Certificate of Insurance (COI)
Definition
A document proving the mover carries general liability and cargo insurance. Many apartment buildings and HOAs require a COI before allowing movers into the property.
A Certificate of Insurance is issued by the moving company's insurance provider and confirms active coverage for general liability and cargo insurance. It is not an insurance policy itself - it is proof that a policy exists.
Many buildings (especially apartment complexes, condos, and HOAs) require a COI from any moving company before granting access. The COI typically needs to list the building as an "additional insured" or "certificate holder."
Request the COI from your mover at least 1-2 weeks before the move. It can take a few days for the mover's insurance company to issue a customized certificate. Send it to your building management as soon as you receive it.
A COI should include: the insurance company name, policy numbers, coverage amounts, effective dates, and the named insured (the moving company). If a mover cannot provide a COI, it is a red flag that they may be uninsured.