Moving company broke your stuff? How to file a damage claim?

A good moving company will take steps to ensure your belongings stay safe, such as hiring professional movers, using the right equipment, and not rushing the job. However, even the best moving companies can still end up damaging or losing items sometimes. So, it is important to understand what damages you are covered for and how to file damage claim with the moving company.


Understand your coverage
All reputable moving companies will provide basic moving insurance. The standard coverage is usually for “declared value” and based on weight. This is usually 30 cents per pound, per item with local moves or 60 cents per pound, per item for long-distance moves. With this basic moving insurance, you will NOT be able to get compensated for any more, even if the damaged item was worth much more.


For peace of mind, you may wish to buy additional insurance, either from the moving company itself or a third party. With Full Value Protection moving insurance, you are covered for the full cost of repairing or replacing the item. There may be exceptions or deductibles, so read the fine print carefully before purchasing additional moving insurance.


Document valuable items before moving
It is a good idea to document any valuable items you have before you pack and move them. Take pictures and write down serial numbers. Keep this information with your inventory of items. Move it yourself and do not pack it to be moved on the moving truck.


Filing the damage claim
After the movers have finished unloading, take a quick look at all the boxes and furniture and look for any obvious signs of damage. If a box is smashed or banged, open it up to inspect the contents. Then report this damage right away and note it on the bill of lading. This will make your case even stronger. However, you can still file damage claims even after the movers have left.


Understand that you usually only have 90 days to file a damage claim with the moving company. Don’t wait until the last moment to file the claim because it can make the process harder. As soon as you notice any damaged or lost items, notify the moving company. Get any forms which are required to file a damage claim. You may need to schedule an in-person inspection of the damaged item.


Document the damaged item using a digital camera. For repairable items, you should get an estimate on how much it will cost to repair. It may cost you up-front money to get the repair estimate, but this estimate will be deducted when you actually go to make the repairs.


After you file a damage claim, the moving company has 30 days to respond. They have a total of 120 days to resolve the claim by paying you for their liability or denying the claim. If the company does not respond to your damage claim, then report them to the FMCSA and Better Business Bureau.