Introduction to Cargo Claims

A cargo claim is a legal claim made by a cargo owner against a carrier for damage to or loss of cargo during transportation. Cargo claims can be complex and expensive to resolve, which is why it is important to understand the different types of cargo claims and how to handle them.

What is a cargo claim?

A cargo claim is a legal assertion made by the owner of goods (cargo owner) against the party responsible for transportation (carrier), seeking compensation for damage to or loss of cargo during transit. These claims can arise in various transportation modes, including shipping, and are often based on factors such as negligence, contractual breaches, or uncontrollable events (acts of God).

What are the different types of cargo claims?

There are many different types of cargo claims, but some of the most common include:

• Shortage claims: These claims are made when the cargo delivered is less than the cargo that was shipped.
• Damage claims: These claims are made when the cargo is damaged during transportation.
• Loss claims: These claims are made when the cargo is lost during transportation.
• Delay claims: These claims are made when the cargo is delayed in transit.

How do you handle cargo claims?

There are a few steps that can be taken to handle cargo claims:

1. Notify the carrier of the claim as soon as possible.
2. Document the damage or loss to the cargo.
3. Gather evidence to support the claim, such as photographs, shipping documents, and bills of lading.
4. Negotiate a settlement with the carrier.
5. File a lawsuit if necessary.

Key Takeaways

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• A cargo claim is a legal claim made by a cargo owner against a carrier for damage to or loss of cargo during transportation.
• There are many different types of cargo claims, but some of the most common include shortage claims, damage claims, loss claims, and delay claims.
• There are a few steps that can be taken to handle cargo claims, such as notifying the carrier of the claim as soon as possible, documenting the damage or loss to the cargo, and gathering evidence to support the claim.
• If the claim cannot be settled through negotiation, a lawsuit may be necessary.