Moving tips: computers and antiques
Moving Computers
According to Stevens Worldwide Van Lines, "A personal computer represents an investment - whether you use it to plan your family's budget, as a word processor, to monitor your investments, or simply to enjoy video games. Naturally, you wish to safeguard it from damage at the time of a move.
A professional mover is best qualified to properly pack your home computer. If you choose to pack yourself, your computer should be packed in its original cartons and packing material when possible. If you have discarded them, choose a sturdy box large enough to permit you to surround the computer with packing material (crumpled blank newsprint and plastic bubble pack are best).
The floppy or hard disks which contain your programming and stored data should preferably be moved with you. These pieces are sensitive to heat and cold, and warping could occur with the extreme heat or cold that can build up in a moving van. As a precaution, you may wish to duplicate all of your stored material onto backup disks and send these to your destination via insured mail or other secure means.
The disk drive must be handled with care. This unit, which consists of several mechanized parts, is especially sensitive to jarring. Use a large enough box to accommodate the disk drive and plenty of packing material on all four sides.
The reminder of your computer (the keyboard and display screen) consists of solid state circuitry, much like that of a television set. Place crumpled newsprint in the bottom of the box and pack as you would the other components."
Moving Antiques
According to Stevens Worldwide Van Lines, "Your antiques are prized and valuable possessions. Naturally you want to protect them from any possible damage.
Any item you own that is of extraordinary value should be appraised by a qualified individual; you may even wish to obtain more than one appraisal. Obtaining an appraisal may also be necessary for the transfer of your homeowners insurance policy to verify the value of your personal property. The best way to locate an appraiser is through a recommendation by an attorney, insurance agent, or look in the Yellow Pages under "appraisers". You can request the "Directory of Certified Professional Property Appraisers". Which is a state-by-state referral list. To receive the most current issue, contact the American Society of Appraisers, P.O. Box 17265, Washington D.C. 20041, or call 1-800-ASA-VALU. Most appraisers either charge a flat fee or an hourly rate for their services.
In addition to obtaining an appraisal, make certain you have clear photographs or videos of your antiques. Additionally, you should make a note of any signatures, serial numbers or manufacturer marks on all objects and carry this note with you.
Before your belongings are packed, you may wish to check antique items for any special cleaning that may be required. Check your local hardware, furniture store or antique dealer for cleaning products for fine pieces.
Avoid the use of any type of oil or wax product on wood pieces immediately before you move, especially if these items will be going into storage. Some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from the furniture pads. If you are uncertain about the care of a particular piece, the local historical society or library may have books on the subject. An antique dealer may have helpful hints as well."
