As cyclone Remal disrupts the eastern coast of the country with impact on life and environment, it is also a stark reminder for businesses including exporters to adopt measures to secure their shipments. Here’s a quick guide for exporters on how to pick the right cargo insurance to fight such natural calamities:

As cyclone Remal disrupts the eastern coast of the country with impact on life and environment, it is also a stark reminder for businesses including exporters to adopt measures to secure their shipments. Here’s a quick guide for exporters on how to pick the right cargo insurance to fight such natural calamities:

May 27, 2024

Ramees

 Assess your needs: Start by evaluating your cargo insurance needs based on the nature of your business, the value and volume of your shipments, and the destinations you frequently export to. Consider the types of goods you transport and any specific risks associated with them

Research providers: Look for reputable cargo insurance providers with a strong presence in your country of operation. Research their financial stability, reputation, and track record in handling claims. Consider whether they have offices or partners in the countries you export to

Understand coverage Options: Familiarize yourself with the different types of cargo insurance coverage available, such as pay-as-you-go and annual policies. Understand the differences in coverage, deductibles, and premiums between these options to determine which aligns best with your business needs and budget

Review exclusions and coverages: Thoroughly review the policy documents of each insurer to understand what is covered and what exclusions exist. Pay attention to specific risks or perils that may not be covered, such as acts of war, inherent vice, or improper packaging

Evaluate coverage limits: Ensure that the cargo insurance policy offers adequate coverage limits to protect the value of your shipments. Consider not only the value of the cargo itself but also potential additional expenses like demurrage charges or rerouting costs in case of unexpected events

Consider deductibles: Analyze the deductible options offered by different insurers. While a higher deductible may result in lower premiums, it also means you'll have to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim. Balance your risk tolerance with the cost implications to find the right deductible for your business

Compare premiums and fees: Request quotes from multiple insurers and compare premiums, taking into account any additional fees or charges associated with the policy. Ensure that you understand the breakdown of costs and that there are no hidden fees that could inflate the overall expense

Examine claims process: Investigate the claims process of each insurer to understand the documentation requirements, timelines for claim submission and payment, and the insurer's reputation for handling claims fairly and efficiently. A smooth claims process is essential for minimizing disruptions to your business operations in the event of a loss

Check reputation and financial stability: Prioritize insurers with a solid reputation and a history of financial stability. Look for reviews, ratings, and testimonials from other exporters to gauge the reliability and trustworthiness of potential insurance providers

Verify coverage territory and policy limits: Confirm that the cargo insurance policy covers the countries and regions where you conduct business. Pay attention to any territorial exclusions or limitations in the policy, and ensure that the coverage limits align with the scale of your export activities and the value of your shipments.

picutre source: Pexels

Picture source: Pexels