Freight Cargo Insurance
Freight carriers are legally required to carry a minimum amount of insurance, but this insurance provides limited coverage. This required insurance, referred to as “carrier liability,” is limited to 10 cents per pound and cannot exceed the invoice value of your shipment. Your carrier should be able to provide you with specific information on coverage, deductibles, and claims management.
Purchasing Additional Freight Insurance
Because freight is more susceptible to damage than smaller shipments, you may want to purchase additional insurance to cover your items. Freight insurance can be purchased from a variety of third-party companies and offers coverage that far exceeds carrier liability.
You may also be covered by other sources of insurance, including:
- Business insurance
- Homeowners insurance
- Credit card insurance (if you use it to pay for cost of shipment)
- Recording Damages and Filing Claims
At delivery, inspect your shipment along with your driver. Note any visible losses or damages. Do not refuse the shipment unless damage has rendered your freight worthless. As soon as possible, unpack and inspect your shipment. Contact your freight carrier and insurance company with any hidden damages or losses.
In the case that you have to file a claim for your freight shipment, it is important to remember a few things:
- File with your freight carrier and insurance company as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours
- Carrier liability and freight insurance only covers damage or loss to the goods transported, not lost time, labor, or shipping costs.
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