Cargo protection
Cargo protection options may be available for some shipments depending on shipment type, declared value, carrier, and partner requirements. Options and eligibility vary and must be reviewed before shipment.
Cargo protection is not automatic or guaranteed
Cargo protection is not automatically included in a shipping quote and is not guaranteed for every shipment. Available options depend on cargo type, carrier, partner, declared value, packing quality, documentation, and terms in effect at the time of shipment. Ask about options when requesting a quote — we can explain what may be available for your specific cargo.
What cargo protection options may help with
Where available and eligible, cargo protection options may help address some of the following risks. Coverage, limits, and terms vary by option, carrier, and shipment type.
Physical damage during transit
Some cargo protection options may address certain physical damage that occurs during loading, unloading, or ocean and air transit, subject to the terms and conditions of the available option and the carrier.
Potential loss during shipment
Certain protection options may provide some coverage for loss of cargo during transit, depending on eligibility, declared value, and the terms agreed with the relevant partner or carrier.
Damage from external causes
Depending on the option selected and the carrier's terms, some protection may address damage from water, weather, or handling under certain conditions. This is subject to review and is not automatic.
This is a general overview only. Specific terms, limits, exclusions, and claim processes depend on the option selected, carrier requirements, and individual shipment details.
What affects eligibility
Whether cargo protection is available for a specific shipment depends on a combination of these factors. No single factor determines eligibility on its own.
- Cargo type and commodity category
- Accuracy of declared value
- Packing quality and compliance with carrier requirements
- Completeness of documentation
- Shipping method: ocean freight vs air freight
- Origin and destination country
- Partner and carrier-specific requirements at the time of shipment
- Whether items are new or used
- Commodity restrictions applicable to the shipment
- Condition of vehicles or goods at time of shipping
- Whether cargo is personal or commercial
- Any prior damage or known issues declared at time of booking
Ocean freight vs air freight considerations
Protection options and eligibility considerations may differ between ocean and air shipments. Neither method guarantees automatic coverage.
Ocean freight
- Transit times are longer, which may affect the scope of certain protection options
- Ocean freight carriers typically have defined liability frameworks — but these are separate from additional protection options
- Combined container and RoRo shipments may have different considerations
- Declared value and packing quality are typically reviewed before any protection option is confirmed
- Pre-existing vehicle or cargo condition must be documented accurately before shipping
Air freight
- Air carriers operate under different international liability frameworks than ocean carriers
- Some commodity types may be ineligible for air freight protection options due to restrictions
- Protection options, if available, may be subject to weight, value, and commodity restrictions
- High-value or fragile items shipped by air still require appropriate packing and documentation
- Air freight protection options must be arranged before shipment — not after
Vehicle shipments
Cars, motorcycles, boats, jet skis, trailers, and specialty vehicles may require separate review for cargo protection options. Eligibility and available terms can vary significantly based on vehicle type, condition, declared value, shipping method, and the carrier or partner involved.
Vehicles with pre-existing damage, salvage titles, auction damage, or unusual modifications require accurate condition documentation before any protection option can be considered. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded from coverage, regardless of the option selected.
Non-running vehicles, partially damaged vehicles, and auction purchases all require case-by-case review. Contact us before shipment if you have questions about a specific vehicle situation.
Household goods and personal items
Used personal effects and household goods may have different eligibility requirements than new commercial goods. Factors such as item age, condition, declared value accuracy, and packing method may all affect whether any protection option applies.
Documentation is particularly important for household goods shipments. Keeping an accurate inventory, declared value, and photos before packing helps support any review process that may be required.
Some personal or household items may not qualify for available options due to their nature, age, declared value, or the specific terms of the carrier or partner involved. Ask before shipping if you have concerns about a specific item.
Fragile, high-value, and unusual items
Items that are fragile, high-value, irreplaceable, or unusual in nature may require additional documentation, special packing review, or separate eligibility assessment before any protection option is confirmed. Some items in these categories may have limited available options or may not qualify.
If you are considering shipping electronics, instruments, artwork, antiques, glassware, jewelry, or other high-value personal goods, contact us before packing. We can help identify what documentation and preparation may be relevant.
Proper packing and accurate documentation are prerequisites for any protection review — not substitutes for it.
What to prepare before discussing protection options
Having accurate documentation ready helps us understand what options may apply to your shipment and what the review process might involve.
Purchase invoice or receipt
For items with a commercial value, keep the original purchase invoice. This establishes declared value for documentation purposes.
Photos before shipping
Take clear photos of items before packing — all angles, close-ups of any pre-existing damage or condition. These may be needed if a claim is initiated.
Complete packing list
A detailed list of all items included in the shipment, with descriptions and approximate values, is typically required for documentation.
Declared value for each item
Provide an accurate declared value for the shipment. Under-declaring value may affect any available protection outcome.
Condition notes
Note any pre-existing condition issues clearly, especially for used goods, auction vehicles, or second-hand items.
Vehicle title or ownership document
For vehicle shipments, keep the title or proof of ownership available as part of documentation.
Serial numbers for valuable items
When available, note serial numbers for electronics, equipment, or high-value items. This may assist identification in case of loss.
Packing photos if relevant
For fragile or high-value items, photograph the packing process — padding, boxing, and container placement — before sealing.
Important
What cargo protection does not replace
Cargo protection options, where available, supplement proper preparation — they do not replace it. The following responsibilities remain with the customer regardless of any protection option arranged.
- Proper packing and secure loading — inadequate packing may affect eligibility for any available protection
- Accurate and honest declared value — misrepresentation may invalidate available options
- Compliance with carrier and partner shipping restrictions
- Legal export and import requirements and customs documentation
- Delivery timelines — cargo protection does not guarantee when goods will arrive
- Customs duty or import tax responsibilities at the destination
- Returns or recalls — protection is typically for transit loss or damage only
Common questions
View all FAQ →Have questions about protecting your shipment?
Tell us what you plan to ship and we will help review what options may be available for your specific cargo.