Atlanta Movers Damaged My Stuff - What Do I Do?

1) Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork…if you need to file a claim for damages make sure the paperwork you sign during the move and after the completion of your move support the damage you intend to claim. For example, if your Atlanta Mover fills out a descriptive inventory listing the condition of your items prior to and at the completion of the move those conditions need to support the claim or it will be denied (if you file a claim for damages to a table but that table was listed as damaged in the location you are claiming for damage prior to being handled by the movers and you and the mover signed off on it then you will not be able to claim that same damage against the mover at the completion of the move). The descriptive inventory is one of the most important documents for your move.

2) Insurance… what insurance. A common mistake many customers make is that they ask the mover if "they are insured" and yes most movers are insured. As a matter of fact to be a mover in Atlanta you must be insured, but it does not necessarily mean you and your items are insured. One important point to clarify is that Atlanta Moving companies do not offer insurance coverage. Valuation coverage is not insurance and it does not operate the same as insurance either. Further what you as a customer choose for your move on your "shipper declaration of value" a state mandated form that is a part of every move in Georgia will be the coverage you get for your move. So if you hire a mover that carries $200,000.00 of Insurance but you select the "$300.00 Depreciated Value Coverage" on your paper work for your move then that is exactly what you get "$300.00 Depreciated Value" to repair of replace the claimed item. If you would like full value coverage then you must choose a "full value" coverage option on your paper work for your move and pay for it (yes by law full value coverage for moves in the State of Georgia costs you extra money that is not included in the local hourly rates for local moves or weight and distance costs in a Instate move). This may not make sense but they are the rules as set up by the Georgia Public Service Commission who is responsible for granting licenses, creating and enforcing rules for Moves in our state.

3) Repair the item first. Most damaged wood furniture can be repaired if damaged. If you have damage to furniture and the damage can be repaired the mover will more than likely choose to have the item repaired and not necessarily replaced (i.e. they won’t just cut you a check based on the claimed amount). Many repairs can be done on site by an onsite furniture repair company…if the damage is extensive the piece might need to be taken to a shop for repair. If the damage can not be repaired and your claim is approved then you will compensated based on its depreciated value or cost to replace it depending of the valuation coverage option and amount of coverage you selected.

4) Hire a Good moving company…accidents do happen but the best insurance you can buy is to pick a mover with a solid reputation and employees who care - 1-866-U-MOVING?

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