What isn't covered with moving insurance?
There are several things that moving insurance will not cover, including:
- Aerosol cans
- Ammonia and cleaning solvents
- Household and car batteries
- Fire extinguishers
- Nail polish and remover
- Pool chemicals and other household chemicals (like pesticides)
- Fuel of any kind
Basically, if it's flammable or combustible, your insurance won't cover it. You should also double check to make sure you have coverage for things like natural disasters, mechanical and electrical failures, and high-value items. Not all moving companies will provide coverage for these circumstances.
What is a deductible in moving insurance?
A deductible is the amount you have to pay before a moving company will process your insurance claim. You will only have to pay a deductible if you purchase Full-Value Protection (FVP), and that could cost anywhere from roughly $300-$1000 on average.
However, if you choose not to purchase Full-Value Protection (and instead choose Released Value Protection), you will not have to pay a deductible at all.
Are moving companies always responsible for damages?
Moving companies are not always responsible for damages. The amount of liability depends on the type of valuation you choose when you hire your mover.
Full-replacement Value Protection will provide the most coverage to your belongings without purchasing additional moving insurance.
Does homeowners or renters insurance cover moving?
Homeowners and renters insurance does not usually cover damages incurred during the moving process. In order to find out for sure, you’ll want to contact your insurance carrier to double-check.
Is transit valuation (or protection) the same as insurance?
No, transit valuation (or protection) is not the same as insurance. Moving companies offer transit valuation to protect your belongings during transit, but it does not always cover their full cost (or market value). Moving insurance can be used to supplement transit valuation and cover the full market value of your stuff.
What protection is usually offered by moving companies?
Most moving companies will offer two types of transit valuation or protection: full replacement value and released value protection. Full replacement value usually comes at an additional cost, while released value protection is generally offered for free. However, released value protection places significantly less liability on the mover for damages.
Can you get moving insurance for a DIY move?
Yes, you can purchase transit (or moving) insurance for a DIY move. Again—your renters or homeowners insurance policy may help you here. Some insurance companies offer “relocation” or “trip transit insurance.”
You can also purchase transit insurance at an additional charge from your rental truck company in some cases. For example, U-Haul offers its own coverage options: Safemove and Safemove Plus. Just remember, these options may not cover:
- Damage caused by insufficient packing
- Shifting of belongings in the truck during transit
- Theft or vandalism
Did we answer all your moving insurance questions? Let us know! And if you need a moving company, take a look at our list of best interstate moving companies.
Want to learn more about all the services moving companies have to offer? Here are some of our best resources to compare full-service moving, moving container, and truck rental companies in the industry:
The 5 Best Moving Companies of 2021
2021’s Best Moving and Storage Container Companies
The 5 Best Moving Truck Rental Companies of 2021
Or maybe you’ve already chosen the company and you need some help preparing for your upcoming move. Here are some related FAQ to help.
5 Ways to Tell if a Moving Company is a Scam
What To Do If Movers Are Holding Your Things Hostage
How Do Moving Companies Charge?
How to Perform a Home Inventory