What should you know about moving insurance?

Arguably, the scariest part about moving out of your house is the process of loading your things into a truck, and not being sure whether you will ever see them again. Moreover, there is that fear of not knowing in which condition they might arrive at your new residence. You might not have been aware of the following fact, but there is something that can soothe your fear and make it go away. And, the solution is as simple as purchasing moving insurance! Not sure how, or even why do it? Keep on reading, and find out everything there is to know about moving insurance!

Table of contents

1. What is moving insurance and do you need it?
2. Insurance vs. valuation: know the difference
3. Your options with different relocation professionals
4. Released value protection explained
5. Full-value protection explained
6. Third-party and upgraded coverage
7. Your options if you opt for a DIY move
8. Coverage options at a glance
9. What moving insurance usually does not cover
10. How to file a moving insurance claim
11. Why choose Moving of America
12. Frequently asked questions

1. What is moving insurance and do you need it?

Isn`t the sense of security the most important thing for you? We are sure that your answer is yes, which answers the question of whether or not you need moving insurance. The process of relocation is one of the most stressful events a person goes through in a lifetime. You should do everything in your power to make it less stressful on you and your family, and purchasing insurance will provide you with the security you need. Now that we have that cleared up, let`s talk about the definition of this term. Just like any other type of insurance, this one offers a certain amount, and type of reimbursement, as well. In particular, this type of insurance deals with the damage that may arise during the process of moving and transporting your possessions. This damage includes everything, from small bumps and scratches to the complete loss of your items. How much you will be reimbursed in those cases depends on the type of insurance you get. On that note, it is high time that we look into your options for both DIY relocations and those that involve professional movers.

2. Insurance vs. valuation: know the difference

Before diving into your options, it helps to understand an important distinction that often confuses people. In the moving industry, what movers provide is technically called valuation, while true insurance is a separate product sold by a licensed insurance company. Both protect your belongings, but they work a little differently, and knowing the difference helps you choose the right coverage for your move.

Valuation is the level of liability your mover assumes for your belongings, and every licensed mover is required to offer it. Separate moving insurance, purchased through a third-party insurer, can add another layer of protection on top of valuation. For most people, the valuation options a professional mover offers are enough, but if you own especially valuable items, combining valuation with a third-party policy gives you the strongest protection. Whichever route you choose, the goal is the same: peace of mind that your possessions are covered.

3. What are your options when buying moving insurance with different relocation professionals?

We are sure you know that hiring residential movers is always the best idea when relocating. They are the ones who have all the necessary resources and experience, and who know how to relocate you in the best and most efficient manner. Having that mind, for added bonus and security, they offer the option of purchasing moving insurance. So far, little has been discussed as to why you should purchase insurance. However, little is a lot in this situation, as the fact that your possessions will be safe is reason enough to convince you to do it. Now, let`s deal up-close with the different options you have. Let`s join forces and help you make the best choice!

• Released value protection. This is the basic kind of insurance and, therefore, the cheapest one. In fact, this type of insurance is free, because it is already involved in the moving quote. Usually, the price of reimbursement for this type is set per pound, which is 60 cents, in the most cases.
• Full-value protection. Just like the name itself suggests, in the case of any damage, this type of moving insurance provides complete reimbursement. However, do bear in mind that it also costs more to purchase it.
• Different upgrades to your insurance are also available. There are plenty of upgrades to choose from, and Moving of America strongly suggests that you look into each and every one of them.

Now that you know what your options are with different moving companies, it is time for us to tackle another problem. The option of a DIY move.

4. Released value protection explained

Released value protection deserves a closer look, since it is the option most people receive by default. As mentioned above, it is the basic kind of coverage, it is free, and it is already included in your moving quote. Because of that, it is the most economical choice, and it requires no extra paperwork or payment on your part.

The trade-off is the reimbursement rate. With released value protection, you are typically reimbursed around 60 cents per pound per item, regardless of the item’s actual value. That means a heavy but inexpensive item may be well covered, while a light but valuable item, such as a laptop or a piece of jewelry, would only be reimbursed for a fraction of its worth. Released value protection is a sensible baseline, but for valuable belongings, you will likely want more complete coverage.

5. Full-value protection explained

Full-value protection is the more comprehensive option, and as the name suggests, it provides complete reimbursement in the case of any damage. Under this coverage, if an item is lost or damaged, your mover is responsible for either repairing it, replacing it with a similar item, or offering a cash settlement for its current market value.

This level of protection costs more than the free released value option, but for many households it is well worth it. If your shipment includes electronics, antiques, artwork, or other high-value possessions, full-value protection gives you real peace of mind that you will be made whole if something goes wrong. When you request a quote, ask your Move Advisor to explain the exact terms, deductibles, and coverage limits so you can decide whether full-value protection fits your move and your budget.

6. Third-party and upgraded coverage

Beyond the standard valuation options, different upgrades to your insurance are also available, and it is worth exploring them. Some homeowners choose to purchase a separate third-party moving insurance policy through an independent insurer, especially for extremely valuable or irreplaceable items that exceed a mover’s standard coverage limits.

It is also worth checking your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, since some policies offer limited coverage for belongings in transit. Between valuation from your mover, optional upgrades, and third-party or homeowner’s policies, you have several ways to build the exact level of protection you want. The key is to review each option carefully and choose the combination that matches the value of your belongings and your comfort with risk.

7. What are your options if you opt for a DIY move?

Even though we don`t advise it, we understand your decision to attempt a DIY move. After all, you feel like you can avoid paying for movers, and handle the packing and moving process on your own. However, this is where things get complicated when it comes to the insurance. There are a few things to take into consideration, and chances are you will need to have more than one insurance policy.

• Your vehicle of transportation. How do you plan to transport your things from point A to point B? Do you plan on renting a moving truck, which is usually the case? If you do, you should make sure to do the right thing and add endorsement 27 to your insurance policy. This addition covers any damages to rented or borrowed vehicles.
• You always need the help of your friends to help you relocate. What happens if some of your friends injure themselves while helping you load the furniture into the moving truck? This scenario is the reason why you need to make sure that you have the proper civil liability coverage.
• Finally, if you want to make sure you will get a reimbursement for any smashed or lost furniture, make sure you have an all risks coverage. No matter if you are moving long distance or locally, this type of coverage will reimburse you in both cases.

Clearly, everything is much more complicated when you are moving by yourself. And we are not talking just about moving insurance. Packing, unpacking, transporting your items – it all comes at a much greater risk. However, if you do try to do it, we wish you luck!

8. Coverage options at a glance

Here is a quick summary of the main moving insurance and valuation options to help you compare them side by side.

9. What moving insurance usually does not cover

It is just as important to know what moving insurance typically does not cover, so there are no surprises if you ever need to file a claim. Coverage terms vary, but a few common exclusions apply across most policies and valuation plans.

• Items you packed yourself: Damage to boxes you packed on your own is often not covered, since the mover cannot verify how they were packed.
• Perishables and hazardous items: Food, plants, and hazardous materials are usually excluded.
• Cash, jewelry, and important documents: High-value small items are best carried with you rather than loaded on the truck.
• Natural disasters or extreme events: Some events fall outside standard coverage, so read the terms carefully.

Always ask your mover for the full terms and exclusions in writing before your move, so you know exactly what your moving insurance protects and what it does not.

10. How to file a moving insurance claim

If something is damaged or lost during your move, knowing how to file a claim makes the process far smoother. The steps are usually straightforward, but timing and documentation matter.

• Inspect on delivery: Check your belongings as they arrive and note any visible damage before the crew leaves.
• Document everything: Take photos of damaged items and keep your inventory list and bill of lading handy.
• File promptly: Most movers have a window in which claims must be filed, so submit yours as soon as possible.
• Keep records: Save all correspondence and your written estimate as supporting evidence.

A reputable mover has a clear claims process and will guide you through it. When you work with a professional, transparent company, filing a moving insurance claim is far less stressful than it would be otherwise.

11. Why choose Moving of America

As a professional and reputable moving company, Moving of America helps you protect your belongings with the right coverage for your move. When you contact us, your dedicated Move Advisor walks you through your moving insurance and valuation options, explains the terms clearly, and answers every question before you commit.

• Clear coverage guidance: We explain released value, full-value, and upgrade options in plain language.
• Honest quotes: Your Move Advisor provides a clear written estimate with no surprise fees.
• Full range of services: From local moving to long distance moving services, we protect your belongings every step of the way.

We are fully licensed, insured, and accredited, and you can verify our credentials directly: US DOT 1601312, MC 592337, NY DOT 38444, and NJ License 39PC00096600. When you want to move with peace of mind, our team and your Move Advisor are here to help.

12. Frequently asked questions

What is moving insurance?

Moving insurance is coverage that reimburses you for damage that may arise during the process of moving and transporting your possessions, from small bumps and scratches to the complete loss of items. How much you are reimbursed depends on the type of coverage you choose.

Is released value protection really free?

Yes. Released value protection is the basic coverage and is free, because it is already included in your moving quote. It typically reimburses around 60 cents per pound per item, so it is a baseline rather than full protection for valuable belongings.

What is the difference between released value and full-value protection?

Released value protection is free but reimburses only about 60 cents per pound. Full-value protection costs more but provides complete reimbursement, meaning the mover repairs, replaces, or pays the value of a damaged or lost item.

Do I need moving insurance for a DIY move?

Likely more than one policy. A DIY move may require endorsement 27 for a rented truck, civil liability coverage in case a helper is injured, and all risks coverage to reimburse smashed or lost furniture. A self-move is more complex to insure than hiring professionals.

What does moving insurance not cover?

Common exclusions include items you packed yourself, perishables and hazardous materials, cash and jewelry, and certain extreme events. Always request the full terms and exclusions in writing before your move.

Does Moving of America offer coverage options?

Yes. We offer released value and full-value protection along with upgrade options, and your Move Advisor will explain each one. We are licensed in New Jersey and New York. Request a written estimate before you commit.

The conclusion

The only logical conclusion is that the moving insurance is very important. Sometimes, this insurance decides whether you will have an enjoyable or stressful relocation. Moreover, we as professional and reputable movers strongly advise you to purchase insurance for both local moving and long distance moving. Don`t think that the risks are less significant just because you are moving down the block. Purchase moving insurance. Otherwise, you will regret it, but it will already be too late for you to do something.