When searching for Philadelphia movers, you’re likely focused on things like affordability, availability, and reviews. But one critical factor that many people overlook is whether or not their moving company is insured. Should you pick an insured moving company? The short answer: absolutely. One of the best ways to ensure a moving company is insured and reputable is to ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI).
In this article, we’ll break down why requesting a COI is essential, especially when dealing with high-rise apartments or even simple home-to-home moves, and why using insured movers can protect you from unnecessary legal and financial risks.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document that verifies a company has insurance coverage. Specifically, for moving companies, this includes several types of insurance:
- General Liability Coverage: This protects you if the movers accidentally cause damage to your property.
- Commercial Automobile Coverage: This covers any incidents involving the moving trucks or other vehicles used during the move.
- Umbrella Insurance Policy: Provides additional coverage beyond the limits of the general liability policy.
- Cargo Insurance: Covers any damage or loss to your belongings while in transit.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Protects the movers if they get injured on the job, ensuring you’re not liable for their medical expenses or lost wages.
Requesting a COI ensures that the moving company has all these critical protections in place. Without it, you could be opening yourself up to a world of trouble working with uninsured Philadelphia movers.
Why Do High-Rise Apartments Require a COI?
Many high-rise apartments and condominiums in Philadelphia require a COI before movers are allowed into the building. This is because building management wants assurance that any potential damage to the property, such as scratched walls or broken elevators, will be covered by the moving company’s insurance.
If the movers cannot provide a COI, they may not be allowed in the building. Imagine planning your entire move, only to be turned away on moving day because your movers don’t have the proper paperwork. That’s a headache you can avoid by requesting a COI upfront.
Do I Need a COI for a Standard Home Move?
Even if you’re moving from one home to another, it’s still a good idea to request a COI from your moving company. One of the main reasons is to verify that they have workers’ compensation insurance. If a mover gets injured on your property and the company doesn’t have the appropriate coverage, the injured worker could sue for medical expenses and lost wages.
Unfortunately, some rogue or fly-by-night moving companies don’t carry the necessary insurance, which can lead to disastrous outcomes for unsuspecting homeowners. Protect yourself by always asking for a COI, even for the simplest of moves.
Warning Signs: Moving Companies That Can’t Provide a COI
If a moving company cannot provide a COI upon request, that’s a huge red flag. Most legitimate moving companies will have no problem issuing a COI because they carry the necessary insurance and are fully licensed. However, fly-by-night or rogue movers often lack insurance and proper licensing, putting your belongings—and your finances—at risk.
Choosing an uninsured moving company can result in damaged goods, injury claims, and even lawsuits. Plus, if something happens to your property, like damaged furniture or broken appliances, you’ll likely have no recourse if the company doesn’t have the appropriate insurance in place.
Protect Yourself with Reputable Philadelphia Movers
Hiring insured Philadelphia movers isn’t just a smart choice—it’s the only choice if you want to protect yourself from potential legal and financial headaches. Whether you’re moving into a high-rise building in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties, relocating from one home to another, or simply want peace of mind, always request a COI.
At Broad Street Movers, we provide a COI upon request to ensure you’re fully covered for your move. Don’t take chances with uninsured or unlicensed movers. Reach out to Broad Street Movers today for a smooth, professional, and fully insured moving experience.
By working with insured movers, you can rest easy knowing that your move will go smoothly—and that you’re protected from any unexpected bumps along the way.