The best way to predict your future is to create it but when it comes to moving, sometimes the future doesn't go as smoothly as we'd hoped.
Moving is one of the most stressful life events, and while most of us focus on getting our belongings from one home to another, one crucial detail is often overlooked: the condition of those items once they arrive.
It’s a reality that 25% of people experience some form of damage during a move, whether it’s broken furniture, scratched appliances, or lost valuables.
A study by the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) revealed that nearly 30% of moving claims involve damage, yet many people are unsure about how to handle these situations or file a damage claim after a move.
Imagine this: You are unpacking your boxes, excited to settle into your new home, only to find your favorite dining table with a huge scratch across the surface or your brand-new television cracked beyond repair.
It’s disappointing, right?
But don’t panic—there’s a clear process for filing a damage claim with your moving company.
And how to file a damage claim after a move guarantees you compensation and helps ease the stress.
The good news is that the damage claim process doesn’t have to be a maze of confusion.
It’s all about knowing your rights, documenting the issue, and following the proper steps.
In this blog, we'll guide you on how to file a damage claim after a move.
Why Do Damage Claims Occur?
Before we get into how to file a damage claim, let’s first discuss why damage claims against a moving company happen in the first place.
Movers are professionals, but they are still handling a variety of fragile and large items.
There are a few common reasons why items may be damaged during a move:
Improper packing: Sometimes, fragile items are not packed properly, which can result in breakage during transport.
Rough handling: Movers may not always handle your items as carefully as you would like.
Accidents: Even with the best intentions, accidents happen—whether it’s a piece of furniture getting scraped or a box being dropped.
But no matter the reason, you have a right to file a claim for damaged items.
What to Do Immediately After Discovering Damage
The first thing you should do when you notice damaged items after moving is to act quickly.
Many moving companies have specific time frames for filing a claim, so it's important to start the process as soon as possible.
Document the Damage
Start by documenting the damage. Take detailed photos of the broken items from various angles and make a note of any other issues you’ve encountered.
This includes how to report damaged items after moving (if you have to contact insurance or a moving company) or any visible signs of mishandling.
You’ll also want to keep a record of the moving inventory list, which the movers should have given you before the move.
This is vital in proving what was supposed to be moved and what was damaged.
Understand the Moving Insurance
Before we go into the steps to file a moving damage claim, it's important to understand what type of insurance you have.
There are typically two main options:
Full Value Protection
This is the most comprehensive option, where the moving company is responsible for replacing or repairing any damaged items.
If something gets damaged or lost, they will either pay you the full replacement value or repair the item.
Released Value Protection
This is a more basic option, often included in the cost of your move.
It offers limited compensation, usually just a few dollars per pound of damaged goods.
It’s often not enough to cover the full cost of replacing your damaged items, but it’s better than nothing.
Check the terms of your moving insurance claim procedure carefully so you understand what your policy covers.
How to File a Damage Claim: Step-by-Step Process
Now that you have your documentation and you understand your insurance policy, it’s time to learn the moving damage claim process.
Step 1: Review Your Moving Company’s Policy
Before filing a claim, you need to understand your moving company's policy regarding damages. Some companies require claims to be filed within a few days of delivery, while others may allow up to 30 days.
Be sure to read the terms in your contract.
Step 2: Contact the Moving Company
Reach out to the company to report the damage. You’ll typically need to provide details such as:
- The date of your move.
- A description of the damage.
- Photographic evidence of the damage.
- The value of the damaged item.
Don’t forget to mention the moving company damage claim form, which is often provided by the company to streamline the process.
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
Once you've gathered all the necessary documentation, you’ll need to submit your claim. Many moving companies allow you to file claims online, while others may require you to mail the forms.
Be sure to keep copies of everything you submit.
Step 4: Wait for a Response
After submitting your claim, the moving company will review it. They may offer a settlement or deny the claim. If they deny it, you can appeal or seek compensation through insurance.
What If the Moving Company Denies Your Claim?
In some cases, the moving company may deny your damage claims against a moving company.
If that happens, you can consider other options:
File with your homeowner’s insurance: If you have homeowner’s insurance, it may cover damages to items during the move.
Seek Legal Assistance: If the damage is significant and you believe the moving company is responsible, you may want to consult with a lawyer who specializes in consumer protection.
How Long Does a Damage Claim Take?
Once you submit your moving company damage claim form, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months for the company to process your claim.
The moving company damage claim settlement will depend on the extent of the damage and your insurance coverage.
What Happens to Your Damaged Furniture?
If your furniture is damaged, you may be wondering how to get it fixed or replaced.
If you have full value protection, the moving company will either pay to repair or replace the damaged items.
For less expensive items, they may offer a repair service instead.
How to Claim for Damaged Furniture After Moving
To claim damaged furniture after moving, follow the same steps as above: document the damage, gather your receipts or evidence of value, and file the claim with your moving company.
The better your documentation, the stronger your claim will be.
