Moving insurance protection

Moving insurance protection is a specific type of property insurance that covers loss or damage to personal belongings during transit. Federal law requires interstate moving companies to offer two liability options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection, with the latter covering only $0.60 per pound per item (FMCSA).

Most homeowner’s policies exclude coverage for goods in transit; State Farm and Allstate standard policies do not cover moves unless you add an endorsement. Moving insurance protection typically excludes high-value items such as jewelry, cash, and documents; examples include wedding rings and passports.

Third-party insurers like Baker International sell moving insurance policies that can cover up to 100% of declared value for both domestic and international moves, YourInsuranceInfo confirms. Claims must be filed within nine months of delivery under federal regulations (49 CFR §375.211).

Movers may deny claims if boxes are packed by owners (“PBO”); Allied Van Lines reports PBO claims have higher denial rates than company-packed boxes. Premiums usually range from 1%–2% of the total declared value; for example, insuring $30,000 worth of goods costs between $300–$600 according to MovingInsurance.Com.