How to File a Claim for Lost or Damaged Items During a Move

So, you’ve finally relocated to your new home. Finally, all those days of preparation and packing are coming to an end, and all you have to do now is unpack and settle into your new nest. However, while unpacking you discover that your 70-inch flat screen is cracked, or your favorite lounge chair is missing a leg, or, worse yet, you discover that your moving company lost an entire box of your belongings. While exceedingly rare, unfortunately, this sort of thing does sometimes happen. 

When this happens, you can file a moving insurance claim. Here’s how:

Step 1: Make an Inventory, and Take Photos of Your Belongings

Before moving, it is important that you make an inventory of all your belongings and give a copy to your mover. Take photographs of fragile items or items that are likely to get damaged during a move. This documentation will be a huge help if the unfortunate happens.

Step 2: Inspect Your Bill of Lading Carefully

On the day of the move, make sure your mover provides you with a copy of the bill of lading. The bill of lading is the document listing in detail the items that were moved and what condition they were in before the move. Look over this list very carefully, and check to see if there are items that are damaged or missing. Documenting your concerns on the bill of lading will significantly increase your chances of filing a successful claim.

Step 3: File a Written Complaint With Your Mover

File your moving insurance claim as soon as possible. The earlier you begin the process, the better. Get in touch with your moving company, and fill out the necessary paperwork. Write down the missing or damaged items, and provide photos when needed. Be sure to include any damage done to your home during the move like scratched floors or dinged walls.

Step 4: Wait for the Settlement Offer

Once the paperwork has been done, then the claims process will begin. Your local movers will usually send a claims adjuster to investigate your complaint. If you are satisfied with the offer, accept it. If not, let your mover know. If you are unable to come to an agreement, you can file a civil lawsuit to recoup your losses; however, this can be a long and tedious process. So, it’s important to work with your moving company and come up with a number that is acceptable to both parties.

At Around Town Movers, we aim to satisfy all our clients. When it becomes necessary to file a claim, trust that we will work very hard towards a fair and amicable resolution. If you need to relocate to a new home, be sure to give us a call at (703) 682-5922 , or fill out our contact form. We will be happy to help. We serve clients in Sterling and Arlington, VA, as well as their surrounding vicinities.