Furniture damage during a move can feel like a punch in the gut. Maybe it’s the dining table that’s been in your family for years, a brand-new sectional you saved up for, or that dresser that somehow survived three apartments and a cross-town relocation. When something gets scratched, cracked, gouged, or broken, it’s not just “stuff”—it’s time, money, and memories.

The good news is you’re not powerless here. There are clear steps you can take right away that protect your options, improve your chances of reimbursement or repair, and reduce the stress that tends to snowball when moving day goes sideways. This guide walks you through what to do in the moment, how to document damage properly, how moving company liability typically works, and how to decide between repair, replacement, and DIY fixes—without turning it into a months-long headache.

And if you’re reading this before your next move: you’ll also find practical ways to prevent damage in the first place, because the best claim is the one you never have to file.

First, take a breath and avoid “fixing it” immediately

When you notice damage, the instinct is to start wiping, sanding, tightening screws, or trying to “make it better” right away. Totally understandable—but pause for a minute. Any immediate repair attempts can accidentally erase evidence of what happened, which can complicate a claim later.

If movers are still on-site, keep the item exactly as-is until you’ve documented it. If they’ve already left, still resist the urge to patch it up. You’ll want clean, clear photos and notes that show the damage in its original state.

Also, don’t assume the worst. Some damage looks catastrophic at first glance but is actually repairable (and sometimes inexpensively). Your goal in the first hour is to protect your options, not decide the final outcome.

Check the furniture carefully—some damage hides until the dust settles

Not all moving damage is obvious. Scratches can blend into wood grain, hairline cracks can appear only at certain angles, and stress damage might show up as wobbling legs or drawers that suddenly don’t glide smoothly.

Do a quick-but-thorough inspection of each piece as it comes off the truck (or as you unbox and unwrap if you’re already at the destination). Look at corners, edges, feet, handles, drawer tracks, and any areas that were likely under pressure from straps or tight doorways.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, focus on high-value and high-risk items first: dining tables, bed frames, dressers, mirrors, antique pieces, glass-front cabinets, and upholstered furniture. Those are the pieces where damage tends to be either expensive or hard to hide.

Document everything like you’re building a mini “case file”

Documentation is the difference between a smooth claim and a frustrating back-and-forth. Even if you’re not sure you’ll file anything, capture the evidence now while it’s fresh.

Take photos in good light from multiple angles. Include close-ups of the damage and wider shots that show the entire item. If you can, take a photo that shows the item in the room so it’s clear it arrived in that condition.

Then write a few quick notes on your phone: what the item is, where the damage is located, when you noticed it, and any relevant context (for example, “movers had to pivot this sofa tightly through the hallway” or “box arrived crushed on one corner”). These details help connect the dots later.

Flag the damage immediately if movers are still there

If you discover the damage while the crew is still unloading, speak up politely but clearly. The earlier you report it, the harder it is for anyone to argue that it happened after the move.

Ask the lead mover or foreman to note the damage on the paperwork before you sign anything. This usually means the bill of lading, delivery receipt, or inventory sheet. Don’t let anyone rush you through the signature step. Take your time and read what you’re signing.

If the mover suggests “just call the office later,” you can still do that—but insist it’s written down now. A simple note like “dresser: gouge on left side panel discovered at delivery” is better than nothing.

Understand what you signed: valuation, liability, and what it really means

Moving paperwork can feel like a blur on a busy day. But the type of coverage you selected (or defaulted into) matters a lot when something gets damaged.

In many moves, there’s a basic level of coverage included by default (often called released value protection). It can be surprisingly limited and may reimburse based on weight rather than actual value—which can be frustrating for furniture that’s large but not heavy, or valuable but lightweight.

Other moves include or offer full value protection (or a similarly named option) where the mover may repair, replace, or reimburse the item up to a declared value, subject to terms and exclusions. The key is to look at what your documents say, not what you assume you bought.

Keep the damaged item and packing materials until the claim is resolved

This step feels inconvenient, but it matters. If your furniture arrived with damage and you toss the wrapping, box, or protective materials right away, you may lose clues about what caused the issue. In some cases, the company or insurer may even ask to inspect the item or materials.

Set aside any broken pieces, hardware, or fragments in a labeled bag. If a table leg snapped, keep the leg and any screws. If a mirror cracked, keep the frame and backing (carefully). If a box was crushed, take photos and keep it until you know what’s needed.

Also, avoid using the damaged item heavily if doing so could make the damage worse. A wobbly chair can fail completely; a cracked bed slat can split further. If it’s unsafe, stop using it and note that you stopped to prevent further damage.

Start the claim process fast—deadlines can be surprisingly short

Many moving companies have specific time windows for reporting damage. Sometimes it’s “at delivery,” sometimes it’s within a certain number of days. If you wait too long, you may lose leverage or even the ability to file.

As soon as you can, send an email (not just a phone call) summarizing the issue. Include your move date, order or reference number, and a list of damaged items. Attach a few key photos. Email creates a timestamped paper trail that’s hard to dispute later.

Keep the tone calm and factual. You don’t need to argue or vent to make a strong case. Clear facts, clear photos, and prompt reporting do most of the heavy lifting.

Be specific when describing damage (and why “scratched” isn’t enough)

Vague descriptions can slow things down. “Scratched table” could mean anything from a light surface scuff to a deep gouge through stain into raw wood. The more precise you are, the more likely you’ll get an accurate repair estimate or reimbursement.

Use details like location, size, and depth. For example: “3-inch gouge on front right corner of tabletop, through finish into wood,” or “split in left side panel, crack extends 8 inches from bottom edge.” If upholstery is damaged, note whether it’s a seam tear, puncture, or abrasion.

If a piece is now non-functional, say so. “Drawer no longer closes,” “door hinge ripped out,” or “table leg unstable and unsafe” communicates impact better than cosmetic-only language.

Decide what you want: repair, replacement, or reimbursement

Different outcomes make sense for different pieces. A small nick on a solid wood dresser might be an easy furniture-marker fix. A cracked veneer tabletop might be better replaced than repaired, depending on the extent. Upholstery tears can be patched or reupholstered, but costs vary wildly.

Before you respond to any settlement offer, decide what “made whole” means to you. If the piece is sentimental, you might prefer professional repair even if it costs more. If it’s a mass-produced item you can buy again, replacement may be simplest.

It also helps to get at least one estimate from a local furniture repair pro or upholstery shop. Even a ballpark quote gives you a reference point when discussing options with the mover or insurer.

How to handle partial damage when the item is still usable

Not all damage ruins a piece. Sometimes it’s still functional but no longer “as promised.” This is where claims can get tricky, because the mover may argue the item has only cosmetic damage and offer a smaller amount.

If the item is usable but diminished, think in terms of value loss. A visible scratch on a dining table can reduce resale value significantly, even if the table still works. A chipped corner on a dresser may be “minor” but still impacts appearance in a way you’ll notice daily.

When you negotiate, anchor your request to real-world costs: repair estimate, refinishing quote, or the price difference between buying new versus accepting the damage. The more you can tie your ask to documented numbers, the less subjective the conversation becomes.

When the moving company disputes responsibility

Sometimes a mover will say the damage was “pre-existing,” “packed by owner,” or “due to normal wear.” You don’t have to accept those statements at face value, but you do need to respond strategically.

If you have pre-move photos (even casual ones from a listing, social media, or a quick snapshot you took before packing), now is the time to pull them up. A “before” image can shut down a pre-existing damage argument quickly.

If the item was packed by the moving company, point that out. If you packed it yourself, you can still have a valid claim depending on circumstances, but it may change how liability is assessed. Either way, keep everything in writing and keep your timeline tight.

Use your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance as a backup plan

If the mover’s coverage is limited or the claim stalls, your own insurance might help—especially for high-value items. Some homeowner’s or renter’s policies cover personal property in transit, though terms vary and deductibles apply.

Call your insurer and ask specifically about coverage for “property damaged during a move” and whether it matters if a professional moving company was involved. Ask what documentation they need and whether they’ll pursue subrogation (seeking reimbursement from the mover) on your behalf.

Even if your policy won’t cover it, the call is worth making. Knowing your fallback options changes how you negotiate and how urgently you need a resolution from the mover.

Payment disputes and chargebacks: use carefully, not emotionally

If you paid by credit card and you feel you didn’t receive the service promised, you might consider a chargeback. But treat this as a last resort, not a first response. Chargebacks can escalate the situation and may complicate a claim process that’s still underway.

If you’re thinking about it, gather your documentation first: photos, emails, the contract, and any notes on what was agreed. Then contact the moving company in writing and give them a clear opportunity to resolve the issue within a reasonable timeframe.

If you do proceed, be factual with your card issuer. Avoid exaggeration; stick to dates, damage, and what remedy you requested. A well-documented, calm dispute is far more effective than an emotional one.

Quick triage: what you can safely do right away (and what to avoid)

While you shouldn’t do major repairs before documenting and reporting, there are a few safe steps you can take to prevent further damage. For example, if a screw is loose and a leg is wobbling, you can stabilize the piece to prevent collapse—just take photos first.

You can also gently clean dust or packing residue around the damaged area if it helps the photos show the issue clearly. But avoid sanding, polishing, oiling, or using furniture markers until you’re sure it won’t interfere with a claim.

For upholstery, avoid pulling loose threads or trying to stitch a tear immediately. That can enlarge the damage. Instead, cover the area with a clean cloth to prevent snagging and take clear photos with a ruler or coin for scale.

Getting professional repair estimates that actually help your claim

Not all estimates are created equal. A useful estimate should describe the damage, the proposed repair method, the materials involved, and the cost breakdown. A vague “$200 to fix table” note may not carry much weight.

Look for repair pros who specialize in the type of furniture you have—wood refinishing, antique restoration, upholstery, or cabinet work. Share your photos first; many shops can give a preliminary range before an in-person assessment.

Ask whether the repair will restore the piece to its original condition or whether some signs may remain visible. That detail matters when you’re deciding whether repair is truly acceptable or whether replacement is more appropriate.

If you’re offered a settlement, read the fine print before accepting

Some settlements come with strings attached, like signing a release that ends the claim entirely. That’s normal, but you want to be sure the offered amount truly covers what you’re giving up.

Double-check whether the settlement is for a single item or the whole claim. Confirm whether the mover is paying for repair directly or reimbursing you after you pay a repair shop. Timing matters, especially if you’re already stretched thin from moving expenses.

If the offer seems low, respond with your documentation and a counterproposal. You don’t need to be aggressive—just clear. “Here’s the repair estimate; I’m requesting reimbursement in that amount,” is a strong, simple message.

Common types of furniture damage and what they usually mean

Scratches, scuffs, and finish wear on wood

Surface-level scuffs often happen when pieces rub against each other or against a dolly, doorway, or truck wall. These can sometimes be buffed out or blended with the right products, but deep scratches through the finish usually need professional attention to look truly “right.”

If the scratch is in a visible spot (tabletop, dresser front, cabinet door), refinishing might be the best fix. Spot repairs can work, but they require skill to match sheen and color. Mismatched touch-ups can look worse than the original scratch.

For claims, photos in angled light help show depth. A scratch that disappears in flat lighting might be obvious in raking light, so take a few shots from different directions.

Dents, crushed corners, and broken frames

Dents and crushed corners often come from impacts—bumping a piece on a stair edge, dropping one side during a lift, or setting something down too hard. Veneer furniture is especially vulnerable because the outer layer can crack or chip even if the core is intact.

Broken frames (like a cracked chair rung or snapped table leg) usually indicate a stress point was overloaded. These repairs can be sturdy if done properly, but they may require clamps, wood glue, reinforcement, or even replacement parts.

When a structural element is damaged, emphasize safety in your report. A chair that could collapse or a bed frame that’s unstable isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a usability issue.

Upholstery tears, stains, and compression damage

Upholstery can tear when it catches on sharp edges, staples, or hardware. It can also be punctured by tools, belt buckles, or exposed screws. Even careful movers can run into trouble if a sofa has hidden weak seams.

Stains can happen from dirty hands, truck dust, rain, or setting furniture down on a damp surface. If you see a stain, photograph it immediately and avoid applying cleaners until you know whether a claim requires inspection.

Compression damage is less obvious: cushions that lose shape, arms that look “flattened,” or fabric that shows pressure marks. This can happen when items are stacked or strapped too tightly. Document it with wide shots and close-ups, and note whether the shape returns after 24–48 hours.

How to prevent furniture damage on your next move (without overthinking it)

Even if you’re dealing with damage right now, it’s worth knowing what reduces risk next time. Prevention doesn’t require perfection—just a few smart habits that make damage less likely.

Start with a quick inventory and a few “pre-move photos” of valuable pieces. You don’t need a full photoshoot; a simple set of snapshots on your phone is enough to establish condition. This is especially helpful for pieces with existing wear that you don’t want blamed on the move.

Then focus on how the furniture is protected and handled: wrapping, padding, disassembly when appropriate, and clear communication about fragile or sentimental items.

Use the right protection materials (and know what each one does)

Moving blankets are great for preventing scratches and minor bumps, but they don’t stop crushing force. Cardboard corner protectors help with edges, and stretch wrap keeps blankets in place (but shouldn’t be applied directly to delicate finishes for long periods).

For wood furniture, consider whether drawers should be removed or secured. Removing drawers reduces weight and prevents tracks from being stressed, but it also introduces more separate pieces to manage. Securing drawers prevents sliding, but if tape is used incorrectly it can damage finishes.

For upholstered pieces, use clean covers and avoid placing items on top of them. Even lightweight boxes can leave dents or transfer dirt. If weather is a factor, plan for a dry path and have plastic sheeting available for short exposures.

Disassemble strategically (not everything needs to come apart)

Some furniture is safer when disassembled: bed frames, large tables with removable legs, shelving units with weak joints, and anything that won’t fit through doorways without awkward tilting. Disassembly reduces leverage points that cause cracks.

But not every piece benefits from being taken apart. Some flat-pack furniture can weaken if repeatedly assembled and disassembled. If you’re unsure, weigh the risk of moving it intact versus the risk of stripping screws or loosening joints.

When you do disassemble, bag hardware and label it clearly. Tape the bag to the furniture (in a way that won’t damage the finish) or keep a dedicated hardware box. Missing screws can turn a simple setup into a frustrating scavenger hunt.

Communicate what matters before the truck is loaded

Movers can’t read your mind. If you have pieces that are fragile, valuable, or sentimental, point them out early. Tell the crew which items you’re most concerned about and ask how they plan to protect them.

If you’re worried about a tight staircase or narrow hallway, mention it before anyone starts lifting. Planning the route reduces last-second pivots—the moment when furniture often gets scraped or bumped.

Also, be honest about what you’ve packed yourself versus what you want movers to pack. Clear responsibility lines help later if something goes wrong.

Choosing movers who treat furniture like it’s their own

Sometimes damage is bad luck. Other times it’s preventable and tied to experience, equipment, and care. If you’re planning a move soon, picking the right team is one of the biggest factors in whether your furniture arrives in one piece.

Look for movers who explain their protection methods, provide clear paperwork, and answer questions without getting defensive. Reviews can help, but pay attention to patterns: repeated mentions of careful handling, good communication, and problem-solving are green flags.

If you’re moving in Colorado and you’re comparing options, it’s worth checking out the best furniture movers in Arvada—not just for pricing, but for how they approach packing, loading, and protecting the pieces you care about most.

What to say when you reach out for help (so you get a faster response)

Whether you’re filing a claim, requesting a repair recommendation, or trying to understand your options, the way you communicate can speed things up. The goal is to make it easy for the company to see what happened and what you need.

In your message, include: your move date, the names on the reservation, your reference number, the delivery address, and a short bullet list of damaged items. Attach photos and, if you have them, any pre-move images that show prior condition.

If you need guidance on next steps or you’re trying to resolve an issue quickly, you can contact Free Range Movers for help and ask what documentation they prefer and what the expected timeline looks like. Even when you’re frustrated, a clear request tends to get a clearer answer.

If your move involved storage or multiple stops, add extra detail

Moves that include storage-in-transit, overnight holds, or multiple delivery stops can complicate the “when did it happen?” question. That doesn’t mean you can’t file a claim—it just means your documentation needs a stronger timeline.

Note whether the item was damaged at pickup, after storage, or at delivery. If you didn’t see the furniture between stages, say that plainly: “Item was in storage from X to Y; damage discovered upon final delivery.”

If you have inventory tags or numbered stickers on items, photograph those too. Those identifiers can help a moving company trace how the item was handled.

Handling damage to specialty pieces: antiques, heirlooms, and custom builds

Antiques and custom furniture deserve special attention because replacement isn’t straightforward. A settlement based on “current market value” might not reflect what it takes to restore an heirloom properly.

If the piece is genuinely antique or custom, gather proof: receipts, appraisals, maker documentation, or comparable listings. Even a note from a reputable restoration shop explaining the complexity of repair can support your position.

Also consider whether restoration could reduce value if done incorrectly. In some cases, you’ll want a specialist who understands period-appropriate methods and materials, not just a general handyman.

When you moved yourself (or with friends) and furniture got damaged

If you didn’t hire professional movers, you still have options—you just won’t have a mover’s liability process to rely on. Your renter’s/homeowner’s insurance may still help, and for vehicle-related incidents, auto insurance could apply depending on what happened.

Even without a formal claim process, the same documentation principles apply. Take photos, keep broken parts, and get repair estimates. If you borrowed a truck or hired labor-only help, read any agreements you signed to see what is and isn’t covered.

And if friends helped and something got damaged, it’s okay to prioritize the relationship over the furniture. Often the best path is to decide what you can fix affordably and move on—unless the damage is significant and there’s a clear, fair way to handle costs.

Local nuance: why area experience can reduce damage risk

Moving challenges vary by neighborhood—tight staircases, older homes with narrow doorways, steep driveways, winter weather, and parking constraints can all increase the chance of bumps and scrapes.

That’s where local experience helps. Teams who regularly move in a specific area tend to know the common building layouts and how to plan for tricky access. They’re also more likely to show up with the right equipment for the job.

If you’re relocating nearby and want a crew that understands the logistics of the region, working with Gunbarrel moving pros can be a practical way to lower the odds of damage—especially for bulky or delicate furniture that needs careful maneuvering.

Making peace with the outcome (even if it’s not perfect)

Sometimes the resolution is straightforward: the mover pays for a repair, the piece looks great again, and you move on. Other times, it’s messier: a repair that’s “good enough,” a settlement that doesn’t feel fully fair, or a piece that’s never quite the same.

If you end up with a repaired item that still shows a small mark, it can help to reframe it as part of the furniture’s story—especially for pieces that are meant to be lived with. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t advocate for yourself; it just means you don’t have to let the situation steal more energy than it deserves.

The most important thing is that you act quickly, document clearly, and choose the path—repair, replacement, or reimbursement—that makes sense for your home and your budget. Moving is already a lot. Handling furniture damage is easier when you take it one step at a time and keep your options open.