Plan for an overseas move with confidence
Starline takes care when packing, handling and transporting your household goods. International shipping involves many stages, however, and unexpected loss or damage can happen. We recommend reviewing your protection options before your belongings are shipped so you can make an informed decision about coverage.
Carrier liability is limited and may not cover the full cost of replacing damaged or lost belongings. Under released-value terms, the current information on Starline’s website states a maximum carrier liability of $0.10 per pound per article.
Your actual coverage depends on the terms that apply to your shipment.
For broader protection, you may be able to purchase coverage based on the replacement value of your goods at destination. Your Move Manager can explain the options available for your move.
Items and Situations That May Not Be Covered
The following exclusions and conditions are listed in Starline’s current coverage information. Coverage depends on the policy that applies to your move.
Money and personal records
Cash, currency, bank notes, stocks, bonds, personal documents and data stored on tapes or discs are not insurable.
Collections and valuables
Coin and stamp collections, jewellery and furs must be declared and valued before shipment to be considered for coverage.
Packing not completed by the carrier
Damage to items the carrier did not pack and unpack is not covered.
Wear, pests and environmental conditions
Normal wear, gradual deterioration, pests, rodents, rust, clothing wrinkles, humidity, climate changes and extreme temperatures are excluded.
Internal mechanical or electrical damage
Internal damage to electrical or mechanical items is not covered unless there is obvious exterior damage.
Customs confiscation
Items confiscated by customs or another government agency are not covered.
Pickup attendance
Damage at pickup may not be covered if you or your representative is not present.
Delivery attendance and receipt
Damage at delivery may not be covered if you or your representative is absent and unable to acknowledge receipt of the goods.
A Helpful Guide For Your Move
Create a Valued Inventory
A List each item and the amount it would cost to replace it at your destination. This information helps you estimate the total value of your shipment and consider which coverage option may suit your needs. If you are unsure how to estimate the value, Starline’s current guidance suggests that $8 to $12 per pound may be a useful general estimate for a shipment. This is only a guide. A detailed inventory based on replacement costs is the best way to assess your belongings. If you have booked your move with Starline, you can also complete your valued inventory through our online forms.
Select Coverage for Your Move
Once you have completed your inventory and estimated the value of your household goods, you can review the available coverage options. The current information on Starline’s website lists rates ranging from 1.5% to 3.0% of the declared value, depending on the deductible selected. Coverage terms, deductibles and eligibility depend on the policy and your shipment. Review the applicable documents and speak with your Move Manager before making your selection.
Shipping a Car or Motorcycle Overseas
A vehicle should be insured for its actual cash value, taking its age and condition into account. A vehicle condition report should be completed at both origin and destination. Make sure any damage sustained during transport is recorded by the mover at destination. Under the current guidance, only damage noted on the destination condition report will be accepted with a claim.
How to Report a Claim
If you need to make a claim, follow the notice and filing deadlines that apply to your coverage:
- Notify Starline of your intent to make a claim within 45 days of delivery.
- Submit the written claim and supporting documents within 90 days of your initial notice. Use the claim form to provide details of the loss or damage and include the supporting documents requested. Keep copies of your inventory, delivery paperwork, condition reports and any other relevant records.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need international moving insurance?
Carrier liability may be limited and may not equal the replacement cost of your belongings. Starline recommends reviewing the available protection options and considering coverage for the full replacement value of your goods at destination.
How do I estimate the value of my household goods?
Prepare a valued inventory that lists the items you are shipping and their replacement costs at destination. Starline’s current guidance suggests $8 to $12 per pound as a general estimate when you are unsure, but an itemized inventory gives you a more specific valuation.
What does coverage cost?
Starline’s current website lists coverage rates from 1.5% to 3.0% of the total declared value, depending on the deductible selected. Ask your Move Manager for the current options and terms for your shipment.
Are collections, jewellery and furs covered?
These items must be specifically declared and valued before shipment to be considered for coverage. Check the policy terms and speak with your Move Manager before packing them.
What should I do if I notice damage after delivery?
Notify Starline of your intent to make a claim within 45 days of delivery. The written claim and supporting documentation must then be submitted within 90 days of that initial notice, subject to the policy terms.
How is a vehicle claim assessed?
A vehicle condition report should be completed at origin and destination. Any transit damage should be documented by the mover at destination. The current guidance states that only damage recorded on the destination report will be accepted with a claim.