Moving Insurance Guide: What to Know Before Your Relocation
Trusting a moving company with your personal belongings is one of the most important parts of any relocation. While significant damage is rare, the right moving insurance brings real peace of mind. Here’s what you need to know about your coverage options before moving day.
Key Takeaways
- Your homeowner’s or renter’s policy may not cover belongings while they’re in transit, so dedicated moving insurance fills an important gap.
- There are three main types of coverage: basic carrier liability (free, about $0.60 per pound), full value protection, and separate third-party liability insurance.
- The right level of protection depends on the value of your items and your budget — high-value pieces like electronics, art, and vehicles often warrant more than basic coverage.
- Hiring a fully licensed and insured mover you trust is the best first step; Good Greek helps every client work through the coverage that fits their move.
Moving insurance basics
Moving insurance is among the most common needs involving a nationwide relocation. It matters because your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may not cover your belongings during the move itself, and a lot can happen between your old home and your new one. Without coverage, an unexpected event could leave you paying out of pocket.
At Good Greek Moving & Storage, we’re confident in our ability to move your belongings safely and securely, no matter how many items you have or how far you’re going. We also recognize that the unexpected can happen, and that clients should feel comfortable every step of the way. That’s why we always help clients work through what type of insurance they need.
Why you need moving insurance
Moving insurance protects the value of your possessions. If you move yourself, you don’t have that advantage. But when you hire a professional moving company, you gain the security of knowing your belongings are covered in case of loss or damage.
Once your items are loaded onto the truck, they’re temporarily out of your hands. Many people feel far more secure knowing protection is in place in case anything goes wrong. This is why Good Greek encourages all clients to review their insurance options before the big day.
Types of moving insurance coverage
There are generally three types of moving insurance, and they’re suitable for most residential moves:
Basic carrier liability. This coverage is free and included with professional moving services. For interstate moves, it’s federally regulated and typically pays up to $0.60 per pound, per item. The catch is that weight isn’t always a good measure of value — a flat-screen TV, for example, weighs very little but costs a lot to replace. That’s why many people choose to add a higher level of protection.
Full value protection. Sometimes called full replacement value protection, this option pays the current market replacement value for your items — replacing the item with a similar one, or paying to repair it. Many plans include a deductible. Be sure you understand how replacement value is determined and any limits placed on the mover’s liability.
Separate (third-party) liability insurance. This optional coverage may vary by state. It typically pays the insured amount you purchase, minus the basic carrier liability described above. It’s often used to top up coverage on especially valuable belongings.
Top moving insurance providers
Beyond basic carrier liability, several well-known companies offer dedicated moving insurance. Examples that have appeared in independent rankings — including a list from Benzinga — include State Farm, Baker International, Relocation Insurance Group, Lakeland Insurance, and UNIRISC. It’s also smart to check with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurer to see whether your current policy offers any moving coverage beyond what’s already included.
How to choose a moving insurance company
Start by identifying companies with a strong reputation and the proper licensing to provide moving insurance. You value your belongings, so look for a provider with a long track record and good reviews.
Next, find a company that offers what you actually want. Be prepared for many variations on the coverage types above — some policies are item-by-item, and there may be special policies for high-value items such as artwork or luxury vehicles.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. Even movers with deep experience and a stellar reputation understand the need to feel secure during a move, so whatever level of protection makes you feel most at ease is the right choice. Keep in mind that the most comprehensive coverage can be costly, so balance your comfort with what’s practical for your budget. A good first step before buying any policy is to hire trusted movers who work hard to keep your items safe — and who will help you find the right insurance for your move.
Fully insured nationwide moving and storage services
Good Greek Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company with locations in Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa. From expert packing and storage to local, long-distance, and global relocations, we make protecting your belongings simple. As the 2024 ATA Mover of the Year and an A+ BBB-rated company, we make every move the Best Move Ever.
To discuss a local, national, or global relocation — and the coverage that’s right for you — plan ahead with our moving guide, call (866) 691-4317, or request a free moving quote today.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need moving insurance?
It depends on your belongings and comfort level. Your homeowner’s or renter’s policy may not cover items in transit, so moving insurance fills that gap. For valuable items, coverage beyond basic carrier liability is strongly recommended.
What does basic carrier liability cover?
Basic carrier liability is free with professional movers and, for interstate moves, typically pays about $0.60 per pound, per item. Because it’s based on weight, it often falls short of an item’s actual replacement value.
What is full value protection?
Full value protection (or full replacement value protection) pays the current market replacement value of damaged or lost items — repairing or replacing them with a similar item. Many plans carry a deductible and liability limits, so read the details carefully.
Does my homeowner’s insurance cover a move?
Sometimes, but not always. Many policies offer limited or no coverage for belongings in transit, so check with your insurer before relying on it and consider dedicated moving insurance for the gaps.
Is Good Greek a licensed and insured moving company?
Yes — Good Greek Moving & Storage is fully licensed and insured, with locations in Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa, offering local, long-distance, and global moving services. Call (866) 691-4317 or request a free quote.