International Moving Insurance: What It Covers and Why You Need It
You've packed your life into boxes. Your grandmother's china, the furniture you shipped from Europe, the electronics that took years to accumulate — now they're heading to Honduras across thousands of miles of ocean and road. This is when international moving insurance stops being an optional add-on and becomes essential protection.
At Mudanzas Gamundi, FIDI/FAIM certified and members of the IAM (International Association of Movers), we've guided families through international relocations for over 69 years. Here's what you need to know about moving insurance before your shipment leaves the door.
Types of International Moving Insurance
All-Risk Coverage
The most comprehensive option. Covers physical loss or damage from any external cause — fire, collision, water damage, theft, accidental drops during loading. This is what we recommend for international shipments containing items of significant value.
Total Loss Only
Covers you only if your entire container is lost or destroyed (shipwreck, catastrophic fire, complete theft). Individual damaged or broken items are not covered. Lower premiums, but significant gaps in protection.
Named Perils
Coverage limited to specific listed events (fire, collision, sinking). Anything not explicitly listed is excluded. Better than nothing, but read the fine print carefully.
What Moving Insurance Typically Does NOT Cover
- Poor packing: If you self-pack and an item breaks due to inadequate padding or boxing, the insurer can deny the claim. Professional packing by a FIDI-certified mover is your best protection here.
- Undeclared valuables: Jewelry, art, antiques, and collectibles must be explicitly listed and may require professional appraisal. Don't assume they're covered under a general policy.
- Normal wear and tear: Pre-existing scratches, aging, or gradual deterioration are not insurable losses.
- Customs delays: If your shipment is held in Honduras customs and items are damaged by heat or humidity during the wait, this typically isn't covered.
- Cash, documents, and irreplaceable sentimental items.
How Much Does International Moving Insurance Cost?
Generally 1% to 3% of the total declared value of your shipment. On a $25,000 shipment, expect to pay $250–$750 for all-risk coverage.
Factors affecting price:
- Total replacement value declared
- Type of coverage selected
- Origin and destination countries
- Mode of transport (sea vs. air)
- Whether professional packing is used
How to File a Claim Successfully
If something goes wrong, these steps protect your claim:
- Document everything at delivery. Note any visible damage on the delivery receipt before signing.
- Photograph immediately. Time-stamped photos of all damaged items and packaging.
- Notify within the deadline. Most policies require notification within 7–14 days of delivery.
- Keep all original packing materials. Insurers often inspect packaging to determine fault.
- Have your inventory ready. A detailed, pre-move inventory with values is essential to any successful claim.
How Gamundi Protects Your Shipment
Our FIDI/FAIM certification means we're independently audited to meet the highest international standards in packing, handling, and documentation. This certification directly supports your insurance coverage in two ways:
- Professional packing documentation proves items were packed to industry standards — reducing insurer grounds to deny claims
- Pre-move photographic inventory of all items creates a timestamped record of condition before shipping
- Partnership with international insurers who specialize in household goods in transit
- Claims support — we coordinate with insurers on your behalf if needed
Checklist Before You Insure
- ☐ Create a complete inventory with estimated replacement values
- ☐ Identify and separately declare high-value items (jewelry, art, electronics)
- ☐ Get appraisals for items worth over $1,000
- ☐ Read the policy exclusions carefully
- ☐ Confirm whether storage (pre or post move) is covered
- ☐ Ask your mover whether their packing documentation supports insurance claims
Moving to Honduras or relocating internationally? Contact Gamundi for a free consultation — we'll walk you through insurance options specific to your shipment.
Mudanzas Gamundi — FIDI/FAIM Certified, IAM Member. Over 69 years protecting what matters most.