Mover Insurance Explained
Insurance is one of the clearest signals separating legitimate movers from rogue operators. Here's what the FMCSA records show and what they don't.
'Insurance on file' with FMCSA
Interstate movers must file proof of cargo and liability insurance with FMCSA. When MoverProof shows 'Insurance on file: Yes,' it means that filing exists in the federal record. Worded precisely: it confirms a filing, not that coverage is active today — always verify current coverage with the mover.
Cargo vs. liability amounts
Cargo insurance covers your belongings; bodily-injury/property-damage (BIPD) liability covers accidents. FMCSA records the amounts on file. Higher cargo limits generally indicate a more established operator.
Released value vs. full value protection
By law, interstate movers must offer two levels of liability for your goods: released value (minimal, ~60 cents per pound, free) and full value protection (the mover is liable for the replacement value, at extra cost). This is separate from the carrier's FMCSA insurance filing.
No insurance on file = major red flag
A mover with no insurance on file should not be transporting household goods across state lines. MoverProof flags this as a critical signal.
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