“Insured” on a removalist website is not enough detail. Carrier liability limits are often far below replacement value — sometimes a few dollars per kilogram. This guide explains basic liability versus declared-value transit cover, common exclusions, how claims usually work, and the questions to ask before collection day so you are not negotiating after damage.
Carrier liability vs transit insurance
Most professional removalists carry public liability and some form of goods-in-transit arrangement. Limits, excesses and exclusions vary widely. Ask for the certificate of currency and the customer-facing summary — not a marketing line on a homepage.
RemovalistAU does not sell insurance. Cover is arranged between you and the removalist, a broker, or your home insurer. If a policy is offered via a third party, check whether the seller holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) where required.
| Cover type | What it usually means | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Basic carrier liability | Limited $ per kg or per item under the contract of carriage | Often far below replacement cost for furniture and appliances |
| Declared-value transit | Cover closer to the value you declare item-by-item or as a total | Premium + accurate declarations; under-declare and you under-insure |
| Home contents (your policy) | Sometimes extends to transit — rarely automatic | Get written confirmation from your insurer before moving day |
Example: at $5/kg liability, a 40 kg fridge might attract only $200 of cover — not the cost of replacing it.
How to declare value properly
Declared-value cover only works if your inventory matches reality. High-value items need separate lines with approximate replacement cost (new-for-old if that is what the policy offers).
- Photograph condition and serial numbers before packing.
- List antiques, art, instruments and specialty equipment separately.
- Ask whether owner-packed cartons have reduced cover.
- Confirm the excess you pay on a successful claim.
- Keep digital and paper copies of the inventory signed on collection.
Common exclusions (read these before you pack)
- Owner-packed cartons with inadequate packing or over-filled boxes.
- Cash, jewellery, documents and high-value portable electronics left in drawers.
- Pre-existing damage not noted on the collection inventory.
- Consequential loss from delay (extra hotel nights, missed settlement).
- Restricted or prohibited goods for WA/TAS biosecurity moves.
Claims process — what good operators do
Strong operators give you a claims window in writing (often short — days to a few weeks after delivery). Note damage on the delivery docket before the crew leaves when it is visible.
- Photograph damage in situ before moving items further.
- Keep the inventory, quote, insurance certificate and payment receipts.
- Lodge in writing within the stated timeframe.
- Australian Consumer Law (ACL) rights may still apply alongside contract terms — ask for the business ABN and keep correspondence.
ACL does not replace reading the policy. It can help when services are not supplied with due care and skill — get advice for large claims.
Related tools and next steps
RemovalistAU editorial team. Practical interstate removals guidance for Australian households. Reviewed 2026-08-07. Indicative figures are planning ranges, not quotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is insurance included in every quote?
Not always at a useful limit. Treat insurance as a line item you verify with certificates, not an assumption from marketing copy.
Does RemovalistAU sell insurance?
No. We help you compare movers. Insurance is arranged between you and the removalist, broker or your own insurer.
What is a typical liability limit?
Many contracts use a per-kilogram or per-item limit that can be far below replacement value. Always ask for the exact figure in writing.
Should I rely on home contents insurance?
Only if your insurer confirms transit cover in writing for this move. Many policies exclude or limit transit unless you arrange an extension.
What if damage is found days after delivery?
Check the claims window immediately. Photograph evidence and lodge in writing. Hidden damage may still be claimable if you act within policy timeframes.
Do AFRA members automatically give better cover?
AFRA membership is a quality signal for furniture removalists, not a guarantee of high transit limits. Still request certificates and compare declared-value options.
Who pays the excess?
Usually the customer, unless the contract says otherwise. Confirm excess amount before you buy top-up cover.