What Insurance Do They Provide Damaged During The Move?

Moving companies provide insurance protection when something gets damaged during your move. By federal law, all interstate movers must offer two types of coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. The type you choose affects how much money you get back if your items are broken, lost, or damaged.

This article will explain the different types of moving insurance, how much coverage you can expect, and what to do if something goes wrong during your move.

Types Of Moving Insurance Protection

Released Value Protection (Basic Coverage)

Released Value Protection is the most basic coverage that comes free with your move. However, it only pays 60 cents per pound for damaged items. This means if your 20-pound laptop worth $1,000 gets broken, you would only get $12 back (20 pounds × $0.60 = $12).

Here's how Released Value Protection works:

• It's free - no extra cost to you
• Limited to $0.60 per pound per item
• Based on weight, not actual value
• You must sign a special form to choose this option

Full Value Protection (Comprehensive Coverage)

Full Value Protection is the better option that costs more but gives you much better coverage. With this protection, the moving company pays the full replacement value of your damaged items. If your moving company breaks your $1,000 laptop, they will replace it or pay you the full $1,000.

Here's what Full Value Protection covers:

• Full replacement cost of damaged items
• Repair costs for fixable items
• Cash payment for current market value
• Automatic coverage unless you choose otherwise

How Much Does Moving Insurance Cost?

The cost of moving insurance depends on several factors:

Full Value Protection Costs

• Usually 1% of your shipment's total value
• For a $50,000 shipment, expect to pay around $500
• Different deductibles can lower or raise the price
• More expensive items cost more to insure

Factors That Affect Cost

• Total value of your belongings - Higher value = higher cost
• Distance of your move - Longer moves may cost more
• Type of items - Fragile items cost more to insure
• Moving company - Each company has different rates

What Moving Companies Are NOT Responsible For

Moving companies limit their responsibility in certain situations. They don't have to pay for damage if:

• You packed your own boxes and they got damaged
• You didn't tell them about high-value items (over $100 per pound)
• You packed dangerous items without telling them
• You signed the delivery receipt without noting damage
• You didn't report damage within 9 months

Third-Party Moving Insurance Options

Since moving companies can't sell insurance directly, they work with third-party insurance companies. These options give you extra protection beyond what the moving company provides.

Benefits Of Third-Party Insurance

• No liability limits on damaged items
• Covers natural disasters and accidents
• Works with the moving company's basic coverage
• Can be purchased before your move

How Third-Party Insurance Works

The moving company still pays their 60 cents per pound, but the insurance company covers the rest. For example, if your $1,000 laptop weighs 5 pounds:

• Moving company pays: $3 (5 pounds × $0.60)
• Insurance company pays: $997 (remaining amount)

How Your Home Insurance Affects Your Move

Your homeowners or renters insurance might cover some damage during your move, but it's very limited. Most home insurance policies:

• Don't cover damage caused by movers
• Only cover certain types of accidents
• May have limits on coverage amounts
• Don't cover packing or handling damage

It's important to check with your insurance agent about what's covered before your move.

Filing A Claim For Damaged Items

If something gets damaged during your move, you need to act quickly. Here's what to do:

Steps To File A Claim

1. Document everything - Take photos of all damage
2. Don't sign the delivery receipt - Note any damage first
3. Contact the moving company - Report damage immediately
4. Keep all receipts - Save proof of item value
5. File within 9 months - Federal law requires this timeline

What You Need For Your Claim

• Photos of damaged items
• Original receipts or appraisals
• Inventory list from the move
• Bill of lading with damage noted
• Written explanation of what happened

Special Considerations For High-Value Items

Items worth more than $100 per pound need special attention. These include:

• Jewelry and watches
• Artwork and antiques
• Electronics and computers
• Family heirlooms
• Collectibles

For these items, you should:

• List them separately on your inventory
• Get written confirmation from the mover
• Consider carrying them yourself
• Take detailed photos before packing

When To Consider Additional Insurance

You should think about getting extra insurance if:

• You have many valuable items
• You're moving long distances
• You have fragile or antique items
• The weather conditions are bad
• You're moving during peak season

Tips To Protect Your Move

Before The Move

• Make a detailed inventory list
• Take photos of valuable items
• Get appraisals for antiques
• Ask about the moving company's insurance
• Consider packing services for valuable items

During The Move

• Stay present during packing and loading
• Check items as they're moved
• Don't sign anything without reading it
• Ask questions about any damage

After The Move

• Inspect everything before signing
• Note any damage on the delivery receipt
• Take photos of any problems
• Keep all paperwork safe

Working With Professional Movers

When you hire professional local movers, they should explain all your insurance options clearly. A good moving company will:

• Provide written information about coverage
• Answer all your questions
• Offer both basic and full protection
• Help you understand the claim process

If you're planning a move in the Edmonton area, consider reaching out to professional movers who can explain your insurance options in detail.

Understanding Your Rights As A Customer

Federal law protects you when you move between states. Moving companies must:

• Offer both types of coverage
• Provide written information about protection
• Give you the "Your Rights and Responsibilities" booklet
• Process claims within a reasonable time
• Not charge extra for basic coverage

Common Myths About Moving Insurance

Myth 1: "All Moving Insurance Is The Same"

Truth: There are big differences between basic and full coverage. Basic coverage only pays 60 cents per pound, while full coverage pays replacement value.

Myth 2: "My Home Insurance Covers Everything"

Truth: Home insurance usually doesn't cover damage caused by movers. You need separate moving insurance.

Myth 3: "Insurance Claims Are Too Hard To File"

Truth: While it takes some work, most claims are straightforward if you have the right paperwork.

Red Flags To Watch For

Be careful of moving companies that:

• Won't explain their insurance options
• Pressure you to choose basic coverage
• Don't provide written information
• Have many complaints about damage claims
• Don't have proper licenses or insurance

Making The Right Choice For Your Move

The best insurance choice depends on your specific situation. Consider:

• The total value of your belongings
• How far you're moving
• Your budget for insurance
• The moving company's reputation
• Your comfort level with risk

For most people, Full Value Protection is worth the extra cost. It gives you peace of mind and much better coverage if something goes wrong.

Final Thoughts

Moving insurance is an important part of protecting your belongings during a move. While basic coverage is free, it provides very little protection. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you much better coverage for your valuable items.

Before your next move, make sure you understand your insurance options and choose the protection that's right for you. Take time to document your belongings, ask questions, and work with a reputable moving company that explains everything clearly.

Remember, accidents can happen even with the most careful movers. Having the right insurance coverage means you won't have to worry about replacing your damaged items out of your own pocket.

Ready to plan your move? Contact a professional moving company to discuss your insurance options and get a detailed quote for your upcoming relocation.