Insurance Policy

§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.