Seasonal Moving Businesses: Do You Still Need Year-Round Insurance?

Seasonal moving businesses are an important part of California’s economy. Many families and businesses plan their relocations around peak times—such as summer months, the start of the school year, or just before the holidays. For many small moving companies, these busy seasons generate the majority of their annual revenue, while the off-season brings a significant slowdown. Because of this, some business owners question whether maintaining year-round insurance coverage is really necessary.

The truth is, even if your moving company operates part-time or seasonally, the risks associated with moving services don’t disappear in the off-season. From potential equipment theft to employee injuries, uninsured downtime can leave your business exposed to financial loss. In California and across the United States, maintaining continuous insurance coverage is often not only a legal necessity but also a smart financial decision.

Why Seasonal Moving Companies Still Face Year-Round Risks

Even if your trucks are parked and you’re not actively booking clients, your moving company is still a business with ongoing exposures. Risks don’t pause just because your busiest months are over.

• Property Theft or Damage – Moving companies often own expensive equipment such as dollies, ramps, protective blankets, and vehicles. Thieves don’t wait until peak season, which means your gear could be stolen or damaged at any time.

• Liability Risks – If your company leases office or storage space, you’re responsible year-round. For example, a visitor slipping on wet floors during the off-season could result in a liability claim.

• Vehicle Damage – Even if your trucks aren’t in daily use, they must still be insured. Accidents, weather damage, or vandalism can occur in storage lots or on test runs.

• Employment Obligations – In California, if you employ workers—even seasonally—you may still be required to carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance, regardless of how often they work.

These risks demonstrate why cutting corners on insurance during the off-season can backfire.

Types of Insurance Seasonal Movers Should Maintain

Whether you’re operating a small moving business or a larger company that scales up during the busy months, certain insurance policies are essential throughout the year.

General Liability Insurance

General liability provides protection against third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage. For movers, this could be as simple as someone tripping over a dolly in your warehouse.

👉 Learn more about coverage by visiting General Liability Insurance in California

Commercial Auto Insurance

Trucks are central to your business. Even if they’re parked, California law requires commercial vehicles to carry insurance. Comprehensive coverage can also protect against theft, fire, or vandalism during downtime.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

This is mandatory for nearly all employers in California, regardless of whether employees are full-time or seasonal. Workers’ comp covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured while on the job. Read more about compliance at Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Contractors in California

Business Owners Policy (BOP)

A BOP combines property insurance and general liability, often at a reduced rate. For seasonal movers, it’s an affordable way to maintain protection year-round. See how a policy works at BOP Insurance California

Surety Bonds

In California, moving companies often need to carry a surety bond as part of their licensing requirements. These bonds protect customers and enhance credibility. Learn more at Surety Bond Insurance California

Why Canceling Insurance in the Off-Season Can Cost You More

It might seem logical to cancel coverage when business slows, but doing so often ends up being more expensive. Here’s why:

1. Policy Lapses Increase Premiums – Insurance companies view businesses with gaps in coverage as higher risk, which means you’ll likely pay more when reinstating your policy.

2. Uninsured Losses – If equipment is stolen, or if an accident happens during the off-season, you’ll be responsible for the full cost out of pocket.

3. Legal Compliance – California requires certain coverages, such as workers’ compensation and commercial auto. Failing to maintain them—even briefly—can result in penalties or fines.

4. Business Continuity – If you land a last-minute job in the off-season, having continuous coverage ensures you can accept it without delay.

How to Save Money on Year-Round Coverage

Seasonal moving companies can still manage insurance costs without giving up protection.

• Bundle Policies with a BOP – Combining liability and property coverage saves money while reducing coverage gaps.

• Adjust Coverage Limits – During the off-season, some policies allow adjustments to reflect reduced risk.

• Work with a Specialist Broker – Insurance brokers experienced with moving companies can tailor policies to your seasonal needs and find competitive rates.

Final Thoughts

For seasonal movers in California, insurance is not optional—it’s essential year-round. Even when business slows, risks like theft, liability claims, and vehicle damage remain. By maintaining policies such as general liability, workers’ compensation, commercial auto, and a BOP, you’re protecting your business’s long-term financial health.

Don’t let short-term savings on insurance cost you more in the long run. Work with an insurance expert to build a flexible policy that adapts to your seasonal operations while keeping you compliant and protected.

For tailored solutions that fit your moving business, visit Western Insurance