What does basic valuation coverage at 60 cents per pound mean?

Basic valuation is the free, state-standard protection that comes with every Spartan move. It caps what we owe for a lost or damaged item at 60 cents per pound of that item, so the payout depends on weight, not on what the piece cost you. It is a liability limit, not an insurance policy.

Each article is valued on its own weight. A few examples using the 60-cent rate:

Notice that a light but expensive item, like a framed print or a designer lamp, gets very little under this formula. That is the main reason people look at extra protection.

Valuation describes how much a mover is responsible for. It is set by California rules for household goods carriers and costs you nothing. Insurance is a separate product you buy that pays based on value. Our company carries its own business insurance too, but that covers the company, not the replacement price of your sofa.

If your belongings are worth more than the weight formula suggests, you can buy full-value coverage through Baker International at bakerintl.com. That is your own policy with them, and any claim under it goes to Baker. It is worth considering on a long-distance move or when you have antiques and art.

• List the few pieces that would hurt most to lose.
• Compare their value with weight times 60 cents.
• If the gap is large, get a Baker quote before moving day.
• Basic valuation applies automatically; you do not need to sign up for it.

For what else is included in the hourly rate, see our moving cost guide.

• How do I buy full-value protection for my move?
• Is Spartan Moving licensed and insured?
• How do I file a claim if something is damaged in a move?