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If you talk to a moving expert and ask them about one of the more essential parts of the moving process, they would immediately tell you that keeping a list of inventory is a good thing. This list is essential in that it would allow you to see exactly what you have in your household so that should something go missing, you have your list to show to the movers. A list is also important to track damaged items as well should the unfortunate happen.

What is a moving inventory?

Writing down everything in a notepad as you go from one room to another can be a quick and easy way to create a home inventory checklist for relocating. A more sophisticated option would be to take pictures or record videos of everything in each room. Whatever strategy you choose, include everything on your packing inventory so that when you move into your new house you have a comprehensive record to compare it to.

Making an inventory list is easy; you simply go to each room in your house and itemize every item that you own there. It would be best to actually list them by room, for example, Matt’s bedroom or upstairs bathroom, etc.

In addition, keep an inventory of all the valuable items that you may have in your home as well as a list of all the electronics too. Separating each category would help you keep a better tracking system for which you can quickly scan and immediately address, while the movers are still there.

You should also try to pack your items according to how they are written down and grouped on your list; you should also label your boxes accordingly as well.

Why Inventory List is Important

It takes time to get everything in your house ready for a move. Both your home and mind will likely be in disarray. It is crucial to schedule and manage your time because of this. The entire move would be easier for everyone if you create an inventory list of your furniture. You’ll be able to keep track of your belongings, and movers will be aware of which furniture pieces need to be packed.

Making a list of every piece of furniture you own will prevent you from forgetting anything important when moving. You’ll have a lot to consider on the day of your move, and it’s easy to forget something crucial in the process. Moving presents particular difficulties, and accidents might happen.

Thanks to the power of technology, keeping moving inventory has also become much easier.  By using your digital camera, you can take pictures of your items or put the camera in video mode where you can not only see pictures but also vocally record each item. If you are using the still picture function, detailing is very important to capture on film.

For instance, if you have brand-new items, you should zoom in to show how impeccable the items are before moving day. That way should they get damaged, the movers would never get the chance to say that they picked up the items from your home in that condition. When you start talking about your still pictures, also ensure that the date and time are set on the camera. Videotaping inventory is quick and easier than still pictures; you can also use the zoom feature to identify special detailing on your items.

Remember that even if you are using the above form of technology for inventory, you could never go wrong with having a backup paper list. If you can’t get both the list and videos done, ask a family member to assist you.

When is The Right Time to Make an Inventory

Every household should have a list of its possessions. Take inventory well before you start packing. You can make a rough packing list and downsize along the way by taking inventory early. By eliminating waste from the moving process, you’ll have less work overall and packing will be a lot less unpleasant.

Go Room by Room

Make a thorough inventory of every item in the primary room, paying special attention to the significant and priceless furniture pieces. Moving and packing entails a great deal of work, but by walking through each room and making a list of every item in your house, you can make the whole process go more quickly. Starting with the bigger objects is what we suggest. You won’t worry about what you should pack first, thus this is the most effective way to pack.

Moving Companies Also Inventory Your Belongings

A moving company’s crew will conduct a walkthrough of your house and create its own inventory list. These lists serve as a benchmark for creating moving estimates and a tool for moving professionals to determine the total weight of your baggage. We still advise creating your own relocation inventory in these circumstances. The majority of a moving company’s inventory focuses on the weight and size of your load, leaving out important cost details that your list can contain.

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Written by Margarita Hakobyan
Margarita Hakobyan is the founder and CEO of MoversCorp.com. She has published more than 300 articles about moving, storage, and home organizing, making her a moving specialist since she began writing about the moving industry in 2005. Follow her on LinkedIn and Twitter.