GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Warehouse keeper liability

Warehouse keeper liability defines the legal responsibility of a warehouse operator towards cargo owners for damage or loss of goods held in storage.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lagerhalterhaftpflicht

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

Warehouse keeper liability defines the legal responsibility of a warehouse operator towards cargo owners for damage or loss of goods held in storage. Liability typically requires proof of fault – negligence, inadequate fire prevention, poor climate management, or improper handling by staff are the most common grounds. Frequent loss causes include fire, water damage, theft, vandalism, and spoilage from cold chain failure. Both statutory law and standard warehouse terms of trade often cap the operator's liability per item or per unit of weight or volume. Warehouse keeper liability insurance transfers the financial exposure from these claims to the insurer. This is distinct from the shipper's cargo insurance: the former protects the warehouse business against third-party claims; the latter covers the cargo owner's direct asset loss.

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Warehouse keeper liability

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