Moving Insurance Cost in Quebec: Is It Worth It?

Types of Moving Insurance in Quebec

In Quebec, movers are legally required to carry basic liability coverage, but it pays very little in the event of damage. There are three main levels of moving insurance available:

• Basic liability (released value): Included free — pays $0.60 per pound per item. A 50-lb TV worth $1,500 would net you just $30.
• Full-value protection: Costs $75–$300 — the mover must repair, replace, or compensate the full current value of any damaged item.
• Third-party moving insurance: Costs $100–$400 — purchased from an independent insurance company, often with better terms than the mover's own coverage.

Full-Value Protection: Costs and Coverage

Full-value protection is priced based on the total declared value of your shipment. Most movers set a minimum declared value of $10,000 or $6/lb times total weight. The premium typically runs 1–3% of the declared value, with a minimum of $75–$150.

For example, if you declare $30,000 in belongings, full-value protection costs roughly $150–$300. If something is damaged, the mover must either repair it, replace it with an equivalent item, or pay you the current market value. Deductibles of $250–$500 are common, so minor damage may not be covered.

Does Your Home Insurance Cover Moving?

Many Quebec renters and homeowners don't realize that their existing home insurance may cover belongings during a move. Check your policy for "transit" or "off-premises" coverage — many policies cover your belongings anywhere in Canada, including during a move.

However, home insurance policies often have deductibles of $500–$1,000 and may not cover damage caused by movers (only theft or catastrophic events). Call your insurer before moving day to understand exactly what's covered. If your policy provides adequate transit coverage, you may be able to skip the mover's full-value protection.

Is Moving Insurance Worth the Cost?

If you own high-value items — electronics, art, antiques, musical instruments — full-value protection is worth every penny. A single damaged item could cost more than the entire insurance premium. For a $150 premium protecting $30,000 in belongings, it's a no-brainer.

If you're moving mostly low-value items (basic IKEA furniture, clothing, books), the basic coverage plus your home insurance may be sufficient. The key question is: would you be financially devastated if your most valuable item was damaged? If yes, buy the insurance. If not, the savings of $75–$300 might be worth the risk.