In general, a moving company is responsible if they lose or damage a customer's household belongings during the move. In this situation, the customer can file a claim with the moving company to seek financial compensation for the loss or damage. If the moving company denies the claim, in whole or in part, the customer may need to file a lawsuit or initiate arbitration to obtain compensation. In addition, in this situation, it may be necessary for the client to hire an attorney. The second type of mobile valuation is called total value protection (FVP).
If you choose this level of protection for your items, your moving company will be responsible for the replacement value of any damaged or lost item in your shipment. Also known as “released value” coverage, all licensed moving companies are required to carry it with them. This covers all items, from a lost clip or pin to damaged glassware or furniture. By knowing how moving company liability works, customers can make informed decisions to protect their belongings, avoid disputes, and ensure fair compensation in the event of damage.
Moving companies often have strict deadlines for filing claims, so waiting too long can reduce your chances of receiving compensation. By following packaging best practices, properly labeling boxes, and hiring professional packaging services for delicate items, customers can minimize damage and protect their belongings during the move. In addition, moving companies can set deductible amounts, reducing payment in the event of damage. It's important to keep in mind that moving companies can't sell you insurance; only an insurance company or authorized agent can do so.
If your moving company doesn't offer adequate coverage, there are insurance companies that offer “relocation insurance.” Understanding these liability limits helps customers set realistic expectations and take proactive steps to protect their belongings during the move. For example, if a customer packs a box containing glass and ceramic objects without sufficient padding and those items break during the move, the moving company may deny its liability even if the box was handled properly. Failure to apply within the allowed time frame may result in the denial of compensation, even if the moving company was at fault. How regulations affect moving liability The key takeaway from federal and state regulations is that moving companies have limited liability by default, and customers must proactively review contracts and choose the appropriate level of protection.
But who is responsible for those damages: the moving company, the customer or a third party? The answer depends on a combination of federal regulations, state laws, and the specific agreement between you and the moving company. Keep in mind that third-party insurance is never included in the price of the move and you'll have to buy that additional coverage. Keep in mind that when you choose full protection coverage for your belongings, your moving company may limit its liability for damage or loss of items of extraordinary value. But the fact that an object is damaged during a move doesn't automatically mean that the moving company is responsible for it. In the same way, the moving company may not be responsible for pre-existing damages.
If an item already had scratches, cracks, or signs of wear and tear before the move, the moving company can argue that it wasn't the one who caused the damage. State regulations for local and intrastate removals In the case of moves that take place within the same state, regulations vary significantly.
