Every licensed California mover must offer two levels of liability coverage. The first is called Released Value Protection — this is the default, and it is almost worthless. Under released value protection, if a mover damages or loses your belongings, they are liable for $0.60 per pound per item. A $1,500 laptop that weighs 5 pounds is worth $3.00 under this coverage. A $3,000 flat-screen TV weighing 80 pounds is worth $48. You get this coverage for free because it barely covers anything.
The second type is Full Value Protection, which requires the mover to either repair or replace damaged items, or pay you the current market value. This is meaningful coverage, but movers typically charge extra for it ($100–$300 for most local moves). Confirm the exact terms — deductibles, exclusions, and claim limits vary by company.
Several insurance companies sell standalone moving insurance policies that cover your belongings independently of the mover's liability. Companies like Baker International, Piece of Cake Moving Insurance, and MoveAssist offer these policies. Third-party policies are worth considering for high-value belongings (art, jewelry, antiques, electronics) because they have clearer claim processes and defined replacement values. Your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy may also cover moving damage — check with your insurer before your move.
Items packed by owner (PBO) — if you packed the box, most policies won't cover breakage inside it. Mechanical or electronic failure that isn't caused by physical damage (e.g., a TV that won't turn on after the move, with no visible damage). Items of extraordinary value not declared in advance (jewelry, cash, coins, artwork — these must be declared and scheduled separately). Plants, perishables, and pets. Acts of nature or external causes (earthquakes during transit, flooding).
Under California law, you must file a written damage claim with your mover within 9 months of delivery. The mover has 30 days to acknowledge the claim and 120 days to resolve it. Document damage immediately at delivery — photograph every damaged item before movers leave if possible. Keep all receipts, original purchase records, and the inventory list the mover gave you at pickup. If the mover denies your claim or offers inadequate compensation, you can file a complaint with the CPUC.
Best Movers LA carries full cargo and liability insurance on every move. Our claims process is direct — no third-party insurance company to navigate. We assess reported damage within 5 business days and resolve claims within 30 days. We carry blankets, shrink wrap, and floor protection on every move to minimize the risk of damage in the first place.
Photograph everything of value before moving day. This gives you a timestamped record of pre-move condition. Declare high-value items to your mover in advance — most companies require you to list items over $1,000 in value. Ask specifically what your mover's cargo coverage amount is. And understand that even excellent movers occasionally have accidents — the question is how the company responds when it happens.
Released value protection — $0.60 per pound per item. A 50-lb box of electronics worth $2,000 would be covered for only $30. Upgrade to full value protection or buy third-party coverage for meaningful protection.
9 months from the delivery date. However, document and report damage as soon as possible — ideally before the movers leave. Delayed reports are harder to substantiate.
Sometimes. Many policies have a 'property in transit' clause that covers belongings during a move, but deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions vary widely. Call your insurer before moving day to confirm your coverage.
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