Moving house? Make sure your contents are covered in transit

Congratulations on the move! But amidst the packing and planning, there's one crucial detail many forget: contents insurance. You might wonder, "Does contents insurance cover moving house?" The answer, unfortunately, is not always a straightforward yes.

Are my contents covered while moving?

It may surprise you to know that standard home and contents insurance policies typically offer limited or no coverage for your belongings while they're in transit between your old and new home. This can leave you vulnerable if your furniture gets damaged during loading or your boxes go missing on the truck.

If you’re unsure about what your policy covers, always contact your insurer for help. If you're with AMP, you can download the policies online or contact one of our insurance specialists for help.

Understanding contents insurance and moving

Here's what you need to know:

• Limited coverage: Some policies might offer basic protection against specific events like fire or theft during transit. However, these often come with limitations and exclusions.
• Moving day mishaps: Standard coverage usually excludes common moving day mishaps like accidental damage caused by movers or dropped boxes.

However, while standard policies might not automatically cover your belongings on the move, there are options:

• Extended coverage: Many insurance companies offer add-on options specifically for moving house. These can provide comprehensive coverage for your belongings during transit. For example, AMP offers household removal insurance that you can purchase for a short period, in addition to your home and contents insurance, to give you comprehensive cover while you move.
• Mover's insurance: Reputable removal companies often have their own insurance plans. Be sure to inquire about coverage details and any limitations.

What you can do before moving house
 

• Check your policy: Review your existing contents insurance policy to understand its limitations regarding moving. If you need time to sort through your belongings to decide what you’re bring to your new home and are putting things into storage during the move, make sure you check your insurance policy so you know how long your contents will be covered for.
• Contact your insurer: Discuss your moving plans with your insurer. They can advise you on any existing coverage for transit or recommend an add-on option. They can also update any existing policies you have to your new address to ensure you’re covered.
• Mover's insurance: If hiring movers, investigate their insurance coverage and consider additional coverage if needed.

Remember: A little planning can go a long way in protecting your belongings during a move. By understanding your contents insurance limitations and exploring additional coverage options, you can ensure peace of mind on your moving day.