With so many different factors to consider before a move, it can be easy to overlook some of the key details that are important during the moving process. From scheduling your moving date and hiring a moving company, to completing the task of packing up all of your belongings, there are several details that must be addressed when completing a move.

If you are in the process of planning or preparing for a move, chances are a thought or two has crossed your mind about the possibility of something breaking or getting lost. While most moves are completed successfully, there is always the chance of an unforeseen incident making moving insurance a good, protective measure.

Knowing the moving insurance options that are available can help you to determine what type of moving insurance will work best for you. To help, consider some of the following tips:

Type of Coverage

Depending on the type of move you are making, different moving insurance options are available. For example, there is homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance, moving company insurance and rental truck or trailer insurance to name a few. Knowing what type of move you are making will help you to know what type of moving insurance to consider. A good tip is to review each option, check whether your move qualifies for that option, and find out what type of coverage you will receive based on that option in the event an incident occurs during your move.

Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage

If you are an existing homeowner, and you have homeowner’s insurance, check with your insurance provider to see if moving or relocation is covered in your insurance plan. Your insurance company can explain what the circumstances are surrounding an insurance moving claim and whether or not your particular plan covers you if an accident, theft or damage occurs during your move.

The main tip is to make sure that you are covered and protected, should a moving emergency or moving mishap occur. Unexpected incidents can happen and being proactive can save you a lot of money down the road.

In the event, your homeowner’s insurance does not cover moving incidents, check into the insurance coverage options provided by the moving company you choose or the moving truck company. Most moving rental companies do provide insurance options and this is a good way for you to obtain coverage for your household belongings and items as they are being transported during your move.

Renter’s Insurance Coverage

If you live in an apartment or another type of rental property, check to see how comprehensive your renter’s insurance is and whether you are covered during a move and relocation. As with any insurance policy, your insurance company can break down the specifics of whether or not your particular plan will cover you for damage, loss or theft and what criteria has to be met in order for you to be fully insured if you experience an issue during your moving process.

Moving Company Insurance Options

Using a professional moving company is always a good idea if you are moving because they usually provide insurance coverage for your move. Keep in mind though, insurance options do vary from company to company, as well as how the moving insurance is allocated. Be sure to ask your moving resource provider whether or not the moving insurance is based on liability, a full value estimate or based on size and weight specifications. Asking these questions will help you to determine which type of moving insurance coverage is best for you. Of course, the ultimate decision of whether or not you choose to obtain moving insurance is up to you; however, it does help when you know your move is fully protected and covered.  

Before you move, take a good assessment of what you are moving. This will help you to have an accurate account and inventory of what you are moving, in case you experience loss, damage or theft. Itemize a detailed list, especially on items that are irreplaceable and of high value. If you are uncertain on the specific value of an item, get it appraised in advance of your move, to help make it easier to sort out a claim in the event of moving damage, theft or loss.

DIY Moving

Do It Yourself Moves can save you money; however, check in advance to see whether or not you can obtain moving insurance for the move. If you are moving locally, ask your insurance provider whether or not your local move is covered under a homeowner or renter’s policy and for long distance moves, find out if you can obtain moving insurance through the rental truck. Keep in mind, if you transport items in your own vehicle, and an incident occurs, you may or may not be covered depending on the type of insurance you have.

A good tip for your DIY move is to ask your insurance provider about DIY coverage for moving and relocation and what requirements or restrictions apply.

Hopefully, these tips will help you during your move, as well as protect your belongings during the moving process. If you would like more information on moving or some of the additional resources we provide, visit our Moving page, or feel free to check out our blog.