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6 Steps to Create a Inventory List to Track What You're Moving

December 3, 2020

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6 Steps to Create a Inventory List to Track What You're Moving

Even though you've carefully packed all of your belongings and made sure you didn't leave anything behind, there's still the risk that items could go missing between your old house and the new house. It's even more important that you verify that everything has arrived before you sign-off on the waybill issued by the moving company if you are hiring local movers.

It's important to know exactly what's going to come with you before you move. Things may be lost or destroyed, but the insurance company can cover the loss or damage if you particularly know what should arrive at your new home.

Here are 6 steps to create a household inventory list.


Conduct a household inventory and packing list

This inventory list may also be preserved in the event of emergencies, like fire or other natural disasters. It can also help if your home is ever broken into. Your things can be recovered with serial numbers and good descriptions.

Remember that if you hire movers to relocate your things, they will also give you a list of what they have moved and a list to which you will refer when they move you to your new home. They're supposed to tag all your things and notice what the object is before it leaves your house. Although this list serves as a good guide to what has been relocated, what has been packed in each box or bag will not be detailed. That's why having an inventory list is so crucial.


Make copies of all valuable documents

In case you do not have electronic copies, you can obtain copies of your documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, wills, insurance policies, etc. When you head to your new place, originals should move with you while copies will move with the rest of your household items.

Create a record of your belongings

This can be achieved quickly and conveniently using a video camera or a camera on your mobile. If you choose this approach, make an audio recording for it or add notes to the still photos to provide details about when it was purchased and how much it is worth. It's probably better to record how much you paid for the item and let its value be decided by the insurance company. Have someone support you when using a video camera by holding things, opening doors and drawers to make sure you get a full record.


Use an existing list 

When you use an already existing list, obtained from your insurance provider or a simple notepad, you can also create a written record. Again, record when the item was bought and how much you paid at the time for it. Moreover, record serial numbers or any distinctive features, just in case if the item is lost.


Take pictures of all your things

Based on what you own, photograph, or define most of the things you own. Also, clothing items, kitchen items, and garage equipment, particularly if there is a value attached, should be recorded. If any of your things go missing, this would also benefit the moving company. They should retrace their steps, check to see if your things can be found with other clients.


Make a copy of the list

Finally, make multiple copies of the list, video, and images after you've finished your documentation. Although you retain the original copy, keep copies with a friend or relative. This will mean that even if you miss the original, a copy can be found.


If you need any assistance with your move, please contact Local Movers in Hartford  and get a free quote


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