Moving Insurance: How to Keep Your Belongings Safe

Moving is always thrilling – new beginnings, fresh spaces, and maybe a bit of adventure. But to be honest: it can also be stressful. What if things get damaged, or lost on the way there? That is where moving insurance comes in.

The right insurance ensures that you’re covered if an accident occurs while packing, during transport, or unloading. In this blog, we will look at:

• Why moving with moving insurance from the company is safer than renting a truck and doing it yourself
• What moving insurance typically covers (and what it doesn’t)
• How to choose between standard and replacement value coverage

Why Professional Moving Insurance Is Safer Than Doing It Yourself

When you hire us, your belongings are safe in our hands – not just because we know how to handle furniture and fragile items, but also because we’re insured.

1. Movers are required to have insurance

In Ontario, professional movers must carry liability insurance. That means if something gets damaged or lost while they’re handling it, you’re protected.

If you move yourself with a rental truck or friends helping out, that protection usually doesn’t exist. You could end up paying for any damage yourself.

2. Basic coverage is included automatically

We offer basic valuation protection as part of the standard service. This covers your items based on weight, not their full value.

That’s fine for smaller, inexpensive items, but it may not fully protect valuable furniture, electronics, or heirlooms.

3. Claims are easier to manage

When movers handle the whole process from packing, loading, transport, and unloading – it’s clear who’s responsible if something breaks. Doing it yourself or relying on friends can make accountability complicated.

4. Home insurance usually won’t cover your move

Many people assume their home or renter’s insurance will protect items during a move, but most policies only cover belongings inside your home. That’s another reason moving company insurance is a smart choice.

What Moving Insurance Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

Not every policy is the same, so it’s important to know what’s included – and what isn’t.

What’s usually covered:

• Damage or loss during packing, transport, or unloading
• Repairs or replacement if the movers are responsible
• Full replacement value if you choose the upgraded coverage

What’s usually not covered:

• Boxes you packed yourself (movers can’t verify how they were packed)
• High-value items like jewelry, collectibles, or cash
• Normal wear and tear (scratches, fading, or small dents)
• Weather-related damage (floods, storms, etc.)
• Items that weren’t properly disconnected or prepared for the move

Tip: Always ask your mover for a written list of what’s covered.

Choosing the Right Plan: Standard vs. Replacement Value

With our insurance policy, you have two options: standard and replacement value.

Standard coverage comes automatically. It’s cheaper, but it only pays out according to the weight of your possessions – not their value.

Replacement value coverage is the higher-end option. It’s a bit more expensive, but it pays the actual cost to replace or repair your items at today’s market price. This comes in particularly handy for expensive furniture, electronics, or keepsake items.

Standard coverage might be sufficient if you own plenty of older or less expensive, standard items. But if you want absolute peace of mind and greater financial protection, replacement value coverage is the better choice.

Tips to Keep Your Belongings Safe During Your Move

Even with insurance, a few simple steps can save you stress:

• Take photos of your items before moving
• Label boxes clearly, especially fragile ones
• Keep valuables like passports, jewelry, and cash with you
• Inspect everything immediately after delivery and note any damage
• File claims promptly if anything is missing or broken

These habits can make a big difference and help your claim go smoothly if you ever need it.

We Got You Covered!

Moving insurance isn’t just paperwork, it’s peace of mind. Whether you stick with standard coverage or choose full replacement value, you can feel confident knowing your belongings are protected.

Want to see the coverage Move It Right offers? Check out our insurance page. You’ll find all the information you need to pick the plan that’s right for your move.