Relocating to a new home or office is exciting, but it comes with risks. From accidental damage to theft, many things can happen during a move. This is where moving insurance in Canada becomes essential. Understanding what it covers—and what it doesn’t—will protect your belongings and give you peace of mind during one of life’s biggest transitions.
Understanding Moving Insurance in Canada
Moving insurance is a safeguard against financial loss if your possessions are damaged, lost, or stolen during transit. While moving companies in Canada are legally required to provide a basic level of liability coverage, this is often not enough for full protection. Homeowners and renters should carefully evaluate the coverage offered by movers, and consider purchasing additional insurance if needed.
Types of Moving Insurance Coverage
1. Released Value Protection (Basic Coverage)
Every licensed mover in Canada must provide released value protection by law. This coverage is minimal and typically included in the moving contract at no additional cost. However, it compensates based on weight, not value.
For example, if your $2,000 flat-screen TV weighing 50 pounds is damaged, you may only receive around $0.60 per pound—roughly $30 in compensation. Clearly, this doesn’t reflect the item’s actual value.
2. Full-Value Protection (Replacement Value Insurance)
This is the most comprehensive form of moving insurance. Under this coverage, the moving company is responsible for either:
- Repairing the damaged item.
- Replacing it with an item of equal value.
- Offering a cash settlement.
While full-value protection comes at an additional cost, it ensures your belongings are truly covered based on their worth—not just weight. Many Canadians opt for this when moving valuable furniture, antiques, or electronics.
(For specialty items such as pianos or antique furniture, check out our professional moving services in Ottawa).
3. Third-Party Moving Insurance
Some homeowners choose to buy insurance through a third-party provider. These policies often cover high-value items, international moves, and situations excluded from mover-provided insurance. Third-party coverage is also useful for protecting items during storage before or after your move.
What Moving Insurance Covers
While policies vary, most Canadian moving insurance plans typically include:
- Furniture damage (scratches, dents, or breakage).
- Appliances damaged during loading, unloading, or transit.
- Electronics (computers, TVs, audio systems).
- Loss due to theft during transport.
- Water or fire damage caused in transit.
Professional movers, such as those offering long-distance services in Ottawa, often provide additional coverage for extended moves across provinces.
What Moving Insurance Does Not Cover
Insurance providers often exclude certain items and circumstances from coverage. Some of the most common exclusions include:
- Items packed by the customer (PBO): If you pack boxes yourself and damage occurs, movers may not be liable.
- Perishable goods like food, plants, or liquids.
- High-value items without disclosure: Jewelry, cash, and collectibles must usually be declared in writing.
- Improperly prepared items: Furniture not disassembled correctly, or fragile items not packed properly.
- Natural disasters and unforeseen events: Certain policies exclude earthquakes, floods, or pandemics unless specified.
If you’re planning a DIY packing process, review our expert packing guide to ensure your items meet coverage standards.
The Difference Between Liability and Insurance
It’s important to distinguish between mover’s liability and actual insurance. Liability coverage is a basic legal obligation, but it doesn’t always guarantee full replacement value. Insurance, whether purchased from the mover or a third party, offers stronger financial protection.
The Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) regulates liability requirements for movers, but they recommend consumers explore additional insurance for peace of mind.
Specialty Items and Insurance Considerations
Certain belongings require extra care and unique insurance policies:
Antiques & Fine Art
Antique furniture, art pieces, and collectibles need declared value coverage. Specialized movers like Ottawa’s antique moving experts often have tailored insurance for these items.
Pianos and Musical Instruments
Large instruments are delicate and costly to repair. Hiring insured specialists in piano moving ensures protection both physically and financially.
Electronics & Appliances
From refrigerators to home theater systems, electronics should be insured under full-value protection due to their high cost of replacement.
How to File a Moving Insurance Claim in Canada
Filing a claim requires quick action and thorough documentation. Here are the steps:
- Inspect belongings immediately upon delivery.
- Note damages on the inventory sheet before signing off.
- Take photos of all damage.
- Submit a claim to the mover or insurer within the required timeframe (often 30 days).
- Provide receipts or proof of value for high-value items.
The Government of Canada offers consumer protection guidelines to help residents resolve disputes with moving companies if claims are denied.
Tips for Maximizing Moving Insurance Protection
- Inventory your belongings: Create a detailed list before the move.
- Declare high-value items: Ensure jewelry, collectibles, and electronics are covered.
- Use professional packing services: Movers may deny claims if items weren’t packed properly. Consider full-service packing options.
- Read the fine print: Understand what is and isn’t covered in the policy.
- Ask for proof of coverage: Always request written confirmation of your mover’s insurance.
Cost of Moving Insurance in Canada
The cost depends on:
- The value of your goods.
- Distance of the move (local vs. long-distance).
- Chosen coverage (released value vs. full replacement).
On average, Canadians pay between 1%–5% of the total value of their belongings for comprehensive moving insurance. For example, if your possessions are valued at $60,000, insurance could cost between $600–$3,000.
For budget-conscious moves, see our guide on saving money during a move in Ottawa.
When to Buy Additional Coverage
You should consider upgrading your coverage if:
- You are moving long distances across provinces.
- You own fragile or antique items.
- You rely on self-packing but want extra protection.
- You are moving during peak season when damages are more likely.
Final Thoughts on Moving Insurance
Moving insurance in Canada is not just an option—it’s a necessity if you want financial protection for your belongings. Basic liability is rarely enough, and upgrading to full-value protection or third-party insurance gives you confidence that your move will be safeguarded from start to finish.
To ensure maximum coverage and peace of mind, partner with experienced movers who provide insured and professional services. If you’re planning a move, don’t overlook insurance—it’s your best safeguard against costly surprises.
For personalized assistance, reach out to Prestige Moving’s contact team to explore tailored insurance options for your upcoming relocation.