page

Get A Quote

UVL Subhead 04

See how United makes moving easy with our full menu of moving services. With countless combinations of mix and match services, you can bet that your moving quote and move plan will be unique to your needs, budget and timeline.

<h2>How to Pack Collectables</h2>
<ol>
 	<li>Wrap fragile items in bubble pack, then packing paper.</li>
 	<li>Wrap small items in brightly colored tissue so they don’t get lost in the box.</li>
 	<li>Pack in a box with other fragile items, using crumpled paper to fill in the gaps.</li>
 	<li>Close the box and secure with packing tape.</li>
 	<li>Label the box Fragile.</li>
</ol>
<div class="player"><div class="player__container"><iframe loading="lazy" title="How to Pack Collectibles" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T60fthhwVJs?" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>
<h2>Take Steps to Ensure the Safety of Your Antiques</h2>
<h3>Your collectibles are prized and often irreplaceable.</h3>
Naturally, you want to protect them from any possible damage during your move. Follow these steps to help guard fragile items against harm and properly prepare them for packing and loading on a moving van.
<h4>Step one: Get an appraisal</h4>
Any item you own that is of extraordinary value should be appraised by a qualified person; you might even want to get more than one appraisal. Obtaining an appraisal also may be necessary to verify the value of your personal property for the transferral of your homeowner’s insurance policy.

The best way to locate an appraiser is through a recommendation by an insurance agent, attorney or bank official. Membership in the American Society of Appraisers can be a sign of an appraiser’s reputation. Look in the Yellow Pages under appraisers. Or you can request the “Directory of Certified Professional Personal Property Appraisers,” which is a state-by-state referral list. To receive the most current issue, contact the American Society of Appraisers by mail at P.O. Box 17625, Washington, D.C. 20041, by telephone at 800-ASA-VALU (800-272-8258) or visit www.appraisers.org.

Most appraisers either charge a flat fee or an hourly rate for services performed. Ask in advance.

In addition to obtaining an appraisal, make sure you have clear photographs of your antiques. You might also want to use a video camera to inventory the contents of each room.

At the time of the moving cost estimate, be sure to point out to the salesperson all high-value or fragile items such as grandfather clocks, silver or china sets so advance arrangements for crating and special packing can be made. Crates can be specially built to protect items with ornate trimming or a high risk of breakage.
<h4>Step two: Review your moving protection plan</h4>
When meeting with a United representative, you’ll want to discuss valuation of your antiques. United offers several protection plans in the event of loss or damage.

Be sure that your articles of extraordinary value (items worth more than $100 per pound) are listed on United Van Lines’ High-Value Inventory Form and make sure to document any signatures, serial numbers or manufacturer marks on your possessions.

It is recommended you use a video camera to fully document the condition of your antiques and high-value items prior to your move in case you need to verify a claim. When doing so, however, make sure that you are able to get clear, high-quality footage of your items so that it is usable.
<h4>Step three: Prepare for packing</h4>
Before your belongings are packed, you may want to check antique items for any special cleaning that might be required.

Check your local hardware, furniture store or antique dealer for cleaning products for fine furniture.

Avoid the use of any type of oil or wax product on wood furniture immediately before you move especially if these items will be going into storage. Some products might soften the finish, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

If you are uncertain about the care of a particular antique piece, a local historical society or library might have books on the subject. An antique dealer may have helpful hints as well.
<h4>Step four: Pack, wrap and protect on moving day</h4>
It is very important that you or an appointed representative be present on packing and moving days to identify items needing special handling. It is also helpful so packers and van operators can ask questions along the way.

Most large, heavy pieces of furniture will be wrapped in thick pads to help protect them while in transit.
<h4>Step five: Unloading and delivery</h4>
When you reach your destination, carefully check the inventory of your household goods and antiques before signing for receipt. If any servicing or reassembly is required after you reach your new home, notify your United agent who can make any necessary arrangements. Should there be any damage, contact your United agent for assistance in filing a claim.

Be sure to consult your local United agent if you have special questions or concerns. Proper preparation prior to a move can help you enjoy your antiques for many years to come.

How to Move Antiques

Moving appliances from one home to another requires technical know-how and a great deal of planning. Ask your United Move Coordinator if you need help preparing appliances for your move.
<h2>Preparation and Service are Your Responsibility</h2>
When planning your move, be sure to properly prepare for the transportation of major appliances and other home furnishings. Depending upon the item, special precautions may be required. Our tips will help you move your appliances with care.

A moving company will do all of the heavy work—the actual transporting of your appliances from your home into the van and then into your new residence. However, the preparation of major appliances and other home furnishings is an important activity for you to schedule.

It’s your responsibility to:
<ol>
 	<li>Take care of these preparations yourself</li>
 	<li>Hire an appropriate technician</li>
 	<li>Request that your moving company manage arrangements with a technician</li>
 	<li>Have your appliances properly serviced</li>
</ol>
Your appliance technician should prepare your appliances in order to withstand handling during transit or while in storage. This process can include bracing a washer tub, disconnecting an ice maker or capping off a gas line.

<strong>Please Take Notice</strong>

Appliances require special consideration as you prepare for your move. Many large units have high-voltage connections or gas supplies that require the attention of an appliance technician. Your United agent cannot help you disconnect, service or reinstall appliances that fall into this category.

You may authorize your United agent to pre-arrange for appliance servicing before your move date. This service will be provided through a trusted, third-party service which will be added to the Bill of Lading as an additional cost.

<strong>Your United Mover Cannot:</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>Disconnect appliances (ice maker, washer, dryer, etc.) or reconnect them in the new residence.</li>
 	<li>Disconnect utilities.</li>
 	<li>Repair appliances.</li>
 	<li>Remove or install window air conditioners or television and radio antennas.</li>
 	<li>Perform wiring, plumbing, electrical or carpentry services.</li>
</ul>

How to Move Appliances

Moving with Pets: Tips To Make a Move Easy on Your Animal Friends

Check out some of our best tips and tricks and see how easy your move can be!

Real Estate - Nice upscale homes on suburban street - United Van Lines®

Upscale houses on suburban street

See All Rewards

Our CityPointe<sup>Ⓡ</sup> <a href="/moving-services/real-estate-rewards">real estate cash-back program</a> is just another benefit that we provide to customers. When you move with United, by selecting a participating real estate agent you can earn cash back from the sale of your old home and on the purchase of your new home. Whether you need help buying or selling a home, CityPointeⓇ will connect you with reputable, local real estate agents. You are able to interview multiple agents and choose the one with whom you are most comfortable.

Packing and Unpacking Services

America's #1 Moving Company - illustration of two moving boxes - United Van Lines

Packing

Save time with our partial and full packing options.

Storage Services

storage

We can help with both long or short term storage.

Car Shipping Services

illustration of a modern car with an arrow indicating car shipping

car_shipping

Let us assist in moving your car to your new home.

Moving Protection

Our basic Full Value Protection option is included with every initial quote.

debris removal

We can pick up the moving materials when you’re finished unpacking.

No matter your <a href="/moving-services">move type</a>, check out the main services that we have to offer below. If you’re interested in even more add-on options, check out our <a href="/moving-services/full-service-packages">moving service packages here</a>!

Ready to begin your move journey with United? Click below to request your moving quote and your United representative will help you determine which services are best for your unique move situation.

Packing Services From United Van Lines®

See how United makes moving easy with our full menu of moving services. With countless combinations of mix and match services, you can bet that your moving quote and move plan will be unique to your needs, budget and timeline.

Moving Services Created Just for You

Packing and Unpacking

Storage

Car Shipping

Moving Protection

Trash and Debris Pick Up

Real Estate

Moving Tips and Guides