Moving can be stressful, but discovering your household goods damaged during the process is even more frustrating. When this happens, understanding your rights and knowing how to proceed is essential. Many people wonder: Are movers responsible for damage? The answer often depends on the type of coverage selected and the circumstances of the move.
This guide covers:
Assessing damages and filing claims
Movers’ legal responsibilities
The benefits of uShip’s Protection Plan and Property Damage Protection
Taking proactive steps and using the right resources can help you safeguard your belongings and minimize stress, ensuring a smoother move.
Assessing Damage After a Move
If you notice damage to your household goods, acting quickly is vital. Here’s how to start:
Immediate Steps:
Ensure Safety: First, address any safety concerns, such as securing exposed wiring, turning off utilities, or addressing hazards caused by the damage.
Notify the Carrier: Contact the moving company immediately to notate the damage. Many carriers require prompt reporting to comply with their policies.
Mitigate Further Damage: Protect damaged items from worsening conditions, such as shielding them from weather or stabilizing fragile objects.
Documenting the Damage:
Proper documentation strengthens your case for compensation. Follow these steps:
Photographs and Videos: Take clear images and videos of damaged items from multiple angles. Include close-ups and wide shots to capture the extent of the damage.
Create a Descriptive List: Include item names, original condition, damage details, and estimated value. For electronics, note model numbers and unique features.
Date and Timestamp: Use timestamps on all photos and videos to establish when the damage occurred.
Organize Records: Store documentation securely and back it up digitally to ensure it’s accessible when needed.
Creating an Inventory of Affected Items
An accurate inventory streamlines the claims process and ensures you’re compensated fairly. Here’s how to build one:
List All Damaged Items: Include everything from furniture and appliances to smaller items like clothing.
Describe Damage Thoroughly: Detail the type and severity of the damage for each item.
Estimate Values: Use receipts or research current market values. If you don’t have receipts, use similar items as references for value estimates.
Movers’ Responsibilities
Movers are responsible for the safe transport of your belongings, but their liability varies based on the level of coverage chosen:
Released Value Protection: By law, movers are liable for only $0.60 per pound per item. This offers minimal coverage, often insufficient for valuable or fragile items.
Full Value Protection: With this option, movers must repair, replace, or reimburse the full value of damaged items.
While carriers often offer these options, the uShip Protection Plan provides a better solution by removing the hassle of dealing with carriers’ insurance. uShip streamlines the process, so all you need to do is file a claim within seven days of delivery, and they handle the rest.
How the uShip Protection Plan Works
The uShip Protection Plan is designed to offer comprehensive protection at an affordable price:
Comprehensive Coverage: Protects your household goods from pickup to delivery, including rare instances of damage during transit.
No Hassle: You won’t need to navigate complex carrier insurance claims—uShip takes care of everything once you open a case.
Quick Action: Simply report the damage and submit your case to uShip within seven days of delivery.
Property Damage Protection: This is an add-on that protects against damage to your home during the pickup and delivery process.
Reporting Damage to Your Moving Company
Even if you’ve purchased added protection, notifying your carrier about damages remains important. Here’s why:
Documentation: Reporting ensures the damage is officially noted, which can support your case.
Transparency: It establishes clear communication and responsibility.
Steps for reporting damage:
Notify Movers: Contact the carrier as soon as you notice damage and document this communication.
Request a Claim Form: If you plan to file through the carrier, request their specific claim form. Per federal law, movers must provide this form within 30 days of notification.
Collect Documentation: Include bills of lading, photos, and detailed damage descriptions.
Timelines for Filing Claims
Understanding deadlines is crucial to ensure your claim is valid:
Intrastate Moves: Most states require claims to be filed within 90 days of delivery.
Interstate Moves: Federal law allows up to nine months for filing claims, though earlier filing ensures faster resolution.
uShip Protection Plan: File within seven days of delivery for the fastest resolution.
Preventative Measures
Reduce the risk of damage with these precautions:
Pack Properly: Use sturdy boxes, ample padding, and clearly label fragile items.
Blanket Wrap Furniture: Cover all hard surfaces with blankets and potentially wrap. (This service comes standard on uShip)
Hire Reputable Movers: Research companies, check reviews, and verify credentials to ensure they handle items professionally.
Why Choose the uShip Protection Plan?
While movers’ liability coverage may seem sufficient, it often falls short when issues arise. The uShip Protection Plan offers peace of mind by:
Covering the Full Value of Your Goods: Unlike basic liability, uShip ensures your items are fully protected.
Simplifying the Process: Forget dealing with carrier insurance. Submit your case, and uShip takes it from there.
Providing Additional Options: Add Property Damage Protection to safeguard your home during pickup and delivery.
With industry-low damage rates due to uShip’s first-to-final mile delivery and blanket-wrap service, the uShip Protection Plan ensures you’re protected even in rare cases of mishaps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent unnecessary stress by steering clear of these pitfalls:
Ignoring Documentation: Always photograph and record the condition of your belongings before the move.
Skipping Protection Plans: Don’t rely solely on basic liability—it often isn’t enough.
Delaying Claims: Report and file claims promptly to avoid missing deadlines.
Choosing the Wrong Movers: Opt for licensed, insured professionals with strong reputations.
Conclusion
Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming, even if damage occurs. By documenting everything, understanding movers’ responsibilities, and opting for added protection, like the uShip Protection Plan, you can navigate the process with ease.
