So you are moving to a new home. As exciting as this is, it is also stressful and worrying. Packing can be a pain, especially if you have too many belongings. Sorting through them requires both time and energy, making you feel tired by the end of the day. Combine this with the stress and worries, and the situation just worsens.
In a situation already so troublesome, what if something happened to your items? Maybe they get damaged or stolen. Right, as long as they are in your custody, nothing of this sort should happen, but when you load them on the truck, is there any guarantee? Will you be able to receive them in the same shape and condition at your new residence?
Makes you nervous? Buy an insurance policy and you will be protected against all these circumstances.
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Two types of coverage policies to choose from
A moving company usually offers two types of the coverage policies: released value protection and full value protection. Released value protection offers you payout at a specific rate, depending on the weight of your belongings. Ask your chosen moving company about the details and they will give you an estimate of the policy costs.
Full value protection is based on the valuation of your belongings, which will be moved. Should any item get damaged, the company wills either cover you for a repair or replacement, whichever is more appropriate.
Before you sign up for any of these policies, please ask your moving company about their maximum limits. In most cases, coverage is offered toll a certain amount only and if costs greater than this arise, you will have to bear the remaining expenses by yourself.
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Is there any situation which is not covered?
There are a number of situations in which no coverage will be provided by most movers. With your chosen policy, the circumstances may vary, so we will only talk about basic coverage here.
If you get basic coverage, your mover is not responsible for any boxes which they do not pack themselves. Even if such a box gets significantly damaged, your claim will not be entertained. Same is the case if you store your belongings at a separate facility that is not linked with your chosen mover,
In most instances, natural disasters like tornadoes, fires, windstorms and hurricanes are also not covered.
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Other insurance options
Buying a policy from your mover is not necessary; there are other options as well which you can avail. Got a home insurance policy? Some of these do cover a move, and if that is the case, there may not be any need for you to a buy a separate policy. Get more details about the maximum limits and covered situations, and decide if these are appropriate for you.
A number of insurance providers also offer relocation insurance, which is similar to the policies offered by moving companies.
So before you move, use any option and get yourself covered.