In the moving world, highly valuable items are normally referred to as “items of extraordinary value.” Moving companies define and items with a value of more than $100 per pound as being extraordinary. These important items need to be handled with care and transported safely.

If you plan on moving any extraordinary-value items, consider getting them appraised. An appraisal may be necessary to verify the value of your personal property for the later transfer of your homeowner’s insurance policy. A local insurance agent will likely know several qualified appraisers that work in your area. A professional moving company may also be able to recommend appraisers for you. Most appraisers charge a flat fee or an hourly rate, but you should ask in advance before committing to their services.

Also, take detail photographs or a video of your extraordinary items as proof of condition. Closeup photos should include shots of corners and edges or other areas more prone to damage during a move.

When a moving company representative arrives to prepare your in-house survey, point out all of the high-value items you plan to move. You will want to get these items in writing on your moving estimate. Examples include:

• Art collections
  
• Antiques
  
• Crystal
  
• Precious stones or gems
  
• Currency
  
• Cameras and video equipment
  
• Plasma and LCD televisions
  
• Stereo equipment
  
• Computer equipment and monitors
  
• Silver and silverware
  
• Figurines and collectible items
  
• Furs, and expensive suits and dresses
  
• Coin, stamp or card collections
  
• Oriental rugs
  
• Wine collection
  
  

On moving day, the moving crew should prepare a high-value inventory sheet that you will review and sign. The sheet should be very specific and list the make, model and serial or SKU (stock keeping unit) number. If you own antiques or other collectibles, give enough detail for clear identification.

In the event of a claim, any settlement will be limited to the value you declare for the entire shipment. If you don’t list all your extraordinary-value items and/or fail to sign the high value inventory sheet, the van line agent or moving company’s liability for loss or damage will be limited to no more than $100 per pound for each item. This is based upon the actual weight of the article and does not apply to shipments under the “basic carrier liability” option.

You will need to declare the total amount of the released value for all items. The total value should include the value of all items, including those of extraordinary value. You will record the total value on the bill of lading. Be sure to understand that the protection for items of extraordinary value is not available for shipments released to the van line agent or moving company’s basic carrier liability option (where value is limited to a maximum of 60 cents a pound for each item).