Certificate of Insurance (COI)
All you need to know about Certificate of Insurance (COI).
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Proof of Insurance for Your Move
Many buildings, property managers, and commercial facilities require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before allowing a moving company on-site. Elite Moving & Storage provides Certificates of Insurance upon request to help ensure your move is approved, compliant, and on schedule. Our COIs confirm that Elite Moving & Storage carries the required insurance coverage to operate safely and professionally during your move.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is an official document issued by an insurance provider that verifies a moving company’s active insurance coverage.
A COI is designed to protect the building and its common areas, such as hallways, elevators, lobbies, and loading docks — not the personal items being moved. Coverage for your belongings is handled separately through moving protection options.
A typical COI includes:
- General liability coverage
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- Policy limits and effective dates
- The certificate holder (building, property manager, or HOA)
When Is a COI Required?
You may need a Certificate of Insurance if you are:
- Moving into or out of an apartment or condominium
- Moving within a high-rise or managed building
- Relocating a business or office
- Scheduling elevator reservations for your move
- Moving into a property managed by an HOA or building management company
Clients moving to Chicago are more likely to need a COI than those moving to suburban areas, where requirements are often less strict.
Building-Specific COI Requirement
- Buildings typically provide tenants with the exact Certificate of Insurance requirements and wording
- The tenant forwards these requirements to Elite Moving & Storage
- We submit the information to our insurance agent for processing
- Once issued, we send the COI directly to the building or property manager
- Our team confirms acceptance, so no additional follow-up is required from the tenant
Is There a Fee for a COI?
Some COIs are provided at no additional cost. However, certain buildings may require:
- Additional insured endorsements
- Special policy wording
- Higher coverage limits
- Multiple certificate holders
If any fees apply, we will notify you in advance.
What a COI Does and Does Not Cover
A Certificate of Insurance:
- Confirms Elite Moving & Storage is properly insured
- Protects the building and common areas
- Meets property management and HOA requirements
A COI does not cover personal belongings being moved. Moving protection for items must be selected separately before your move begins.
COIs for Residential and Commercial Moves
Elite Moving & Storage regularly provides COIs for:
- Apartments and condominiums
- High-rise buildings
- Office relocations
- Commercial and retail moves
- Storage facilities
Our experience working with Chicago-area buildings allows us to coordinate smoothly with property managers and front desks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Certificate of Insurance required for every move?
No. COIs are typically required for apartment buildings, high-rises, and commercial properties, not single-family homes.
Why do buildings require a COI?
Buildings require a COI to protect common areas such as elevators, hallways, and lobbies from potential damage during a move.
Does a COI cover my furniture or personal items?
No. A COI only verifies the mover’s insurance for the building. Coverage for your items is handled separately.
How long does it take to get a COI?
Most COIs can be issued within 1–2 business days once all required information is received.
Can Elite Moving & Storage send the COI directly to my building?
Yes. We send the COI directly to the building and confirm acceptance on your behalf.
What information does my building need to provide?
Buildings usually provide exact wording, coverage limits, and the certificate holder’s information.
Do I need a COI more often when moving in Chicago?
Yes. Chicago buildings commonly require COIs, especially in high-rises and managed properties. Suburban moves often do not.
Is there an extra charge for a COI?
Some COIs are free. Additional fees may apply if special endorsements or higher limits are required.
When should I request my COI?
As soon as your move date is scheduled and at least 3 business days before the moving day.have a page dedicated to a full value protection
What happens if my building rejects the COI?
If revisions are needed, we coordinate directly with our insurance agent to make corrections quickly.


