Articles

TAKE CARE TO AVOID TROUBLE IN STORE 
By Michael Hardware for Philip Pertoldi.

Philip Pertoldi, managing director of Abels Moving Services, the only mover with the Royal Warrant, offers some guidance on storage.

It is not uncommon for an international removal to involve some need for storage. This may be long term storage where someone is posted abroad for a period and does not need all their furniture or is moving into rented accommodation, or short term storage due to the new home not being ready, or possibly not yet found, in the new country.

Storage is usually in purpose-designed containers. Items should be colour coded, inventoried, then packed and sealed at the customer's home before being transported to the storage facility. There may be occasions when access is required during the period of storage. Owners should check that this will be possible with the storage company, and that the contents of all the containers are correctly itemised, otherwise it would be difficult to locate the special item they may desperately need. Alternatively, ask to keep specific items 'held forward'.

Considering the value of goods, not only in monetary but also sentimental terms, it is important that there is complete confidence in the storage company. If there is any doubt, the storage facilities should be viewed first hand to check that they are clean, well-ordered and maintained, and appear secure.

Most reputable storage companies have facilities with 24-hour security and stringent fire controls with a no smoking policy. Some have special areas for carpets and curtains, and purpose-built racks or storage containers for soft furnishings, and other delicate items to avoid undue pressure. Separate facilities for storing cars and other large or heavy items may also be available.

When arranging storage, special attention needs to be given when checking insurance cover, particularly if this involves removal to storage and then onward international shipping. Many people simply check they have cover, without actually checking what cover they have. It is only when things go wrong that any inadequacy is revealed. The insurance document should detail the cover, showing any exemptions, as well as the financial limit of cover. This needs to be scrutinised carefully to ensure that it is adequate.

There are three levels of insurance cover: 'A', 'B' and 'c' clauses. 'A' clauses are the higher level of cover, usually referred to as 'all risks', whereas 'c' clauses are the lowest level, described as 'total loss only'.

There are two types of cover: 'Iike-for-like' and 'new-for-old'. 'Like-for-like' cover means that claims will take into account age, wear and tear, and current

value as a second hand item, whereas 'new-far-old' offers direct replacement for the majority with only a few exclusions, although this insurance usually carries a premium.

Insurance involving international moves is usually based on a client's detailed valued inventory. On the basis of this total valuation, an insurance company will quote a premium per £100 value or as a percentage of value declared. This is then simply extended for the storage period in the UK or overseas.

Apart from identifying the items to be stored and/or moved, and the related insurance, producing a very detailed inventory can also be useful for general household insurance purposes - how often does anyone detail all of the items they possess? Some moving and storage companies will offer this service and photographing items, if required, prior to storage. This is especially useful where collections are being moved, such as art or wine. They can be unloaded on delivery and replaced in the same order or position as previously kept.

Storage means that items, such as vacuum cleaners, garden or outside items need to be clean and dry prior to collection. Defrost fridges and freezers so they are dry with no risk of mildew forming. Do not submit items which can leak or deteriorate in store. This includes; batteries, aerosols, gas bottles/cylinders, petrol, food or other perishables. Animal derived products like leather needs special care, and personal valuables like jewellery should not be included.

Packing is another consideration - to do it yourself or let the removals firm do it for you. Many firms offer a professional packing service. Expert packing should be considered if the move is into long term storage, or into short term storage and then shipment. In all cases use professional packing materials supplied by the moving company.

Where personal effects are to be shipped, however, expert packing is highly recommended, especially now with the heightened security at all entry points. This can cause owner-packed consignments to be physically checked, with subsequent delays and a high risk of damage. Another important consideration is not to have essential documents or passports packed away somewhere in the consignment - it can be a costly exercise to correct but not that uncommon!

Moving home generally is considered one of the most stressful 'life' events, moving to a new country even more so. Taking steps that will minimise the risk of things going wrong, or reducing the tasks around the actual move, must be worth the additional cost. So take time to choose a removals and storage company carefully, and reviewing all the arrangements in advance, will go a long way to avoiding disappointment.

Published in various local media.