Moving a mansion and the contents of a mansion will take some planning, okay, it takes a lot of planning. As South Florida’s premier movers, we have loads of experience moving mansions and luxury items (50 years, to be exact), so we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves.
If you live in a mansion, chances are, you have some items that aren’t generally listed in the generic “how-to” moving articles. We’re here to address all of the things that you (may) have, with specific tips on how to relocate with them safely.
Read on for some helpful tips on moving the contents of a mansion!
Moving a home alarm system
Moving is stressful, so your home security system might be the last thing on your mind. We’re here to remind you that it exists and give you some tips on taking it with you to your new (not so) humble abode.
- Notify your security company of your move. Make sure you give at least 30 days notice so that there aren’t any lapses in your home security.
- Discuss your options. In many cases, it’s just as cost-effective to move your security equipment with you as it is to install brand-new equipment.
- Pro tip – if your new home has a security system installed, you can transfer ownership.
Moving a home theater
Moving a home theater requires preparation and careful packing. Damaging the electric system in a move could result in utter ruin. You’ll need boxes, packing peanuts, and lots of packing paper. Wrap everything (and then perhaps, wrap it again) before boxing up your home theater equipment.
- Disconnect everything. This may sound like a no-brainer, but if you’re tired or rushing to pack, mistakes can be made.
- Pack CAREFULLY. Put aside more time to pack this area than you think is necessary. You’ll thank us later.
- Label everything. EVERYTHING.
Moving a home gym
If you have large equipment, you’ll likely need a dolly and a good amount of help. You’ll also need a tie-down strap with a ratchet tie, and some furniture blankets.
- Disassemble your large equipment, if applicable. Check the manuals or find them online. With something like an elliptical, it’s often easier to take it apart than move the unwieldy machine.
- When you’re lifting large equipment, use your legs (so you don’t strain your back) and slowly move it to place on the dolly.
- Make sure to keep track of all of the nuts and bolts!
- Have some wine. You deserve it.
Moving antiques, art, and collectibles
Fragile keepsakes can be tricky. You’ll need heavy-duty boxes. If you have the boxes that they came in, use those.
- We recommend wrapping your art and mirrors in Glassine, instead of the typical plastic wrap. Glassine is a smooth paper that is known for being air, water and grease resistant. This should adequately protect anything from blemishing the fine art, print or glass. Glassine isn’t hard to find and can typically be purchased by the roll.
- Wrap in paper… and more paper. Some bubble wrap can’t hurt. Less isn’t best in this scenario.
- Be sure to strategically place your valuables when you’re placing them in the moving truck. We advise that you put them in last, so they’re not squashed by anything more substantial.
Moving a piano
This is an arduous task and not for the faint of heart. It’s such a difficult task that there are moving companies dedicated explicitly to moving pianos. Yes, it’s created a niche. These bad boys typically weigh anywhere from 300-1,000 lbs. This is absolutely not a one-man job.
- If you insist on doing this yourself, make sure that you’re prepared. You’ll need plenty of moving blankets and multiple rolls of tape.
- Measure doorways, staircases and hallways where the piano will be moved through the house.
- We recommend using a piano board; they come in sizes for all pianos.
- Get a STRONG team of helpers. Grandma is out.
Moving a wine collection
Wine can cost several thousand per bottle. This isn’t something to do at the last minute. Plan accordingly.
- Decide whether you’re going to move it on the ground or by air. Sometimes, moving it by air is cheaper. Keep track of your inventory. Take photos of everything and label all the packed boxes.
- Use climate-controlled transport.
Moving a game room
We’re not talking about mere video games. We’re talking about your beloved collection of old arcade games and/or your hefty pool table.
- As we’ve recommended throughout this blog post, don’t skimp on packing materials. Ensure that you get the right-sized boxes.
- For your large items, you’ll need to wrap them tightly and pack them carefully.
- Whenever possible, use the original packaging.
If we missed anything, feel free to contact us to let us know. And if this sounds daunting, we totally get it. If you don’t want to move the lavish contents of your mansion across the state yourself, we’d love to help. We offer local and state-wide moves, storage and packing, and express pack for lightning-fast moves. Get a free quote from us today. There are never any hidden fees, and we guarantee that we’ll take the utmost care of your belongings. You don’t have to take it from us; you can check out our reviews.
