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Professional analysis of your insurance coverage for all transport modes. Frachtportal ALWAYS recommends transport insurance for optimal protection.
Insurance Analysis
Legal maximum liability amounts (may vary):
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Why always transport insurance?
Additional risks (often NOT covered):
Cargo Insurance Calculator – Complete Guide for Exporters
Cargo insurance protects goods during international transport against loss, damage, or theft. Unlike the statutory carrier liability (CMR: max. 8.33 SDR/kg; sea freight: max. 2 SDR/kg), cargo insurance covers the actual value of the goods.
The premium depends on goods value, transport route, type of goods, and the chosen coverage clause. This calculator determines the recommended sum insured, shows the coverage gap from carrier liability, and calculates the annual premium.
ICC Clauses A, B, C – Which Coverage Do I Need?
Most comprehensive coverage. Covers all risks except explicitly excluded ones (war, strikes available as add-ons). Mandatory for CIP Incoterm since Incoterms 2020. Recommended for high-value or fragile goods.
Covers named risks: fire, explosion, stranding, capsizing, collision, earthquake, flooding, water ingress, theft of whole packages. Not covered: scratches, dents, leakage.
Only serious events: fire, explosion, vessel casualty, general average. No protection against theft or water damage. Was formerly standard under CIF – replaced by ICC A in Incoterms 2020.
Carrier Liability vs. Cargo Insurance – The Difference
Many shippers incorrectly rely on carrier liability. However, it is legally severely limited:
| Transport mode | Liability limit |
|---|---|
| Road (CMR) | 8.33 SDR/kg |
| Sea freight (HVR) | 2 SDR/kg or 666.67 SDR/package |
| Air freight (Montreal) | 22 SDR/kg |
1 SDR ≈ CHF 1.47 (varies daily). The difference between actual goods value and the liability limit is the coverage gap – this amount is lost in a claim without insurance.
5 Common Cargo Insurance Mistakes
Relying on carrier liability
Carrier liability in a loss event covers only a fraction of the goods value. For high-value goods, the coverage gap can exceed 90%.
Not supplementing CIF insurance as buyer
CIF only obligates the seller to minimum coverage (ICC C). Buyers must arrange their own all-risks coverage (ICC A), as ICC C excludes many everyday risks.
Insufficient sum insured
The insured value should be 110% of the invoice value (10% for consequential costs like duties, storage, replacement). Underinsurance leads to proportional reductions in claims.
Assuming packaging damage is covered
ICC B and C do not cover damage from inadequate packaging. Even ICC A excludes damage from improper packing. Packaging must be seaworthy or airworthy.
Violating notification duties
Damage must be reported to the carrier immediately (visible damage) or within 3 days (concealed damage) in writing. Late notifications can lead to claim rejection.
FAQ
How much does cargo insurance cost?▼
The premium is typically 0.05–0.5% of the goods value, depending on goods type, route, and clause. Dangerous goods, electronics, or artwork have higher rates. A shipment worth CHF 50,000 usually costs CHF 25–250 in premium.
What is the difference between CIF and cargo insurance?▼
CIF is an Incoterm obligating the seller to arrange minimum insurance (ICC C) for sea freight. Standalone cargo insurance (ICC A) provides significantly broader protection and can be arranged for all transport modes.
What is an open cover policy?▼
An open cover (annual policy) automatically insures all of a company's shipments within defined parameters. Cheaper than single-shipment policies; recommended from approximately 20 shipments/year.
Is cargo insurance relevant for customs?▼
Yes. The customs value is calculated as CIF value (goods value + insurance + freight to import border). A correct sum insured directly affects the customs assessment basis.
What to do in case of transport damage?▼
Document damage immediately (photos), note reservation in writing on the delivery receipt, report to insurer, keep damaged goods until inspection. For sea freight: appoint average adjuster.
Do I need cargo insurance under DDP?▼
Under DDP the seller bears all risks until delivery and should therefore arrange ICC A. The buyer has no direct interest but should ensure the seller is actually insured.