When you’re preparing for a move, especially a long-distance relocation, one of the most overlooked yet critically important steps is completing a High-Value Inventory Addendum. This document, along with special riders for full-value protection, determines how your expensive belongings are handled, insured, and compensated if something goes wrong. Many customers only learn about this form after damage occurs — and by then, it’s often too late. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what these documents mean, how they work, and how to use them to protect your most valuable possessions.
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A High-Value Inventory Addendum is a supplemental document required for items that exceed a certain monetary threshold. Most major van lines and reputable moving companies require this form for items valued at $100 or more per pound, although exact thresholds vary. It ensures movers identify expensive, rare, or fragile belongings.
- Ensure movers handle them with extra care.
- Provide documentation for valuation coverage.
- Protect both you and the moving company from disputes.
Think of it as an official, highly detailed list of your valuable items — one that becomes legally relevant if something happens.
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Which Items Belong on a High-Value Addendum?
Not every possession needs to be on the addendum, only those that hold significant monetary or sentimental value. Items with serial numbers or fragile items are especially important to include.
Common high-value items include:
- Fine jewelry and watches
- Artwork and sculptures
- Designer handbags and footwear
- Collectibles such as coins, stamps, figurines
- High-end electronics (cameras, sound systems)
- Antiques or rare heirlooms
- Premium rugs or handcrafted furniture
- Limited edition or high-end gaming devices
If you wouldn’t want to replace it out of pocket — or if it’s difficult to find again — it belongs on this list.
How Riders Work With High-Value Addendums
A rider is an additional clause or attachment to your valuation or transit agreement. The addendum lists and identifies your items, and the rider ensures they are covered at their proper value.
Most movers offer two primary coverage types:
- Released Value Protection — minimal, free, and covers only $0.60 per pound.
- Full Value Protection (FVP) — premium coverage that requires a high-value rider.
Under FVP, the mover must repair, replace, or reimburse the item at its actual value. Without a rider, compensation defaults to weight — which is disastrous for jewelry, art, or collectibles.
For example:
- A 3 lb ring worth $2,000 → Without a rider: $1.80
- A 1 lb camera worth $1,500 → Without a rider: $0.60
Proper documentation prevents these nightmare outcomes.
How to Complete a High-Value Inventory Addendum Correctly
The form itself is usually straightforward, but customers often make mistakes that weaken their protection. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Identify each item individually
Avoid vague labels.
- BAD: “Painting”
- GOOD: “Oil painting on canvas, 24×36, signed ‘M. Rivera’”
2. Assign accurate values
Attach appraisals, receipts, or certificates when possible. If not, provide documented market estimates.
3. Photograph each item
Include close-ups, wide shots, serial numbers, and documentation.
4. Ensure items are marked on the Bill of Lading
Every item must be labeled as high-value in the mover’s official paperwork.
5. Keep a copy for yourself
Store both a digital and physical copy.
Common Mistakes Customers Make With High-Value Addendums
These mistakes often lead to denied or delayed claims:
- Failing to list an item entirely
- Combining multiple items under one entry
- Underestimating value
- Not providing photos or documentation
- Not checking mover’s notes at pickup
A mover can only be held responsible for what’s documented.
How Movers Should Handle High-Value Inventory
Professional movers — including United Local Movers — follow strict procedures to protect these items.
Proper procedures include:
- Using specialized packing materials
- Offering custom crating for extremely delicate pieces
- Separating high-value items during loading
- Labeling boxes clearly and assigning them to a special inventory
- Confirming the condition of each item with you before loading
- Providing a copy of the completed addendum
How High-Value Riders Protect You During the Move
With a rider in place, if damage occurs the mover must:
- Repair the item
- Replace it with something of similar kind and quality
- Pay full replacement value
Real Examples of How Addendums Saved Money
Example 1: Lost diamond ring
Item was fully reimbursed thanks to clear listing and photos.
Example 2: Damaged artwork
A $2,800 painting was torn; the customer received full reimbursement.
Example 3: Antique clock repair
A high-value rider covered professional restoration rather than replacement.
When These Documents Become Legally Critical
When disputes occur and customers must file a claim, without an addendum:
- You may receive pennies on the dollar
- Movers may argue the value wasn’t disclosed
- Insurance may deny reimbursement
- You lose leverage in the dispute
A complete inventory and rider create binding evidence of responsibility.
Final Guidance
If an item is expensive, rare, fragile, or sentimental, you must list it on your High-Value Inventory Addendum and attach a rider. This dramatically reduces risk and ensures your mover cannot dispute the value.
To experience a move where your valuables are protected with full transparency and expert care, request your quote from UnitedLocalMovers.com.
