Moving Insurance Guide - Protect Your Belongings
Learn about moving insurance coverage options, what's protected, and how to ensure your belongings are fully covered during your move.
- Coverage Types Explained
- Claims Process Guide
- Cost & Value Analysis
Types of Moving Insurance Coverage
Understand your insurance options and choose the right coverage for your needs
Basic Carrier Liability
Minimum coverage required by law
Pros:
- • Free
- • Required by law
- • Basic protection
Cons:
- • Very low coverage
- • Weight-based only
- • May not cover full value
Best for: Low-value items, basic moves
Full Value Protection
Covers full replacement cost of damaged items
Pros:
- • Full replacement value
- • Comprehensive coverage
- • Peace of mind
Cons:
- • Higher cost
- • May require documentation
- • Deductible applies
Best for: High-value items, complete protection
Third-Party Insurance
Additional coverage from independent insurers
Pros:
- • Independent coverage
- • Customizable limits
- • May cover more
Cons:
- • Additional cost
- • Separate claims process
- • May duplicate coverage
Best for: Special items, additional peace of mind
What's Covered vs Not Covered
Understanding what items are protected under moving insurance
Items Covered
- •Furniture and household goods
- •Electronics and appliances
- •Clothing and personal items
- •Books and documents
- •Kitchen items and dishes
- •Artwork and decorations
Items NOT Covered
- •Cash, jewelry, and valuables
- •Important documents
- •Perishable items
- •Hazardous materials
- •Pets and plants
- •Items packed by owner
Special Items
- •Pianos and musical instruments
- •Antiques and collectibles
- •Artwork and sculptures
- •Electronics over $100
- •Professional equipment
- •Sports equipment
How to File a Moving Insurance Claim
Step-by-step process for filing and resolving insurance claims
Report Damage Immediately
Notify the moving company within 24-48 hours
Take photos, document damage, get written acknowledgment
File Written Claim
Submit formal claim within 9 months
Use company's claim form, include photos and documentation
Provide Documentation
Submit proof of value and damage
Receipts, photos, repair estimates, replacement quotes
Claims Investigation
Company investigates the claim
May request additional documentation or inspection
Resolution
Company offers settlement or repair
Accept offer or negotiate, repairs or replacement provided
Moving Insurance Valuation Options
Compare different valuation methods and their costs
Released Value
Basic liability coverage included in moving cost
Example: 50 lb item = $30 coverage
Full Value Protection
Covers full replacement cost of damaged items
Example: $10,000 declared value = $100-300 cost
Third-Party Insurance
Additional coverage from independent providers
Example: Depends on provider and coverage selected
When Moving Insurance is Worth It
Determine if additional insurance coverage makes sense for your move
High-Value Items
Expensive furniture, electronics, artwork
Recommendation:
Full Value Protection recommended
Reason:
Basic coverage insufficient for replacement cost
Antiques & Collectibles
Irreplaceable items with sentimental value
Recommendation:
Third-party insurance suggested
Reason:
May not be fully covered by standard policies
Long-Distance Moves
Cross-country or international moves
Recommendation:
Enhanced coverage recommended
Reason:
Higher risk due to distance and handling
Professional Equipment
Business equipment, tools, instruments
Recommendation:
Specialized coverage needed
Reason:
May require professional equipment insurance
Basic Household Items
Standard furniture and personal items
Recommendation:
Basic coverage may suffice
Reason:
Replacement cost manageable without insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about moving insurance
What is basic carrier liability insurance?
Basic carrier liability is the minimum coverage required by law, typically $0.60 per pound of damaged items. It's included in your moving cost but provides very limited protection. For example, a 50-pound item would only be covered for $30, regardless of its actual value.
How much does full value protection cost?
Full value protection typically costs 1-3% of your declared value. For example, if you declare $10,000 worth of belongings, you'd pay $100-300 for full value protection. This covers the full replacement cost of damaged items.
What items are typically not covered by moving insurance?
Items not covered include: cash, jewelry, important documents, perishable items, hazardous materials, pets, plants, and items you pack yourself. These items should be transported separately or insured through other means.
How do I file a claim for damaged items?
Report damage immediately (within 24-48 hours), take photos, document everything, and file a written claim within 9 months. Submit proof of value, photos of damage, and any repair estimates. The moving company will investigate and offer a settlement.
Should I get third-party moving insurance?
Third-party insurance can be beneficial if you have high-value items, antiques, or want additional coverage beyond what the moving company offers. It provides independent coverage and may cover items excluded from standard policies.
What documentation do I need for insurance claims?
Keep receipts, photos of items before moving, photos of damage, repair estimates, replacement quotes, and any correspondence with the moving company. Good documentation significantly improves your chances of a successful claim.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You typically have 9 months from the delivery date to file a written claim. However, you should report damage immediately (within 24-48 hours) to preserve your rights and allow for proper documentation.
What if the moving company denies my claim?
If your claim is denied, you can request a written explanation, provide additional documentation, negotiate a settlement, or seek legal advice. You may also file a complaint with the FMCSA or your state's consumer protection agency.
Get Quotes from Insured Movers
Work with licensed movers who carry proper insurance coverage. Get quotes and ask about their insurance options.