Protect Your Goods. Protect Your Business.
Shipping goods internationally can be a powerful growth strategy—but it also comes with risks. Whether you're a small business exporting your first pallet or a large company moving high-value containers, damage, loss, and theft during transit are real threats.
At iContainers, we’ve helped thousands of businesses ship safely across the globe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cargo insurance—what it is, how it works, and how to choose the right policy for your business.
Cargo insurance is a type of coverage that protects your goods during transit—whether by land, sea, or air. It shields the cargo owner (that’s you) against losses resulting from:
Unlike carrier liability, which only offers limited protection, cargo insurance gives you comprehensive peace of mind. It’s one of the smartest safeguards in international logistics.
Feature | Freight Insurance | Cargo Insurance |
---|---|---|
Purchased by | Carrier (the shipping company) | Cargo owner (you or your business) |
Covers | Carrier liability for loss/damage | Broad range of risks, including external events |
Protection level | Limited | Extensive, customizable |
In short: freight insurance protects the carrier, while cargo insurance protects your goods. If you’re the shipper, cargo insurance is what keeps your business financially protected.
Choosing the right policy means understanding what each type covers.
The most comprehensive option. Covers physical loss or damage from external causes, except for a few exclusions. Ideal for high-value or sensitive shipments.
Covers only the specific risks listed in the policy—typically fire, theft, or collision. A good fit if you’re managing budget and shipping lower-risk goods.
Custom coverage. You select the perils (e.g., theft in-transit, damage from handling). Suitable for experienced shippers with targeted risk profiles.
Typical inclusions:
But not everything is covered. Common exclusions include:
If you're shipping goods internationally—even occasionally—the answer is yes in most cases.
Recommended if you:
Optional if you:
Still unsure? Our specialists at iContainers can help you assess risk and make a cost-effective decision.
Here’s a framework we recommend to our clients:
Start by identifying the characteristics of your cargo. High-value, perishable, or fragile goods typically require more comprehensive coverage to ensure adequate protection throughout transit.
Evaluate the specific risks associated with your shipping route. Factors such as extreme weather conditions, politically unstable regions, or multiple handling points can increase the likelihood of damage or delays, and should influence the level of insurance coverage you select.
Don’t settle for the first offer. Look for:
Our team has real-world experience navigating complex routes and claims. If you're unsure what you need, we’ll give you practical guidance.
Step 1: Evaluate your shipment’s value, route, and risk
Step 2: Contact a trusted provider or broker like iContainers
Step 3: Review the policy details and select appropriate coverage
Step 4: Finalize documentation and double-check accuracy
Tip: Always provide full and accurate information—incomplete or incorrect forms can void your coverage.
If your cargo is lost or damaged:
Throughout the process, stay in close contact with the insurer and respond quickly to information requests to avoid delays.
Cargo insurance isn’t just an add-on—it’s a smart, proactive business decision. It protects your products, secures your investments, and builds trust with your partners and clients.
Whether you ship once a year or daily, there’s a policy for your needs.
At iContainers, our team of logistics experts is here to help you navigate cargo insurance confidently. With years of experience and a global shipping network, we provide tailored solutions to keep your goods protected from port to port.
Contact us today to get personalized advice on the best cargo insurance for your shipment.
International Risk Management Institute (IRMI). “Cargo Insurance Definition.” IRMI.com. Retrieved from https://www.irmi.com/term/insurance-definitions/cargo-insurance
U.S. Federal Maritime Commission. “Fact Sheet: Cargo Insurance.” FMC.gov. Retrieved from https://www.fmc.gov/fact-sheet-cargo-insurance/
World Insurance Associates. “Types of Cargo Insurance Explained.” WorldInsurance.com. Retrieved from https://www.worldinsurance.com/blog/types-of-cargo-insurance
Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty. “Understanding Marine Insurance Clauses.” AGCS.Allianz.com. Retrieved from https://www.agcs.allianz.com/news-and-insights/expert-risk-articles/marine-insurance-clauses.html
Chubb. “How to File a Marine Cargo Insurance Claim.” Chubb.com. Retrieved from https://www.chubb.com/us-en/business-insurance/marine-insurance/how-to-file-a-marine-cargo-claim.html
Trade Finance Global. “Cargo Insurance: What You Need to Know.” TradeFinanceGlobal.com. Retrieved from https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/cargo-insurance/
Marine Insight. “Importance of Marine Cargo Insurance.” MarineInsight.com. Retrieved from https://www.marineinsight.com/maritime-law/importance-of-marine-cargo-insurance/
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). “Incoterms® 2020.” ICCWBO.org. Retrieved from https://iccwbo.org/resources-for-business/incoterms-rules/incoterms-2020/
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