Full Value Protection

TRE Dictionary

Full Value Protection

Full Value Protection is the higher level of mover liability offered for interstate household-goods moves. Under FMCSA guidance, the mover is generally responsible for repairing, replacing, or making a cash settlement for covered lost or damaged items, subject to the applicable valuation terms and declared shipment value.

In plain English

It provides substantially broader protection than Released Value, but it is a mover-liability option and should not automatically be described as the same thing as a separate insurance policy.

Why it matters

Customers should understand the declared shipment value, any deductible or plan terms, exclusions, treatment of articles of extraordinary value, and the claims process before the move begins.

The default interstate option

FMCSA states that covered interstate shipments move under Full Value Protection unless the customer selects Released Value. Under 49 CFR 375.201, the maximum liability is the declared shipment value, subject to Surface Transportation Board rules and the applicable tariff. Confirm that value and the written plan before signing.

What to confirm before the move

• How the declared shipment value is set, and any applicable minimum.
• The price of the protection and any deductible.
• How the mover handles repair, replacement or a cash settlement for a covered loss.
• Any exclusions, limitations and requirements for articles of extraordinary value.
• Which documents record the selection and how you will receive copies.

FMCSA identifies articles of extraordinary value as items worth more than $100 per pound. Specifically list those items on the shipping documents and ask for the mover’s written explanation of the limitation before the move. See High-Value Item. A photograph or a high declared total shipment value alone should not be assumed to replace the required item disclosure.

From protection choice to claim

Keep the signed valuation record with the inventory, condition notes, item disclosures and value evidence. Full Value Protection is not a guarantee that every allegation will be paid at the customer’s preferred amount; the facts and applicable terms still matter. Follow the Moving Claims guide for formal submission and receipt records.

This is an interstate mover-liability framework, distinct from a separate insurance policy. Intrastate and other moves may follow different rules.

TRE common-language definition

Full Value Protection: A mover-liability option providing a repair, replacement, or settlement obligation for covered loss or damage, subject to the applicable valuation terms.

Related terms

Valuation · Released Value · High-Value Item · Carrier Liability · Claim

Put it into practice

Use the Moving Valuation guide to compare the choices and the Moving Documents guide to keep the selected terms connected to the shipment.

Sources & Evidence

• FMCSA — Understanding Valuation and Insurance Options
• FMCSA — Liability & Protection
• FMCSA — Protect Your Move Glossary

The Relocation Ecosystem provides educational information and does not provide legal or insurance advice.