Moving Coverage Explained Before Moving Day

Moving coverage is an important part of planning your move with King David Moving & Storage. Before moving day, take a moment to understand how responsibility for lost or damaged belongings is determined. The amount payable can depend on the protection you select, the item involved, and the terms that apply to your shipment.

A lightweight item can be expensive to replace. That is why basic protection deserves a closer look, especially when your inventory includes electronics, artwork, antiques, or carefully chosen furniture. We encourage you to discuss these belongings when arranging your move.

Moving coverage for local Illinois moves

For a household move entirely within Illinois, valuation determines the mover’s responsibility for covered loss or damage. Illinois rules provide for a selection between 60 cents per pound per article and a higher lump sum value declared in writing, with applicable valuation charges paid. Review the selection on your bill of lading before signing.

Basic limited liability

The basic option is available at no additional charge and limits liability to $0.60 per pound per article. The calculation uses the weight of the individual item, rather than what you paid for it.

For example, a 10-pound item has a weight-based liability limit of $6.00: 10 pounds × $0.60. Even if the item costs substantially more to replace, that does not increase the basic weight-based limit. This example illustrates the limit, rather than guaranteeing a claim payment.

Higher declared valuation

Ask for written details about declaring a higher shipment value, the applicable valuation charge, and how a loss would be settled. A higher declared value should not automatically be described as a replacement-cost insurance policy. Review the terms before choosing.

When arranging your local Illinois move, discuss your inventory and protection questions together so the paperwork reflects your shipment.

Interstate moving protection

For household moves from one state to another, federal rules require interstate movers to offer Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. These are valuation options governing the mover’s liability.

• Full Value Protection: generally applies unless you waive it in writing. For covered loss or damage, the mover may repair the item, replace it with a similar item, or make an appropriate cash settlement. Charges, deductibles, declared shipment value, and special-item requirements apply.
• Released Value Protection: available at no additional charge, with liability limited to $0.60 per pound per article. Selecting this option requires a specific written agreement.

Request written details for your shipment before making your selection. For the federal explanation, read FMCSA Liability and Protection.

Optional insurance through a separate insurer

Separate moving insurance is issued by an insurer and has its own terms. Ask the insurer to explain the available policy before purchasing it.

Check deductibles, item limits, exclusions, covered causes of loss, and claim requirements. Confirm whether customer-packed boxes, storage, loading, and unloading are covered. Arrange the policy before the move and obtain written confirmation of its effective date.

Ask your homeowners or renters insurer what protection, if any, applies during packing, transportation, and storage. Your existing policy may leave gaps.

Prepare valuable and fragile belongings

Tell us about unusual or high-value pieces during your estimate so we can discuss handling needs and relevant documentation.

• Photograph valuable items and record their condition before packing.
• Keep receipts, appraisals, model numbers, and serial numbers when available.
• Identify antiques, artwork, glass, pianos, and other items needing special preparation.
• Keep jewelry, cash, medication, keys, and important personal documents with you.

If you need help preparing fragile belongings, explore our packing services and discuss the materials and labor your items require.

If you notice loss or damage

Contact King David Moving & Storage promptly for written claims instructions. Describe the concern, keep your documents, and take photographs. Retain the affected item and packing materials until you receive inspection or disposal instructions.

A call or delivery note may not satisfy formal written claim requirements. Follow the filing deadline and instructions for your shipment. Notify any separate insurer as required by your policy.

Common questions about moving coverage

Does basic protection pay replacement cost?

No. The basic weight-based option limits liability to $0.60 per pound per article. Review higher valuation or separate insurance if that limit does not suit your belongings.

Is valuation the same as moving insurance

Valuation establishes the mover’s level of responsibility. Separate moving insurance is a policy issued by an insurer, with its own coverage terms and claim process.

Can I arrange additional protection on moving day?

Discuss your choices before moving day. Insurance providers may require advance purchase, and valuation selections must be properly documented. Confirm the applicable timing before your move starts.

Discuss your move with our team

Have questions about moving coverage for your Chicago or suburban household move? Call (847) 470-0055 to discuss your inventory and request written protection details. You can also Get Your Free Quote to begin planning your move.

This overview does not replace the applicable moving agreement, tariff, insurance policy, or legal requirements.