Shipping valuable items is a risky process. However, you can reduce this risk by considering some safety tips, such as the ones given below:
- Select the Best Shipper
You will have several options in terms of shipping companies. You have to select the most efficient one from all of them to ship your valuable items. So, you should list out some of the famous shipping companies in your area. The security of your items depends upon several factors, such as the following:
- Signature confirmation
- Monitoring of location by tracking system
- Specialized treatment for fragile items
Then, you have to compare the services and the prices of these companies. At the same time, check out reviews and comments of their previous customers. In this way, it will become easy to spot the best shipper among all the options.
- Ensure Proper Packaging
Packaging is another compulsory safety step for your valuable items. First of all, you have to measure the size of your items, then order custom crates or sturdy boxes according to their dimensions. The next thing to do is put these items in boxes.
You have to fill the empty spaces around them with different cushioning materials. The most commonly used cushioning materials are foam, bubble wrap, air pillows, Kraft papers, cotton, and blankets. These materials will prevent shifting and moving even in the boxes. In this way, the chances of damage will decrease to a great extent.
If your item is highly valuable and fragile, you should place its box in another larger box. At the same time, you have to ensure that the shipping container has straps and tracks to prevent movement in them. Moreover, labeling the boxes according to the fragility of the items will also guide the staff members in providing them extra care.
- Complete Documentation
Documentation is also very necessary to ensure the safety of your precious items. These are required, especially when you need to file a claim in case of theft and other accidents. The documentation of shipping material includes the following information:
- Carrier information
- Recipient information
- Content of the package
- Description of each item
- Serial number of each item
- Identifying features of each item
- Explanation of the fragility of each item
- Description of extra care for each item
- Tracking the number of your packages
These documents can vary in different states. These documents will not only protect them legally but also help you to track them.
- Get Overall Insurance
In several states, it is considered compulsory to have all the insurance coverage for shipping items. For this purpose, you have to select the shipping company that offers comprehensive insurance coverage. You have to research the limits, deductibles, and exclusions of insurance coverages provided by different companies.
This insurance coverage ensures your peace of mind. You will be mentally satisfied that you will be paid an equal amount of money in case of an accident. Even the small damages will be paid.