“In the world of freighting, insurance is a critical topic that cannot be overlooked. Shockingly, cargo moves uninsured from one place to another every day, even though most experts consider it a necessity. While shippers are not legally required to purchase insurance, failing to do so can leave them in a precarious position in the event of an unfortunate incident.
However, the cost of insurance often scares off shippers. While health and automobile coverage can be expensive, freight insurance, when viewed as a percentage of total value, is often more cost-effective. In fact, it can be surprisingly affordable. The price of freight insurance is dependent on various factors, which we will delve into in this article. It’s essential to note that there is no fixed cost for freight insurance, but it can fit any budget if the right steps are taken.”
Is there a standard?
“When it comes to freight insurance, the lack of standardization can be frustrating for shippers. Unlike other types of insurance, such as automobile coverage, there is no easy way to gauge the cost of freight insurance. Factors like general liability, freight classification, cargo, and prior loss history can all impact the price, making it difficult to predict without a closer look at the specific situation.
While there are commonalities in freight insurance, each case is unique, and a tailored approach is necessary to determine the cost. Despite this, freight insurance can still be affordable, and taking the time to understand the factors involved can help shippers make an informed decision.”
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Liability coverage
“When it comes to freight insurance, it is important to understand the difference between liability coverage and actual insurance. While freight carriers are required to have liability coverage, it is not designed to protect the shipper’s cargo in the event of damage or loss. Liability coverage is put in place to protect the carrier, not the shipper, and may only cover a small percentage of the total value.
It is a common misconception that this coverage is enough to protect your cargo during transit, and assuming so could leave you vulnerable to financial loss. It is important to note that while carriers may have their own insurance, it does not necessarily extend to your cargo. Understanding these differences is key to ensuring that your shipments are protected throughout their journey.”
Calculating freight insurance
“It’s important to note that the process of calculating freight insurance can vary depending on the insurance provider. However, there are some common factors that are typically taken into consideration. One such factor is the total value of the shipment, which is used to determine the premium rate. Another factor is the type of commodity being shipped, as certain items may be considered high-risk and require a higher premium.
The shipping route and mode of transportation are also considered, as some routes and methods may be more prone to theft or damage. Additionally, the shipper’s prior loss history may impact the premium rate. By considering these and other factors, insurance providers can create a customized policy that fits the specific needs of the shipper. It’s important to work with a reputable insurance provider who can help you navigate the complex process of freight insurance.”
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Costs
“When it comes to freight insurance, the value of the goods being insured is based on the Commercial Invoice Value, and a percentage is calculated based on a dollar value for every $100 of the invoice total. Although the rates can vary based on the insurance company offering the policy, a common example is $.50/$100 with a $10 minimum.
For instance, if the Commercial Invoice Value of the goods is $50,000, the insurance cost would be $250. However, it is crucial to note that this is a basic policy, which may not offer extensive coverage options. Typically, freight insurance rates range from $.25-$0.75/$100, and anything exceeding the $.75/$100 rate is considered overpriced. Conversely, anything lower than $.10/$100 is too good to be true. Ultimately, the rates depend on the insurance company, freight class, and shipper history.”
CIF Value
“If you’re looking to insure both your goods and the shipping charges, you need to insure the CIF value of your shipment. This value is broken down into three categories: the Commercial Invoice Value, insurance costs, and freight charges. The total value is then increased by 10% to cover any unforeseen expenses, bringing the total to 110%. For example, if your CIF value is $51,250, the total value after the 10% increase is $56,375.
To determine the insurance cost, multiply the CIF value by the percentage granted by your policy. If your policy is $.5/$100, you would multiply ($56,375/100) by .5 to get $281.875. While this formula is a standard in the industry, the cost of freight insurance can vary depending on a variety of factors and the insurance company offering the policy. Keep in mind that the cost may change depending on the company, freight class, and shipper history.”
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What other factors are there?
“When it comes to freight insurance, there are several other factors that can influence the final cost. The previous example only considers the basic coverage, but additional options are available, just like with any other type of insurance. As we’ve mentioned before, the details and costs vary depending on the insurer. For instance, one company may require a background check, while another may not. Always remember to discuss all of the potential factors that could impact your freight insurance with your provider.”
