Moving Valuation: Protecting Your Belongings During a Move

When planning a move with Heroes Moving & Storage, ensuring the safety of your belongings is a top priority. While packing and logistics often take center stage, understanding moving valuation is an equally critical part of the process. This coverage determines how your items are protected in case of loss or damage during a move.

As members of the Virginia Movers & Warehousemen’s Association, we know how important it is to understand all aspects of moving. By learning about your options and the protections offered, you can make an informed decision and enjoy peace of mind throughout your relocation.

What Is Moving Valuation?

Moving valuation refers to the level of liability a moving company assumes for the items it transports. Unlike traditional insurance, moving valuation focuses on the carrier’s responsibility for your goods.

As a licensed moving company, Heroes Moving & Storage is federally required to offer two primary levels of valuation:

Released Valuation: Basic and Free

Released valuation provides a minimal level of protection at no additional cost. Under this option, the moving company reimburses you up to 60 cents per pound per item for any lost or damaged belongings. While released valuation is included in the base cost of most moves, it often falls short of covering the actual value of your items. For example, if you have an item weighing 100 pounds that is accidentally damaged during the move, regardless of the value or cost of the item, you would be covered up to $60 for repair or replacement.

Full Value Protection: Comprehensive Coverage

For a higher level of protection, full value protection ensures your items are covered for their current replacement value. This option requires the mover to repair, replace, or reimburse the item’s full value.

Using the same 100-pound items example, because full value protection can pay up to $6.00 per pound, this same item would be covered up to $600. Full value protection is often a practical choice for individuals moving valuable items.

Heroes offers full value protection for a flat fee. We will explain this option in detail when providing you with our free estimate.

Valuation Alternatives – Third-Party Insurance

While not part of moving valuation, third-party insurance can supplement your coverage for added peace of mind. Though Heroes does not offer additional insurance, you can look for independent companies that offer moving insurance or check with your homeowner’s insurance provider to explore relocation protection riders or standalone policies.

Is Moving Valuation Right for You?

Choosing the right valuation depends on the value of your items and your risk tolerance. For individuals with high-value items or sentimental belongings, full-value protection or additional insurance may be worth the investment.

Because we understand that things can go wrong, for the best level of safety, Heroes Moving & Storage recommends to our customers that they take their most valuable possessions, such as their jewelry, with them instead of putting them on a moving truck.

For those with less expensive goods, the released valuation might suffice.

Be sure to discuss your options with your moving company before finalizing your contract. Transparency and understanding your level of protection are crucial for avoiding surprises on moving day.

Trust Heroes Moving & Storage for a Stress-Free Move

Your belongings are more than just items. At Heroes Moving & Storage, we know your belongings are necessities, investments, and memories. Our team is committed to offering professional, reliable services to make your move as smooth as possible.

Read our blogs for more expert tips on moving, packing, and storage. Explore our moving services or contact us for a free consultation. Whether you’re planning a local move or need guidance on moving valuation, Heroes Moving & Storage is here to help every step of the way.

SOURCES:

Virginia Movers & Warehousemen’s Association – Regulation Guidelines

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Liability & Protection