Do I Need Moving Insurance? Here’s What You Should Know

When planning a move, there’s a lot to think about—packing, transportation, scheduling—but one question many people overlook is: Do I need moving insurance? Accidents, mishandling, and even bad weather can put your belongings at risk during transit. Moving insurance can give you peace of mind and financial protection if the unexpected happens.

Real Moving & Storage has earned a trusted reputation for reliability, personalized service, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Established in 2006 by Lucas Pinto—an industry veteran with over 25 years of hands-on experience—we proudly serve Fairfield, CT, and the surrounding communities with excellence in every move.

What Is Moving Insurance?

Moving insurance is a form of coverage that protects your belongings during the moving process. It’s not the same as home insurance—most homeowner policies don’t fully cover items in transit. Instead, moving insurance is either offered by the moving company or purchased from a third-party insurer.

Why Moving Insurance Matters

Even the most careful movers can encounter problems:

Accidents on the road – unexpected collisions or vehicle issues.
Weather conditions – rain, snow, or humidity causing damage.
Mishandling – improper packing or loading errors.

If you’re planning a long-haul relocation, such as a move from Connecticut to Florida, your belongings will be in transit for longer, increasing the chance of potential damage or loss. Insurance ensures you’re financially covered in such scenarios.

Types of Moving Insurance

1. Released Value Protection

Cost: No additional charge.
Coverage: Minimal—usually around $0.60 per pound per item.
Best for: Low-value items or moves where replacement cost isn’t a major concern.

2. Full Value Protection

Cost: Higher premium.
Coverage: The mover is liable for the replacement value or repair of damaged/lost items.
Best for: High-value items like electronics, antiques, and designer furniture.

3. Third-Party Insurance

Cost: Varies by provider and declared value of items.
Coverage: Broader protection, sometimes including natural disasters or high-risk events.

When Should You Buy Moving Insurance?

Interstate moves or cross-country relocations—like moving from New York to North Carolina—carry more risk due to long travel times.
If you have expensive or fragile items—fine art, heirlooms, or high-end appliances.
During peak moving seasons—more traffic and higher demand can increase risk.

How to Choose the Right Coverage

Assess the value of your belongings – make an inventory list.
Compare moving company coverage vs. third-party providers.
Understand exclusions – some policies don’t cover items you pack yourself.
Ask about claims process – faster claim handling can make a big difference.

Common Misconceptions About Moving Insurance

A lot of people skip moving insurance because they believe:

“The moving company automatically covers everything.” In reality, federal regulations only require movers to provide minimal coverage—released value protection—which is often insufficient.
“My homeowner’s insurance covers my move.” While some policies offer temporary transit coverage, it’s usually limited and comes with exclusions. Always verify with your insurance provider.
“I’m moving locally, so there’s no risk.” Even short-distance relocations—like moving in Norwalk, CT—can involve damage from bumps, scratches, or weather exposure.

What’s Typically Covered in Moving Insurance?

Coverage can vary, but most policies include protection for:

Loss of Items – complete disappearance of a package or box.
Damage During Transit – dents, scratches, or breakage while in the moving truck.
Natural Disasters – some policies cover floods, fires, or storms.
Handling Incidents – damage caused during packing, loading, or unloading.

What’s Usually Not Covered?

To avoid surprises, check the exclusions in your policy:

Damage to items you pack yourself (unless proven mover negligence)
High-value jewelry or cash unless declared beforehand
Plants and perishable goods
Damage caused by improper packing of fragile items

Final Thoughts

While moving insurance may feel like an extra expense, it can save you from major financial loss and stress if things go wrong. By knowing your options and understanding the risks, you can make an informed decision.

If you’re preparing for a move—local or long-distance—partnering with an experienced team like Real Moving & Storage ensures not only professional handling of your belongings but also guidance on the right insurance for your needs.