Why is Cargo Insurance Required?

The Problem

In logistics and transportation, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods is paramount. However, the journey from point A to point B is filled with risks such as accidents, theft, and natural disasters. When unforeseen events occur and cargo is lost or damaged, it can lead to financial losses, strained relationships with clients, and tarnished reputations for businesses involved in shipping and logistics.

The Solution

To reduce these risks and protect the interests of both shippers and recipients, it is essential to implement proactive measures. One such measure is the adoption of Cargo Insurance. By securing coverage for goods in transit, businesses can protect themselves against potential losses and liabilities arising from incidents beyond their control.

Types of Cargo Insurance Policies in India

In the Indian insurance market, there exists a multitude of marine cargo insurance policies designed to meet varying needs. These policies encompass coverage tailored for import, export, domestic transit, single voyages, and more. Let's explore each of these options in greater detail.

• Open Cover: An open cover marine cargo insurance policy is suitable for businesses involved in import and export activities. This 12-month contractual policy commits the insurance provider to cover all shipments within the agreed scope of coverage. Notably, it is based on an unstamped agreement, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in managing diverse shipments.
• Open Policy: The open marine cargo policy provides comprehensive coverage for goods in transit within India. Valid for one year, it safeguards all declared goods up to the specified sum insured limit. Issued on a stamped document, the policy requires the payment of stamp duty along with the premium in advance.  Typically, premiums are collected in advance based on the estimated total value of shipments.
• Specific Voyage Policy: This policy offers targeted coverage for a single journey, ceasing upon voyage completion. It outlines key details such as vessel name, conveyance, and policy terms similar to other marine insurance policies.
• Annual Policy: Geared towards rail, road, and sea transportation, the annual policy offers continuous coverage for goods in transit from designated depots or processing units under the policyholder's supervision. It's essential that the covered goods are held in trust or belong to the policyholder. Notably, annual policies are non-transferable and non-assignable.

Modes of Transport Covered Under Cargo Insurance

Depending on your shipping method, cargo insurance can extend protection across multiple transport modes, including:

• Road and Rail: It covers goods transported within India via trucks and trains. It protects against accidents, theft, or damage during inland transit.
• Air: It provides coverage for cargo shipped by air, protecting against risks such as loss, damage, mishandling, or theft during air transit and ground operations.
• Sea: The policy insures goods transported via sea routes. It includes protection against maritime risks such as rough weather, sinking, collision, piracy, and damage during port handling.

Benefits of Purchasing Cargo Insurance Policy

The major benefits of marine cargo insurance policies are listed below:

• Financial Protection: This policy safeguards businesses against losses resulting from the damage, loss, or theft of goods during transit, thereby mitigating the full impact of unexpected events.
• Enhanced Risk Management: It enables businesses to effectively manage transportation risks by transferring them to the insurance provider, allowing them to focus on core operations.
• Increased Reliability: Offering shipping insurance demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding shipments, which further enhances businesses' reliability and credibility with clients and partners.
• Competitive Advantage: Providing insurance coverage can attract clients who prioritise shipment safety, giving businesses a competitive edge in the market.
• Peace of Mind: This policy provides businesses with peace of mind, knowing their valuable cargo is protected against unforeseen circumstances, allowing them to operate with confidence.

What is Covered Under Cargo Insurance Policy?

The insurer will compensate you for any damage that is caused to your shipment due to the specified natural and man-made disasters. This policy usually covers the loss or damage caused to the cargo arising out of the following perils-

• Collision
• Explosion or Fire
• Sinking or Stranding
• Earthquake
• Lightning
• Jettison
• Spillover or derailment
• Washing overboard
• Any damage during the discharge of the consignment at the port of distress
• Salvage charges
• Total loss overboard or while loading or unloading
• SRCC (Strikes, Riots, and Civil Commotions) and war conditions are specifically covered in some cargo insurance plans

What is Not Covered Under Cargo Insurance Policy?

While shipping insurance offers vital protection, certain situations are not covered under the policy. These include:

• Fault in the preparation and packaging of the insured cargo
• Any deliberate attempt or misconduct by the policyholder
• Delay of the shipment
• Ordinary leakage
• Any ordinary loss in volume or weight due to the inherent nature of the cargo
• Financial distress and insolvency of the carriers
• Ordinary wear and tear is not covered under marine cargo insurance

Cargo Insurance Policy Claim Process

In case of an incident necessitating a claim, kindly adhere to the following steps:

Step 1: Notify your assigned relationship manager promptly about the incident.

Step 2: Complete and return the provided claim form as instructed.

Step 3: Your submitted details will be forwarded to the insurance company for assessment and claim registration, resulting in the issuance of a claim reference number.

Step 4: Upon claim registration, the insurer will appoint a surveyor.

Step 5: Following the survey, the appointed surveyor will furnish a list of required documentation.

Step 6: Submit all necessary documents as per the surveyor's instructions and await processing.

Step 7: Once approved, the insurance company will disburse the claim amount.

Note: The insurer will thoroughly review the terms and conditions of your policy to assess the coverage applicability regarding the claimed incident. Consequently, the determination of claim acceptance or rejection will be at the discretion of the insurer. 

Why Buy a Cargo Insurance Policy from Policybazaar for Business?

• Expert Consultation: Our team of business risk consultants offers personalised advice tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
• 365-Day Claim Support: Our team of claim specialists is accessible every day of the year, ensuring smooth and efficient processing of your claims throughout the year.
• Dedicated Relationship Manager: Upon engagement, you will be allocated a dedicated relationship manager, providing continuous support and guidance to protect your business against potential risks.
• Competitive Quotes: Through our extensive network of insurer partnerships, we provide competitive quotes from leading insurers, ensuring you receive the best prices in the market without compromising on service quality.
• Instant Policy Copy: Benefit from instant policy issuance by purchasing marine hull insurance directly through our website. With seamless integration with major insurers, you can obtain a copy of your policy within minutes