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Frequent Mover: Where's the Safest Place for Valuables?

Ramalingam Kalirajan |8329 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 16, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more

Question by BravePrem on Dec 31, 2024Hindi

i am in a transferable job moving every 2-3 years. Where should i keep my valuables like gold and property documents safely as it is riskier to travel with them on postings.

Ans: Having a transferable job can indeed create challenges in safeguarding your important valuables and documents. When you have to move every few years, it’s crucial to ensure that your gold, property documents, and other valuables are protected, yet easily accessible in case of need. Here are some solutions to help you manage this risk:

1. Safe Deposit Boxes in Banks
One of the safest ways to store valuables is in a bank’s safe deposit box.
Banks offer different box sizes, which can store documents and jewellery securely.
These boxes are usually located in the vaults of the bank and can only be accessed by you.
While this method provides excellent security, it comes with an annual fee.
The key advantage is that the security systems in place at banks are robust and highly trusted.
2. Digital Storage for Documents
Storing property documents and other important records digitally is a great option.
You can scan your documents and keep them in an encrypted cloud storage service.
Ensure that only you or trusted individuals have access to these documents.
Many cloud services offer strong encryption methods to protect your data.
You can access these documents from anywhere, ensuring that you are never without crucial information, regardless of your location.
Digital storage ensures that even in the worst-case scenario, your documents remain safe.
3. Insurance for Valuables
If you're storing gold or other valuables, getting them insured can provide additional security.
Insurance can help recover the value of your gold or jewellery in case of theft, damage, or loss.
Many insurance companies offer specific policies that cover household contents, including valuables like gold.
It’s advisable to ensure that the items are valued correctly and are insured for their full worth.
4. Non-Banking Safe Deposit Providers
In some cities, there are companies offering safe deposit boxes outside of banks.
These may offer more flexibility than bank-based options, such as 24/7 access and larger box sizes.
However, it's essential to do proper due diligence when choosing such services.
Look for companies that have a strong reputation for security and trustworthiness.
5. Family or Trusted Friend’s House
Another option could be storing your valuables with a trusted family member or friend.
Ensure that they live in a safe area and have proper security systems.
Make sure that they understand the importance of the items they are safeguarding.
This solution is less formal than a bank safe deposit but can work well if you trust the individual.
6. Avoid Storing Valuables in the House During Relocations
Whenever possible, try to avoid storing gold, documents, or important items in the house while you are away.
If you're renting a place for a short period, consider using storage options like lockers or cabinets in secure locations.
If you have to store them at home temporarily, make sure they are in a well-secured place, like a locked drawer or safe.
Avoid sharing details about your valuables with anyone in your temporary location.
7. Self-Storage Units
Renting a self-storage unit in a secured facility is another option.
These units provide a more flexible storage solution, and many offer high-security features.
Ensure that the storage facility has 24/7 security, video surveillance, and proper fire and water protection.
You can store your documents and valuables here and access them when needed.
8. Home Safe for Immediate Access
A home safe can be an alternative if you're staying in one place for a while and need quick access.
Make sure to choose a fireproof and waterproof safe with a good lock system.
Install it in a secure, hidden location, and ensure that only trusted people have access.
This can be an easy and cost-effective solution but may not be ideal for long-term, mobile needs.
9. Professional Security Services
You can also consider engaging professional services for securely moving or storing valuables.
Some services specialize in handling and transporting valuable goods and documents.
These services provide specialized protection during the moving process and can give you peace of mind.
Final Insights
When managing valuables during frequent transfers, the key is to balance security with accessibility. Here are the most important points to remember:

Use bank safe deposit boxes or reliable, high-security alternatives.
Digitally store documents for easy access and security.
Insure your valuables to mitigate risks.
Store items with trusted friends or family only when absolutely necessary.
Consider professional security services or self-storage units for larger collections.
Each of these options offers a different level of convenience, cost, and security. It’s important to assess your needs and decide what works best for you based on how frequently you relocate and how valuable your items are.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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