Moving the beloved gear

Pack all the litlle stuff in plastic bags (instruction booklets, allen keys, whatever) and put it in the box along with the component. Make sure you know where your invoices for the equipment are.

Before anything take detailed photos of everything. Do not pack purchase records, keep them with you through the move. I would not let a mover transport a turntable. Make sure the movers pack your albums and CDs in the order you want and have each box properly labelled. A major move is one rung below divorce on the stress meter. Hope it goes well.

How far are you moving? I would also try to move the gear myself if possible. Definitely sensitive stuff like turntables.

If the mover is moving you direct, then letting them move most everything is probably fine. If it is going into storage for a while, I would not let them have any expensive gear. If you are not moving too far, can a friend store your gear at their house until you are ready for it.?

Yes, take lots of pictures and keep invoices with you. You may want to make sure whatever insurance is included in move quote is enough depending on the cost of your system. Basic moving insurance is sometimes based on weight, not value.

Damage is a lot more common than lost/stolen.

If you will be making several trips personally, I for sure would include my gear with one of those trips, rather than let movers handle it. Even if you rent a van to move some of your more important stuff. Otherwise, I agree with what everyone else says above.

i second sugarbrie's suggestion.

i would move evry component myself. infact, when i moved from queens to nassau county, about 25 miles, i transported, my amp, preamp, turntable, and cables. the mover shipped my records. i had sold my speakers so that was not a problem.

when it comes to audio gear i would rather use my car. at least i can blame myself, if i screw up. i don't want to get into an argument with a mover.