Your ability to claim compensation begins before the first box is packed. A detailed inventory list, signed by both you and the mover's representative, is the foundation of any successful claim. Without it, proving that a specific item existed and was in good condition before the move is extremely difficult.
Ask for a Goods Receipt Note (GRN) at the time of loading. This document lists all items being transported. Review it carefully, note the condition of valuable items, and keep a copy. If the mover refuses to issue a GRN, that is a serious red flag.
Photographs and short videos taken room by room before packing begins are your strongest evidence. This takes 15 minutes and can save you thousands of rupees in disputes.
When goods are delivered, do not sign the Proof of Delivery (POD) until you have inspected everything. Once you sign an unconditioned POD, you are legally acknowledging that goods arrived in satisfactory condition. Any subsequent claim becomes very difficult to pursue.
If you notice damage during unloading, note it clearly on the delivery receipt before signing. Write the specific items and the nature of the damage. Take photographs immediately, with the packaging still present if possible — this shows the damage occurred during transit, not after delivery.
Important: Never sign an unqualified delivery receipt if any item appears damaged. Your note on the document — "Item X received in damaged condition" — is legally significant.
If you don't have transit insurance, your compensation will depend on the company's own policy, and in the end, it will be based on what you manage to negotiate or get the assistance of consumer forums for. But if you have insurance, your claim will be handled by the insurer who will take into account the declared value of goods or the market value of the item, less depreciation.
That is exactly why transit insurance no matter how much it increases your moving cost is a good decision if you are moving electronics, art, antiques, or any other valuable or irreplaceable items.
Trans Cargo packers and movers offers you a dedicated person to handle all your post-move questions. Besides that, all interstate moves are available for transit insurance when you make the booking. Also, as part of our standard practice, our team takes pictures of the items at the time of their loading, so that we are in the position to defend ourselves and you if there is any disagreement.