The Hidden Risks of Relocation
Even the most professional moving company cannot eliminate all unforeseen events. Statistics show that approximately 5% of international household moves experience some form of damage—from minor scratches to significant losses. At VANonsite, we’ve seen how a single unexpected pothole or sudden temperature change can transform what seemed like a smooth move into a stressful claim process. This is why comprehensive moving insurance isn’t just an optional extra—it’s the safety net that turns potential disasters into manageable incidents.
Understanding Coverage Levels
Moving insurance typically operates on a tiered system, with each level addressing different risk scenarios. Basic coverage, often included in standard quotes, usually protects against catastrophic events like fire or vehicle accidents but excludes common issues like scratches or dents during handling. Mid-tier policies expand to include damage from improper packing or transit vibrations, while premium “all-risk” coverage extends to mysterious disappearances and climate-related damage. VANonsite’s most popular Gold Shield policy, for instance, even covers items temporarily stored in transit warehouses—a crucial consideration for international moves with customs delays.
The True Cost of Protection
Insurance premiums generally range between 1-3% of your shipment’s declared value, but several factors dramatically influence final pricing. A piano move from Berlin to Zurich might attract a 2.5% rate due to instrument fragility, while a basic furniture shipment to Barcelona could qualify for 1.2%. Other cost variables include transport method (air freight costs more to insure than road), and whether you’re moving to a high-risk area for theft or extreme weather. Surprisingly, your claims history with previous moves can affect pricing more than the actual distance of your relocation.
Common Exclusions That Surprise Clients
Most policies contain fine print that voids coverage under specific circumstances. Standard exclusions include damage from improperly packed owner-packed boxes (a particular issue with 37% of DIY packers), gradual deterioration like mold growth during storage, and “inherent vice” issues where fragile items break due to their natural fragility rather than mishandling. Perhaps most surprisingly, many basic policies don’t cover items left in garages or gardens during loading/unloading—a gap that has caught many homeowners unaware after patio furniture thefts.
Making Insurance Work for You
Smart movers approach insurance as a strategic tool rather than just a compliance requirement. At VANonsite, we recommend creating a “priority protection list”—identifying 5-10 irreplaceable items worth the extra documentation and appraisal effort. For international moves, we’ve found that paying slightly more for “unconditional value” coverage (which waives depreciation calculations) saves significant hassle during claims. The most satisfied clients are those who photographically document item conditions pre-move and understand that insurance isn’t just about reimbursement—it’s about access to VANonsite’s network of restoration specialists who can often repair damaged antiques or electronics better than replacements.
A Real-World Example
Consider the case of a recent client who insured their €80,000 shipment for €1,600 (2%). When a rare 19th-century mirror shattered despite professional packing, the policy didn’t just cover the €3,500 replacement cost—it provided access to a specialized glass restorer who salvaged the original for €1,200, leaving the client with both their heirloom and €2,300 for other expenses. This nuanced approach to claims exemplifies how quality moving insurance transforms from a cost into value.
For those planning moves, remember: the cheapest insurance often becomes the most expensive when you need it most. VANonsite’s insurance advisors spend an average 47 minutes per client customizing coverage—because when it comes to protecting your life’s belongings, generic solutions rarely fit.
Contact VANonsite Now
🌐 Visit: https://vanonsite.com/contact/
📞 Call: +44 0116 318 0745
📧 Email: [email protected]
