Released Value Protection

If a mover damages or loses an item under Released Value Protection, the most they owe you is 60 cents multiplied by the item's weight in pounds. A 50-pound flat-screen TV that retailed for $1,200 pays out $30 if destroyed. A 300-pound piano worth $15,000 pays out $180. The coverage applies to interstate moves under federal regulation; intrastate moves in Texas follow similar conventions. Released Value is included automatically — you don't pay extra — but you explicitly accept it by initialing the valuation section of the Bill of Lading.

Released Value is almost always the wrong choice for valuable items. If your move includes furniture, electronics, or specialty items worth more than a few hundred dollars total, the 60-cents-per-pound formula will leave you significantly under-compensated for any meaningful damage. Most customers don't realize they're accepting this minimal coverage until something goes wrong. The right alternative is Full Value Protection — which costs extra but pays out actual cash value or replacement.

Muscleman Elite explains both valuation options before the move and recommends Full Value Protection for any household with meaningful possessions. We never pressure a choice — but we make sure you understand what 60 cents per pound actually means before you initial it.

Is Released Value Protection really free?

Yes, it's included at no charge by federal regulation. The catch is that the payout formula is set by weight, not value, so it almost never reflects what your items are actually worth.

Should I ever choose Released Value Protection?

Only if you're moving items with very low value relative to their weight — like exercise equipment, basic furniture, or items you wouldn't bother claiming if damaged. For anything else, upgrade to Full Value Protection.

Does Released Value Protection cover lost items?

Yes — same formula. If a box of clothing weighing 30 pounds is lost, you'd receive $18 regardless of what was inside.