由 caicai8478 When purchasing cargo insurance for international transportation, international students need to consider factors such as transportation mode, cargo value, insurance terms and claims process. The following is a step-by-step guide to help avoid the risk of cargo loss or damage:
- Clarify the mode of transportation and risks
Sea transportation
Risk: Long cycle, vulnerable to moisture, bumps, container falls, etc.
Recommendation: Choose a policy that covers “All Risks” and pay attention to whether it includes “General Average” clauses.
Air transportation
Risk: Frequent handling may cause damage due to bumps or temperature changes.
Recommendation: Purchase “door-to-door” insurance to cover the entire transportation process.
Land transportation/express delivery
Risk: Short-distance transportation may also be damaged due to traffic accidents or improper loading and unloading.
Recommendation: Confirm whether the insurance covers the sorting process (especially postal or express delivery services).
- Assess the value of goods and insurance type
Insure according to actual value
For high-value items (such as electronic products and luxury goods), it is recommended to insure according to the purchase invoice amount to avoid underestimation during claims.
Keep shopping receipts, photos or videos as proof.
Choose insurance coverage
All Risks: Covers most accidental damage or loss (recommended first choice).
FPA: Only covers major accidents (such as shipwrecks), and ordinary items are not recommended.
War insurance/strike insurance: If you need to pass through politically unstable areas, you can add insurance.
- Choose a reliable insurance company or carrier service
Carrier insurance
Express companies (such as DHL and FedEx) usually provide basic insurance, but the coverage is limited (such as ≤ US$100/kg) and needs to be purchased additionally.
Note: Carrier insurance may have exemption clauses (such as no compensation for fragile items).
Third-party insurance company
Insurance through professional international freight insurance companies (such as Lloyd’s and Allianz) has more flexible terms and higher coverage.
Compare the premium (usually 1% to 3% of the value of the goods) and the deductible.
- Read the insurance terms carefully
Disclaimers: Are “fragile goods”, “natural loss” or “improper packaging” excluded?
Claim conditions: What documents are required (such as waybills, unpacking videos, police reports, etc.)?
Claim time limit: Usually, it must be reported within 7 to 14 days after the damage, and it will be invalid after the deadline.
- Preventive measures to reduce risks
Reinforce packaging
Use shockproof materials, mark fragile goods as “Fragile”, and double-pack valuables.
Full tracking
Choose a transportation service with GPS tracking to monitor the location of the goods in real time.
Inspect and sign for goods
Be sure to check the goods before signing for them, take photos and contact the carrier immediately if you find any problems.
- Example of claim process
After the goods are damaged, contact the carrier and the insurance company as soon as possible and keep written records.
Submit claim documents: waybill, insurance policy, proof of cargo value, damaged photos/videos.
Cooperate with the insurance company in the investigation and apply for a third-party assessment if necessary.
FAQ
Q: Is the insurance valid if the school collects the package on behalf of the school?
A: You need to confirm whether the insurance policy covers the “third-party collection” scenario. It is recommended to insure to the final delivery address.
Q: How to insure second-hand items?
A: Insure according to market valuation, and provide assessment basis (such as second-hand platform transaction records).
By choosing a reasonable insurance plan, retaining complete evidence and strictly following the process, international students can significantly reduce international transportation risks. If the value of the transported items is extremely high, it is recommended to consult a professional insurance broker to customize the plan.