Avoid 60¢/lb Payouts on U.S. Moves: Full Value Protection

Full Value Protection makes your mover legally responsible to repair, replace, or pay the current market value for anything lost or damaged during your move. Under FMCSA rules, it’s the automatic coverage level for interstate shipments unless you sign a written waiver choosing Released Value instead, which caps payouts at 60 cents per pound per item.

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TL;DR:

• Full Value Protection typically costs about 1% of the declared shipment value, with a $25,000 example costing around $250.
• Items exceeding $100 per pound, such as jewelry or artwork, aren’t automatically covered and must be listed explicitly before movement.
• Reputable movers should provide a written valuation quote, explain extraordinary-value item policies, and clearly state any deductibles.
• Damage claims require immediate documentation, including photos and an itemized inventory, with reimbursements based on current market value.
• Red flags include pressure to accept Released Value, incomplete paperwork, lack of FMCSA registration, or no prior in-home estimate.

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