Let’s face it, when you’re moving, the pros of hiring professional movers typically far outweigh the cons. When you have someone experienced helping you pack, transport, and unpack your items, it makes your move virtually hassle free! One of the cons of hiring movers is that sometimes, as you’re unpacking, you’ll find that the moving company damaged property. What can you do? Are moving companies liable for damage that occurred during a move? Here, we will walk you through the process of filing a moving damage claim, so that you can be compensated for the damage.
Accidents Can Happen
The best thing to do, when you’re hiring a moving company, is to recognize this fact from the outset. Before you move, take pictures of your things, documenting existing damage and keeping a careful inventory. Your moving company will also take inventory, and you should check it carefully to make sure you agree with it before they leave your home with your things. Having documentation of your household goods and their condition is a great way to protect yourself should any damage occur.
Make Sure You Understand Your Insurance
Before you move, familiarize yourself with your insurance paperwork, so that you will know what’s covered during the move. Understanding your moving company’s responsibilities is important, whether or not you need to file a claim. There is insurance that comes at no additional cost, and insurance that can be pretty expensive but offers significantly better coverage, so decide which way you want to go before choosing between the two.
Document Everything
If you’re with us so far, you’ve documented everything at the beginning of your move. When your things are delivered, you’ll need to go over the inventory and inspect your things, documenting any new damage or missing items. It is smart to note any damage on the bill of lading before you sign off on it, but if you neglect so, you can still file a moving claim form.
Contact Your Movers if There is an Issue
Your move coordinator, the person who you’ve been communicating with throughout your move, is a good place to start. Be nice, polite, and understanding, but explain exactly what has happened. At this point, you will probably be asked to submit the information in writing, either in an email or by filling out a moving company damage claim form. This is the beginning of the official claims process.
Don’t Touch Anything
If something has been damaged, leave it alone. That way, you don’t risk further damaging it, which could make the company reject your damage claim. Leave all the damaged household goods in one place, and don’t do anything to them until the claims adjustor has completed an evaluation. Note: it can be more difficult to prove a claim if you packed your items yourself. This is one of the benefits of using the moving company’s professional packers.
Be Ready to Provide Details
The claims department may call you and ask for more detail, and the adjustor will probably visit your home. Be prepared to prove the damage, as well as the value of your items. Have receipts, invoices, billing statements, appraisal documents, and, of course, your pictures, on hand to strengthen your claim.
Be Patient
It can take up to 30 days for a moving company to respond to a formal claim, and even longer, sometimes as long as 120 days, to resolve your issue. It can be frustrating to wait so long, but it’s worth being patient to have the moving company accept responsibility and provide reimbursement. Before you accept any settlement, be sure that you’re satisfied with what you’re receiving. If you aren’t, keep negotiating until you can reach an acceptable settlement.
Movers You Can Trust
When you want a professional, reliable moving company, call Firefighting’s Finest Moving & Storage. We are dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and professional commercial and home moving services, as the reliable moving partner you can trust. Founded in 2001 by two off-duty firefighters, we’ve grown to serve not only the Dallas/Fort Worth area, but also Houston and Austin as well. A locally-owned-and-operated business, we exceed all state and federal requirements for a moving company and can handle all of your moving needs. Call 844-715-6625 or visit our website for an estimate.
