Shipment Protection

Understanding shipment protection is crucial for ensuring your belongings are adequately covered during a move. The term “Fully Insured” often leads to confusion, as it typically refers to a moving company’s required business coverage for liability, property damage, cargo, and workers' compensation—not coverage for your personal items.

Minimum Coverage
Licensed movers in New Jersey are required to provide a minimum coverage of $1.00 per pound per article. While this coverage is included at no extra cost, it may not be sufficient for most items.

Additional Coverage Options
Most companies offer additional coverage through third-party providers or insurance companies, allowing you to protect your belongings against loss or damage. Coverage levels and deductibles are customizable based on your needs.

⚠️ Important: If you do not request additional coverage, you will default to the minimum of $1.00 per pound. Your chosen coverage must be indicated on the “Order for Service” form before your move begins.

Coverage Options:

Option 1: Legal Liability Coverage
Automatically provided at $1.00 per pound per article.

• Example: A 100-pound, 60” flat-screen TV damaged during the move would result in a $100 reimbursement, far below replacement value.
• Recommendation: Consider purchasing additional coverage for better protection.

Option 2: Valuation
Some movers offer 'Increased Valuation' coverage for an added cost.

• How it Works: This increases the mover’s liability from $1.00 per pound to the amount you declare on the order for service.
• Coverage Includes: Protection during transit and while in the mover’s storage, subject to premiums, deductibles, and maximum coverage limits.

Option 3: Insurance
Transit Insurance

• Covers: Items from the moment they are loaded onto the mover’s truck until delivered.
• Includes: Limited coverage for Storage in Transit (short-term storage).

Depository Insurance

• Covers: Items in a mover's warehouse for extended storage.
• Requirement: Declare the total value of your belongings for appropriate coverage.

🔍 Tip: Review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to see if additional coverage is provided.

Choosing the Right Protection
Selecting the appropriate coverage ensures peace of mind during your move. Consider the value of your possessions and choose the protection that meets your needs.

📌 NJWMA is Here to Assist!
The New Jersey Warehouse & Movers Association (NJWMA) is dedicated to helping consumers understand their shipment protection options and connect with reliable, licensed moving companies.

🔗 Learn more about protecting your move: www.njmovers.com