Moving comes with plenty of boxes—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re relocating across the street or across the country, renters have a lot to juggle: lease agreements, security deposits, rental scams to avoid, and, yes, car insurance. When renting, always verify rent amounts and be cautious to avoid scams, especially with suspiciously low rent offers. Scammers may use fake house listings or falsely claim to represent legitimate property transactions in the housing market, so renters should watch for warning signs of scams.
Your new address can impact your car insurance premium, coverage requirements, and even your eligibility for discounts. This guide walks you through how moving affects your auto insurance and what renters need to do to stay covered and avoid unnecessary costs. Car insurance can also be tailored to fit different aspects of your life, especially during major transitions like moving.
.png)
When it comes to car insurance, your ZIP code is more than just a line on your mailing label. Insurers use your address to assess local risk factors that affect how much you’ll pay for coverage. Your location also helps determine the minimum insurance requirements you must meet, as state laws vary and set specific coverage essentials. These include:
Even a move within the same city can change your premium. According to The Zebra, a move from a suburban to an urban neighborhood can raise premiums by 10% to 15%—largely due to increased traffic and higher claim rates.
Failing to update your address can result in serious consequences:
Updating your insurer with accurate information isn’t just smart—it’s required.
Many factors come into play when insurers calculate your premium based on your new location. These include crime rates in your neighborhood, weather patterns, and even the density of other drivers on the road. For example, urban areas tend to have higher rates of car accidents and theft, which can increase your premium. Conversely, moving to a quieter suburb or rural area might lower your rates.
Relocating across state lines adds a layer of complexity. Each state sets its own minimum insurance requirements, and they’re not all created equal.
Some states require Personal Injury Protection (PIP), while others mandate Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage. Required and optional coverages, such as collision, can vary by state, so it's important to review all available insurance coverage options before you move. Minimum liability limits can range widely—from as low as $15,000 to as high as $50,000+ in densely populated areas.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average cost of car insurance varies by nearly 20% depending on the state—thanks to local regulations, claim frequency, and weather risks. Your premium is determined by a combination of state regulations and personal factors, so be sure to provide accurate information when updating your policy.
.png)
Each state has unique rules about what types of insurance coverage are mandatory. For example, most states require liability coverage, but the minimum limits differ significantly. Some states also require additional protections like medical payments coverage or uninsured motorist protection. Knowing these details ahead of your move can help you avoid lapses in coverage and ensure compliance with local laws.
Pro tip: If your current coverage includes extras like roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, or glass repair, check if those benefits carry over to your new state.
Adjusting your personal car insurance policy may involve reviewing different coverages and services offered in your new state to ensure you have the protection you need.
Renters already deal with a unique set of challenges, and moving just adds to the mix. Here’s what to keep top of mind:
Rental scams can lead to financial loss and complicate your moving process. Scammers often target renters with fake listings or suspiciously low rent offers. Falling victim to these scams can indirectly affect your insurance, especially if you provide personal information that can be misused. Always verify your rental through trusted websites and avoid wiring money without proper confirmation. Meeting landlords or agents in person can serve to uncover potential scams and ensure the legitimacy of the transaction.
The moving process involves many steps, from packing supplies to hiring moving experts. Working with a reputable business and seeking out the best movers can help ensure a smooth and secure transition. While focusing on your belongings, don’t forget to update your car insurance details. This ensures your vehicle remains covered throughout your move, including any use of a moving truck or rental vehicle.
.png)
Here’s how to make updating your car insurance as stress-free as possible:
Understanding how to report a car accident or file a claim is crucial, especially after a move. Keep your insurance company’s contact information handy, and know the process for submitting claims in your new state. Promptly reporting accidents and medical expenses related to car accidents can help you avoid delays and ensure proper coverage.
If you own classic cars or valuable vehicles, consider specialized insurance coverage tailored to protect these assets during your move. Some insurers offer policies that cover long-term storage or transport risks, providing peace of mind during the moving experience.
Moving is a fresh start—but it can also bring some financial surprises if you’re not prepared. Car insurance might not be the flashiest part of your relocation checklist, but it’s one of the most important to get right.
By updating your address, understanding how your new location affects your rate, and exploring bundling and discount opportunities, you can make the move smoother—and possibly save money in the process.
At Homebody, we’re here to help renters manage life’s logistics. Whether you’re working with a moving company, using professional movers, or arranging moving services for your new home, it’s important to get a moving quote and update your car insurance accordingly. Whether you’re changing apartments, cities, or states, we’ll help make sure your car insurance keeps up with you.
Do I need to update my car insurance when I move?
Yes. Most insurers require you to update your address within 30 days of moving. Failing to do so can result in denied claims or policy cancellation.
Will my car insurance rate change after I move?
Likely. Your new ZIP code affects your premium based on factors like traffic, crime rates, and accident statistics—even if you're just moving across town.
What if I’m moving to a different state?
You’ll need to meet your new state’s minimum insurance requirements, which may include different types of coverage. Be sure to check local laws and adjust your policy accordingly.
Can I bundle renters and car insurance after I move?
Absolutely. Bundling both policies with the same provider often results in discounts—sometimes up to 25%—and can simplify your coverage.
Are moving trucks or rental cars covered by my policy?
Not always. Some personal auto policies exclude moving trucks or large rentals. Check with your insurer and consider adding temporary coverage if needed.
What should renters watch out for during a move?
Rental scams. Always verify listings and landlords through official platforms. Don’t wire money or share personal information without vetting the source.
