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What Insurance Really Covers During a Move (and What It Doesn’t)

There’s a certain magic to moving. A new city, a new job, a new chapter- it’s the reset button many of us need. 

But along with the excitement comes uncertainty. What if the movers drop your flat-screen TV? What if your antique mirror doesn’t make it in one piece? What if something just… disappears?

This is where moving insurance becomes more than just a line item on your checklist, it becomes your safety net. But before you rely on it, it’s important to know what it really covers, and what it doesn’t.

First, Let’s Talk About What Moving Insurance Actually Is

A common misconception is that every moving company automatically insures everything they transport. Unfortunately, that’s not true. What most companies offer by default is basic carrier liability and it might not be enough.

Basic Carrier Liability (Released Value Protection)

This is the legally mandated minimum coverage and comes at no additional cost. But here’s the catch: it typically offers reimbursement at ₹2–₹3 per kg of damaged or lost items. That means if your 15 kg suitcase packed with electronics gets lost, you’re looking at a ₹45 payout. Not even close to what it’s worth.

Transferet Insight: We make sure you understand these limits right at the start and guide you on how to get the right coverage based on what you’re moving.

When You Need More Than the Bare Minimum: Full Value Protection

If you're relocating a household full of high-value items, full value protection is a smarter choice. Under this plan, your mover is liable for the full repair or replacement value of any item that's lost or damaged within certain limits.

Here’s how it usually works:

  • The moving company may repair the damaged item.

  • Replace it with a similar item.

  • Or pay you the current market value.

You’ll likely need to declare high-value items (artwork, jewelry, designer furniture) to have them covered fully.

With Transferet, we help you build a digital inventory, tag high-value items, and ensure they’re tracked and insured properly. 

What’s Often NOT Covered (and Why You Should Care)

No insurance plan is perfect, and there are always exclusions. Here are some of the most common blind spots you need to know about:

  • Owner-packed items: If you pack it yourself and it breaks, movers may not be held liable unless it’s visibly damaged from outside handling.

  • Electronics with internal damage: Unless there's external damage to prove mishandling, insurance may not apply.

  • Perishables and live plants: These items are usually excluded, especially on long-distance or international moves.

  • Natural Disaster: Events like earthquakes, floods, or other natural disasters are typically excluded unless your policy states otherwise.

  • Luxury or sentimental items not declared: Think rare collectibles, wedding albums, or irreplaceable family heirlooms.
     

At Transferet, we mitigate these risks with professional-grade packing, meticulous labeling, and guidance on what not to ship and how to insure the rest.

So… Do You Really Need Extra Insurance?

Here’s the thing: if your belongings are replaceable and not of significant value, basic coverage might work. But for most people, it’s not just about monetary value it’s about peace of mind. That’s why full coverage is worth considering.

You don’t want to find yourself stressed over a missing watch or a cracked laptop during an already stressful move.

 With Transferet, our relocation consultants help you assess your risk and customize your insurance plan, tailored to your move and your belongings. No assumptions. No shortcuts. Just a move done right.

One Last Thought Before You Pack the First Box

A move is more than just transporting stuff, it’s a transition, often deeply personal. And you deserve a team that treats it that way. Insurance isn’t just paperwork, it’s about feeling secure during change.

At Transferet, we don’t just move boxes, we move lives. We make sure you’re protected from start to finish, with transparent advice, full inventory support, and a range of coverage options that match your needs.

Let us worry about the details so you can focus on your next beginning.

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