If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance something got damaged during your move in Los Angeles—and now you’re trying to figure out what to do next.
I’m going to walk you through this the same way I would if you called me right after the movers left and said, “Hey, my dresser is cracked—what now?”
No drama, no scare tactics. Just a clear, step‑by‑step guide to filing a moving damage claim in LA, what your rights are, and how we handle it at United Prime Van Lines when something goes wrong.
The first 24 hours are crucial. This is where most people accidentally hurt their own case just because they don’t know the process.
1. Don’t throw away packing materials. Keep the box, the bubble wrap, and the tape. It serves as evidence of how the item was packed and handled.
2. Take clear photos and videos.
3. Don’t try to repair it yet. If you fix it before the movers see it, they may claim they can't verify the original damage.
4. Check your paperwork. Look at your Bill of Lading and your Valuation Coverage selection.
This trips everyone up. Movers do not sell "insurance" (unless licensed to do so). We provide Valuation—our legal limit of liability.
Deadlines:
You can call, but you need a paper trail. Send an email immediately.
Be specific. Don't say "everything is broken."
For high-value items, the mover may send a repair technician or third-party inspector to evaluate if the item can be fixed.
Once the review is complete, the mover will offer one of three things:
Note: If you chose the $0.60/lb option, do not be surprised if the cash offer is low. That is the legal limit of that coverage.
Los Angeles moves have unique risks that can impact your claim.
1. Long Carries & Shuttles In Hollywood or Downtown, we often have to shuttle items from a big truck to a small van, or carry them long distances. Every extra transfer increases risk. If you saw rough handling during a shuttle transfer, note that in your claim.
2. Elevator Rushes If your building manager gave us a strict 2-hour window and the crew had to rush, accidents can happen. Mention if the environment was chaotic.
3. Storage Factors If your items went into Storage, the mover will check the chain of custody. Was the damage noted when it entered storage, or when it left?
We do everything to prevent damage (wrapping, padding, training). But if it happens:
Damage on a move is personal. It’s your stuff. But the response doesn't have to be chaotic.
If you want to plan a move with a team that treats your things like they matter—and owns it if something goes wrong—Contact United Prime Van Lines.
