Hello! As your big moving day nears, it’s common to be preoccupied with boxes, furniture, schedules, and access to trucks. However, there’s one thing that may not have been on your radar: valuation. It may seem trivial, but, believe me, it will matter if anything gets lost or broken free moving valuation Chicago.

So, what is moving valuation? Essentially, it’s the level of financial liability for your household goods assumed by a moving company while it is in transit. It is included as part of the moving contract and may affect the settlement of a loss or damage claim.

The first thing you should know is this: valuation is not equal to the cost of your move.

Read the Terms Before Signing

Most moving companies will provide you with several options for valuation at a price. Each option will have certain terms and limitations. For example, they could base their projected compensation on an items’ weight – which could result in some unexpected outcomes for high-value, low-weight items.

Think of the examples of a laptop, which could cost you a few grand but only weighs a couple of pounds or iPhone, which costs you a thousand dollars but only weighs a few ounces.

Additional coverage for an additional fee? Other options may provide you with more extensive protection. This document will outline what is and is not covered.

Make sure to read the small print. Watch for limits, deductibles, exclusions, payment limits, and deadlines for filing claims. If there’s anything you don’t understand, ask the mover to explain it to you in simple English.

Pay Attention to Chicago Access

Your apartment layout can affect how smooth your move goes. In Chicago, some buildings have tight staircases, and many older homes have limited space to navigate.

ELEVATOR RESERVATIONS may matter, as well. Certain buildings have designated times for moving, while others may have Loading Hours.

Then there are those tight corners.

A large sofa may have to weasel its way into the house through a small door, down the stairs, and around several turns before it reaches the truck. One bad move and it could be broken.

Notify your moving team if there are stairs, an elevator, a lengthy walk, no parking, or anything that is heavier or larger than normal.

Photograph Your Belongings

Take some photos before the load. Photograph your high-value furniture, electronics, and appliances, paintings, or any other high-value items.

Ensure that the damage is visible in all photos.

Make a simple inventory. Write down valuable items, an estimate of their value and where they are. Keep the receipts for your more expensive buys if possible.

Save all digitally. Phone folders or cloud storage can come to the rescue when your house is overwhelmed by boxes.

Know What Happens After Damage

Inquire about the company’s damage claim process prior to your move starting. Determine the time frame in which you’ll need to inform them of damage and the documentation you may require.

Additionally, see whether you can fix the broken items or take a different course of action for compensation.

All about Moving Valuation in Chicago By Upminster Moving & Storage – October 14, 2023 It is very useful to familiarize yourself with moving valuation in Chicago prior to your move so you know all the options you have and can avoid any unpleasant surprises.