Seaway Export – Cargo Insurance Policy Statement
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Last Reviewed: January 1, 2025
§1. Policy Overview & Legal Disclaimer
Seaway Export offers cargo insurance as an optional service to customers seeking added protection against loss or damage during domestic or international transit. Insurance coverage is not automatically included and must be expressly requested and confirmed in writing prior to shipment.
Seaway Export is not an insurance company and does not underwrite or issue insurance directly. All insurance is arranged through licensed insurance providers and underwriters, in accordance with U.S. maritime law and international cargo insurance standards (including COGSA and Hague-Visby Rules). Customers who do not request insurance are deemed to have knowingly waived coverage and assume all risk.
§2. Types of Coverage Available
2.1 All-Risk Coverage
This policy covers physical loss or damage from external causes—including theft, fire, collision, overturn, water ingress, and mishandling—during transit, including loading/unloading and temporary storage (when part of the contracted transport). Subject to standard exclusions and limitations.
2.2 General Average Contribution Coverage
Required under maritime law, this covers the customer's share of financial responsibility if a vessel sacrifices cargo or incurs extraordinary expenses to preserve the voyage. This applies even if the insured cargo itself is not damaged.
2.3 War, Terrorism & Political Risk Coverage (Optional)
Covers losses due to war, riots, political unrest, seizure, piracy, and terrorism when operating in high-risk areas or embargoed zones. Available only on request and subject to route approval by underwriters.
§3. Standard Exclusions & Limitations
Coverage may be denied under any of the following conditions:
- Inherent vice or deterioration of goods
- Wear and tear, rust, mold, mildew, or corrosion
- Improper or inadequate packaging
- Delay not caused by a covered peril
- Loss of market, indirect, or consequential losses
- Customs seizure or rejection
- Nuclear risks, biological hazards, or acts of war (unless covered by specific rider)
- Acts of God unless specifically included in policy
Seaway Export advises all clients to review the specific policy certificate issued by the insurer for exact terms, exclusions, and limitations.
§4. Activation & Eligibility
4.1 Written Request Required
Cargo insurance must be requested in writing at the time of booking. No coverage shall be applied retroactively. Insurance is considered valid only upon issuance of a formal insurance certificate with declared value, coverage tier, and route.
4.2 Premium Determination
Rates are based on declared cargo value, commodity classification, shipping origin and destination, and any additional risk zones.
4.3 Waiver & Risk Assumption
If Customer does not purchase insurance, Seaway Export shall bear no liability whatsoever for damage, theft, or total loss, and Customer assumes full risk of transit.
§5. Claims Process
5.1 Immediate Notification
Customer must notify Seaway Export immediately upon delivery or discovery of damage/loss. Preserve packaging and cargo in delivered condition.
5.2 Documentation Required
- Dated photographs of exterior and interior damage
- Signed delivery receipt noting condition
- Packing list and invoice
- Bill of Lading and insurance certificate
- Police report or port/warehouse documentation if applicable
5.3 Time Limits
- Visible damage: written claim within 3–7 days of delivery
- Concealed damage or shortage: within 30 days of delivery
- Total loss in transit: immediately upon notice of non-arrival
Failure to meet these timelines may void the claim under the insurer's terms.
5.4 Seaway Export's Role
Seaway Export will assist with document submission, claims preparation, and insurer communication. Final claim approval and reimbursement decisions rest solely with the insurer.
§6. Legal Jurisdiction
All disputes arising out of or related to cargo insurance services, claims, or policy disputes shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia, United States. Venue shall lie exclusively in the courts of Chatham County, Georgia, or as otherwise specified by the issuing underwriter in the policy certificate.
§7. Contact for Insurance or Claims
📧 Email: info@seawayexport.com
📞 Phone: +1-800-380-9315
📬 Mailing Address:
Seaway Export, LLC
440 Telfair Rd, Unit A
Savannah, GA 31415
United States