Have you reached that point in your life where it’s just time to move? Do you need to relocate for a new job? Did you decide to live closer to your parents? Whatever the reasons you have to move, either way, you’re in for a certain amount of stress. While moving is a burden, you can alleviate some hardship by having your belongings covered by insurance. Having insurance during your move is not only a brilliant idea but an absolute must. You never know if your mover will accidentally break your TV or even “accidentally” break your TV. Ensure that things are adequately insured for your next move so your moving stress can immensely be reduced.
Here are the different types of insurances you can get for your upcoming move:
Released Value Protection
Released value protection is the most basic and affordable option available. Under this plan, the mover’s liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article. This coverage comes at no additional cost, which is its only real advantage.
To put this in perspective, consider a 50-inch television that weighs about 30 pounds and costs $800 to replace. Under released value protection, the maximum payout for that damaged TV would be $18.00. A laptop weighing 5 pounds would net you roughly $3.00. This type of coverage is essentially symbolic and leaves you financially exposed for any item of real value.
It is important to note that if you do not explicitly choose a coverage level, many movers will default you to released value protection. Always confirm your coverage in writing before moving day.
Full Value Protection
Full value protection is the most comprehensive plan available and places significantly more responsibility on the mover. Under this coverage, if any item is lost, damaged, or destroyed during the move, the mover must do one of the following: repair the item to its original condition, replace it with a similar item, or reimburse you with a cash settlement based on the item’s current market value.
This coverage typically costs between 1 and 3 percent of the total declared value of your shipment. For example, if you declare your shipment’s total value at $50,000, you might pay between $500 and $1,500 for full value protection. Some movers offer different deductible levels, where choosing a higher deductible lowers your premium.
Be aware that some movers may limit their liability for high-value items worth more than $100 per pound, such as jewelry, electronics, or antiques. You may need to declare these items separately on a high-value inventory form. Failing to do so could limit your compensation if those items are damaged.
Third-Party Moving Insurance
If you choose released value protection but still want meaningful coverage, third-party moving insurance is an option worth exploring. This coverage is purchased separately from an independent insurance provider, not from the moving company itself.
With third-party insurance, the mover remains liable for the basic 60 cents per pound per item under released value. Any losses beyond that amount are covered by the third-party policy. If you purchase this insurance through the mover, they are required to provide you with a written record of the transaction.
Third-party policies typically cost between $100 and $500 depending on the declared value and coverage limits. Before purchasing, check whether your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy already covers belongings during a move. Some policies do, which could save you the cost of additional coverage.
What Is Typically Covered and Excluded
Understanding what is and is not covered can save you from unpleasant surprises after the move. Here is a general breakdown:
Typically covered:
- Damage caused by the mover during loading, transport, and unloading
- Lost items that were on the inventory list
- Items damaged due to the mover’s negligent packing (if the mover packed them)
Typically excluded:
- Items you packed yourself (owner-packed boxes), unless external damage to the box is visible
- Perishable or hazardous items you did not disclose to the mover
- Pre-existing damage that was not documented before the move
- Damage caused by natural disasters, acts of war, or events beyond the mover’s control
- High-value items not declared on a separate inventory form
How to File a Moving Insurance Claim
If something is damaged or lost during your move, act quickly. Here is the process:
- Inspect at delivery: Check all items as they are unloaded. Note any visible damage on the bill of lading or delivery receipt before signing.
- Document everything: Take photos and video of damaged items immediately. Keep the damaged items and all original packing materials as evidence.
- File a written claim: Submit your claim in writing to the moving company within the required timeframe, typically within 7 to 9 days of delivery. Include photos, a description of the damage, and the item’s value.
- Follow up: The mover generally has 30 to 90 days to respond to your claim. If you purchased third-party insurance, file a separate claim with that provider as well.
- Escalate if needed: If the mover denies your claim or offers an unsatisfactory settlement, you can file a complaint with Consumer Protection BC, the Canadian Association of Movers, or pursue the matter through small claims court.
Actions That May Limit the Mover’s Liability
Keep in mind that some actions may limit the mover’s liability of your things. These include:
- Packing hazardous or perishable items without informing the mover.
- Packing your own boxes.
- Choosing released value protection.
- Failure to notify the mover about expensive items (>$2500).
- Language in your contract that relinquishes the mover from any liability.
- If you wait over 7 days to issue a written claim of your losses.
So now that you know your options, remember to play it smart and always make sure that you’re covered from any accidental and purposeful damages. The right insurance gives you peace of mind and ensures that your move is protected from start to finish.
Have questions about insurance coverage for your upcoming move? Contact Simple Moves and we will walk you through your options so you can move with confidence.
For more information, visit the Canadian Government’s article on this topic: Canada.ca “Moving Advice”
Basic Liability Coverage Explained (2026 Update)
In Canada, most moving companies include basic liability coverage — sometimes called released value protection — at no additional charge. This coverage typically provides compensation based on the weight of damaged items rather than their actual value. The standard rate is approximately $0.60 per pound per article. Under this coverage, a 50-pound television worth $2,000 would only be compensated at $30.
While basic liability coverage is included with most full-service moves, it provides minimal financial protection for valuable items. Understanding this limitation is critical when deciding what level of coverage you need. For most households, basic liability alone leaves significant financial exposure if high-value items are damaged or lost during the move.
Full-Value Protection: Comprehensive Coverage for Your Move
Full-value protection, also known as full replacement value coverage, is the most comprehensive option offered by moving companies. Under this coverage, the moving company is responsible for the replacement value or repair cost of any item damaged, lost, or destroyed during the move. If an item cannot be repaired, the company must either replace it with a similar item or compensate you at current market value.
This coverage comes at an additional cost, typically calculated as a percentage of the declared value of your shipment. In 2026, expect to pay between one and three percent of the total declared value. For a shipment valued at $50,000, full-value protection might cost $500 to $1,500. While this adds to your moving budget, it provides genuine peace of mind — especially for households with expensive furniture, electronics, artwork, or musical instruments.
Third-Party Moving Insurance Options
Beyond what your moving company offers, you can purchase moving insurance from independent third-party providers. Companies specializing in transit insurance offer policies tailored to household moves that may provide broader coverage at competitive rates. Third-party insurance can cover risks that moving company plans exclude, such as damage caused by natural disasters, delays, or storage incidents.
Your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy may also provide some coverage for belongings in transit. Contact your insurance provider before your move to understand what is already covered and what gaps exist. Some policies extend coverage to items being moved, while others specifically exclude belongings in transit. Having this information allows you to purchase only the additional coverage you actually need.
Insurance for Specialty and High-Value Items
Standard moving insurance — whether basic liability or full-value protection — often has exclusions or limitations for specialty items. Pianos, fine art, antiques, wine collections, and custom furniture may require separate declarations or additional riders to be fully covered. Some moving companies exclude items they did not pack from their coverage, meaning if you packed your own china and it breaks, the claim may be denied.
For truly irreplaceable items, consider having them appraised before the move and obtaining specific coverage based on the appraised value. Keep appraisal documents, purchase receipts, and photographs as evidence for any potential claim. If you are moving a piano or other high-value specialty item, discuss coverage specifics with your moving company before the move, not after damage occurs.
How to File a Moving Insurance Claim in Canada
If your belongings are damaged during a move, acting quickly and methodically is essential. Before signing any delivery paperwork, inspect your items and note any visible damage directly on the delivery receipt or bill of lading. Take detailed photographs and videos of all damage immediately. This documentation forms the foundation of your claim.
File your claim in writing within the timeframe specified in your moving contract — typically 30 to 90 days after delivery. Include photographs, a description of each damaged item, its original value, replacement cost, and any supporting documentation like receipts or appraisals. A reputable moving company will respond within a reasonable timeframe and either offer repair, replacement, or cash settlement. If you are unsatisfied with the resolution, escalate through the Better Business Bureau or your provincial consumer protection agency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Insurance
Is moving insurance worth the extra cost?
For most households, yes. Basic liability coverage provides minimal compensation, and the cost of full-value protection is typically a small percentage of your shipment’s value. If you own expensive furniture, electronics, or sentimental items that cannot be easily replaced, the additional coverage provides significant peace of mind.
Does my homeowner’s insurance cover belongings during a move?
Some homeowner’s and renter’s policies provide limited coverage for belongings in transit. Contact your insurance provider before your move to understand what is covered and what exclusions apply. You may need to purchase additional coverage to fill gaps.
What is not covered by moving insurance?
Common exclusions include items you packed yourself (under some policies), pre-existing damage, perishable items, hazardous materials, cash, jewellery, and important documents. Items not declared on the inventory or that exceed the declared shipment value may also be excluded. Read your policy carefully before moving day.
Can I buy moving insurance separately from my moving company?
Yes. Third-party transit insurance providers offer policies specifically designed for household moves. These may provide broader coverage or better rates than what your moving company offers. Compare options from both your mover and independent providers to find the best value.
Move with confidence knowing your belongings are protected. Simple Moves provides comprehensive coverage options for every full-service move. Call (604) 398-4680 or get your free quote today.
Get a Free Moving Quote From Simple Moves
Simple Moves is a full-service moving company serving Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and all of British Columbia. We provide the experienced movers and the trucks — you do not need to rent a vehicle or recruit friends. Whether you are moving across the street or across the province, we make every move simple.
Call (604) 398-4680 or request a free quote online today.