How to Investigate a Cargo Claim

10 Simple Steps on How to Investigate a Cargo Claim


Investigating a cargo claim can be a detailed and complex process.

But it's also a crucial part of the role of a cargo claims handler.

To excel at this, here’s a simple and effective approach to follow:


1. 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺:
Start by carefully reviewing the claim notification
and all supporting documents like the bill of lading,
commercial invoice, and packing list. Make sure the
claim is filed within the required time limits set by the
contract of carriage or relevant laws.

2. 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲:
Collect all relevant documents and evidence.
This includes survey reports, photographs, witness
statements, and logbooks. Ensure that all evidence is
authentic and properly documented to support the claim.

3. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘆𝘀:
When needed, arrange a joint survey with an
independent marine surveyor to assess the extent
of damage or loss. The survey report should detail the
nature, cause, and extent of the damage, providing a clear picture of what happened.

4. 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹:
Speak with the shipper, consignee, carriers,
and others involved to gather firsthand accounts
of the incident. Record their statements and check
for consistency to ensure a comprehensive
understanding of the event.

5. 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:
Scrutinize the bill of lading,
charter party, and other transport documents
for any terms and conditions that may affect liability.
Look for clauses related to carriage, delivery, and
exceptions to liability.

ETC

Follow these steps and improve your cargo claims efficiency.