Wine Collection Moving
When you decide to move your precious wine collection, there are several
steps you will need to take to ensure a safe move. The first thing you
should do is have your collection appraised by a qualified professional
appraiser. This will help set the value of the collection for insurance
purposes, either for a personal property rider to your homeowner’s
insurance or for a specialized transit policy that you may purchase from an
independent insurance carrier.
Some appraisers put a value on each individual bottle, and this is often
necessary for rare or vintage wines. Be sure to arrange for insurance on
your collection well in advance of your move, so that you will be optimally
protected. You can find an appraiser by asking your local wine merchant
for a suggestion. You may also find one through your insurance company
or realtor’s office. You may also contact the American Society of
Appraisers to find a certified wine appraiser in your area. Some personal
property appraisers are qualified to appraise wine collections, but it is
prudent to find one who specializes in fine wine if your collection is rare or
extensive.
Next, inventory your collection and photograph every bottle. This will help
to document rare or delicate vintages, and give you and your mover a
clear indication of what is in the collection that you are shipping. Often the
moving company will do its own inventory list, just as it does for household
items that it packs and moves. You will be asked to sign off on this
inventory both at the completion of loading and upon delivery, so be sure
to check carefully at both times.
Once you have packed, photographed, and catalogued your wine, call a
professional moving company or wine transporter to make arrangements
to move your wine collection. Be sure that they can provide a climate-
controlled vehicle if your collection warrants it. If you are not using a
professional wine transporter, notify your moving company that you are
moving wine within your shipment and that it is a high-value item. If you
pack the wine yourself, try to obtain boxes used to transport wine on
commercial airlines. Usually, these are made from corrugated cardboard
or Styrofoam. Some wine stores sell these boxes as well. The California
Glass Company in Oakland has a great wine box, which is used by many
professional movers. Avoid wooden boxes or any containers that do not
cradle the wine safely. Pack corked wine on its side as you would keep it
on the racks in your wine cellar. Label each box fragile - this side up
to make sure that the wine stays on its side. When your wine reaches
its destination, carefully check off the Inventory with the driver to ensure
that nothing is missing or damaged. Anything that is not intact or is
missing should be specifically noted in writing by you on the driver’s
delivery documents at the time of unloading. This will help you complete a
claim form if needed.
By following these steps, you can be assured of the safe transport of your
valuable wine collection.
