Trouble Directory
State Laws
Valuation

Professional household goods movers are required to assume liability for the cargo they transport. The level of that liability is up to you. Most movers offer 4 levels of liability and these will be reflected in their tariffs. While valuation is a form of financial protection, it is not, strictly speaking, insurance. Be sure you understand the different valuation options available to you when you move.

Released Value
This option offers you the least protection. It is offered by the mover at no additional cost. The terms of this arrangement are such that the mover assumes liability for not more than 60 cents per pound per item. Think carefully about this option and about your possessions - that is, what your most valuable stuff weighs. If you choose this option, you will sign for it on the Bill of Lading.

Declared Value
With this option, your shipment will be valued based on its total weight multiplied by $1.25 per pound. In the event that you make a claim for loss or damage, it will be settled based on the depreciated value of the lost of damaged article(s) up to the maximum liability value as determined by the weight of the entire shipment. The carrier is permitted to charge you $7.00 for each $1,000 (or percentage thereof) of liability being assumed under form of valuation. Be sure that you understand that your shipment will be protected based on its depreciated value and that the mover can charge you a fee for this coverage.

Lump Sum Value
Under the terms of this option, you may purchase additional liability protection from the mover if the value of your shipment is greater than $1.25 per pound multiplied by the weight of the entire shipment. This entails declaring a total dollar value for your goods. The mover will charge you $7.00 per $1,000 (the same valuation charge as that for the Declared Value option) of declared value to assume the greater level of liability.

Full Value Protection
If you opt for this form of valuation, any articles that are lost or damaged will either be repaired, replaced with a similar item, or a cash settlement made. These reparations are made at the mover's option and expense. While declared and lump sum valuation are based on the depreciated value of the lost or damaged articles, full value protection will obligate the mover to pay current market replacement value. The cost and terms of this form of valuation will vary; be sure you understand the specifics of your mover's plan.

Marriage & Family Sponsors
Services To Consider
Locate a local
moving service:
   
 
Document Center
  

Affordable & Professional

Select a document type from the list below. Most documents are prepared within just 48 hours.

  Search Local Help & Info
What:  
Where:
  Browse by state
 » All Local Guides
 » Alabama
 » Alaska
 » Arizona
 » Arkansas
 » California
 » Colorado
 » Connecticut
 » DC
 » Delaware
 » Florida
 » Georgia
 » Hawaii
 » Idaho
 » Illinois
 » Indiana
 » Iowa
 » Kansas
 » Kentucky
 » Louisiana
 » Maine
 » Maryland
 » Massachusetts
 » Michigan
 » Minnesota
 » Mississippi
 » Missouri
 » Montana
 » Nebraska
 » Nevada
 » New Hampshire
 » New Jersey
 » New Mexico
 » New York
 » North Carolina
 » North Dakota
 » Ohio
 » Oklahoma
 » Oregon
 » Pennsylvania
 » Rhode Island
 » South Carolina
 » South Dakota
 » Tennessee
 » Texas
 » Utah
 » Vermont
 » Virginia
 » Washington
 » West Virginia
 » Wisconsin
 » Wyoming
Local Guides
 Consumer Rights
 Criminal Law
 Debt & Bankruptcy
 Employment
 Immigration
 Marriage & Family
 Personal Injury
 Probate & Estate
 Renting & Housing
 Small Business
 Tax
 Personal Troubles
In partnership with JustGive.org, GotTrouble facilitates charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations that can serve a positive social interest while being innovative in their organizations practices. Many of these organizations provide support in education, career training and financial opportunity to millions of people in need every year.