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Marine Cargo Insurance Claims

Marine Cargo Insurance Claims

What to do in the event of an accident

In the event of an accident occurring in transit which could give rise to a claim, it is important that you notify our claims department and/or your insurance broker immediately. Notifications can be made by phone, email or by calling personally at our offices or at any one of our branch network.

It is important that you do not sign a clean receipt but you should endorse the delivery receipt with a note of the damages or shortages. You must also write to all possible responsible parties (freight forwarder, ship’s agent, airline, port authority) holding them responsible. This must be done immediately since the bill of lading or CMR conditions stipulate that it must be done within a time frame (usually 7 days).

Completing a claim form

Completed claim form (Download Claim Form or Complete Online)

Documentation required

The following documentation will be requested in the event of a claim

  • Completed claim form (Download Claim Form)
  • Original Policy of Insurance.
  • Shipping Invoice and Packing List.
  • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill / CMR.
  • Letters of Protest and their replies – (Letters sent to all responsible parties holding them responsible.)
  • Copy of Notice of Arrival.
  • Any customs documentation, including NSO documents.
  • Delivery receipt endorsed with the shortages or damages.
  • Copy of receipt signed by freight forwarded when the goods were collected from the seller.
On site meetings/surveys

In marine cargo claims it is usual to appoint a surveyor to carry out a survey and investigate the circumstances of the loss or damage. Such a survey must be carried out as soon as possible and may include inspection of the container at the port or at the freight forwarders warehouse.

Contact us for guidance

View Contact Us for details of our addresses and opening hours.