Insurance is partially included in your moving costs. Federal regulations require licensed interstate movers to provide a basic level of liability coverage, known as Released Value Protection, at no additional charge. However, this basic coverage offers minimal protection. Under Released Value Protection, the mover's liability for loss or damage is limited to a set amount per pound per item, typically around $0.60 per pound in many states. For instance, if a 50-pound television is damaged, you might only receive $30, regardless of its actual value. For more comprehensive protection, you can purchase Full Value Protection, which is an optional add-on that will increase your overall moving cost. You can learn more about moving insurance at iatinsurancegroup.com.
Commander Moving Insurance Coverage Summary
1. Basic Coverage (Included)
Rate: Free, automatically included in all moves.
Protection: $0.60 per pound per article.
Example: If a 20 lb item is lost or damaged, the maximum recovery is $12.00 (20 lbs × $0.60).
Purpose: Minimal protection, best suited for customers who already have outside insurance or are moving lower-value household goods.
2. Actual Cash Value (Depreciated Value)
Rate: $0.96 per $1,000 of declared value
Minimum Coverage: $20,000
Protection: Covers the fair market (depreciated) value of lost or damaged items based on age, condition, and replacement cost.
Example: A 5-year-old TV that originally cost $1,000 might only be reimbursed for around $400 depending on its condition.
3. Full Replacement Value (FRV)
Rate: $16 per $1,000 of declared value
Minimum Coverage: $20,000
Deductible Options:
$250 deductible = $4.50 per $1,000
$500 deductible = $2.50 per $1,000
Protection: Covers the replacement cost (current value) of lost or damaged items. Commander may choose to repair, replace, or reimburse at its discretion.
Recommended for: Customers with high-value or irreplaceable belongings who want maximum protection.
4. Third-Party Insurance Option
Customers may purchase additional protection through MovingInsurance.com or call (800) 411-0913 for independent coverage options.
5. Important Limitations (Carrier Liability)
Commander Moving is not liable for:
Perishables, plants, or food items
Damage caused by the shipper’s own packing or handling
Normal wear and tear, atmospheric or temperature changes
Mechanical or electrical failure of electronics unless exterior damage is visible
Acts of strike, riot, or war
Breakage of fragile items (glassware, mirrors, etc.) unless packed by Commander
6. Filing a Claim
Any visible damage or loss should be noted on the shipping order or freight bill upon delivery.
Claims require a copy of the paid freight bill; transportation charges must be fully paid before processing.
Reporting loss or damage verbally does not constitute a formal claim. A written claim must be submitted according to company procedure.
7. Valuables and High-Value Items
Commander Moving strongly recommends that all valuables or high-value personal items such as jewelry, cash, collectibles, art, antiques, important documents, or irreplaceable items be personally transported by the customer. This ensures their safety and avoids potential loss or limited liability under carrier protection terms.
Summary Recommendation
Basic Coverage: Minimum protection, suitable for small or low-value moves.
Actual Value Coverage: Mid-level, depreciated-value protection.
Full Replacement Coverage: Highest protection level, ideal for full-service or premium moves.
Valuables: Always transport personally.
