If there is one thing that people do wrong during a move is that they don’t protect their valuable enough. In some cases, simply wrapping your valuables in paper is enough but other times, you need professional packing materials. You can usually get professional packing materials from your movers or from your local packing store, UPS store or FedEx Kinkos location. It can be frustrating to pay good money for a substance that you are only going to use for a few hours, but the alternative is opening boxes of broken belongings. Here are a few other tips for protecting the things you love when you move.

If you use professional movers, you often get insurance to cover your things automatically. However, you also have the option of buying more insurance if you like. If you can’t sleep at night, go ahead and spend the extra coin, but be sure that you understand exactly how the policy works and what is covered.

One option that many people take advantage of is to move certain items themselves even if they do hire professional movers. Simply pack these items yourself and place them in your car and drive them to your new place. This option really isn’t practical if you are worried about something large getting damaged, however.

Make sure you take pictures of any valuables before you move so that you have proof of the condition your items were in before the movers got their hands on them. Most insurance companies will require such proof if you are to file a claim. Some even require you to get certain items appraised so you don’t try to insure them for more then they are worth.

Finally, there are plenty of web pages out there dedicated to ensuring you have a safe move. Consult them if you like to determine the safest way to pack things like plates, glasses and other delicate materials.