Start with the contract, not the option’s name
Ask the mover to identify every available protection option in writing and explain whether each is valuation offered under the moving contract or a separate insurance product. If third-party coverage is mentioned, ask who issues the policy, who receives a claim, what deductible applies, and which policy document controls. Do not assume “full value” means every item will automatically be replaced with a new equivalent. The contract may allow repair, replacement, or a cash settlement, subject to declared-value rules, exclusions, deductibles, and other terms. Likewise, a lower-liability option may calculate recovery according to a stated formula rather than an item’s purchase price or current value. Before signing, ask: What is the maximum potential liability? How is an item’s value determined? Who chooses the remedy? Is there an additional charge? Can the option be changed after signing? Get answers in the estimate and transportation documents rather than relying on a verbal summary.
Compare protection levels line by line
Use the same shipment inventory when comparing options. Review these decision points: • Basis of recovery: Determine whether liability is calculated by shipment or item weight, declared value, repair cost, replacement cost, depreciated value, or another method stated in the contract. • Minimum or declared value: Ask whether you must declare a shipment value and how that figure affects charges or recovery. • Deductible: Confirm whether a deductible applies per claim, event, shipment, or item. • Settlement method: Ask whether the responsible party may repair an item, replace it, or offer money. • Item limits: Look for special limits or declaration requirements for belongings above a stated value. • Owner-packed cartons: Confirm how packing an item yourself affects liability and what evidence may be required if concealed damage is discovered. • Storage and handoffs: Ask when protection begins and ends and whether storage providers, subcontractors, or third parties have separate terms. Also review relevant homeowners, renters, or business policies with the insurer or agent that issued them. Ask specifically whether belongings in transit are covered, which causes of loss qualify, what exclusions and deductibles apply, and whether making a claim could affect the policy. Do not assume an existing policy covers a move.
Identify exclusions and document valuable belongings
Exclusions differ by contract or policy, so request the complete terms. Common areas requiring close review include owner-packed boxes, concealed damage without visible carton damage, pre-existing wear, mechanical or electrical malfunction without external damage, natural deterioration, prohibited or undeclared items, jewelry and documents, plants, perishables, and loss caused by circumstances excluded in the agreement. This list is illustrative, not a statement of any mover’s terms. Create a record before packing high-value or difficult-to-replace belongings: 1. Make a room-by-room inventory with a unique number for each carton or item. 2. Record brand, model, serial number, dimensions, and condition where relevant. 3. Take clear, dated photos or video from multiple angles, including existing scratches or defects. 4. Keep receipts, appraisals, prior repair records, or other ownership and value evidence you already have. 5. Ask whether items above a specified value must appear on a separate declaration form. 6. Photograph valuable items before and after packing, plus the closed carton and its inventory label. 7. Keep documents and irreplaceable records with you when permitted; ask what the mover will not transport. An appraisal can support value, but it does not override a contract’s limits or exclusions. Confirm documentation requirements before moving day.
Control the inventory and preserve a possible claim
Compare the mover’s inventory with your own before loading. Check item numbers, quantities, and condition notations; question vague or inaccurate descriptions before signing. Keep copies of the written estimate, valuation selection, bill of lading or contract, inventory, high-value declarations, receipts, photographs, and communications. At delivery, match item and carton numbers as they arrive. Note visible loss or damage on the delivery paperwork before signing when possible, but do not treat the delivery notation as a substitute for a formal claim. Photograph damage, cartons, labels, packing materials, and the surrounding area before moving or discarding anything. Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage without making permanent repairs that could obstruct inspection. Then follow the written claim procedure exactly. Confirm where and how to file, the required evidence, applicable deadlines, inspection requirements, and how the decision may be disputed. Submit a clear itemized account and retain proof of delivery. Claim rights and deadlines can depend on whether the move is within North Carolina or crosses state lines, so use the documents governing your shipment. For broader planning guidance, visit the Raleigh Long Moving resources at /resources/. If you are preparing a household move, you can also review /services/residential-moving/; service scope and availability must be confirmed.