Moving "insurance": valuation coverage explained

Interstate movers don't sell insurance in the usual sense. They offer "valuation", which sets how much they're liable for if your things are lost or damaged. The default and the cheap option are very different.

The two federal options for interstate moves

• Full Value Protection: the mover is liable for the replacement value of lost or damaged items (repair, replace or pay), subject to the terms. It costs more, and movers may limit liability for high-value items you don't list.
• Released Value Protection: no extra charge, but liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article. A 10-pound laptop would be worth $6.

Before you choose

• Ask the price of Full Value Protection and any deductible
• List high-value items (over a set amount per pound) on the paperwork
• Check whether your homeowners or renters policy covers belongings in transit
• Consider moving jewelry, documents and small valuables yourself

Filing a claim

Note damage on the delivery paperwork if you can, photograph it, and file a written claim with the mover as soon as possible. Federal rules give you up to nine months to file for interstate moves, but sooner is better.

General information about federal rules for interstate moves. Local moves follow state rules. Home Swift Services isn't a mover or broker and takes no referral fees.