Movers Damaged My Fridge

Moving to a new home is fun, but it can also be stressful. You pack your things, hope the movers are careful, and expect everything to arrive safely. But sometimes, things go wrong. What if your fridge, TV, or favorite chair gets damaged? What should you do?

Don’t worry, there are steps you can take. In this blog, we will explain what to do if movers damage your things, and keep it simple, so you know how to protect your stuff and get fair help if something goes wrong.

Inspect the Damage Right Away

Moving into a new home can be exciting, but finding out your fridge is damaged is not fun. Maybe it has a dent, a broken handle, or it doesn’t work. If this happens, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do, step by step.

Stop and Check the Fridge

As soon as you notice something is wrong, stop unpacking. Look at the fridge carefully.
Is it just scratched or dented? Or does it not work at all? Check the door, the back, and the inside, and see if it turns on.

Take Notes and Photos

Write down what you see. Take photos of the damage from different angles. You can also take a short video.
If you took pictures of the fridge before the move, compare them. This will help document the damage that occurred during the move.

Keep the Packaging

If any packaging is left behind, keep it as evidence – don't throw it away. Also, avoid trying to repair the refrigerator; leave it as is.

Tell the Movers

Let the moving company know about the damage right away. The faster you tell them, the better. This can help speed up the claim process.

Use Your Checklist

If you made a list of your items before moving, use it now. Mark anything that is missing or damaged. This helps show that the item was fine before the move.

If you have no proof of the damage, it may be hard to get any money back. So always take pictures of your things before you move.

Contact the Moving Company ASAP

Don’t wait. As soon as you notice damage and have your notes, photos, and contract ready, contact the moving company.

What to Do:

• Be polite but clear. Explain what happened and say that you have proof.
• Ask how to file a claim. Most companies will give you a form or tell you who to talk to.
• Write everything down. Keep notes of who you spoke to, what they said, and when you talked to them.
• Send an email. Even if you talk on the phone, follow up with an email so you have everything in writing.

Most moving companies want you to report damage within a set time, sometimes 9 months, sometimes sooner. It’s always better to do it as quickly as you can.

What to Include in Your Claim:

• Pictures of the damage.
• A short note explaining what is wrong.
• Say if you want the item repaired, replaced, or your money back.

Some companies fix the problem quickly. Others take more time. Be patient, but don’t give up; keep following up if needed.

Check the Moving Contract

Before you file a complaint about your damaged fridge, take a look at the contract you signed with the movers. This contract usually has important information about what happens if something breaks.

What Kind of Protection Did You Choose?

Movers usually offer two types of coverage:

• Released Value Protection – This is the basic, free option. But it only pays about $0.60 per pound if something is damaged. That means if your fridge weighs 200 pounds, they may only pay you $120.
• Full Value Protection – This is better coverage. The movers must repair, replace, or pay the full value of the damaged item.

If you bought extra insurance from a third party, check that policy too to see what it covers.

Look for Time Limits

Most moving companies have a time limit for reporting damage, like 30 days or even 9 months. Make sure to report the damage as soon as possible.

Find the Claims Instructions

Your contract might outline the process for submitting a claim. It might have a phone number, a form, or a website. Follow these steps carefully.

Ask Questions if Needed

If the contract is confusing or you don’t understand something, contact the moving company and ask. It’s better to be clear than to make a mistake or wait too long.

Reading your contract helps you know what to expect and what the movers are responsible for. It also helps you get the right compensation.

If Necessary, Escalate

If the movers won’t pay for the damage or take too long to respond, you can take the next step.

Here’s what you can do:

• Leave a public review. Write what happened on websites like Google, Yelp, or Trustpilot. This might make the company act faster.
• File a complaint with the BBB. The Better Business Bureau helps people with business problems.
• Contact the DOT or FMCSA. If it was a long-distance move, you can report the movers to the Department of Transportation (DOT) or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• Go to small claims court. If the damage is big and you lose a lot of money, you can take legal action.

First, try to solve the problem with the moving company. But if they don’t help, these steps can protect your rights and help you get what you’re owed.

Check If Your Insurance Can Help

Sometimes, your renters' or homeowners' insurance can help if your stuff is damaged during a move, especially if your policy covers movers. Call your insurance company and ask them:

• Does my insurance cover damage caused by movers?”
• How do I file a claim?”
• What documents do I need?”

Even if the movers are handling your claim, your insurance company might help too. It’s always good to double-check.

Moving companies don’t usually give real insurance. Instead, they give something called valuation coverage. That means they agree to pay a certain amount if your things get lost or broken.

Before you file a complaint, always check your contract and insurance. Knowing what’s covered will help you understand what you can expect—and make the claim process easier.

Use a Reputable Moving Company

It’s important to hire a moving company you can trust to keep your things safe during a move. Here’s how:

• Read reviews online.

• Ask your friends or family if they know a good company.

• Make sure the company is licensed and insured.

• Don’t just choose the cheapest one. A low price might mean poor service.

A good moving company will pack your things the right way, move them safely, and help if something goes wrong. This is the best way to avoid damage and stress during your move.

Conclusion

Finding out that your fridge is damaged after a move can be upsetting. But don’t worry if you stay calm and follow the right steps, you can often get it fixed, replaced, or receive money for the damage. Check your moving contract to see what kind of protection you chose. You might also have extra insurance through your home or renters' policy.

If the movers are slow to respond or say no, you can file a complaint or leave a review. If needed, you can also go to the Better Business Bureau or even small claims court.

The key is to act quickly, stay organized, and know your rights. You’re not alone, and you can get through this.