When planning a commercial move, understanding the difference between valuation and insurance is critical. Many businesses assume their assets are automatically fully protected during a relocation, but that’s not always the case. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know when moving valuable commercial property.

What Is Valuation in Commercial Moving?

Valuation is the moving company’s stated liability for your items—it is not true insurance. During a commercial move, valuation determines how much a moving company is responsible for if your office equipment, technology, or furniture is lost or damaged.

  • Regulated by: The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) for interstate moves.
  • Provided by: The moving company itself, not an insurance company.

Types of Valuation Coverage:

Released Value Protection (Basic Coverage – Free)

  • Covers $0.60 per pound per item.
  • Example: If your 50-lb office printer is damaged, you would receive just $30 in compensation.
  • While free, this basic coverage offers very little true protection for expensive commercial assets.

Declared Value Protection (Optional – Additional Cost)

  • Covers the depreciated value or repair cost of the damaged item.
  • Movers may repair the item, replace it, or offer a cash settlement.
  • Terms, deductibles, and coverage levels vary depending on the commercial moving company you choose.

Important:
For businesses relocating critical technology, valuable inventory, or specialized equipment, Full Value Protection is often strongly recommended.

What Is Insurance for Commercial Moves?

Insurance refers to separate coverage purchased from a licensed insurance company—not the moving company.

  • Regulated by: State insurance laws.
  • Provided by: A licensed insurance company.

Why Buy Separate Insurance for Your Commercial Move?

  • Covers the full value of your belongings, with fewer exclusions.
  • May cover damages that valuation does not, such as natural disasters, theft, or issues that occur while items are in storage.
  • Tailored policies are available for high-value commercial items like servers, specialized manufacturing equipment, artwork, or sensitive documents.

Important:
If your business relies on expensive or irreplaceable equipment, securing third-party moving insurance is an essential part of risk management during your commercial relocation.

Why Understanding Valuation vs. Insurance Matters for Commercial Moving

When choosing a commercial moving company, always ask:

  • What valuation options do you offer?
  • Should we consider additional moving insurance based on our assets?
  • How are high-value items handled and protected?

Protecting your business’s assets during a move is about more than getting from point A to point B. It’s about planning for the unexpected—and ensuring your operations can resume smoothly after the move.

At Sterling Corporation, we specialize in helping businesses navigate every step of the moving process, from secure packing to risk management. Our experienced team can guide you through your valuation options and help coordinate additional insurance when needed, giving you total peace of mind for your commercial move.