Full Value Protection for your move
Understand what this interstate moving liability option can provide, what it does not promise, and the paperwork to review before your belongings are loaded.
Your written estimate and bill of lading—not this overview—control the terms offered for your particular move.
Valuation is not a separate insurance policy.
For an interstate household-goods move, federal rules require a mover to offer two liability options. Full Value Protection is the more comprehensive valuation option. It is generally selected unless you choose Released Value in writing.
If an item is lost or damaged while in the mover's custody, the mover may choose to repair it, replace it with an article of like kind and quality, or make a cash settlement under the applicable written terms. That does not mean every item is covered for its purchase price or sentimental value.
Ask your move coordinator for the specific valuation statement, deductible options, charge, exclusions, and claim procedure before signing. For local and intrastate moves, ask which state rules and contract terms apply; do not assume the federal interstate terms apply unchanged.
Compare protection options →
Full Value Protection vs. Released Value
These are liability levels, not two versions of the same insurance product. Make the selection deliberately and keep a copy of what you sign.
Full Value Protection
The mover's liability is tied to the shipment's declared value and the terms of the valuation plan. A repair, comparable replacement, or cash settlement may be available. There is an additional charge; plan details and any deductible belong in writing.
Released Value
This no-additional-charge option limits the mover's liability to $0.60 per pound per article for interstate moves. For example, the liability limit for a 25-pound item would be $15—not the item's actual retail value. You must select it in writing.
Your signed valuation election and bill of lading contain the terms selected for your interstate move.
Six details to settle before moving day.
Shipment value
Confirm the declared value used for the entire shipment and how it appears on your estimate and bill of lading. Do not rely on a verbal number.
Deductible and charge
Ask whether deductible choices are available and what each option costs. Get the chosen amount and any additional charge in writing.
Special items
Tell the coordinator about antiques, artwork, instruments, electronics, and unusually valuable articles before the inventory is finalized.
Packing method
Ask how owner-packed boxes and fragile contents are documented. Photograph condition and packing before sealing cartons when practical.
Inventory records
Check item descriptions and condition notes at pickup and delivery. Raise discrepancies while paperwork and photographs are available.
Claims process
Keep your estimate, order for service, bill of lading, inventory, and delivery paperwork. Ask where and how a written claim should be submitted.
Declare articles of extraordinary value.
FMCSA defines an article of extraordinary value as one worth more than $100 per pound. If such an item is not specifically listed on shipping documents, the mover's liability may be limited under federal rules. Point these items out before pickup and verify the list in writing.
For irreplaceable records, medications, cash, and personal keepsakes, ask what the mover will and will not transport; consider keeping essentials with you. Do not assume that “Full Value” means automatic replacement of unique or sentimental value.
Tell us early
Share dimensions, condition, and photographs of fragile or high-value pieces.
Choose in writing
Review the declared value, valuation charge, and deductible before signing.
Check the inventory
Confirm item descriptions and note visible damage at pickup and delivery.
Keep copies
Save your paperwork, photos, and any written communication about a concern.
Document the issue and start the claim promptly.
Inspect accessible items as they are delivered. Record visible damage or missing articles on the delivery documents before signing when possible; photograph the item, packaging, and inventory tag. Preserve damaged goods and packing materials until the mover explains the next step.
Submit a written claim using the process in your moving documents and observe the applicable deadlines. A note on the delivery receipt alone may not be a formal claim. Ask your coordinator for the correct claims contact and required supporting records.
For claim instructions, review your signed agreement and Razorback’s claims page.
Your documentation checklist
- Signed estimate, order for service, and bill of lading
- Valuation selection and any deductible details
- Pickup and delivery inventory sheets
- Photographs before and after the move
- Receipts, appraisals, or other proof of value where available
- Written claim and correspondence
Answers before you select a valuation option.
Is Full Value Protection the same as moving insurance?
No. It is a mover liability or valuation option for interstate household-goods moves, not a separate insurance policy. Review the written terms and consider whether separate third-party coverage is appropriate for your needs.
Is Full Value Protection automatically included?
Under federal interstate rules, it is generally the default unless you select Released Value in writing. It carries an additional charge. Confirm the selection and cost on your own documents.
Does Full Value Protection mean a full cash refund?
No. Depending on the written plan and circumstances, the mover may repair, replace with a comparable item, or make a cash settlement.
How is the shipment value chosen?
Your written moving documents should show the shipment's declared value and the plan's terms. Ask how that value is calculated and whether the amount suits your inventory before signing.
Is there a deductible?
There may be deductible choices. Ask your coordinator to show the selected deductible, its effect on the charge, and the applicable claim terms in writing.
What is an article of extraordinary value?
For federal interstate purposes, it is an item worth more than $100 per pound. Identify these articles on the shipping documents so their status is clear.
Are antiques and one-of-a-kind pieces covered for sentimental value?
Do not assume so. Document condition and value, disclose the piece in advance, and ask how the written valuation terms would apply to a unique article.
What about boxes I pack myself?
Ask how the plan treats owner-packed boxes and what proof may be needed if contents are damaged. Photos of contents and packing can be useful.
Does this page apply to local moves?
The federal rules described here concern interstate household-goods moves. Local or intrastate service may follow different state rules and contract terms; request the terms for your specific move.
Do I need to report damage at delivery?
Note visible damage or missing items on delivery records when possible, take photos, and follow the written claim process. A delivery notation alone may not complete a claim.
What should I keep after the move?
Keep the estimate, valuation selection, bill of lading, inventory, delivery paperwork, photos, receipts, and any claim correspondence.
Who can explain Razorback's exact terms?
Ask your move coordinator for the written valuation options, charges, deductibles, exclusions, and claims contact that apply to your route and service.
Ask about protection while getting your quote.
Tell us your route, inventory, and high-value items. We can review the available written valuation options before your move is booked.