Moving into a new home is an exciting time. The time leading up to the move, however, is riddled with stress and questions. One of the questions many people find themselves asking is “do I really need the moving insurance?” looking at moving insurance as just an added cost makes it easy to refuse, but we’re here to explain what makes it so important.
What is Moving Insurance?
Moving insurance is similar to car or renter’s insurance. You purchase it as a protection plan in the event of an unforeseen event that damages some of your items being moved. Even with professional movers, the possibility of damages is never completely gone. Moving insurance will help you to replace the damaged items after your move. Different types of moving insurance cover different potential scenarios so be sure to read the fine print!
Value Protection
Value protection comes in two forms. The first is known as released value protection. This is the most basic form of item protection. It works by offering a certain price per pound for your items. This price is never the actual value of the item, but it does give you a portion of the items value back in the event of a mishap. Next, full value protection offers better coverage for your items. This comes with a higher price tag, but it also comes with a higher pay-off for damaged goods. Your damaged item will either be repaired, replaced, or paid for by the moving company if it becomes damaged.
What is a Valuation?
Valuation is a type of value protection that all moving companies have to offer according to the law. Valuation covers any damages to your goods that are a direct result of the movers or moving equipment. It typically won’t cover things like flood or fire though. Ask multiple moving companies about their valuation policy before choosing one for your move.
Assessing the Value of Your Household Goods
Valuing your household goods prior to a move makes filing a claim much easier. Start by making a list of all valuable items, along with pictures of their condition before the move. Then, look up similar items online to find a rough price estimate. Family heirlooms and other options that don’t have an exact value online should be estimated based on the weight prediction you get from your movers.
At the end of moving day you should be able to walk into your new home and find your belongings safe and sound, but if you don’t, moving insurance is the best way to make sure you’re covered! Contact us today if you are looking for a well-experienced moving company to help with your next move.