What Full Value Protection means
Full Value Protection is a level of carrier liability for an interstate household-goods shipment. It applies unless the shipper chooses Released Value in writing. It is not a promise of an unrestricted cash payment for any damage, and it is not the same as a separate insurance policy.
According to FMCSA liability guidance, the carrier can repair a damaged article, replace it with a similar article, or make a cash settlement under the applicable terms. Ask the actual transporting carrier for its written plan, charges, declared-value requirements and deductible options.
Confirm which carrier is responsible
The business arranging a move and the business transporting the goods can be different. Check the carrier named on the estimate and bill of lading, and retain its contact information. Confirm the valuation election on those documents before loading.
This guide describes the federal interstate household-goods framework. Local moves, commercial shipments and storage arrangements can have different rules or agreements; ask which terms apply to your service.
What to review in the written terms
| Item | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Shipment value | How the required declared value is established |
| Charge and deductible | The amount shown for your chosen option |
| Remedies | How repair, replacement and cash settlement are handled |
| Valuable articles | How to identify pieces individually and provide evidence |
| Packing and condition | Documentation needed for carrier-packed and self-packed items |
| Claims | Submission address, required evidence and applicable deadline |
Do not assume that the original purchase price, sentimental value or the cost of an upgrade is automatically recoverable. Ask about any item that needs special treatment before agreeing to the move.
High-value items need specific documentation
FMCSA’s guidance describes items worth more than $100 per pound as articles of extraordinary value. These can require specific identification in the shipping documents to avoid a limitation on the carrier’s responsibility. Ask the carrier to explain its requirements for artwork, antiques, jewelry or collections.
Keep an inventory, condition photographs and available receipts or appraisals. A crate or careful packing method does not by itself establish the amount of liability or create a separate insurance policy.
How Released Value differs
Released Value is available at no additional charge when specifically selected in writing. It limits carrier liability to $0.60 per pound per article. For example, that formula gives a $15 limit for a 25-pound article. The example illustrates why weight-based liability can be much lower than an item’s value.
The comparison guide helps you compare the options. Ask about separate insurance only after reading the carrier’s valuation terms; a policy may have its own exclusions and conditions.
If you need to make a claim
Record missing goods or damage promptly, keep the delivery paperwork and file a written claim with the carrier. FMCSA consumer guidance describes a nine-month filing period following delivery. Retain copies and proof of submission; an informal conversation does not replace the written claim.
See the claims checklist for records to gather. Request the carrier’s arbitration program information if the dispute remains unresolved. The result depends on the facts, valuation election and applicable terms; this page does not promise a settlement amount or turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Full Value Protection the same as insurance?
No. It is a level of carrier liability for the shipment. Separate insurance has its own policy and insurer. Review both documents if you are considering additional insurance.
Who chooses between repair, replacement and cash settlement?
The carrier can use the applicable remedies under its written terms. Do not assume that the shipper can always demand cash or a new replacement at the original purchase price.
Is Full Value Protection available only as an optional upgrade?
For interstate household-goods shipments, it applies unless Released Value is selected in writing. Ask the carrier to show the election, charge and any deductible on your documents.
Does this guide confirm coverage for storage or a local move?
No. Confirm the agreement and rules for the specific service. Interstate transit guidance should not be treated as the terms of every storage or intrastate arrangement.