Moving Insurance Options in Los Angeles: What You Really Need (And What You Don’t)

If you’re planning a move in Los Angeles, you’re already juggling traffic, parking permits, and elevator reservations. Then there's that tiny voice asking, “What if something breaks?”

That voice is why I want to walk you through moving insurance options in Los Angeles. I’ll explain what is actually covered, what isn’t, and how we handle this at United Prime Van Lines.

I’m going to talk to you like a friend who just called and asked: “I’m moving to a new apartment in Koreatown—what insurance do I need so I don’t lose my mind?”

Why Insurance Matters More in LA

Los Angeles is not an easy place to move.

• Tight streets and steep driveways in the hills.
• Long carries from the curb to the unit.
• Congested parking zones downtown.

Even if you are moving a simple one-bedroom, you have thousands of dollars worth of stuff. If you have designer furniture or custom pieces, that number jumps fast. The real question isn't "Do I need insurance?" It's "Is my protection enough for what I own?"

1. Basic Carrier Liability (The Default)

This is the free coverage every licensed mover must offer. The Rate: $0.60 per pound, per item.

The Math: If your 50-lb TV is dropped and destroyed:

• 50 lbs × $0.60 = $30.00.

The Verdict: This is better than nothing, but it is not replacement insurance. For most people in LA, $30 won't even cover the tax on a new TV.

2. Full Value Protection (The Real Coverage)

This is what most people think they have (but usually have to select). How it Works: If an item is lost or damaged, the mover must either:

1. Repair the item.
2. Replace it with a similar item.
3. Offer a cash settlement for the current market replacement value.

Why it makes sense in LA: You have higher-value items (electronics, art, custom furniture) and the logistical risks of LA moves (traffic, stairs) are higher.

3. Third-Party Insurance

Sometimes, it's smarter to buy a separate policy from a third-party provider. Best For:

• High-value items that exceed standard limits.
• Partial DIY moves (where you pack, we drive).
• Specific exclusions in standard moving contracts.

4. Does My Renters Insurance Cover It?

The Answer: Maybe, but check the fine print.

• Transit: Some policies cover items while in the truck (theft/fire).
• Breakage: Many do not cover accidental breakage during handling.
• Limits: Coverage limits for items away from home are often lower.

Action Item: Call your agent and ask: "Does my policy cover accidental damage during loading and unloading?"

5. High-Value Items (Art, Antiques, Pianos)

Standard policies usually have a cap per item (e.g., $100 per pound). If you have a $5,000 painting that weighs 10 lbs, standard coverage pays $6.

Our Solution:

• High-Value Inventory Form: You declare items worth more than $100/lb.
• Specialized Handling: We use our Art & Antique Moving or Piano Moving crews to crate and protect these specific items.

6. Valuation vs. Insurance

• Valuation: The level of liability the mover assumes (regulated by the DOT).
• Insurance: A policy sold by an insurance company.

Why it matters: Movers sell valuation. Third parties sell insurance. Both protect you, but the claims process differs. We will translate the jargon so you know exactly what you are signing.

7. Common Exclusions (Watch Out)

Coverage often does not apply if:

• You Packed the Box: If you pack it yourself and it rattles, we aren't liable for breakage inside unless the box is visibly crushed.
• Undeclared Value: If you hide a diamond ring in a sock drawer, it's not covered.
• Electronics: Unless there is external damage, internal failure of electronics is usually not covered (since vibration is unavoidable).

8. Prevention is the Best Insurance

Insurance is for "just in case." The real win is not needing it. At United Prime Van Lines, we reduce risk by:

• Wrapping everything in thick moving blankets.
• Shrink-wrapping upholstery to prevent tears.
• Using dollies instead of dragging furniture.
• Offering Full-Service Packing to ensure boxes are packed professionally.

The Bottom Line

• Basic Coverage is free but minimal.
• Full Value Protection is the safety net most people want.
• Third-Party Insurance is for high-value or complex situations.

If you’re planning a move in Los Angeles and want someone to walk you through this like a human being—not a lawyer—we’re here to help.