Valuation is the system movers use in place of ordinary insurance. Full Value Protection is the default level under 49 CFR 375.201(b), and a deductible is one of the dials a tariff may attach to it. Knowing where the dial is set tells you what a small claim will really pay.
How Full Value Protection works
Under Full Value Protection, if an article is lost, destroyed or damaged in the mover's custody, the mover repairs it, or pays for the repair, or replaces it with an article of like, kind and quality, or pays for the replacement. The shipment moves at this level unless you waive it in writing, and the initial estimate must include this level of protection. The charges for Full Value Protection must be in the mover's tariff.
Where a deductible fits
A deductible lowers what the mover pays on a claim by a set amount. Some tariffs offer several levels, and the cost of coverage can differ by level. Ask for each option in writing, with its price, before you choose. Ask also whether the deductible applies per claim, per article or per shipment. The tariff answers that, and the estimator can read you the clause.
The other choice
The alternative is to waive Full Value Protection in writing. Section 375.201(c) then limits the mover to the extent provided in the Surface Transportation Board's released rates order, which the booklet describes as no more than 60 cents per pound per article, at no charge to you. A deductible does not apply the same way there, because the amount is already minimal. Compare the two in released value versus full value.
Questions before you pick
A high-value article that you did not list is limited under 375.203. List jewelry, antiques and similar items in writing before the move.
- What deductible levels does the tariff offer, and what does each cost?
- Does the deductible apply to each claim, each article or the whole shipment?
- What declared value is the coverage based on?
- Which items above 100 dollars per pound need to be listed in writing?
- How do I file a claim, and where do I send it?
On an O'Brien's move
For an interstate move, the valuation options come from the Bekins tariff and your written estimate, which must include the liability election notice. The free in-home estimate is the right time to ask how each deductible level changes the charge. Read valuation coverage for the overview and call 775-359-6683 with any question.