Marketplace Pickup Insurance: Who Pays If It Breaks

Who Pays If a Marketplace Item Breaks?

A Marketplace item damaged in transit is a loss — and the question is who bears it. Here's the breakdown.

The Seller's Responsibility

The seller's responsibility ends when the item leaves their apartment. Once it's in the van, it's the buyer's. A seller who "delivers" is responsible until it's at your door; a seller who allows pickup is responsible until pickup.

Your Move, Your Risk

If you hire a pro to pick up, the item is yours the moment the pro takes it. Any damage in the van or the carry is between you and the pro's service — not the seller.

The Pro's Coverage

A vetted pickup service carries insurance for damage caused by the pro. If the pro scratches the couch carrying it, the service covers it. Confirm the coverage before booking — a reputable service states its coverage.

The Inspection

The inspection at the seller's is the critical moment. Once the pro loads a damaged item, the damage is "yours." A photo at the seller's, before loading, is the proof of the item's condition at pickup.

The Self-Move Risk

If you rent a van and move it yourself, any damage is entirely yours. A scratched couch, a chipped table, a broken mirror — no recourse.

The Packaging

A well-wrapped item (blanket, cardboard) survives most moves. An unwrapped item is a damaged item. The pro wraps every piece — the wrapping is the insurance.

Book a Marketplace pickup with a vetted, insured pro.