Moving can be both exciting and stressful. You’re packing up your life, trusting movers with your valuable belongings, and hoping everything arrives safely.
While reputable companies like The Move Place handle every item with care, accidents can still happen — from unforeseen weather events to road vibrations or mishandling by third parties. That’s where moving insurance comes in.
Understanding your insurance options ensures that your belongings are protected from loss or damage during the move. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of moving insurance, what they cover, and how to choose the best option for your upcoming move in Plano, TX.
1. What Exactly Is Moving Insurance?
Moving insurance is coverage that protects your personal property while it’s being packed, transported, or unloaded by professional movers.
Although movers like The Move Place are trained to handle items carefully, federal and state laws require companies to offer basic liability coverage for your belongings — but this may not fully cover replacement costs.
That’s why it’s important to understand the different coverage levels available so you can decide whether to purchase additional protection.
2. Basic Liability Coverage (Released Value Protection)
This is the most common and automatically included insurance option for all moves handled by licensed movers in the U.S.
How It Works:
- It provides minimal protection at no additional cost.
- Coverage is based on weight, not value.
- Movers are liable for $0.60 per pound per item for damaged or lost goods.
Example:
If your 50-pound TV worth $600 is damaged, you’d receive only $30 (50 × $0.60) in compensation under this plan.
When It’s Ideal:
- You’re moving inexpensive or replaceable items.
- You already have external insurance coverage (like homeowner’s insurance).
The Move Place Note:
We automatically include basic liability protection for every Plano move — ensuring that every customer has at least a base level of protection from day one.
3. Full Value Protection (FVP)
If you want comprehensive coverage, this is the best option.
How It Works:
- The moving company is liable for the full replacement value of lost or damaged items.
- The mover can choose to:
- Repair the item,
- Replace it with a similar one, or
- Reimburse the cost.
- You’ll pay a small premium, often a percentage of your total shipment value (e.g., 1–2%).
Example:
If your $600 TV is damaged beyond repair, the mover must replace it or pay you the equivalent value.
When It’s Ideal:
- You’re moving high-value items (electronics, art, antiques).
- You want full peace of mind and minimal financial risk.
At The Move Place, we encourage customers moving luxury furniture, fragile goods, or family heirlooms to select Full Value Protection for maximum coverage.
4. Third-Party Moving Insurance
Sometimes, customers want extra protection beyond what the moving company offers. That’s where third-party insurance providers come in.
How It Works:
- You purchase additional coverage from an independent insurer.
- They may cover specific risks not included in FVP, such as:
- Natural disasters
- Road accidents
- Mold or moisture damage during storage
Why It’s Worth Considering:
Third-party insurance offers more flexibility and can cover the full declared value of your shipment.
Common third-party providers include companies like Baker International and MovingInsurance.com, which specialize in relocation coverage.
5. Homeowners or Renters Insurance Extensions
Did you know your existing homeowners or renters insurance policy may already cover moves — at least partially?
Coverage Possibilities:
- Damage or theft during the move (if caused by covered perils).
- Coverage for items in storage or in transit.
Check With Your Insurer:
Ask your agent whether moving is included in your current policy, and whether the coverage applies to local or long-distance relocations.
If it’s not included, you might be able to add a temporary endorsement for the duration of your move.
6. Storage Coverage (For Short or Long-Term Storage)
If your move involves temporary storage, your items might not be covered under standard moving insurance once they’re unloaded.
That’s where storage insurance becomes essential.
Coverage Details:
- Protects belongings from fire, theft, water damage, and pest infestations.
- Available for both short-term (days/weeks) and long-term (months) storage periods.
The Move Place Storage Solutions:
We offer secure, climate-controlled storage options for customers who need to delay their move-in date or downsize temporarily.
7. Specialty Coverage for High-Value Items
If you’re transporting items such as fine art, jewelry, antiques, or instruments, ask about high-value inventory coverage.
Key Points:
- Items must be declared before the move.
- Additional documentation or appraisal may be required.
- The moving company or insurer provides full-value protection for these specific goods.
Example:
A $2,000 painting or collectible can be covered under a special rider, ensuring full reimbursement or repair in the event of damage.
8. Common Misconceptions About Moving Insurance
Let’s clear up a few misunderstandings many customers have:
- “The moving company automatically covers everything.”
Not always. Basic coverage is limited to weight, not value. - “My belongings are covered no matter what happens.”
Some exclusions apply (e.g., items packed by the customer may not qualify for full protection). - “Insurance costs too much.”
Full Value Protection is typically affordable and well worth the security it provides.
The Move Place Tip:
Ask your mover to explain coverage in writing before your move — and don’t hesitate to clarify terms or limits.
9. Steps to File a Claim if Damage Occurs
If something does go wrong, follow these steps to ensure a smooth claims process:
- Inspect your items immediately upon delivery.
- Document damage with photos or videos.
- List affected items and describe the issue in detail.
- Submit a claim to your mover or insurer as soon as possible (within 30 days for most policies).
- Keep copies of all receipts, correspondence, and your signed moving contract.
The Move Place makes claims simple by guiding customers step-by-step and ensuring fair, timely resolutions.
10. How to Choose the Right Moving Insurance Option
Here’s how to decide which coverage level is right for your Plano move:
| Coverage Type | Cost | Protection Level | Best For |
| Released Value | Free | Basic ($0.60/lb) | Short local moves, low-value items |
| Full Value Protection | Moderate | High (repair/replace/reimburse) | Most apartment or home moves |
| Third-Party Insurance | Variable | Customizable | Cross-state or long-distance moves |
| Storage/High-Value Riders | Varies | Specialized | Delayed moves, art, jewelry, electronics |
Recommendation:
For most apartment or home moves in Plano, Full Value Protection offers the best balance between cost and security.
Conclusion: Protect Your Peace of Mind with the Right Coverage
So, what are the insurance options available for your belongings during a move?
You have several — from basic liability to full value and third-party insurance — each offering different levels of protection.
At The Move Place, we’re more than just movers; we’re partners in ensuring your relocation is safe, secure, and stress-free. Whether it’s a local Plano move or a long-distance relocation, our team helps you understand and select the right insurance option for total peace of mind.
Call or Text (469) 777-6683 today to learn more about moving insurance or to schedule your next apartment or home move in Plano, TX.
Contact Information
Address: 2661 Midway Rd Suite 200 – Office 18, Carrollton, TX 75006
📞 Phone/Text: (469) 777-6683
Email: info@themoveplace.com
Hours: Sunday–Saturday, 7 AM–7 PM
Online Booking: Open 24/7
