Move furniture, appliances, and household goods

Moving household goods is one of the most personal and stressful types of shipping. Whether you are relocating your entire home across the country, shipping a cherished antique to a family member, or delivering furniture purchased online, the right preparation makes all the difference between a smooth move and a nightmare.

For full household relocations, start planning at least four to six weeks in advance. Create a detailed inventory of everything being moved, including approximate dimensions and weight for large pieces. This helps carriers provide accurate bids and ensures nothing is forgotten. Declutter before you move — selling, donating, or discarding items you no longer need reduces both cost and hassle. Remember that movers charge based on weight and space, so every box you eliminate saves money.

Packing is where most damage occurs, so invest time here or hire professionals. Dishes should be packed vertically like records, not stacked flat. Wrap each glass individually and use cell dividers in boxes. Mirrors and framed artwork need corner protectors and custom-sized boxes or cardboard sandwiches. Furniture should be disassembled when possible, with hardware placed in labeled bags taped to the piece. Fill empty space in every box to prevent shifting. A box that feels solid when shaken is properly packed.

Insurance and valuation protection deserve careful attention. Basic carrier liability covers only $0.60 per pound, which is virtually nothing for electronics, artwork, or antiques. Full-value protection or a third-party moving insurance policy costs more but covers replacement value or repair costs. Document the condition of every valuable item with photos and keep receipts for high-value pieces. At delivery, inspect everything before signing off — once you sign the delivery receipt without noting damage, filing a claim becomes much harder.