Should I trust movers with my equipment?

Make a numbers list and mark each box. That includes software such as LPs and CDs as well. If lost insurance pays out very little.

Only if you purchase a special insurance rider from the moving company to cover those items, which must be scheduled into the rider. Very expensive, but it puts the moving company on notice that you are serious. I recently got an estimate for such a rider. For $100,000 of coverage, the premium for the rider was about $5,000. Rates vary somewhat depending on the insurance carrier and mover. Some movers cannot be covered, telling you something about using them in the first place.

I agree with the "don't do it" group. Unfortunately Rgs92, even on this subject there can be no consensus among audiophiles.

No. You should ask them to join the trip so you can watch your cargo at every truck stop.

Never! I know people who packed extremely well. Bomb-proof well. The thing is, the boxes never showed up at their destination. So many unpredictable things can go wrong when the package leaves your possession.