The reasons for taking out international moving insurance are basically the same as those for obtaining car insurance. It is better not to use it, but it is a good idea to have it just in case. Likewise, moving insurance will help you have peace of mind until everything arrives at your new home.

Universal Cargo has compiled a list of tips to help you better insure your personal belongings during the move. Here are some of them. (Reading time: 3 min.)

How should I value my goods?

Valuing your belongings and making an inventory is an important step in your move, making sure they are well covered.

All items you intend to move should be covered.

Movers generally require that all household goods and other items be listed on the inventory list in order to be insured. Note that insurers usually calculate their risks and premiums based on the total value of the goods moved by all their customers.

Purchase value of goods at destination.

Remember to value your effects at the replacement value at destination, i.e., what it would cost to replace the item in the country to which it is being moved. If necessary, you will need to repair or replace the item in your new country. We strongly recommend that you research the cost of living in the destination country, using travel guides or websites.

Value the shipment correctly.

The insurer will reimburse you according to the value of each item. Therefore, we recommend that you correctly value your shipment. If you have to file a claim, insurers will only reimburse you based on the value declared in your inventory and the proportion of damage.

Provide as much detail as possible.

Movers often use the inventory to list the items to be moved and insured. List each item, as well as its quantity and price.

Declare your high-value items.

Make sure you have all the details in writing about your high-value items (items valued at $1500 or more, for example). Your mover's insurers may require proof of the value of such items. Be sure to photograph these items, print them in color, date and sign the prints, and add them to your inventory. In the case of high-value items, it never hurts to take these precautions.

June 2022