10 Common Moving Insurance Exclusions

Moving insurance is essential for protecting your belongings, but it comes with limitations. Here are the 10 most common exclusions to watch out for:

• High-Value Items: Jewelry, artwork, and premium electronics often require extra coverage.
• Self-Packed Items: Damage to items you pack yourself may not be covered.
• Fragile Items: Glassware, mirrors, and delicate electronics often have limited protection.
• Weather and Natural Events: Damage from hurricanes, floods, or extreme temperatures is usually excluded.
• Prohibited or Perishable Goods: Hazardous materials, fresh food, and live plants are not insurable.
• Pre-Existing Damage: Items already damaged before the move are excluded.
• Poor Handling: Proving negligence by movers can be challenging without proper documentation.
• Device Malfunctions: Electronics and appliances damaged internally may not qualify for claims.
• Undocumented Items: Items missing from your inventory list are not covered.
• War and Deliberate Damage: Losses caused by war or intentional harm are excluded.

Quick Tips to Protect Yourself:

1. Review Your Policy: Understand what’s covered and excluded.
2. Document Everything: Take photos, videos, and detailed inventories.
3. Consider Extra Coverage: Add special insurance for valuables or fragile items.
4. Hire Professionals: Let movers handle packing for high-risk belongings.

Knowing these exclusions upfront can help you avoid surprises and take steps to minimize risks.

Insurance Bites | Exclusions

1. High-Value Items

Standard moving insurance often falls short when it comes to covering high-value items like jewelry, artwork, or premium electronics. This means you might not get their full market value if they’re damaged during the move.

To safeguard these items, here’s what you can do:

• Take photos and detailed notes for each item to document their condition.
• Get professional appraisals for antiques, artwork, or collectibles to establish their worth.
• Invest in additional insurance specifically for these high-value belongings.
• Create a thorough inventory that includes descriptions and market values.

Make sure to discuss any special handling requirements with your movers. Confirm they have the right equipment and procedures to transport your valuables securely. Taking these steps can give you peace of mind and protect your most precious items during the move.

2. Items You Pack Yourself

Packing your belongings on your own can complicate moving insurance claims. Many insurance policies exclude coverage for self-packed items, as the packing methods can't be verified. This makes it harder to prove that any damage wasn’t caused by improper packing during the move.

Here’s what you might encounter with self-packed items:

• Limited Coverage: Basic insurance often doesn’t include self-packed boxes.
• Proof Issues: You may need to demonstrate that damage wasn’t due to poor packing.
• Claim Rejections: Insurers might deny claims for items you packed yourself.

Want to protect your self-packed belongings? Follow these tips:

• Document the Process: Take photos and videos while packing to show the condition of items and how they were packed.
• Use Strong Materials: Invest in durable boxes and proper packing supplies to minimize risks.
• Save Receipts: Keep proof of purchase for your packing materials - it can help if there’s a dispute.
• Make Inventories: Write down what’s in each box and note the condition of the items.

For a smart balance, consider letting professionals pack fragile or valuable items while you handle sturdier belongings. This approach helps cut costs while still providing better protection and coverage, reducing the chances of unexpected expenses.

3. Breakable Items

Fragile items often come with limited insurance coverage, particularly when it comes to glassware, mirrors, and delicate electronics. These items need extra attention to ensure they remain eligible for coverage.

Here are common examples of breakable items that may not be fully covered:

• Glass & Crystal
  • China and crystal stemware
  • Large mirrors and glass tabletops
  • Glass display cabinets
• Electronics & Screens
  • Flat-screen TVs and monitors
  • Laptop and tablet displays
  • Screens on smart home devices
• Collectibles & Art
  • Porcelain figurines
  • Ceramic sculptures
  • Framed artwork with glass

To better protect these items during a move:

• Use professional packing materials or the original packaging when possible.
• Consider custom crates for large glass pieces or fragile artwork.
• Take photos or videos to document the condition of each item.
• Provide an accurate, itemized list of breakable items to simplify any claims process.

Some insurance policies may require extra coverage or a specific rider for fragile items. Additionally, there could be restrictions, especially for self-packed items or those with existing damage. Professional packing and thorough documentation can go a long way in safeguarding these delicate belongings during transit.

4. Weather and Natural Events

Most standard moving insurance policies don’t cover damage caused by extreme weather or natural disasters during transit.

Common Weather and Temperature Risks

• Hurricanes and tropical storms
• Flash floods or rising water
• Earthquakes and aftershocks
• Tornadoes and strong winds
• Lightning strikes
• Extreme heat or cold
• Wooden furniture warping from heat
• Electronics damaged by condensation
• Melting or deterioration of fragile items
• Freezing damage to liquids or delicate materials

Severe weather can wreak havoc on your belongings. For example, flash floods can ruin furniture and electronics, which are often excluded from standard policies. Being aware of these risks is the first step to protecting your items.

Steps to Minimize Weather-Related Risks

1. Plan Around the Weather

• Check forecasts ahead of your move.
• Schedule your move during mild weather.
• Have backup dates ready in case of unexpected conditions.

2. Protect Your Items During Transit

• Use climate-controlled moving trucks.
• Pack with moisture-resistant materials.
• Opt for faster shipping options to reduce exposure time.

3. Review Insurance Options

• Ask about additional weather-related coverage.
• Look into third-party moving insurance.
• Take photos of your items to document their condition before moving.

Although standard policies may not cover weather-related damage, hiring experienced movers with proper insurance can help safeguard your belongings. Professional movers often have strategies in place to handle unexpected weather, reducing the chances of damage. With careful planning and the right precautions, you can avoid unnecessary losses.

5. Items Not Covered or That May Spoil

Moving insurance typically doesn't cover items considered hazardous, perishable, or sensitive. Understanding these exclusions can help you plan alternative arrangements and avoid unexpected issues.

Items Prohibited by Moving Insurance

Certain items are not covered by moving insurance due to safety or legal restrictions:

• Hazardous Materials
  • Flammable liquids and gases
  • Explosives and fireworks
  • Car batteries and motor oil
  • Paint and paint thinners
  • Cleaning chemicals and solvents
• Controlled Substances
  • Prescription medications
  • Illegal drugs
  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Alcohol (especially for interstate moves)

Perishable Goods

Insurance won't cover items that can spoil or deteriorate during transport, such as:

• Fresh produce and frozen foods
• Live plants and flowers
• Pet food and supplies
• Temperature-sensitive medications
• Opened food containers

Items Sensitive to Temperature

Some belongings are particularly vulnerable to temperature changes and require extra care:

• Wine Collections: Prone to damage from temperature fluctuations
• Art Supplies: Can degrade under improper conditions
• Candles: Risk of melting during transit
• Beauty Products: May separate or lose effectiveness
• Musical Instruments: Can warp or crack due to extreme temperatures

If you're moving any of these items, additional steps may be needed to protect them.

Items Requiring Specialized Handling

Certain items demand extra care or specialized transport:

• Live Animals: Require dedicated pet transport services
• Plants: Need proper care to survive the move
• Scientific Equipment: Demands precision handling and setup
• Medical Devices: Often require controlled environments

Tips for Managing Excluded Items

To avoid complications with items not covered by moving insurance, consider these practical steps:

• Personally transport high-value or sensitive items.
• Use specialized shipping for temperature-sensitive belongings.
• Safely dispose of hazardous materials before moving day.
• Make arrangements in advance for items requiring unique care or handling.

Before packing, double-check your moving company's specific exclusions to ensure you're fully prepared.

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6. Damage Before Moving

Pre-existing damage to your belongings is often excluded from moving insurance coverage. Knowing how this impacts your claims is essential to safeguard your items and avoid disputes. Here's how to properly document and address pre-existing damage.

Documenting and Verifying Damage

Before your move, take these steps to record the condition of your belongings:

• Photograph everything: Capture clear images of your items from multiple angles.
• Create an inventory: List items with detailed condition notes.
• Record serial numbers: Include identification marks where applicable.
• Note item values: Document the value of any damaged belongings.
• Involve the movers: Ask your moving company to inspect and verify existing damage.
• Get signatures: Ensure all inspection records are signed and copies are provided.

Types of Pre-Existing Damage

Certain types of damage are more commonly seen and can complicate claims:

• Furniture: Scratches, dents, or structural issues.
• Electronics: Malfunctioning parts or visible wear.
• Appliances: Cosmetic flaws or mechanical issues.
• Antiques: Cracks, chips, or natural aging effects.
• Artwork: Damage to frames, canvases, or materials.

Tips for Managing Pre-Existing Damage

To reduce the risk of issues related to pre-existing damage, consider these strategies:

• Fix critical damage before the move.
• Pack damaged items separately to avoid further issues.
• Use extra padding and protection for fragile or damaged items.
• Provide accurate value declarations for all items.

7. Damage from Poor Handling

Damage from poor handling during a move can be a headache. Proving negligence requires quick action and thorough documentation.

What Counts as Poor Handling?

Poor handling happens when items are mishandled in ways that lead to damage. This includes:

• Dropping items during loading or unloading
• Stacking items improperly, causing them to collapse or get crushed
• Rough transportation that makes items shift and break
• Failing to secure items properly in the moving truck
• Mishandling fragile items without proper care

Recognizing these actions is the first step to gathering the evidence you’ll need.

How to Document Poor Handling

To support an insurance claim for damage caused by poor handling, follow these steps:

1. Before the Move
   Take clear photos and videos of your belongings to document their condition.
2. During the Move
   Keep an eye on the process when possible. Pay attention to:
   • How items are carried and loaded
   • Whether proper moving tools are used
   • How items are secured inside the truck
   • Any careless or questionable handling
3. After the Move
   Inspect your belongings immediately. If you notice damage, document it with:
   • Photos and videos showing the damage
   • Written descriptions of the issues
   • Witness statements, if available

This evidence can significantly strengthen your insurance claim.

What Insurance Claims Require

To file a successful claim for poor handling, you’ll need to meet specific requirements. Most moving insurance policies ask for the following:

Requirement	Description	Purpose
Immediate Notification	Report damage as soon as possible	Establishes timely documentation
Written Documentation	Provide detailed descriptions of the damage	Creates an official record
Visual Evidence	Submit photos or videos of the damage	Shows the extent of the damage
Inventory List	Include a list of damaged items	Confirms items were part of the move
Moving Contract	Provide a copy of the signed agreement	Clarifies the terms of service

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Clearly communicate any special handling needs in writing.
• Keep all your documentation organized and easy to access.
• Report concerns about the moving process to the appropriate person immediately.
• If you see mishandling, document it right away with photos and notes.

8. Device and Equipment Malfunctions

When it comes to moving, electronic devices and appliances are particularly vulnerable to malfunctions. Taking the right precautions can help safeguard these items and ensure they're covered under your insurance.

Before the movers show up, take a few key steps: clear out loose items from drawers and shelves, use proper packing materials to cushion fragile items, label boxes with their intended destination, and provide clear instructions for any special handling requirements. These measures can go a long way in preventing damage during the move.

9. Items Not on Your List

Your inventory list does more than track your belongings - it’s a key tool for validating claims if something goes wrong during the move. One common issue? Claims can be denied for items that aren’t properly documented. If you don’t have proof, insurers may not cover the loss.

To protect your belongings, take these steps before the move:

• Photograph each item to show its condition
• Record serial numbers for electronics and appliances
• Save original receipts for expensive items
• Note any pre-existing damage or wear
• Back up your inventory list digitally

Keep in mind: verbal agreements or last-minute additions won’t cut it. Only items with proper documentation will be eligible for claims.

Here’s an example of how to document your items:

Item Description	Condition	Serial Number	Value	Photos Taken
Samsung 65" TV	Excellent	XC500789321	$1,200	Yes
Antique dresser	Good, minor scratches	N/A	$800	Yes
Desktop computer	Like new	DT78901234	$1,500	Yes

Be as specific as possible when preparing your list. Instead of writing “box of kitchen items,” detail it like this: “box containing 12-piece ceramic dining set, KitchenAid mixer, and stainless steel utensils.” This level of precision strengthens your case if you need to file a claim.

Without clear documentation, any damage or loss might leave you paying out of pocket for repairs or replacements.

10. War and Deliberate Damage

Moving insurance doesn’t cover damage caused by extraordinary events that go beyond the usual risks of moving. Two major exclusions are damage from war and intentional harm.

War-related exclusions apply to situations like armed conflict, civil unrest, or terrorist acts. These events bring about risks that standard insurance policies aren’t built to handle. As a result, any damage caused during such incidents is not covered.

Deliberate damage refers to intentional harm done to your belongings. This is also not included in moving insurance coverage. If you believe your items were intentionally damaged during the move, make sure to document the evidence with photos or videos. Then, report the issue to both your moving company and your insurance provider.

How MOD24 Helps Reduce Moving Risks

MOD24 provides practical tools to address common moving risks, especially those not covered by standard insurance policies. With a 4.6/5 rating from 370 reviews, it’s a reliable choice for secure and professional moving services.

Licensed and Insured Movers
Every moving company on MOD24 is licensed, verified, and insured, giving you peace of mind that your move is in capable hands.

24/7 Support and Issue Resolution
MOD24’s customer support team is available via chat throughout your move. This real-time support helps resolve problems as they arise, minimizing the impact of potential risks.

Extra Protection Options
MOD24’s membership program offers added protection benefits, including:

Feature	Coverage Details
TV Coverage	$100 protection for TVs
Secure Storage	1 month of free storage
Long-Distance Move Coverage	$200 extra coverage
Discounts on Future Moves	Save $49 on your next move

These options help fill the gaps left by standard insurance policies.

Expert Packing Services
Need help packing? MOD24 connects you with professional packers and offers a 20% discount on packing supplies, ensuring your belongings are well-protected.

Clear and Accurate Documentation
MOD24’s booking system keeps a detailed record of your items, reducing the chances of disputes over unlisted belongings.

Next Steps

Understanding common exclusions in moving insurance highlights why these steps are essential to safeguard your belongings. These actions help address the gaps left by standard coverage.

Document Your Valuables
Prepare a detailed list of your high-value items. Include photos and estimated values to support potential claims.

Use Professional Packing Services
Consider hiring professional packers for delicate or expensive items. MOD24's verified movers use proper techniques to reduce the risk of damage that may not be covered by insurance.

Check Your Coverage Details
Before the move:

• Review the mover's insurance policy
• Note any pre-existing damage
• Get written confirmation for special handling needs
• Address any coverage gaps in your policy

Choose Verified Movers
Find licensed and insured moving companies through MOD24's platform, which boasts a 4.6/5 rating from 370 reviews.

"Every local and long-distance moving helper featured on MOD24 is licensed, verified, and insured. Our commitment is to deliver a professional customer experience, regardless of your relocation destination. With MOD24, a secure and simple move is assured for all." - MOD24

Consider Extra Protection

• Additional coverage for electronics
• Insurance for long-distance moves
• Secure storage options
• Access to premium customer support