Who to call · Mover
Items damaged during a move? Here's Who to Call
Scratched furniture, broken mirrors, dented appliances, and crushed boxes are unfortunately common during moves — the American Moving and Storage Association estimates that 1 in 4 moves involves some damage. If you used a licensed moving company, you have legal recourse: federal law requires movers to offer at minimum "released value" coverage at $0.60/lb per item (meaning a 50 lb TV gets $30 — virtually nothing). Better movers offer "full value protection" ($5,000–$50,000+ coverage depending on shipment weight, at $0 or $100–$300 premium) that pays repair or replacement cost. File your claim in writing within 9 months of delivery (FMCSA regulation). Take photos of damage before signing the inventory sheet. For local moves, liability depends on state law and the contract terms — read the fine print before moving day.
What's going on
How to fix items damaged during a move
Some "items damaged during a move" cases look simple, but getting it wrong almost always costs more than calling a pro: hidden leaks, fire risk, code violations, and insurance headaches. A licensed mover will diagnose the exact cause, use the right professional tools, and stand behind the repair. Most local pros offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.
Who to call
Mover
How to become a professional mover: licensing, DOT requirements, salary expectations, and career paths in the US, Poland, and the Netherlands.
Related services
05 / 05
Symptoms to look for
- 01
Visible scratches, dents, or chips on furniture that weren't there before
- 02
Broken glass, mirrors, or picture frames found when unpacking
- 03
Appliances dented or no longer functioning after the move
- 04
Boxes crushed or water-damaged — contents inside ruined
- 05
Missing items not on the delivery inventory — pieces lost in transit
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Who should I call for: Items damaged during a move?
Call a licensed mover. Movers have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose items damaged during a move safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.
Can I fix this myself?
Some minor cases can be handled DIY, but most require a licensed mover to avoid costly rework and safety risks. A free quote takes under a minute.
How fast can a pro come out?
Most movers offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.
How much does it cost to fix?
Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.
What are the signs of: Items damaged during a move?
Visible scratches, dents, or chips on furniture that weren't there before. Broken glass, mirrors, or picture frames found when unpacking. Appliances dented or no longer functioning after the move. Boxes crushed or water-damaged — contents inside ruined. Missing items not on the delivery inventory — pieces lost in transit.