Shipping Cocoa Safely

40 to 78% of Cocoa Shipments Face Legal Risks Post-Discharge. Here's Why


As someone in the cocoa industry,
you've probably heard the alarming statistic that 40 - 78%
of cocoa shipments face legal risks after being discharged from the ship.

But what does that really mean?

And how can you protect your business?

A recent court case between

JB Cocoa, JB Foods Global, and Maersk Line

sheds some light on this murky situation.

Here are the key takeaways:

Paperwork is Everything:
From proof of ownership to cargo condition at loading,
every document counts when it comes to determining liability.

The bill of lading (B/L) is especially crucial -
it's the legal contract that outlines the carrier's responsibilities.

Timing is Critical:
The case hinged on when the damage occurred.
The court found that since the damage happened after discharge, but before the cargo was collected, the carrier was not liable.

Moral of the story?

Act fast to inspect and collect your cocoa shipments.

Legal Complexities Abound:
Maritime law is a tangled web of rules like the Hague Rules and precedent-setting cases.

Proactive, Not Reactive:
Proper packaging, temperature/humidity monitoring,
and prompt collection can go a long way in preventing damage
and the legal headaches that follow.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

The takeaway?
40-78% is no exaggeration.
Cocoa shipments face real legal risks post-discharge.
But by understanding the lessons from this case,
you can protect your business and keep those
chocolate supplies flowing smoothly.