Moving Protection
Published by Chris Townsend
Understanding Moving Protection Options & Liability
Every moving company must carry basic coverage that takes care of damages that they’re liable for while relocating your belongings. The extent to which that protection covers during the shifting process, and how likely you are to get reimbursed for damages, however, can vary widely, depending on what type of moving protection you choose. In this post, we’ll explain the differences between the levels of protection so that you can choose the right option when hauling to a new home.
One important distinction to keep in mind is that relocating protection is offered by the transporter itself and differs from relocating insurance, which is regulated by a state body. A benefit of this difference is that you can deal directly with the shifter if something goes wrong and the terms of compensation are spelled out rather clearly in the type of shifting protection you choose. Another key provision to keep in mind is that relocators can be released from their liability if you don’t follow the guidelines laid out in the protection agreement. This applies to hazardous materials and other types of prohibited items by a state of federal law or those dictated by the carrier, though they are pretty standard across the industry. This liability protection can also be negated if you pack your own boxes and something is damaged in the course of normal transporting operations so it’s important to understand the details of your protection before packing the items you’re moving.
Released Value Protection
Every carrier must carry a minimum amount of transporting protection that covers damages that they’re liable for while moving your belongings. The extent to which that protection covers, and how likely you are to get reimbursed for damages, however, can vary widely, depending on what type of moving protection you choose. In this post, we’ll explain the differences between the levels of protection so that you can choose the right option when shifitng to a new home.
Three Movers is a nationwide shifter that offers several options to help protect your move in the rare event that something is broken or lost. We have an extensive history of providing expert, professional services without incident, but we are happy to offer several choices to give our customers peace of mind and ensure that they are fairly compensated for any and all damages. To learn more about what we offer, call us today at (888) 906-6496 for a FREE price quote, or if you’d like to know more about our service options!
Full Value Protection
Full value protection is a more comprehensive version of released value protection in that it can cover damages up to a certain amount, which is preferable if you’re hiring carrier to handle anything that is more valuable. Any form of full replacement value must be agreed upon prior to shifting using a form that lays out the value and amount of protection that will cover your belongings while they’re in the care of the relocator. The specific amount of protection available can be dictated by you, but it does need to be spelled out specifically, usually in the form of dollars per pound. Remember, you can always increase the amount of valuation coverage as long you do so before you move. For full valuation protection, you will have to itemize the items being moved and their value, which typically applies to anything worth more than $100.
Other Types of Protection
Other forms of moving protection are also offered by haulers, and even though they fall under the category of full value protection, they are still something you will need to opt in to in order for them to apply to your move. Another important note is that these additional protections do typically come at a higher price than standard services. These include the following types of protection:
Pairs & Sets
if one item is damaged in a set (as an example, dining room chairs), you can get compensated for the entire set if one of the items in the set or pair is irreparably damaged.
Mechanical Malfunction
This form of protection applies to mechanical items that are damaged or broken during delivery and can apply to tools and other items with relocating parts.
Delayed Delivery
If you belongings don’t arrive at the scheduled time, you can choose delayed delivery protection that will compensate you for the delay, though there is usually an upper limit on the amount. This mainly applies only to guaranteed delivery times, which must be worked out with the carriers beforehand. insurance companies
Acts of God
If your belongings are damaged due to natural disasters, this type of consumer protection will provide you with financial restitution that covers the damaged items.
Not Ready For Delivery
If you’re not prepared when movers arrive, you can also be protected for a later delivery without incurring an additional charge. This usually only applies for a few hours, usually up to four, but it can be invaluable if you’re delayed in getting to your new home and your belongings arrive before you do.