Start by separating valuation from insurance
Moving valuation defines a mover’s contractual liability if household goods are lost or damaged; it is not necessarily third-party insurance. The applicable choices and rules depend partly on whether the shipment stays within North Carolina or crosses a state line. For an intrastate household move, request the mover’s written valuation terms and review the North Carolina Utilities Commission’s transportation information. For an interstate move, FMCSA explains two primary liability choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Ask whether separate insurance is available, who provides it, what it covers, and whether a deductible applies. Related explanation: /resources/moving-valuation-vs-insurance/. Sources: North Carolina Utilities Commission — Transportation, https://www.ncuc.gov/industries/transportation/transportation.html; FMCSA — Search for a Registered Mover, https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/search-mover.
Compare the available liability choices in writing
Obtain the valuation selection document before signing and work through it in this order: 1. Identify each option and the liability calculation used. 2. Ask how repair, replacement, cash settlement, or another remedy may be determined. 3. Confirm any deductible and whether it changes the charge. 4. Check whether pairs, sets, owner-packed cartons, electronics, or previously damaged goods receive special treatment. 5. Ask what happens if no option is affirmatively selected. For interstate shipments, compare Full Value Protection with Released Value Protection rather than assuming the option with a lower upfront charge provides the protection you want. Keep the signed selection with the estimate, order for service, inventory, and final paperwork.
Declare high-value belongings and document condition
Ask the mover for its definition of an item of extraordinary or high value and the deadline for listing those belongings. Create a room-by-room inventory that identifies the item, make or model where useful, serial number when available, current condition, and estimated value supported by appropriate records. Photograph valuable or fragile items from several angles before packing, and retain receipts, appraisals, or other ownership and value evidence when available. Do not assume a general inventory automatically satisfies a separate high-value declaration requirement. Give the completed declaration to the mover as directed and keep a dated copy. For a quote-ready inventory method, see /resources/moving-inventory-for-quotes/.
Check exclusions, delivery evidence, and claim deadlines
Read the liability terms for exclusions or limits involving owner-packed boxes, concealed damage, inherent defects, prohibited items, missing receipts, delayed notice, or goods not recorded on the inventory. Ask how exceptions should be noted at pickup and delivery. On delivery day, compare item numbers and condition against the mover’s inventory before signing where practicable; write specific exceptions rather than relying only on a verbal report, and take photographs without discarding packaging or damaged property. Then request the written claim procedure, filing address or portal, required evidence, and every applicable deadline. Also ask whether repair inspection or salvage must occur before disposal. A move-specific quote should identify the valuation option selected and any related charge: /contact/.