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Liability Plans & Claims

We understand that while we strive for excellence, unexpected events can occur during the moving process. To provide peace of mind, we offer additional valuation protection in the event of any damage.

 

Our process is straightforward: before the move begins, we’ll ask you to estimate a valuation for your belongings. This valuation will guide Olympia Moving & Storage’s level of liability, ensuring that any potential loss or damage aligns with the protection you select.

 

Your chosen valuation protection will be documented on the bill of lading, a contract presented to you on moving day. It’s important to finalize this selection before our team begins packing or moving your items, as belongings are not automatically covered for full value.

Residential Customers will be offered the following valuation choices:

This choice is recommended as it covers the cost of replacement, repair, or full non-depreciated value and results in the moving company paying if damage happens while the belongings are in their possession. If the item is not able to be repaired and is not available for like replacement, a similar item or the cash value will be paid, pending value proof and deductible application.

Option 2 is the minimal legal amount of coverage required by the government and is provided at no charge. This stipulates a maximum liability if goods are lost or damaged. (Note: option 2 is $1/lb. only in the state of New Jersey)

A ten-pound piece of furniture is lost or damaged. Under Option 1, the item would be repaired, replaced, or a cash settlement would be provided that reflects the full value of the item minus a deductible. Option 2 entitles the owner to 10 multiplied by $0.60/ lb., equating to $6 for that chair, maximum reimbursed value.

Valuation Options and Pricing

Our valuation programs vary by move type. Please thoroughly review the valuation options, pricing, and information for your relocation.

Storage Valuation

When storage is provided under the Limited Liability plan, there is no valuation charge and your household goods will be covered at 60 cents per pound per article. When Full Replacement Value Protection is selected for your relocation, the same coverage will automatically be applied while your goods remain in storage. The cost for this coverage option is 15% of the selected transit valuation amount for each month that your goods remain in storage. During the storage period, Olympia, as the carrier (not the warehouseman), will be liable for your goods to the same extent as during the actual transportation.

More Information & Pricing

Extraordinary Value

Under the Full Replacement Value Protection option, you will also need to prepare and retain a copy of the “Declaration Items of Extraordinary Value” for any boxes containing items of value in excess of $5,000 or a single item or matching sets of items with a value of $5,000 or more that are included in your shipment and give a copy of this declaration to the mover’s representative. The mover’s liability for loss of or damage to any article valued in excess of $5,000 will be limited to 60 cents per pound for each pound of such lost or damaged article, unless you specifically identify such articles on the extraordinary value declaration. It is your responsibility to study these provisions and to make the necessary declaration.

Declaration Items of Extraordinary Value Form

Limits to Liability Coverage

Liability may be limited or terminated in certain cases:

 

  • Client-packed boxes: Boxes packed by clients may not be fully covered, as Olympia cannot verify the contents or packing quality. If a client-packed box is lost or misplaced, Olympia’s maximum liability is $85 per box due to the inability to confirm its contents. However, boxes with visible damage or those packed by Olympia’s crew are fully covered under your chosen valuation option.

 

  • Public storage delivery: Olympia’s liability ends upon delivery to a public storage facility. To ensure coverage, inspect the shipment with the driver at delivery and note any damage or loss in the “Exceptions” section of the original inventory. To maintain Olympia’s liability, consider storing your goods with Olympia directly.

Filing a Claim

To begin the claims process for loss or damage during your move, we must receive the claims form.  Upon receipt of the form, an Olympia representative will be in touch within two business days regarding your claim.

 

Local Claims:

Please complete the form at olympiamoving.com/claims within 30 days of your local delivery. (90 days for local Texas and New Jersey clients only)

 

Interstate Claims:

Please follow the instructions on the Wheaton World Wide claims page within nine months of your interstate delivery.