four weeks in advance. Choose to either write everything down on a piece of paper, use a checklist app or take photos of your things. It will help you organize the move as well as unpack after the relocation.
How and Why to Create a Moving Inventory?
Have you decided to hire a cross-country moving company and relocate to another city? One of the crucial steps is creating a moving inventory checklist before you start to pack your precious belongings. Knowing where you packed your valuables and what condition they are in will allow you to file an insurance claim in case anything gets damaged in transit.
What Is a Moving Inventory and Why Is It Important When Relocating With Long-Distance Movers?
A moving inventory is a list of all valuables in a person’s home, their estimated value, and their condition. You should have one if you want to sign up for homeowners or renters insurance. Not only will a detailed record be helpful in case anything gets damaged or stolen during your move, but it will also be useful in case of floods and fire. Every list should include electronics, furniture, appliances as well as expensive equipment. When it comes to valuables, one shouldn’t omit any collectibles, memorabilia, or artwork.
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What Are the Benefits of Having an Inventory Checklist or a Moving List of Items When Relocating With Cross-Country Movers?
When you contact your long-distance moving company and request a free quote, you will need your inventory checklist to get an accurate estimate of your relocation costs. The cross-country movers will benefit from it also since they will be able to assess how much time will be required to load the truck and pack your furniture. They will come up with an accurate price for their relocation services as well as packing services.
What is more, once you start categorizing all possessions, you’ll gain a better understanding of what you have and what is outdated, damaged, worn out, or a duplicate. Knowing exactly what you should get rid of will make the decluttering process easier and simpler. Ensure that your checklist features only the necessary possessions.
Don’t Worry About Packing – A Home Inventory List Will Save You Time and Effort
The time-consuming process of packing will be cut short with a detailed relocation checklist. It will be practical to know how to organize all items and what should be packed together. Getting the appropriate amount of packing materials and inventory boxes on the Craigslist website won’t be an issue. There will be no rummaging through boxes since you can prepare labels, and you’ll know precisely where you placed everything. Therefore, unpacking after a move will be quick and smooth, and you’ll save valuable time.
Once You Know What Needs to Be Transported, You Can Choose Appropriate Liability Coverage From a Cross-Country Moving Company
When you know the value of your possessions, it will be easier to select the kind of liability coverage that is most suitable in your situation. Bear in mind that noting down the estimated value for each item will come in handy while movers are disassembling your items and loading them into the truck.
With photos, video, warranties, and authenticity certificates that serve as proof of the condition the belongings were in before the move, you can file an insurance claim against cross-country moving companies if something gets stolen or damaged.
How Do You Make a Home Inventory List Before the Long-Distance Moving Company Team Arrives?
People usually ask – how do you take moving inventory? The process of documenting everything you own is straightforward and simple. All one needs is a camera, a piece of paper, or a computer. Go room by room and write down everything that needs to be transported. Start with the least used rooms like the basement and the attic since people usually forget about them in the midst of relocation stress.
Add a separate column on the sheet for the description of the item and estimated value. Bear in mind that details are important, so any flaw or imperfection should be described. Also, it would be ideal to group belongings into categories based on the rooms they will be placed in the new home. Note on the top of the page where each item belongs.
Take Pictures or Record a Video of Your Things in Inventory Boxes
With a camera or a phone, take pictures of your furniture, car, artwork, and expensive equipment. One can add notes to the photos so as to include details on when an item was purchased and what flaws, cracks, fading, and scratches are clearly visible. While recording a video, you can also make an audio diary by addressing all necessary information about your relocation essentials. We recommend having someone there to help you open the drawers or doors while you record your possessions.
The Crucial Step Is to Group Low-Cost Items
It will be time-consuming and tedious work if you start inundating your piece of paper with low-cost possessions. For instance, in case you own ten shirts or pairs of shoes, don’t make an entry for each. What you should do is note them down or label them as a box of “20 shirts” and estimate their value as a whole. Bear in mind that you should not do that with high-value possessions. Valuables should be listed individually, and accurate cost information should be specified.
How Should You Estimate Value Before Moving Cross Country?
You should use your best judgment and try to estimate the item’s current cost. If you own a collectible that has become more expensive over time, you should consider researching the current going rate online. For some rare and high-value objects, a professional appraisal would be the best option. Document the appraisal and worth of signed art and jewelry.
Having a receipt and knowing the price will also be helpful when determining the value. In case there is no receipt, or you can’t remember how much you paid, look at the item’s cost online.
Add Packing Information to the Moving Box Inventory
When you start organizing your packing, you should know how an item is packed and what precautions have to be taken to ensure it stays intact during transportation will make the process smoother. With moving box inventory information, you will know what items are packed in certain relocation boxes, what room the box belongs to, and what labels are associated with it. Movers will have an easier job of loading the truck if they know what each box contains.
Watch this insightful video with numerous packing tips and tricks you can use to simplify the entire process when moving across the country.
Example of a Household Inventory Sheet for One Room to Prepare for Cross-Country Moving Services
Here, you will find a perfect version of an inventory sheet you can use when investing in cross-country moving services. One is free to add any extra information and columns, but a standard form should look like this.
| Item | Quantity | Packing Information | Condition Before Moved Out | Estimated Value | Condition When Moved In |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bookcase | |||||
| Chair, arm | |||||
| Chest of drawers | |||||
| TV | |||||
| Lamp | |||||
| Mirror | |||||
| Stereo system |
Clean Your Belongings Before Determining Their Condition
Certain scratches, dents, or markings cannot be easily noticed if there is dirt, grime or dust. Your wooden furniture should be polished before you start assessing the condition. Couch cushions, carpets, and curtains should be washed thoroughly. Use the best and most effective cleaning supplies to get rid of any smudges and clean everything before relocating.
Don’t forget to take your vehicle to a car wash in case you will be shipping it cross-country. Upon receiving the car after the move, obvious dents and markings will be clearly visible.
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Use Digital Tools and Apps for iOS and Android Devices to Your Advantage
Available digital tools will help you create a checklist that would be easily accessible on your smartphone or laptop. Search in the app store and find many options that will be suitable for you. Don’t underestimate or avoid reviews before downloading any. It would be ideal to choose an app that will allow you to export information and lists so you can never lose crucial information you’ve gathered and stored. Here are all apps you can use:
- Encircle – It works both on Android and iOS. With Encircle, you can upload an unlimited number of photos to your checklist and divide them into categories and rooms.
- Nest Egg – The app functions on iOS and allows one to categorize possessions, upload photos, and scan barcodes. What is more, it features online price checking.
- Memento Database – It can be used on an Android device or a computer. With a free version of the Memento Database, you can organize your possessions how you want to and upload unlimited photos, as well as export your checklist to a Google spreadsheet.
Tick the Boxes on the Checklist During Loading
While the movers are loading the boxes onto the truck, you can tick the boxes on your checklist. It would be ideal to note what part of the truck the item or a box is placed in and what other possessions surround it.
Once you start unpacking, you can use your checklist again to see whether everything was transported safely. Make a small check next to things that arrived in the same condition. It will be impossible not to notice if anything has been damaged or gone missing.
FAQ
Should You Draw Up Your Own Checklist or Expect Moving Companies to Provide You With One?
When you request an in-home estimate, the movers will arrive and do a walkthrough of your home. They will assess how many possessions you want to transport and make one of their own.
However, these lists are drawn up for the sole purpose of determining relocation costs that are based on the number of things you want to take. But, when you write your own, you can add information on estimated value and condition, which will help when filing a complainant or insurance claim.
Do I Need Pictures of Everything I Own?
No, it is not necessary to include pictures on your checklist. But if you want solid proof for insurance claims and warranties, it would be beneficial to have some pictures. Take individual photos or simply record a video.
What Needs to Be Included in the Relocation Inventory for Movers?
The best option is to include all household items. For some homes, this is impractical because there is an overwhelming number of possessions. So, if you want to narrow it down as much as possible, try to include only valuables and belongings you want to keep track of during the move.
Ready to Document What You Need in the New Home Before Investing in Long-Distance Moving Services?
Before choosing a company and investing in long-distance moving services, ensure that you have prepared to move. Create a checklist of all that you want to transport and note the condition as well as the estimated value. It will be useful for the movers as well since they will know what they need to pay attention to, and it will come in handy if something gets damaged. Also, keep it after the move so you can have proof in case of natural disasters or thefts.
FAQ
What Is a Moving Inventory?
A moving inventory is a detailed list of all the items you plan to move. It typically includes a description of each item, its quantity, and its condition. It can be helpful in several ways, including estimating the cost of your move, keeping track of your belongings during the move, and identifying any lost or damaged items after the move. Creating a moving inventory can also help you declutter and simplify your belongings by allowing you to identify items that you no longer need or use. This type of inventory can be created manually or using a digital tool or app and should be updated regularly as you pack and prepare for your move.
Why Is It Important to Create a Moving Inventory?
Creating a long-distance moving inventory is an important step in the moving process, as it can help you keep track of your belongings, simplify your move, and protect your possessions. A moving inventory allows you to identify items that you no longer need or use, which can help you declutter and reduce the number of items you need to pack and transport. Additionally, such a list can be helpful in estimating the cost of your move, identifying any lost or damaged items after the move, and ensuring that all items are accounted for and properly packed. By creating a moving inventory, you can help make your move more organized, efficient, and stress-free.
How Do I Create a Moving Inventory?
To create a moving inventory, you should start by going through each room of your house and identifying all of the items you plan to move. Write down a detailed description of each item, including its condition, and assign it a number. You can use a digital tool or app to make the process easier and more organized. As you pack, label each box with the corresponding number as in the inventory list. This will make it easier to keep track of your belongings and ensure that each item is accounted for during the move. Be sure to update your moving inventory regularly as you pack and prepare for your move. By creating a detailed moving inventory, you can make the moving process more organized, efficient, and stress-free.
What Information Should I Include in My Moving Inventory?
When creating a moving inventory, it’s important to include detailed information about each item you plan to move. This information should include a description of the item, such as its size, weight, and condition, as well as its location in your home. You may also want to include the estimated value of the item for insurance purposes. Assign each item a unique number or code, and be sure to label each box with the corresponding number and contents. You can also use color-coded labels to indicate the room in which the box belongs, which can make it easier to organize your belongings during the move. By including detailed information in your moving inventory, you can ensure that your belongings are properly packed, transported, and accounted for during the move.
Can I Use a Spreadsheet or a Mobile App to Create My Moving Inventory?
Yes, you can use a spreadsheet or a mobile app to create your moving inventory. Spreadsheets, such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, can be an effective way to organize your inventory information and keep it easily accessible, or you can download the one found on our website. Mobile apps, such as Sortly or Moving Checklist can also be helpful in creating and managing your moving inventory.
These apps often have features such as barcode scanning, photo and video uploading, and label printing, which can help simplify the inventory process. Using a digital tool or app can make it easier to create, edit, and share your moving inventory with others involved in the move, and can help ensure that all items are properly accounted for and packed. By using a spreadsheet or mobile app to create your moving inventory, you can make the moving process more organized, efficient, and stress-free.
How Do I Update My Moving Inventory as I Pack and Move My Belongings?
Updating your moving inventory as you pack and move your belongings is an important step in keeping track of your items and ensuring that they are properly accounted for during the move. To update your moving inventory, you should start by adding any new items to the list as you pack them. Be sure to assign each item a unique number or code and label each box with the corresponding number and contents.
As you load and unload the boxes, check off each item on the inventory list to ensure that it has been properly transported. If any items are damaged or lost during the move, update the inventory list accordingly and note any necessary insurance claims. By updating your moving inventory as you pack and move your belongings, you can ensure that your items are properly accounted for and transported to your new home.
Do I Need to Share My Moving Inventory With My Moving Company?
Providing your cross-country moving company with a detailed list of items will allow them to estimate the cost of your move accurately and ensure that they have the necessary equipment and resources to handle your belongings. It can also help them to prepare and organize their truck, especially if you have large or fragile items that require special handling. Additionally, sharing your moving inventory can help prevent any misunderstandings or disputes about missing or damaged items during the move. While it’s not required to share your moving inventory with your long-distance moving company, it can be beneficial to do so to ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
How Does a Moving Inventory Affect My Moving Insurance Coverage?
A moving inventory can play an important role in determining the insurance coverage for your move. If you purchase insurance coverage through your moving company or a third-party provider, they may require a detailed inventory of your belongings in order to provide adequate coverage. This inventory can help establish the value of your items and the potential cost of replacing them in the event of loss or damage during the move. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of your insurance coverage carefully to ensure that you understand the extent of the coverage and any exclusions or limitations. By providing a detailed and accurate moving inventory, you can help protect your belongings and ensure that you have the necessary coverage in case of loss or damage during the move.
Can a Moving Inventory Help Me Identify Missing or Damaged Items After the Move?
Yes, a moving inventory can be very helpful in identifying missing or damaged items after the move. By having a detailed list of all the items that were packed and transported, you can easily compare it with what was delivered to your new home. If there are any discrepancies or missing items, you can quickly and easily identify them and take appropriate action, such as filing a claim with your moving company or insurance provider. Additionally, if any items were damaged during the move, you can use the inventory to provide a clear and detailed description of the damage when filing a claim. By using a moving inventory to identify missing or damaged items, you can help protect your belongings and ensure that you receive appropriate compensation in case of loss or damage during the move.
How Can a Moving Inventory Make the Unpacking Process Easier and More Organized?
A moving inventory can be very helpful in making the unpacking process easier and more organized. By having a detailed list of all the items you moved, you can easily prioritize which boxes to unpack first and locate specific items quickly and easily. By labeling each box with the corresponding inventory number and its contents, you can ensure that items are unpacked in the correct room and avoid unnecessary confusion and clutter. You can also use the inventory to identify any missing or damaged items and take appropriate action, such as filing a claim with your moving company or insurance provider. By using a moving inventory to guide your unpacking process, you can save time and effort and ensure that your new home is organized and functional as quickly as possible.
