What if Your Movers Lose or Damage Something in the Move?

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but the process itself can feel overwhelming. From packing your belongings to ensuring everything arrives safely, there are countless details to manage. Many people choose to hire professional movers to make the process easier, but what happens when something doesn’t go as planned? If an item is lost or damaged during your move, it can add stress and frustration to an already challenging situation.

This guide will walk you through the steps to protect your belongings before your move and what to do if the unexpected happens. By the end, you’ll be prepared with actionable steps to work with your movers with confidence, even if issues arise during your move.

What To Do Before Your Move

Preparation is key to minimizing risks when relocating. Taking the proper steps before your moving day can save you a lot of stress, time, and money in the long run.

Make a Home Inventory

Creating a detailed inventory of your belongings is one of the most effective ways to prepare for your move. An inventory gives you a clear record of everything you’re moving, making it easier to identify missing or damaged items later.

Begin by listing all major items, including furniture, electronics, and appliances, along with their estimated values. Moving companies will also complete their own inventory list of the items they transport, called the bill of lading. This legally binding document will also include key details about the moving company’s hired services, insurance coverage, and payment terms. Compare your personal inventory to the bill of lading to ensure there are no forgotten items.

Document Your Belongings’ Condition

Once your inventory is complete, take the time to document the current condition of your belongings. Photos and videos are effective for this purpose, providing clear evidence of the condition of your items before your move. Be thorough when capturing images and focus on any items that are valuable or fragile. This documentation can serve as critical evidence if you need to file a claim with your moving company.

Carefully Read Your Contract

Before hiring movers, thoroughly review your contract. Contracts often include essential details about liability and coverage that can help you understand what the company is responsible for should something go wrong. Be aware of terms related to limited liability, exclusions, and claims processes. By reading the fine print, you can identify any potential gaps in protection and request clarification if necessary.

Invest in the Proper Insurance Coverage

Standard moving contracts generally include released value protection at no cost, but this typically does not fully cover the value of your items. To ensure you’re adequately protected, consider purchasing additional moving insurance through third-party providers or directly from the moving company itself.

Moving companies offer more comprehensive insurance through full value protection, which holds movers responsible for the full replacement value of lost or damaged items. Alternatively, homeowners can purchase additional moving insurance through a third-party company, which may be especially beneficial for high-value items.

What To Do After Your Move

Even with preparation, complications can still happen. Knowing what steps to take immediately following your move is crucial to resolving any issues quickly and effectively.

Review Your Bill of Lading

After the movers deliver your belongings to your new home, carefully review the bill of lading. Compare the bill of lading against your inventory list to verify that all items have arrived as expected. Check for any discrepancies, ensure all items have been delivered, and confirm that the charges match the agreed-upon terms.

As you unpack your belongings, note any inconsistencies you find. This is your first opportunity to identify potential issues and address them with the moving company.

Access and Document Damage

If you notice any damage to your items during the move, take the time to assess and document the damage thoroughly before contacting the moving company. Keep a written record of what was damaged, along with accompanying before and after photos. Be thorough with your documentation, as this evidence will support your claim with the moving company.

Pro Tip: Although you may be tempted to repair items damaged by the moving company, it’s best to leave them in the condition the movers left them. Altering their original condition may hurt your chances of receiving reimbursement for damages.

Contact Your Moving Company

Once you’ve identified missing or damaged items, contact your moving company immediately. Provide them with a detailed account of the issue and share the documentation you’ve collected. Most moving companies have a claims process in place to address these concerns, which typically requires submitting specific documentation within a specified timeframe. Ensure you provide accurate information to streamline the process.

File a Moving Claim

Once you have contacted a representative from the moving company, informing them of the damaged or lost items, you will follow their claims process to receive compensation. Each moving company has its own procedure for filing, so refer to the terms of your contract for detailed instructions. Starting the claim promptly is essential, as there may be strict time limits on submitting requests for reimbursement or repair.

Typically, companies require you to submit the claim in writing, either through an online form or via email. Keep a copy of your submission for your records.

How To File Out a Moving Claim

Filing a moving claim can seem stressful, but handling it promptly and carefully ensures you receive the compensation or repairs you deserve.

Understand Your Time Frame

If your movers lose or damage something in your move, you do not have an unlimited amount of time to file a claim. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you have nine months from your moving date to file a damage claim. The FMCSA must admit your claim within 30 days and have 120 days to resolve or reject your claim. Make sure to document everything and file your claim as soon as possible to avoid any issues.

Fill Out Appropriate Paperwork

Each company requires specific forms to be completed as part of the claims process. These forms typically ask for detailed information, including the nature of the damage, the item’s value, and what type of resolution you’re seeking.

Be meticulous when completing the paperwork. Double-check that all the information provided is accurate and consistent with your evidence. Missing details can delay the resolution process.

Wait for Repair or Reimbursement

Once your claim is submitted, the moving company will evaluate the evidence and determine your eligibility for repair or reimbursement. This process may take time, so patience is key. Follow up with the company periodically to check on the status of your claim.

Keep all communication with the company in writing, whether via email or formal letters. This creates a documented record in case further action is required.

The key to preventing your belongings from being lost or damaged during your next move is to work with trustworthy movers in Houston. If you’re ready to make your next move a smooth one, contact JT Melia Moving for reliable moving services in Houston and beyond.