A question our clients commonly ask is whether they need insurance to cover breakages or damages during their move.
Here’s our advice based on over a decade servicing Sydney and the greater metropolitan area.
Our team at VW Removals will always treat your belongings with the utmost care, however, for your peace of mind & in the interests of transparency, we want all our customers to understand their options when it comes to making the right choice for them when it comes to insurance.
The Truth About Removalist Insurance
Many people assume that when they hire a removalist, their belongings are automatically fully insured. Let’s clear up this common misconception and investigate what “fully insured” does actually mean.
Removalists Insurance
- Covers damage we’re directly responsible for
- Applies when we’re proven to be at fault
- Provides basic protection for standard items
- Has specific coverage limits
- Is our policy, not yours
- May not cover the full value of any damaged items
- Often excludes valuable or fragile items
- Doesn’t cover circumstances beyond our control such as bad weather events etc.
Some removal companies only have insurance that covers their vehicle if an accident occurs.
Your Insurance Options
1. Contents Insurance Extension
If you have home contents insurance, you might be covered for moving.
Benefits include:
- Coverage regardless of who’s at fault
- Protection for valuable items
- Higher compensation limits
- Fewer exclusions
However, check your policy carefully as:
- Professional movers may be required (AFRA Accredited)
- Additional premiums might apply
- Some items might still be excluded
2. Standalone Moving Insurance
Specialized moving insurance offers:
- Comprehensive coverage for all items
- Protection against all types of damage
- Higher value limits
- gi What’s Right for Your Sydney Move?
For Local Moves
Our removalist insurance is often sufficient if:
- You’re moving standard household items
- You can transport valuables yourself
You want to avoid extra insurance costs - You’re comfortable with basic coverage
When to consider additional Insurance:
- You’re moving valuable artwork or antiques
- You have expensive furniture or electronics
- You need coverage for items we can’t insure
- You want comprehensive protection
Commonly Excluded Items
The following items may need additional cover. Talk to your removalist or your insurer if you have any of these items to be moved.
- Important documents
- Family heirlooms
- Expensive electronics
- Antiques and artwork
- Musical instruments
- Designer furniture
- Valuable collections
Cost Considerations
Insurance costs vary based on:
- Value of your belongings
- Distance of the move
- Coverage type selected
- Storage requirements
- Claims history
A comprehensive policy typically costs between $320-$600 for an average Sydney home move.
Advice on Making Claims
If damage does occur:
- Document with photos immediately
- Report within 48 hours
- Keep all relevant paperwork
- Know your claim deadline (usually 45 days)
VW Removals’ Commitment
We provide:
- Clear information about our insurance coverage
- Guidance on protecting valuable items
We do NOT:
- Provide referrals to insurance companies
- Offer advice on your insurance options.
To plan your next move safely, give us a call to discuss your specific needs.
Remember: While our removalist insurance provides basic protection, you should consider your specific circumstances when deciding if additional coverage is needed.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult with qualified insurance providers for specific coverage details.
