Do removalists include insurance — and is it enough?

Hiring removalists can make moving house easier and less stressful. They handle the heavy lifting, transport, and sometimes even packing and unpacking.

Many people assume their belongings are automatically covered if they hire removalists. The reality is more nuanced. Understanding what insurance is included and whether it is sufficient can prevent unexpected financial losses.

Most professional removalists offer some form of insurance for goods in transit. Common options include:

• Limited liability cover: This is often included in the basic removalist service. It typically covers damage or loss up to a fixed amount per kilogram or item.
• Transit insurance: This is an optional or included add-on that provides financial protection for your belongings while being moved. Cover may extend to packing, loading, transit, unloading, and temporary storage, depending on the provider.
• Full replacement insurance: Some providers offer full replacement value cover for an additional cost. This covers the cost of replacing items rather than just paying a fixed rate.

It is important to check exactly what is included in your quote. Some removalists may advertise “insurance included” but actually provide only limited liability coverage.

Depending on the provider and policy, insurance can cover:

• Accidental damage during packing and unpacking by professional staff
• Loss or damage during loading and unloading
• Theft from the truck or storage provided it is forced and documented
• Damage caused by a collision or vehicle accident during transit

Coverage typically excludes:

• Owner packed boxes unless professionally certified
• Pre-existing damage
• Fragile or high value items unless declared or packed professionally
• Wear and tear
• Delays or inconvenience

• If you are moving valuable items such as antiques, electronics, or artwork, limited liability insurance may not provide sufficient cover.
• If you are using budget or casual movers via online platforms, they may not offer any insurance for your goods.
• If you self-pack your items, many policies exclude owner packed boxes unless professionally packed.

In these cases, you may need to arrange additional standalone transit insurance or check if your home contents insurance provides temporary cover while moving.

Transit insurance is generally calculated as 1 percent to 3 percent of the declared value of your goods. For a typical three-bedroom house with an estimated $50,000 in contents, premiums could range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the level of cover, provider and risk profile.

Compare this cost to potential replacement expenses. Professional removalist insurance often represents a small fraction of the total move but protects against major financial loss.