Cargo Owner’s Liability | Marsh (2024)

Cargo owners can be exposed to liability risks for property damage, bodily injury to third parties, or even as a result of pollution from a cargo event in ocean transit. New risks — from transporting products with lithium-ion batteries to the increased size of container ships — are generating greater demand for more comprehensive liability coverage solutions.

Cargo owner’s liability insurance is designed for cargo owners, controllers, shippers, consignees, and traders of cargo. The policy provides cover for your legal and/or contractual liability, including legal expenses while your cargo is onboard a vessel, in port drayage (transporting of goods a short distance overland at a port or terminal), or in shoreside storage while in ordinary course of transit.

Key benefits

• Affirmative coverage for a cargo owner’s liability exposures.
• Potential liability limits of more than US$100 million.
• Robust global marketplace of insurers to access competitive insurance quotes.
• Tailored insurance from leading global insurers that dovetails with general liability and pollution legal liability policies that may be limited in scope.

In addition, our dedicated marine cargo claims advocacy team offers a range of services beyond traditional claims handling. We can help you reduce costs and maximize efficiencies in casualty and property claims before, during, and after a loss. Through our range of claims services, we have the skills and resources you need to meet your claims scenario, however large or complex.

Why Marsh

At Marsh, we have a deep history in transport supply chain models and risk mitigation. Our industry and placement specialists can offer you their expertise and long-established relationships across global markets to identify the optimal market solutions tailored to your unique business needs.

With our team, you not only gain an in-depth understanding of your existing risk profile and potential gaps, but also can establish a plan for emerging challenges in your industry. And, in the event you need to pursue third parties in recourse of insured (subrogated) or uninsured (recovery) losses, our in-house reclaim services team is here to help.