Steps To Take When Removalists Damage Your Belongings

Moving into a new home typically involves a great deal of anxiety. It's even more stressful if your glassware, electronics, or other valuable items happen to be broken during the move.

Even if you choose a professional moving service, there is no guarantee that all of your belongings will be free from damage during the relocation.

Thankfully, there are steps you can take to ensure that the moving company replaces or reimburses you for any items that are damaged or destroyed.

Before and after your move, file or document the circumstances surrounding the damaged item(s), then fill out a movers' damage claim.

Prior to the move

Step 1) Make a list of what you have

Begin by gathering all of your items in one area and making multiple copies of the list. Ideally, for both you and your movers.

This list will make tracking lost or missing belongings, as well as those that did not arrive at the new location, much easier.

Step 2) photograph your items

After you've made an inventory list, take photos of your stuff to go along with it. Add a date and time stamp on these images.

It will make proving that damage has occurred to the items, a great deal easier. If your belongings are broken, nicked, or scratched during transportation, it will help you file a claim.

Step 3) Purchase additional moving insurance

Most moving firms provide some basic insurance for your belongings, but this won't cover you if something breaks or goes missing. As a result, make sure to purchase additional coverage or purchase a separate insurance policy.

Although it will raise your moving costs, it will help expedite the process if your goods are lost or destroyed.

Following the relocation

Step 4) Double-check your Bill of Laden

Request a list of the goods and their arrival conditions from the movers after your belongings have reached at their destination. Examine the list carefully and make a note of any items that have been scuffed or damaged.

Make a note of any inconsistencies you find in the list

When you file a claim, it will serve as extra evidence. You can also make a note of any goods that have been scratched or lost.

Step 5) Begin the procedure right away

You will receive compensation on time if you file your case sooner. So get going right now. You have nine months from the date of your move to file a claim, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Step 6) Submit a written claim to your movers

To begin, call your moving company and request the official documentation needed to file a claim. Every mover has this paperwork and a distinct complaint handling procedure.

Step 7) Document the Damages with Photographs

This time, you must capture as many images as possible because they are crucial. Include the images you took before and after the move, as well as the photos you took during the complaint.

This is your proof, and it will be included in the documentation that your belongings were damaged.

Step 8) Await the offer of reimbursement

The claims process begins immediately after you have completed and submitted the documentation. Your movers will usually appoint a claim adjuster to look at the damage.

The furniture moving company will provide you a refund offer within a week of filing your complaint. Accept the company's offer if you're happy with it.

Conclusion

Get your items documented before and after the relocation to ensure a smooth transition. You will have evidence to show for reimbursements or replacements, in the event that any of your items are damaged or lost in the move.