Moving into another home can be a really exciting time. It’s a new beginning and a fresh start. It’s also a breeding ground for some serious stress. In order to experience the smoothest transition possible from home to home, you’ve got to be smart about packing. Even if you have insurance, one of the most important steps you can take is to create a separate pile of valuables. You should take these items to your home; they should not be included with the boxes the movers are handling. Charles and Hudson, one of our favorite blogs, has a succinct list of items you should keep with you:

1) Computers (or at least the hard drive)
2) Sports Memorabilia
3) Hobby Collections
4) Jewelry
5) Photo albums
6) Firearms (include permits during transport)
7) Instruments

These things are simply not worth getting lost or stolen. Your moving experience will definitely benefit from keeping them safe.