Released Value
What released value means as a basic level of carrier liability in interstate household-goods moving.
Published 4 Sep 2026 · Updated 4 Sep 2026. Sources, scope and corrections
TRE Dictionary
Released Value
Released Value is the basic, no-additional-charge level of mover liability available for interstate household-goods moves. FMCSA describes it as limited protection based on the weight of the individual article rather than its replacement value.
In plain English
Released Value is not full replacement protection. Under current FMCSA guidance, the mover's liability is limited to no more than 60 cents per pound per article when this option is selected.
Why it matters
A customer can hear words such as “covered” or “protected” and assume the item is insured for its actual value. Under Released Value, recovery for a valuable but lightweight item can be far below replacement cost.
A simple weight-based example
Using the 60-cents-per-pound figure in FMCSA’s consumer guidance, a 25-pound item has a $15 liability limit: 25 × $0.60. This illustrates the limit for that item, not a promise of payment or a replacement-value assessment. Confirm the actual released-rate terms in your documents.
Selection and handoff
FMCSA states that choosing Released Value requires signing a specific statement on the bill of lading or contract. If you do not select it, the shipment moves under Full Value Protection. Read the choice before signing and retain the dated copy with your inventory.
Ask how the item’s weight and identity will be documented if a claim occurs. A high purchase price does not change a weight-based liability limit. A separate insurance policy, if purchased, has its own terms and should be kept with the move record.
These figures describe interstate household-goods consumer guidance. Intrastate and other moves may follow different requirements.
TRE common-language definition
Released Value: A basic interstate mover-liability option that limits recovery using a low per-pound-per-article amount rather than replacement value.
Related terms
Valuation · Full Value Protection · Claim · Carrier Liability
Put it into practice
Compare the choices in the Moving Valuation guide. If loss or damage occurs, follow the Moving Claims guide; delivery notes alone do not complete the formal claim.
Sources & Evidence
- FMCSA — Liability & Protection
- FMCSA — Protect Your Move Glossary
- FMCSA — How do I insure my belongings during a move?
The Relocation Ecosystem provides educational information and does not provide legal or insurance advice.
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