Released Value and Full Value Protection at a glance
For an interstate household-goods shipment, Full Value Protection applies unless you select Released Value in writing. Released Value has no additional charge, but limits the carrier’s liability to $0.60 per pound per article. Neither valuation option is the same as a separate insurance policy.
FMCSA explains the two options. Moves that remain within one state may follow different rules. Obtain the actual transporting carrier’s written terms before deciding.
| Question | Released Value | Full Value Protection |
|---|---|---|
| How is it selected? | Requires a specific signed selection | Applies unless Released Value is selected |
| What is the liability basis? | Up to $0.60 per pound per article | Repair, replacement or cash settlement under the applicable terms |
| Is there a separate charge? | No additional charge for this option | Ask the carrier for its valuation charge and deductible options |
| Does this guarantee every item’s purchase price? | No | No; review the remedy, declared value and limitations |
A weight-based example
If Released Value applies, the liability limit for a 60-pound article is $36: 60 multiplied by $0.60. Its purchase price does not change that calculation. This is an illustration of the liability formula, not a promised settlement for a particular claim.
Under Full Value Protection, the carrier can repair the item, replace it with a similar item, or make a cash settlement under the applicable terms. You should not assume that you can choose an unrestricted cash payment or that every loss receives the original purchase price.
Questions to ask before signing
- Which carrier will transport the goods and be responsible under the bill of lading?
- Which valuation option is shown, and what document records the selection?
- What declared shipment value, charges and deductibles apply?
- Which limitations or exclusions affect your items and packing arrangements?
- How should valuable articles be listed, and what supporting records are required?
- Where should a written claim be submitted?
Compare the full documents, not just the option’s name. Read our valuation guide and written-estimate guide together because pricing and carrier liability answer different questions.
Valuable articles and self-packing
FMCSA identifies articles worth more than $100 per pound as items of extraordinary value for this purpose. A carrier may limit its responsibility if you do not identify them in the shipping documents. Request the carrier’s explanation and list valuable pieces individually.
Self-packing can make it harder to establish a damage claim. It does not automatically remove every possible claim. Keep condition photographs, the inventory and evidence of value, and discuss fragile or unusual items before loading.
If goods are lost or damaged
Record the issue and submit a written claim to the carrier. A note on the delivery receipt or a telephone call alone does not replace that claim. FMCSA’s consumer guidance describes a nine-month period after delivery for filing a written claim. Retain proof of submission and follow the carrier’s instructions.
Our claims guide explains what to retain. If a dispute remains, request the carrier’s actual arbitration program and read the arbitration overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Released Value the automatic federal default?
No. For an interstate household-goods shipment, Full Value Protection applies unless you select Released Value in writing. Read the valuation selection on the carrier’s documents before signing.
Does Released Value give every shipment $50,000 of coverage?
No. Its liability formula is based on the weight of each article, at $0.60 per pound per article. Do not treat a general shipment figure as a substitute for the actual valuation terms.
Is valuation the same as moving insurance?
No. Valuation concerns the transporting carrier’s liability. A separate insurance policy has its own insurer, terms, exclusions and claims process.
Does Full Value Protection mean I can demand a brand-new replacement?
Not in every case. The carrier can repair, replace with a similar item, or make a cash settlement under the applicable terms. Obtain those terms before agreeing to the move.