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Moving Insurance & Valuation: What You Need to Know Before Your Move
Understanding moving insurance and valuation coverage is one of the most important parts of planning a move—and one of the most misunderstood.
Many homeowners assume their belongings are fully protected during a move, only to realize later that coverage depends on the type of valuation selected and the terms outlined in the contract.
At FairPrice Movers, we believe in transparency. This guide explains how moving coverage works, what your options are, and how to make sure your belongings are properly protected.
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Work with a moving company that explains your protection options clearly before your move begins.
What Is Moving Insurance vs. Valuation Coverage?
Technically, moving companies do not offer traditional “insurance.” Instead, they provide valuation coverage, which determines how your items are protected during the move.
This distinction is important.
- Insurance = third-party policy
- Valuation = carrier liability
Understanding this difference helps you know what to expect if something is damaged or lost.
If you’re looking for a full breakdown of how moving costs, licensing, and planning work together, visit our Moving Guides & Resources page.
Types of Moving Coverage
Released Value Protection (Basic Coverage)
This is the most basic level of protection and is typically included at no additional cost.
- Coverage is based on weight, not value
- Typically around $0.60 per pound per item
- Limited reimbursement for high-value items
This option may not fully cover the value of your belongings.
Full Value Protection (Recommended)
Full value protection offers a higher level of coverage.
- Items are repaired, replaced, or reimbursed
- Based on declared value of your shipment
- Provides significantly more protection
For high-value moves, this is typically the preferred option.
Third-Party Moving Insurance
Some customers choose to purchase additional coverage through third-party insurance providers.
This can provide:
- expanded protection
- higher claim limits
- additional peace of mind
Why Insurance Matters More Than Most People Think
From our experience handling moves across California and Pennsylvania, the biggest issue isn’t damage—it’s misunderstanding coverage.
Some moving companies:
- don’t clearly explain coverage options
- offer minimal liability without disclosure
- operate without proper licensing or insurance
This can leave customers exposed when something goes wrong.
Working with a licensed and insured moving company ensures that your move is handled professionally and that proper coverage options are available.
Understanding how a company is licensed and insured is just as important as understanding coverage itself. Learn more on our licensed and insured movers page.
Our Licensing & Compliance
We meet all required regulations for:
- California intrastate moves
- Pennsylvania intrastate moves
- Interstate (long-distance) moving
Our credentials:
- CAL T: MTR0190880
- PA PUC: A8923356
- USDOT: 2192738
- MC: 768242
These registrations ensure that we meet both state and federal requirements for operating as a professional moving company.
How the Claims Process Works
In the unlikely event of damage, loss, or billing concerns, there is a structured claims process in place to ensure every issue is reviewed and resolved properly.
Customers are required to first notify the moving company so the issue can be investigated and addressed. If needed, a formal claim can then be submitted through our claims system for review.
Claims are typically acknowledged quickly and reviewed within regulated timeframes. If a resolution is not accepted, additional review or arbitration options may be available.
Important Claim Deadlines
Claim deadlines vary depending on the type of move, and missing them can affect your ability to file.
- Interstate moves: Up to 9 months to file a claim
- Local moves: Typically 15–90 days depending on state regulations
Always refer to your Bill of Lading for the exact deadline that applies to your move.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Most claim issues we see come from simple mistakes that can be avoided with the right preparation.
- Not understanding your valuation coverage before the move
- Failing to inspect items at delivery
- Missing claim filing deadlines
- Not documenting damage or missing items
Taking a few extra steps before and after your move can make a significant difference if an issue needs to be resolved.
How to Protect Your Move
While most moves go smoothly, taking the right precautions helps reduce risk and ensures your belongings are properly protected.
- Choose a licensed and insured moving company
- Understand your valuation coverage before moving day
- Document high-value or fragile items
- Communicate any special handling requirements in advance
Working with experienced movers and planning ahead can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage or delays.
Understanding pricing and planning ahead also plays a major role in protecting your move. You can learn more about how costs are calculated on our long distance moving pricing page .
Related Moving Resources
For more information about how moving works:
Plan Your Move with Confidence
Understanding your coverage and working with a properly licensed moving company makes a significant difference in the outcome of your move.
San Jose Corporate Moving Office
FairPrice Movers
245 McEvoy St
San Jose, CA 95126
Call: (408) 213-8139
Toll-Free: (877) 576-8882
