What items are excluded from mover liability?
Quick Answer
Movers typically exclude liability for: items of extraordinary value not declared on the high-value form, owner-packed boxes (contents only), perishables, plants, cash, jewelry left in furniture, and damage caused by acts of God (floods, earthquakes).
Even with full value protection, certain items and situations fall outside the mover's liability. Understanding these exclusions helps you protect yourself.
Items typically excluded from mover liability: items of extraordinary value (over $100/lb) not listed on the high-value inventory form, contents of owner-packed boxes (the mover will cover the box itself but may deny claims for items inside that they did not pack), perishable goods (food, plants), hazardous materials, cash, coins, and currency, jewelry, watches, and gems left inside furniture drawers, and irreplaceable items (family photos, personal records, one-of-a-kind artwork).
Situations that may void or limit liability: Acts of God (natural disasters, severe weather events during transport), damage to items not listed on the inventory, pre-existing damage (documented on the inventory sheet at pickup), damage caused by defective packing by the owner, and items that were not available for the mover to inspect at delivery.
How to protect excluded items: declare all high-value items on the appropriate form, have the mover pack fragile and valuable items (so they assume liability for packing quality), carry irreplaceable items and cash in your personal vehicle, take photos and video of all valuable items before the move, and consider third-party moving insurance which may cover items the mover excludes.
Special note on owner-packed boxes: this is the most common exclusion that catches people off guard. If you pack your own boxes and something breaks, the mover may argue they are not responsible because they cannot verify proper packing. Options: pay for professional packing of fragile items, open owner-packed boxes for mover inspection before loading, or buy third-party insurance that covers owner-packed items.