Moving to a new home is often a whirlwind of logistics, packing tape, and endless checklists. But amid all the chaos, it's easy to overlook one serious risk: theft.
Whether you hire professional movers or do it yourself, the reality is that moving can create the perfect storm for things to go missing. Boxes mysteriously disappear, movers cut corners, or a storage container isn't as secure as you thought. It's stressful, expensive and, unfortunately, not that uncommon. Good news? By taking a few preventative steps, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
This guide tells you how to secure your belongings and stay vigilant so you can focus on furnishing your new home rather than replacing what was lost.
Research and Prepare Before Moving
Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels
One of the most effective ways to prevent theft is to start preparing in advance. A hasty or disorganized move is more likely to result in items being lost or stolen simply because you are not in control of the details. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Research your relocation options thoroughly. If you are planning to hire movers, look for companies that are licensed and insured. When moving interstate, check the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number to make sure the company is listed. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. Also, look at their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and read recent customer reviews.
- Before packing, take a complete inventory of your belongings. Use a spreadsheet or try a home inventory app. Include descriptions, serial numbers (for electronics) and photographs of each item. This may seem like overkill, but it will be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim later. Add this task to weekly moving checklist and start early so it doesn't become tedious.
- Label your boxes clearly and logically. Avoid writing words such as “jewelry” or “electronics” on the outside. Choose a color-coded or number-coded system that makes sense to you but isn't obvious to outsiders. Not only does staying organized keep you on track, it also limits opportunities for theft.
Choose a reliable transport company
Not all moving companies are created equal, and unfortunately, some of them are outright scams. Choosing the right propulsion unit is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here's how to hire the right team the first time:
Check legitimacy in advance. Reputable carriers will be licensed, bonded and insured. For local moves, contact your state consumer protection office. When moving long distances, check the company's DOT number and ask for proof of insurance.
- The price is significantly lower than competitors
- Requests for large cash deposits or cash-only payments
- Refusal to conclude a written contract
- No physical address or website.
Always use a written contract. Only accept a contract that describes the scope of work, time frame, cost and any additional fees. On moving day, make sure the truck is clearly marked with the company name and logo and that the crew can show proper identification. Rogue operators sometimes show up in unmarked vans or hire subcontractors without prior notice.
Protect your valuables before moving
Some things are too important to risk passing on to others. Are you walking down the street or moving to a new cityKeep your most valuable and irreplaceable things with you.
- Pack an expensive box with passports, birth certificates, banking information, legal documents, sentimental jewelry and essential electronics. Keep this in your personal vehicle or carry it with you if you are flying.
- Use tamper-resistant tape or locks. on boxes with expensive goods. This adds an extra layer of security and allows you to determine if someone tried to open them.
- Consider renting a portable storage container. to give you more control. You can load and lock it yourself, then schedule transport. Some models even offer keypad access or video monitoring for added peace of mind.
Actively control the move
You are your best security system on moving day. Whether you hire a team or friends, your presence matters.
- Be present during packing, loading and unloading: Even a respected team can make mistakes if no one is watching. Double-check each box or item with your inventory as it enters and exits the truck.
- Ask questions and stay in touch: If something went wrong during your move, such as boxes being redirected or not packed as discussed, speak up. Thieves rely on distraction and confusion to take advantage of the moment.
If you are unable to attend, ask a close friend to supervise the process to reduce the risk.
Use technology to your advantage
Tech tools can give you added visibility and control as you move. Use a GPS app on your phone to track shipments, spreadsheets to record inventory, or smart devices to track activity. Going digital can help you protect your belongings and stay informed wherever they are.
- If your moving company offers GPS tracking, use it: This feature is becoming more common among long-haul carriers and gives you real-time information about the location of your cargo. This can also help if there are unexpected delays or changes in the route of your items.
- Install CCTV cameras or smart doorbells: This allows you to control the loading area, especially if movers are entering and leaving your home unattended. Some homeowners install temporary cameras specifically for the move.
- All photos and videos: Before your items leave your home, take clear photographs of boxes, especially those containing valuables. Video of loaders loading a truck. If something goes missing, this record may be needed to prove ownership or misconduct.
Insurance and legal protection for your move
Even with the best preparation, sometimes things go wrong. This is why insurance matters.
Understand the two main types of moving coverage:
- Released Value Protection: This is a basic service that most movers include for free, but it only covers 60 cents per pound per item, which can't compensate for missing a laptop or TV.
- Full protection: This coverage is more complete. The carrier is responsible for the full replacement cost of lost or damaged items, but this is an additional cost and may have exceptions.
Consider purchasing third party moving insurance if you are moving high-value items. These policies often cover theft, accidental damage, and even natural disasters.
If anything is missing or damaged, file a written claim with the shipping company immediately. Include photographs, inventory records, receipts and all correspondence. If the mover refuses to resolve the problem, you can take your complaint through the FMCSA or state consumer protection agency.
And don't hesitate to file a police report if you suspect theft, especially if you think it happened during a stop or storage. The report may be required for insurance claims and helps law enforcement track patterns and repeat offenders.
