Moving Valuation Coverage Explained — What Are You Actually Protected Against?
Basic carrier liability isn't insurance. Understanding the difference between released value and full-value protection could save you thousands.
Most people assume their belongings are insured during a move. They're not — at least not the way they think. What moving companies provide is called "valuation coverage," which is legally distinct from insurance. Understanding the difference before your move day is essential.
Released Value Protection (the default). Unless you choose otherwise, your shipment is covered under Released Value Protection — the minimum required by federal law. Under this option, the carrier's maximum liability is $0.60 per pound per article. That means a 50-pound TV worth $800 is covered for $30 if it's destroyed. This coverage is included at no charge, which is why so many people accept it without reading the terms.
Full Value Protection. Under Full Value Protection, the carrier is liable for the replacement value of lost or damaged items — either by repairing the item, replacing it with a similar item, or paying you its current market value. This is the coverage that actually makes you whole. It costs more, and the exact terms (depreciation policies, deductibles) vary by carrier.
What valuation coverage is not. It is not a comprehensive insurance policy. It doesn't cover items you pack yourself (in most cases), items of extraordinary value unless you declare them, or damage caused by events outside the mover's control (natural disasters, etc.). For truly irreplaceable or high-value items, a separate fine art or jewelry rider through your homeowner's or renter's insurance may be appropriate.
How to protect yourself. Before your move: take photographs and video of every valuable item, note any pre-existing damage, and keep receipts or appraisals for high-value items. At delivery: inspect items before signing the delivery receipt. Note any damage on the Bill of Lading before the crew leaves — signing without noting damage makes subsequent claims much harder.
Ask your mover directly. What valuation options do you offer? What's excluded? What's the claims process? At Armstrong, we walk every customer through valuation options before their move so there are no surprises.