Moving Insurance Guide: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to moving, there’s a lot to juggle—packing, organizing, and most importantly, ensuring your belongings are protected. Moving insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding your items during transport. But with so many options, limitations, and conditions, how do you navigate the world of moving insurance? This guide breaks down all the key aspects, giving you the tools to make the right decision for your move.

1. Verify the Mover’s Insurance Coverage

Before hiring a moving company, always verify their insurance coverage. Sounds obvious, right? But you’d be surprised how many people assume the company’s standard coverage is enough.

• Liability limits: Know the maximum protection you can get in case of damage or loss. Movers typically offer two options: Released Value Protection (a basic coverage) or Full Value Protection (comprehensive protection).
• High-value items: Movers may not fully cover your expensive items, such as jewelry, artwork, or electronics. Always declare these separately and check for specialized coverage.
• State regulations: Moving companies must comply with state-specific insurance laws. Ensure that the company follows regulations in your area.

To get a clear picture of what’s covered and what’s not, always ask for written details of the policy.

2. Document Valuable Items with Photos and Receipts

Before the move, take photos of your most valuable items, especially those that are fragile or expensive. This can make or break your claim if something goes wrong.

• Photographs: A detailed record of each item’s condition can serve as proof during claims.
• Receipts: Keep receipts for high-value purchases, as these can help establish the value of your items.

These small steps make a big difference when you need to prove the condition or value of your items during a claim.

3. Review Your Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance

Did you know your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might cover some of your belongings during a move? However, this is often limited and typically won’t cover the full value or specific types of damage.

• Existing coverage: Some policies cover theft, fire, or vandalism during transit, but they might not cover accidental damage caused by the movers.
• Additional protection: If your current policy isn’t enough, you may need to add a rider or purchase a separate policy to cover your move.

Before booking, review your insurance policy to avoid surprises.

4. Consider Purchasing Third-Party Moving Insurance

While your mover’s insurance might seem sufficient, third-party moving insurance offers an extra layer of protection. This insurance can cover:

• A broader range of perils: Unlike standard mover coverage, third-party policies might protect against things like floods, fires, or vehicle accidents.
• Customization: You can often tailor the coverage to specific needs, ensuring that your fragile antiques or electronics are fully protected.

Some insurance companies even offer coverage that steps in when your movers’ insurance doesn’t, so be sure to explore all your options.

5. Understand the Difference Between Valuation and Insurance

Here’s where things can get tricky: valuation is NOT the same as insurance.

• Carrier liability (valuation) typically covers just a fraction of the value of your items. For example, if you opt for Released Value Protection, you might only get a few cents per pound for your belongings.
• Comprehensive coverage (insurance) is much broader and offers protection closer to the true value of your items.

Don’t assume that valuation will be enough to protect your most expensive possessions. Always read the fine print!

6. Obtain Written Estimates from Multiple Movers

Getting estimates from multiple movers is essential when determining the best coverage options. Compare not only the moving costs but also the insurance they offer.

• Compare coverage details: Look at exclusions, limits, and overall protection.
• Identify potential gaps: A detailed estimate helps you spot any coverage gaps, especially if you’re moving high-value items.

It’s always a good idea to schedule an in-home proposal to get a fixed price and better understand the terms of coverage.

7. Carefully Read the Bill of Lading

The Bill of Lading is the contract between you and the moving company, and it contains critical information about insurance.

• Liability details: Understand exactly what you’re covered for in the event of damage or loss.
• Exclusions or limitations: Ensure you’re aware of any exclusions, such as outdoor furniture, plants, or perishable items.

Make sure all your items are listed and that you fully comprehend the terms of the insurance coverage.

8. Declare High-Value Items

If you’re moving high-value items, such as jewelry, art, or vintage furnishings, declare them in advance. This ensures they are fully covered under the mover’s policy or an additional specialized insurance.

• Avoid disputes: Declare items early to avoid any disputes about value.
• Meet insurance requirements: Some moving companies require you to provide proof of value for expensive items.

If you have luxury collections or fine art, you may need to explore specialized moving insurance to fully protect these irreplaceable items. Check out our special collections page for more insights.

9. Ask About Specialized Coverage for Fragile or Unique Items

Not all items are created equal, especially when it comes to moving. If you have fragile items (like artwork, electronics, or antiques), ask your mover about:

• Specialized coverage: Some items require custom crating or specific handling procedures, which may not be covered by standard policies.
• Coverage limits: Ensure your specialized coverage includes adequate protection against potential damage.

For delicate items, extra protection is often worth the cost.

10. Review Coverage for Temporary Housing and Storage

During your move, you might need temporary storage or stay in a short-term rental. It’s vital to clarify whether your moving insurance covers items in these situations.

• Storage coverage: Ask if your policy covers items in storage, especially for extended periods.
• Temporary housing: If you’re staying in a rental before your new home is ready, ensure your insurance policy extends to this period.

Check out our guide on temporary housing transitions for more tips.

Conclusion

Moving insurance is a critical part of your moving process, but it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. To make sure your belongings are fully protected:

1. Verify your mover’s coverage.
2. Document your items with photos and receipts.
3. Understand the difference between valuation and full insurance.
4. Consider third-party insurance for added protection.

Don’t leave your items’ fate to chance—ask the right questions, get the right coverage, and move with confidence.

Ready to start? Schedule an in-home proposal today and get a fixed price that includes all your insurance needs.

Pro Tip: If you have fine art, antiques, or high-value collections, you can check out our specialized services for personalized coverage options.