What Is Marine Cargo Insurance, And Why Is It Important?

The concept of marine insurance dates back to the 14th century, originating from the need to provide coverage for merchant ships and their cargoes. 

Therefore, understanding the importance of marine cargo insurance, and how it works is vital to ensuring that your shipment is protected from loss or damage. 

It may seem obvious that one will need a policy if their cargo is carried by sea. However, there are many individuals who do not understand the underworkings and the processes involved.  

Fortunately, this article seeks to explain the key aspects of marine cargo insurance and its nuances for any business to consider.

What is marine cargo insurance?

It is a specialised type of insurance that covers goods being transported by sea. The insurance policy covers the loss or damage of goods during transit from the port of origin to the port of destination.

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Who needs marine cargo insurance?

Virtually every entity involved in the shipping of goods can benefit from marine cargo insurance:

• Importers/Exporters
• Manufacturers
• Freight forwarders

Types of marine insurance policies

• Freight Insurance: This marine insurance type primarily covers an operator who loses freight receivables, or if the goods were damaged in transit.
• Marine Cargo Insurance: This marine insurance policy covers goods dispatched from the country of origin to the country of destination.
• Liability Insurance: This type of insurance provides compensation if a ship collides or crashes.
• Hull Insurance: Covers damages and accidents to the transportation vehicle’s hull and torso. 

Key features of marine cargo insurance

Marine cargo insurance policies play a critical role in the facilitation of international trade. It comes in various forms and different coverage options. Some of the key features include:

• Open cover policies: These allow for automatic coverage of all shipments.
• Specific policies: These are designed for single shipments.
• Contingent insurance: These provide secondary coverage in case the primary insurance fails.

How does marine insurance work?

Marine insurance works by transferring the responsibility for a product’s damages from the exporter to the insurer. The policyholder typically pays a premium to the insurance company, and in turn, the insurance company agrees to pay a specified amount in the event of a covered loss.

To activate the coverage, the policyholder must file a claim with the insurance company providing evidence of the loss and the value of the goods involved. They will then investigate the claim and, if it is covered under the policy, pay the policyholder the agreed-upon compensation.

In practice, the terms of the coverage, like the types of losses, covered and the amount of compensation, are specified in the insurance policy. As such, the policyholder should always carefully review the agreement to understand what is and is not covered, as well as the limits of the coverage.

To understand the types of damages that can be prevented with marine cargo insurance, read Types of cargo damage & how to prevent it.

Purpose and scope of insurance coverage

Marine shipments can be from land to land or from land to offshore locations like oil rigs, wind farms, etc. The primary purpose of marine cargo insurance is to provide peace of mind to shipments by safeguarding their goods from the unpredictable nature of transit risks. 

Coverage typically includes:

• Theft or pilferage which involves unlawful taking of goods.
• Accidents during transport which involve collisions of ships, mishandling of cargo or goods during loading/unloading.
• Spoilage of items which is specific to perishable goods which may get destroyed due to poor temperature or ventilation conditions during the transit. 
• Natural disasters  like earthquakes and tsunamis that may happen during the transportation. 

Obtaining insurance

Obtaining marine cargo insurance is a straightforward process, but it requires understanding the needs of your shipment and the risks involved.

Businesses should consult with insurance agents or brokers who specialise in marine insurance to find a policy that fits their specific needs.

The claims process

The claims process in marine cargo insurance is critical in recovering damages. 

In the event of a loss, the insured must report the loss as soon as possible, and file a claim with the necessary documentation to prove the extent of the damage or loss.

Here’s a common documentation checklist for quick reference:

• Bill of lading
• Insurance policy
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Inspection report

Why is marine cargo insurance important?

Generally,  Marine cargo insurance is important for several reasons:

1. Financial Protection (Protection against financial loss):
   Shipping is a risky business, and marine cargo insurance provides financial security in the event of damage to the products. It helps mitigate the financial risk involved in shipping goods, allowing the insured to recover their investment to a certain extent and recover from financial losses due to damaged or lost cargo.
2. Risk Mitigation (Coverage for damages during transportation):
   Marine cargo insurance provides protection for goods being transported by sea, ensuring that they are covered in the event of loss during transit due to unforeseen weather conditions and providing a safety net against the perils of transit.
3. Legal Compliance (A legal requirement for international trade):
   In some cases, cargo insurance may be required by law, particularly for international trade. Compliance with these regulations can help ensure the smooth and legal shipment of goods internationally.
4. Peace of mind for businesses:
   It gives the policyholder a sense of satisfaction, knowing that their goods are protected in the event of loss or damage. This allows them to focus on their business operations without worrying about the potential financial impact of shipping goods

Key Considerations for choosing a marine cargo insurance company

When selecting a marine cargo insurance policy, several factors need to be considered to ensure adequate coverage:

1. Understand the value of your cargo

You should accurately determine the cost of your goods and the risks associated with its transportation, as this will determine the amount of coverage you need. Additionally, make sure the marine cargo insurance company you choose offers coverage for the full value of your goods, as some policies may have limits.

2. Coverage Options: Provides the right type of coverage for all risks during transportation

Consider the coverage options offered by the insurance company  which offers the best protection for your cargo; and make sure they meet your specific needs. Some common coverage options include ‘all risks’ coverage, war risk coverage, and hull coverage. 

3. Reputation

Choose an insurer with a solid reputation and experience in marine cargo insurance. Research the reputation of the marine cargo insurance company, including customer reviews and ratings, to gauge the level of customer satisfaction.

4. Years of experience in the industry

An insurance company that has been in business for a long time is often a great option. This doesn’t mean that a fairly new one won’t make the cut. A more experienced one is simply a safer option. 

5. Have a qualified insurance team

Choose an insurance company that has a deep understanding of the industry (specifically for the offshore O&G locations) and the specific risks involved in shipping goods. 

6. Policy limitations 

Be aware of any exclusions or limits within the policy. Additionally, understand the insurer’s process for handling and settling claims.

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Importance of marine cargo insurance in offshore transportation

Insurance is particularly essential in offshore shipping, as it provides protection against the unique risks associated with transporting goods to and from O&G locations. 

Some of the key benefits include:

• Protection against sea hazards: Offshore transportation can be subject to harsh weather conditions, including high winds, rough seas, and storms. Marine cargo insurance provides protection against losses or damages caused by these hazards.
• Coverage against theft and piracy: Offshore transportation may be vulnerable to thefts, particularly in high-risk areas that are very far away from the shores. Cargo insurance can provide coverage for losses or damages caused by these events.
• Protection against mechanical breakdown: Offshore transportation often involves the use of specialised equipment and machinery, which may be subject to mechanical breakdown or failure. Marine cargo insurance can provide coverage for losses caused by such delays.
• Compliance with industry regulations: The offshore oil and gas industry is subject to a range of laws, including those related to the transportation and safety of products. Marine cargo insurance can help ensure compliance with these regulations, protecting against financial losses and legal consequences.
• Protection against losses caused by delays: In the offshore oil and gas industry, timely delivery is almost as important as the delivery itself. Additionally, the products may include perishable items which may not stay good for extended days of transit. Delays, in this case, mean lost revenue overall. 

Changing global trade patterns

The marine cargo insurance industry is continuously evolving, with several trends shaping its future. 

As the shipping industry works towards being more eco-friendly, insurance companies are changing to cover different kinds of risks related to green technologies. 

For example, the use of blockchain and IoT in tracking and verifying the safety of cargo can potentially reduce the risks and costs of insurance.

Also, as trade routes change because of political shifts, marine cargo insurance is adjusting to protect shipments on new routes and different products.

FAQ

What Is the average cost of marine cargo insurance?

The cost of marine cargo insurance can vary widely depending on the value of the cargo, the route taken, and the level of coverage required.

How does marine cargo insurance support global trade?

Marine cargo insurance provides financial security, legal compliance, and risk mitigation, which are essential for the smooth operation of global trade.

Can marine cargo insurance be customised for specific cargo types?

Yes, insurers often provide tailored coverage options for different types of cargo, such as perishable goods, hazardous materials, and high-value items.

How do international conventions affect marine cargo insurance policies?

International conventions set the framework for carrier liability and insurance requirements, thereby influencing the terms of marine cargo insurance policies globally.

Conclusion

In an era where trade knows no borders, the importance of marine cargo insurance cannot be overstated.  It doesn’t just protect individual businesses but has a profound effect on the global economy.

It ensures a smooth commercial transactions across borders, acting as a buffer against economic shocks due to losses in transit.

Investing in marine cargo insurance helps businesses stay compliant with industry regulations, particularly for international trade. Furthermore, a well-established and efficient claims-handling process, provides peace of mind for businesses. This, in turn, allows them to focus on their operations without worrying about the potential financial impact of shipping goods. 

In addition to good marine cargo insurance, good containers, like DNV-certified 3m offshore reefer container, offer additional safety to ensure that your products reach the destination in good condition. Reach us at MGS Offshore for buying and renting refrigerated containers for offshore shipment. 

Jason Tan

Business Director

A graduate (Business) from KDU, Jason Tan, is the current Business Director (Sales) for MGS Icestorm and has been associated with the company for the past 10 years.

With over 13 years in the shipping industry, he has had a significant contribution to Malaysia’s oil and gas industry in the engine and boat supply sector.

His expertise includes managing offshore catering business, offshore reefer containers, AI technology, offshore gas tanks, A60 pressurized cabins, etc. His contributions have helped establish MGS, in partnership (joint venture) with Thermo King and Honeywell to produce state of art Offshore Reefer Container products.