Moving Insurance in Metro Vancouver: What You Need to Know
Most people assume their belongings are fully covered during a move. The reality is more nuanced. Here is how moving insurance works in Metro Vancouver and how to make sure you are adequately protected.
What Moving Companies Cover
Professional moving companies in BC carry two types of insurance:
Cargo insurance: Covers damage to your belongings caused by the movers — items dropped, furniture damaged during loading or unloading, etc.
Liability insurance: Covers damage to your property (floors, walls, door frames) caused by the movers.
What is typically NOT covered:
- Items packed by the owner (the moving company did not pack them, so they cannot verify the condition)
- Pre-existing damage
- Items of extraordinary value (jewellery, fine art, collectibles, antiques) — these often have coverage limits
- Mechanical or electrical failure of electronics (unless caused by physical damage)
- Items you transport yourself
What Your Home Insurance May Cover
Many home insurance policies include coverage for belongings in transit. This is worth checking before your move.
What to ask your insurer:
- Does my policy cover belongings during a move?
- What is the coverage limit?
- Are there any exclusions (e.g., items packed by owner, high-value items)?
- Is there a deductible?
If your home insurance covers the move, you may not need additional coverage. If it does not, consider a standalone moving insurance policy.
Standalone Moving Insurance
Several insurance companies offer standalone moving insurance policies. These typically provide:
- Coverage for all items, including owner-packed boxes
- Higher coverage limits than moving company insurance
- Coverage for items of extraordinary value (with documentation)
The cost is typically 1–3% of the declared value of your belongings.
High-Value Items
For items of extraordinary value — jewellery, fine art, antiques, collectibles, musical instruments — standard moving insurance may not provide adequate coverage.
Options:
- Transport high-value items yourself in your car
- Get a standalone insurance policy with a declared value for specific items
- Have items professionally appraised before the move (documentation is required for claims)
- Consider a specialty shipper for very valuable items
How to Protect Yourself
Document before the move. Photograph all furniture and valuable items before the crew arrives. This creates a record of the pre-move condition.
Note damage on completion paperwork. If you notice any damage when the crew is still present, note it on the completion paperwork before signing. Do not sign a completion form that says "no damage" if you have not had a chance to inspect everything.
Report damage promptly. Report any damage to the moving company as soon as possible after the move. Most companies have a claims window — do not wait.
What 4 You Moving Carries
4 You Moving carries cargo and liability insurance. Ask about coverage details when you book. For high-value items, we recommend transporting them in your car or arranging additional coverage.
Ready to Move?
Get a free quote or call 778-200-8825. We serve all of Metro Vancouver and surrounding areas, 7 days a week.