When you’re moving with expensive belongings—like fine art, jewelry, high-end electronics, antiques, or designer furniture—an ordinary moving contract is not enough. That’s where a high-value inventory addendum and riders come in. These documents provide additional detail and protection for your most valuable items, helping you avoid disputes, underpayment, or outright loss if something goes wrong during your move.
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What Is a High-Value Inventory Addendum?
A high-value inventory addendum is an attachment to your moving contract that lists items of unusually high value and confirms how much they’re worth. It’s used along with your mover’s standard inventory form so that expensive belongings receive extra documentation and protection.
Why Movers Use a High-Value Addendum
Most professional moving companies have a specific definition of “high value,” often based on dollars per pound or per item. A common guideline is:
- Any single item valued at $100 or more per pound, or
- Any item the customer and mover agree is unusually valuable (even if lightweight)
Typical examples include:
- Fine jewelry and watches
- Original artwork, sculptures, and collectibles
- High-end musical instruments (grand piano, custom guitars, violins)
- Antique furniture and rare rugs
- Designer handbags and couture clothing
- High-value electronics and home theater systems
How the Addendum Works in Practice
During your in-home or virtual estimate, the mover will:
- Ask you to identify high-value items
- List them on a separate high-value inventory form
- Record descriptions, serial numbers (if available), and condition
- Have you confirm and sign the addendum
This addendum then becomes part of your official moving paperwork. If a claim is filed later, the high-value inventory is one of the first documents reviewed.
What Are Riders in a Moving Contract?
Riders are extra pages or clauses attached to your moving contract that modify, clarify, or add coverage beyond the standard agreement. A high-value inventory addendum is often accompanied by one or more riders that spell out how these specific items will be covered or handled.
Common Types of Riders for High-Value Items
Typical riders you might see include:
- High-Value Item Rider: Clarifies the definition of high value, lists special packing or handling requirements, and explains coverage limits.
- Declarated Value Rider: States the total declared value of your shipment, including the high-value portion, and how that value is calculated.
- Exclusion Rider: Identifies items that will not be covered (e.g., cash, certain collectibles, hazardous materials).
- Special Handling Rider: Describes services like custom crating, climate control, or white-glove delivery for particular pieces.
Why Riders Matter for Your Protection
Riders create clarity and reduce ambiguity in the event of a claim. Without clear riders, a mover might argue that:
- The item wasn’t properly declared
- The shipment’s overall value is lower than you thought
- Certain categories of items are excluded
By reviewing and understanding your riders before moving day, you can avoid surprises and make informed decisions about additional coverage.
High-Value Inventory vs. Standard Inventory: What’s the Difference?
Every reputable mover will create a standard inventory of your goods, but a high-value inventory addendum is much more detailed and specific. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Standard Inventory | High-Value Inventory Addendum |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Record all items loaded on the truck | Highlight and protect items of exceptional value |
| Level of Detail | Basic description (e.g., “box,” “dresser,” “TV”) | Specific brand, model, description, special notes |
| Condition Noted? | Often broad notations (good, fair, scratched) | Detailed condition, photos, pre-existing flaws |
| Role in Claims | Shows the item existed and was moved | Supports higher valuation and claim payments |
| Client Involvement | Usually reviewed quickly at move-out | Prepared collaboratively with the customer |
When You Need a High-Value Inventory Addendum
Not every household requires a high-value addendum, but many do without realizing it. You should absolutely request one if:
- You own fine jewelry, original art, or rare collectibles
- You have designer or antique furniture pieces
- You’re moving high-end electronics or a home theater system
- You have a wine collection or specialty equipment
- You are relocating for work and your company is paying for the move (corporate moves often require detailed documentation)
Red Flags That You’re Under-Documented
You may be at risk if:
- Your quote doesn’t mention a high-value inventory form at all
- The mover says “we’re covered for everything” without specifics
- No one asks about antiques, art, or jewelry during the estimate
- The contract has no riders or only generic language about value
How High-Value Addenda Affect Your Insurance and Valuation
In moving, “insurance” is often referred to as valuation coverage. Your high-value inventory addendum works closely with your chosen valuation option.
Basic Carrier Liability vs. Full Value Protection
Most movers offer two primary valuation levels:
| Valuation Type | Coverage Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Released Value Protection (Basic) | Typically $0.60 per pound per article | Low-value shipments, local or short moves where you accept more risk |
| Full Value Protection (FVP) | Repair, replace, or cash settlement up to declared value | Moves with high-value items or high replacement cost |
The high-value inventory addendum is especially critical if you choose Full Value Protection, because:
- The mover needs to know exactly what they’re liable for
- Items not listed may be assumed to have average or lower value
- Undeclared high-value items could result in reduced compensation
Declared Value and Why It Matters
With FVP, you’ll declare an overall value for your shipment. Movers might require a minimum like:
- X dollars per pound (e.g., $6 per pound for the total shipment), or
- A specific lump sum based on your home size
Your high-value items must fit comfortably within that total. If your whole shipment is declared at $40,000 but you have a single painting worth $25,000, the numbers don’t line up—and that’s a problem for claims.
Step-by-Step: Creating a Strong High-Value Inventory
Building a thorough high-value inventory doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Use this step-by-step process to create a solid addendum with your mover.
1. Identify Your High-Value Categories
Walk through your home and make a preliminary list of categories, such as:
- Jewelry & watches
- Fine art & sculpture
- Antiques & heirlooms
- Designer furniture & décor
- Premium electronics & instruments
- Collections (coins, stamps, wine, sports memorabilia)
2. Gather Documentation
For each item or group of items, collect:
- Purchase receipts or invoices
- Appraisals, especially for art and jewelry
- Certificates of authenticity
- Model and serial numbers (for electronics, appliances, instruments)
Keep copies accessible on move day and send digital copies to your mover and insurer if requested.
3. Photograph and/or Video Your Items
Clear, dated photos are invaluable. For each high-value piece, take pictures of:
- Front, sides, and back
- Close-ups of signatures, serial numbers, or distinguishing marks
- Any existing scratches or damage
A quick video walk-through of each room, narrating what you’re showing, can further strengthen your record.
4. Work with Your Mover to Complete the Addendum
During the estimate or a follow-up appointment, have the crew lead or estimator:
- Review your list and documents
- Enter each high-value item on the form with a clear description
- Agree on the declared value for each item or category
- Note any special handling or packing instructions
Verify that the final, printed high-value inventory addendum is attached to your bill of lading or main moving contract.
Best Practices for Packing and Handling High-Value Items
Even with perfect paperwork, physical protection is critical. How items are packed and handled will affect both their safety and your ability to claim damages if needed.
Professional vs. Self-Packing
Many movers strongly recommend—and sometimes require—professional packing for high-value items. Here’s why:
| Approach | Benefits | Potential Downsides |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Packing | Expert materials and techniques, better claim support, clear chain of responsibility | Higher cost, scheduling required in advance |
| Self-Packing | Cost savings, full control, pack at your own pace | May limit coverage, harder to prove damage wasn’t pre-existing or due to poor packing |
Ask your mover directly: “If I pack this item myself, will it still be fully covered, and under what conditions?”
Custom Crating and Special Materials
Certain items deserve more than a simple box. Consider:
- Custom wooden crates for large art, glass, and marble
- Foam-in-place or suspension systems for delicate electronics
- Climate-controlled transport for fine art, wine, or instruments
- Shock and tilt indicators on crates to document rough handling
Chain of Custody and Documentation
For particularly valuable or irreplaceable items, ask your mover about:
- Who will be responsible for loading/unloading them
- Whether they’ll travel on a specific truck with fewer stops
- Special barcoding or labeling procedures
- Sign-off procedures at pickup and delivery
Common Mistakes with High-Value Inventory and How to Avoid Them
Missteps with your high-value addendum and riders can be expensive. Avoid these frequent errors:
1. Understating the Value of Items
Some customers list values lower than reality to keep overall declared value (and cost) down. The risk:
- If an item is lost or destroyed, your payout is capped at the declared value
- You may not be able to replace your item at current market prices
Instead, use realistic values based on appraisals and receipts.
2. Failing to Update the Inventory
If you add or remove items after signing the addendum—selling a piece, buying a new one, or deciding to move jewelry you previously planned to carry yourself—make sure your mover updates the paperwork and riders before moving day.
3. Assuming “Everything Is Covered”
Never rely on verbal assurances alone. Verify in writing:
- What is covered under your valuation choice
- Any dollar caps per item or per shipment
- Exclusions (e.g., certain types of jewelry, cash, certain collectibles)
- Deductibles, if any
4. Skimming the Riders
Riders are often small-print and technical, but they are where the real rules live. Take the time to read them, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or request changes if something doesn’t align with your expectations.
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How a Quality Moving Company Handles High-Value Riders
The right moving partner will guide you through the entire process, not leave you to figure it out alone. A professional team will:
- Ask detailed questions about high-value belongings during the estimate
- Provide sample addendum and rider forms in advance
- Explain valuation options in plain language
- Offer specialized packing, crating, and handling services
- Encourage you to keep jewelry, cash, and certain small valuables with you personally when possible
If you want a mover experienced with high-value inventory addenda and riders, explore your options with United Local Movers. Their team can walk you through valuation coverage, documentation, and special handling so your most important belongings are properly protected from start to finish.
Questions to Ask Your Mover About High-Value Inventory and Riders
Before you sign, ask these targeted questions to confirm you’re truly covered:
Coverage and Valuation Questions
- How do you define a high-value item?
- Is there a minimum total declared value requirement for my shipment?
- Are there any per-item limits under Full Value Protection?
- Do you require professional packing for coverage on high-value items?
- What exclusions or limitations are listed in the riders?
Claims and Documentation Questions
- How long do I have to file a claim after delivery?
- What documentation will I need to support a claim?
- How are disputes over value or damage handled?
- What is your typical timeline for resolving claims?
Handling and Logistics Questions
- Will the same crew handle packing and delivery of high-value items?
- How will items like art, instruments, and antiques be packed?
- Can I see examples of your high-value inventory forms and riders before move day?
Sample High-Value Inventory Entry Examples
To give you a clearer picture, here are sample entries you might see on a high-value inventory addendum:
| Item # | Description | Declared Value | Condition | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HV-01 | “Sunset Harbor” Original Oil Painting, 36”x48”, framed | $7,500 | Excellent | Custom crate required; insured appraisal dated 03/2023 |
| HV-02 | Rolex Submariner stainless steel watch, serial #XXXXXX | $9,000 | Very Good | Owner to hand-carry; listed for documentation only |
| HV-03 | Persian wool rug, 9’x12’, hand-knotted | $5,000 | Good (minor wear on edges) | Rolled and wrapped; do not fold |
| HV-04 | Martin D-45 acoustic guitar with hard case | $6,000 | Excellent | Pack in custom foam-lined carton; avoid temperature extremes |
Having this level of detail on your high-value addendum and associated riders makes it much easier to demonstrate condition, value, and special handling requirements later.
Balancing Cost and Protection for Your Move
More coverage and more detailed riders typically mean a slightly higher price, but for most households with valuable items, the trade-off is well worth it. To balance cost and protection:
- Prioritize listing items that are irreplaceable or very costly to replace
- Compare valuation levels and deductibles (if offered)
- Ask your mover about bundling services (packing + crating + valuation)
- Review whether homeowner’s insurance offers any supplemental coverage for moves (many do not, or only in limited ways)
Above all, think about how you’d feel if a particular piece were damaged or lost. If the answer is “devastated,” it belongs on your high-value inventory and must be clearly protected within your riders.
Final Thoughts: Make Your High-Value Items a Priority
Your high-value belongings tell the story of your life—family heirlooms, art you’ve collected, instruments you’ve played for years, and pieces you’ve worked hard to afford. A carefully prepared high-value inventory addendum, backed by clear riders and the right valuation coverage, is your best tool for keeping that story safe during a move.
By identifying your valuables early, documenting them thoroughly, and partnering with an experienced moving company that takes high-value items seriously, you can relocate with confidence. Take the time now to handle the paperwork and details—so when moving day arrives, you’ll know your most important possessions are protected every mile of the way.
