Last Updated on May 14, 2025 by Caesar
Insurance fees help mitigate loss or damage to valuable items during transportation. When moving long distances, it’s highly recommended to get insurance, especially for items that are valuable or irreplaceable. The risks associated with long-distance moves, such as damage, loss, theft, or delays, are significantly higher due to longer transit times, multiple handling points, and varying road and weather conditions. Moving insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind in the event of unforeseen incidents and ensures that you are not solely responsible for replacement costs in the event of damage or loss.
Most professional moving companies are legally required to offer a basic level of protection, often referred to as released value protection. This coverage is usually included in the moving fee at no extra cost, but it provides only minimal compensation, typically around $0.60 per pound per item. For instance, if a 30-pound television is damaged, the compensation may only be $18, regardless of its actual value. This level of coverage is insufficient for most long-distance moves involving high-value or essential items.
For more comprehensive protection, consider full value protection, offered by many moving companies. This type of insurance covers the replacement, repair, or cash reimbursement of items based on their current market value. The cost varies by carrier and is typically based on the declared value of the shipment. There is often a deductible and some exclusions, so it is important to carefully review the policy details of your chosen Canada long distance movers.
In addition to the coverage offered by the mover, third-party moving insurance is another viable option. Independent insurance providers offer policies designed specifically for relocation scenarios. These policies may offer broader coverage and lower deductibles than those bundled with the moving service. They also often include protection against perils such as natural disasters or mechanical breakdowns in transit, which may be excluded from the mover’s standard policies. You can obtain third-party moving insurance from specialized insurers, such as:
- Square One
- Intact
- Aviva Canada
- The Co-operators Group Ltd, or Co-operators
- Allstate Canada
- Belairdirect
Be prepared to provide an inventory of high-value items and their estimated worth when selecting coverage. Keep receipts or photos as proof of ownership and the items’ condition before the move. If applicable, confirm whether the insurance includes coverage for damage to items in storage.
Lastly, some homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies may offer limited moving protection. Contact your insurance provider to verify if your existing policy extends coverage during a move and if additional endorsements are available.
