Are Movers Responsible for Damages?

In general, moving companies are skilled at the services they offer and know how to safely handle and transport all manner of items. Sometimes, however, despite a mover’s best efforts, mishaps occur. A customer’s dishes break, or in the process of moving furniture into a room, the drywall is dented. Who pays for damages?

Typically, a moving company is responsible if it loses or damages a customer’s possessions. In such situations, a customer can file a claim with the mover to request financial compensation. To safeguard their business and to protect customers, reputable movers carry insurance to cover damages in the event of a claim.

When making a claim, it’s important to pay attention to the company’s claim-filing rules and deadlines. However, under federal law, the filing period cannot be less than nine months from the date of delivery. Also, the claim must:

• Be made in writing or submitted electronically
• Identify the shipment by including customer’s name, address, shipment date, etc.
• Assert that the mover is liable for the loss or damage
• Ask for compensation for a specific dollar amount

If the moving company denies the claim, in whole or in part, the customer may need to file a lawsuit or pursue arbitration in order to obtain compensation. It may also be necessary for the customer to hire an attorney.

How Customers Can Protect Themselves

Before moving day, take photos of your home to record its condition. If the damage becomes evident during or after the move, you will have an easier time proving that the movers are responsible.

As for damage to packed items, responsibility may boil down to who packed the box. If a mover packed your items, you should bear no responsibility for damage that occurred during the move. Inventorying and taking photos of your belongings will help prove that you indeed owned them and that they were in good condition prior to the move.

To avoid unnecessary worry during your relocation, you should hire a reputable and experienced mover, especially one that is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. At Atlantic Relocation Systems, we have built a reputation for top-notch moving services and have long maintained an A+ rating from the BBB. Our skilled moving teams are extensively trained at packing, loading, and delivering all types of items. We use state-of-the-art moving trucks with air-ride suspension, lift gates, and climate control to ensure that your items are safe and intact during transit. For more information about our expert services, contact us today.