Released Value Protection — The $0.60/lb Default Coverage
Released value protection is the basic, no-cost liability coverage that applies to every interstate move by default. Under released value, the moving company's maximum liability is limited to $0.60 per pound per article — meaning a 50-pound television worth $800 is only covered for $30 if it's lost or damaged. Also known as "basic liability" or "minimum coverage," it is the default unless the customer specifically selects Full Value Protection.
Also known as
Basic liability
Cost to customer
Free
Coverage formula
$0.60 × item weight (lbs)
Example: 50-lb TV
$30 payout
What Released Value Protection Is
Released value protection is a federal standard, not a product. Under 49 CFR Part 375, every interstate household goods carrier must offer this coverage as the minimum liability option. It is called "released" because the customer releases the carrier from liability beyond $0.60 per pound per article — in exchange for getting the service at no additional charge for coverage.
For moving companies, this matters operationally: the coverage selection must be documented on the bill of lading before the move begins. If no coverage option is recorded, carriers may be exposed to greater liability in disputes. DriveSales captures the customer's signed selection automatically on every estimate and BOL.
The 60 Cents Per Pound Rule — With Real Examples
The $0.60/lb formula applies per article, not to the total shipment. Here is what that looks like in practice:
| Item | Weight | Actual Value | Released Payout |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-inch TV | 50 lbs | $800 | $30 |
| Gaming laptop | 6 lbs | $2,000 | $3.60 |
| Dining table | 80 lbs | $1,200 | $48 |
| Upright piano | 500 lbs | $3,500 | $300 |
| Antique vase | 4 lbs | $4,000 | $2.40 |
The gap between actual value and released value payout is the single biggest source of post-move disputes. Presenting both coverage options clearly during the estimate prevents surprises.
Released Value vs. Full Value Protection
| Aspect | Released Value | Full Value Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Cost to customer | Free | ~1% of declared value |
| Payout rate | $0.60/lb per item | Current replacement value |
| 50-lb TV ($800 value) | $30 payout | Up to $800 payout |
| Deductible options | None | $0 / $250 / $500 / $1,000 |
| FMCSA status | Default if no choice made | Must be actively offered |
| Best for | Low-value shipments | High-value shipments |
When Released Value Is Sufficient
Released value protection is a reasonable choice in a narrow set of circumstances. For moving companies advising customers:
- The shipment is primarily low-value or easily replaceable items (IKEA furniture, basic appliances)
- The customer has a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy that covers goods in transit
- The move is local (released value rules apply only to interstate; state rules vary)
- The customer explicitly understands the trade-off and signs acknowledging it
How to Upgrade Coverage
Customers upgrade from released value to Full Value Protection during the estimate or booking process — before the move begins. The upgrade process involves:
- 1Declaring a total shipment value (used to calculate the FVP premium)
- 2Selecting a deductible tier ($0, $250, $500, or $1,000 — higher deductibles lower the premium)
- 3Signing the Order for Service or BOL acknowledging the FVP selection and associated cost
Moving companies that use DriveSales surface both options on every estimate, capture the customer's selection digitally, and attach the signed choice to the BOL — eliminating paperwork gaps that cause post-move disputes.
Released Value Protection — FAQ
Common questions from customers and moving company operators.
Document valuation choices automatically
DriveSales captures each customer's coverage selection on every estimate and BOL — no paperwork gaps.