Planning a move? Make sure you are packed with these tips

If you are planning a move, whether across the country or just down the street, make sure your belongings stay protected. Here are some helpful insurance tips to make your move as smooth and easy as possible:

Are you putting any belongings in storage?

Your homeowners or tenants insurance may include coverage if you need to temporarily place your belongings in a storage unit. Most insurance companies allow between 30 to 90 days of storage without charge. If you need the storage unit for longer, it may affect your premiums and you may face limitations on how long you can store items.

For your policy to remain valid, items must be placed in a proper storage facility and not kept on someone else’s personal property (for example, in a friend’s basement or garage). For more information, check out our blog: The Ins and Outs of storage unit insurance – who is responsible for what?

Are you shipping belongings or your vehicle?

Are you shipping belongings or your vehicle? If you are shipping your items or vehicle across provinces, ensure you still carry insurance for both your vehicle and your personal belongings while they are in transit. Check with your BrokerLink broker to ensure you are covered.

Are you using a moving company?

When hiring movers, choose a reputable professional. Here are some things to ask a moving company before you hire them:

Proof of insurance

Ask the moving company about their insurance details to ensure your belongings are covered while they are in the mover’s care and custody.

• Some companies will only carry insurance on items their workers pack.
• Ask if the mover has a Workers’ Compensation Board certificate to protect you from any liability resulting from employee injuries that may occur during your move.
• Having Replacement Value Protection means the mover assumes responsibility for replacing any lost or damaged goods, up to a certain amount per pound of weight of your shipment. Ensure you have Replacement Value Protection details in writing and at what cost.

Quote

Ensure you have a written, detailed quote on the cost to avoid any surprises.

References

Reputable movers should be able to provide references. The Better Business Bureau can also provide you with a list of reputable movers in your area or you can ask your friends and family for references. Once your belongings arrive at the new address, make sure everything has been delivered in good condition before you sign any receipts. If some of your belongings are lost or damaged in your move, it’s always better to go through the moving company’s policy first so it does not affect your claims history. Be aware of deadlines for making a claim with your mover.

Learn more about picking the right moving company at Good Practice Guidelines for Canadian Movers.

Update your policy.

Once your move is complete, make sure your policy is up to date.

• Address: Call your BrokerLink broker to update your address on your policy.
• Home insurance: You will need to update your policy to suit your new home, including additional purchases you have made for your home, such as furniture.
• Auto: Change your driver’s license with your new address. If you have moved to a new province, you’ll also need to transfer your auto insurance policy.

Remember: Avoid coverage gaps – do not cancel your home and auto’s old policy until the new one is fully in place.

If you are planning to move in the coming months, calling your BrokerLink broker should be at the top of your to-do list. We will make sure you have the coverage you need before, during and after your move. Let us take care of the details so all you have to worry about is unpacking your boxes.