When it comes to protecting your belongings during a move, understanding liability is key. If you’re moving in Canada and packing your own items, it’s important to know how this impacts your coverage with a mover. Here is more information on whether moving insurance covers items I packed myself:
What is Packed By Owner Liability?
When you pack your belongings for a move, the items are considered “Packed By Owner”. This shifts liability to you, the packer. Items you pack may not be covered under the mover’s liability coverage unless there is outside damage to the box. This indicates loading or unloading damage.
How Does Moving Insurance Work?
In Canada, moving insurance is called valuation protection, and it’s intended to protect your belongings during the move. Professional moving companies typically offer two main types of coverage:
- Basic Coverage
This is included in the moving cost but offers minimal compensation of 60 cents per pound per article for damaged items. It is a basic coverage based on weight rather than value—meaning that a heavier item is worth more compensation, regardless of its market value. An example: if a table is damaged and it weighs 20 pounds, the mover’s liability is $12.00 (60 cents x 20 pounds). This is not enough to cover the repair or replacement of the table.
- Full Value Protection
With this protection, you can expect to be compensated for the full value of your damaged belongings if they can’t be repaired or replaced, provided the mover did the packing. If you are packing, damage to items inside the carton will not be covered unless there is outside damage to the box.
When packing your own items, it’s important to read the policy details. Many moving companies include clauses that limit or exclude coverage for items you pack yourself. This is due to the increased risk of damage from improper packing.
Are Self-Packed Items Covered?
When you do your own packing, the items may not be fully covered unless there is outside damage to the carton. This is an indication of loading or unloading damage. The mover notes any pre-existing damage to your furniture and cartons as they are loading your shipment.
Fragile Items Exclusions
If you pack fragile items without proper cushioning or materials, and there is damage, your claim will most likely be denied.
Tips to Protect Your Belongings
If you decide to pack your own items, here are some tips to lessen the chance of damage:
Use Quality Packing Materials
Invest in sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper to provide good protection. Cushion the bottom of each carton with packing paper or bubble wrap.
- Take photographs of higher-value items – this helps in the event of a claim.
- Lastly, check with your home insurer – your home policy may cover your move.
For more information on whether moving insurance covers items I packed myself, and to get a moving quote, contact Premiere Van Lines.