So, you’ve noticed that a few items went missing during the move. Or else, they were damaged by the moving and storage company in transit. While it’s upsetting to see something you own and love broken, you can get recompense by filing a moving insurance claim with the company.
What is Moving Insurance?
Most moving companies offer moving insurance with their services, but the quality and value to you will vary. The standard insurance provided by moving companies usually covers the load they are carrying in case of a vehicle accident or theft of the shipment. If this happens, you’ll be paid an amount equaling a certain amount of money for the whole shipment, about 60 cents per pound.
Obviously, this isn’t as good of an option when only one or two items is missing or damaged. Movers can also have liability insurance that covers specific property damage up to a certain amount, such as $5,000. If you have a fair and honest moving company, they will likely make it right by giving you the replacement value of any lost property. Most states require that movers respond to a claim within 30 days or make an offer of repayment/recompense within 120 days of their receiving the claim.
When hiring professional movers you can also ask about their other insurance options. Some companies offer different levels of insurance or special insurance on valuable items. But, you’ll need to pay for the additional insurance before the relocation.
Get a Moving Inventory
No matter what happens your claim will have more weight if the damaged or missing item is on the moving inventory list your mover creates when assessing, packing, or loading your belongings. Be sure to ask about an inventory when you start the moving process. It’s also a good idea to review the inventory when packing, when loading items, and when unloading items. Also, get your mover to sign it and you should sign it too.
What to Do When You Notice Damage
When you do see a damaged item, act right away. You might want to bring it up with the movers who are onsite. Also, write a notation about the damaged or missing items on the inventory list. This should include what kind of damage it is, when you noticed it, and any additional information that you think is important.
The process for filing a claim with your moving company may vary slightly, but here is a standard procedure to follow:
Take photographs of the damaged item.
Bring it up with the movers who are onsite or call the mover if you notice damage later when unpacking.
Research the value of the item, such as gathering your receipts or looking up the value online.
Show proof of ownership, either through your photograph of the damaged item on moving day, through receipts, or older photos showing the item.
Create a letter or email explaining the damage, listing the value, and requesting payment.
List all of your contact information in the letter so they can respond to you.
Submit your letter and supporting evidence to the mover through either email, mail, or fax.
Once you submit the claim, it will be up to the mover to respond to you. They may make a counteroffer of what they are willing to pay versus what you want. If this amount is acceptable feel free to take it. If not, you can try negotiating for more money. Try emphasizing the item’s purchase price and current value of the item.
If the mover is adamant about not paying or paying less, you may have to get the assistance of a lawyer to get the true value of your damaged goods from the moving company.
At 495 Movers Inc., we understand how important every single item is to our customers. Whether you’re moving locally or have long-distance moving plans, we’ll help you set up the best insurance options for your belongings. Our team is also ready and waiting to listen to any concerns about your recent or upcoming move. Give us a call or fill out our online form to speak to a representative right away.
Subscribe to 495 Movers's Blog
Comments