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By: Dax Kastrin

Owner of Elemental Risk Management

505-933-6511

Shipping containers are a necessary part of global trade. They are the foundation of the shipping industry and the backbone of international commerce with about 90% of traded goods ferried via the sea. When you own and operate a shipping container, you take on responsibility for the safety of the goods being transported in the container. In some cases, there may be legal liabilities if something goes wrong during transport. With this in mind, it is important to consider what cover you need in order to protect your business from potential losses.


This article will discuss the various types of insurance that should be considered when running a shipping container operation. It will cover the key areas you should consider to ensure your business is properly protected and help you decide what insurance policies are best for your needs.
 


Types of Insurance Covers required in Shipping Container Operations


When it comes to shipping container operations, there are a few different types of insurance that should be considered:

1. Marine Liability Insurance


Marine liability insurance is designed to cover any legal liabilities associated with accidents and losses while transporting goods by sea. This type of insurance is essential for businesses that are using shipping containers and vessels as it can provide them with protection should any unforeseen events occur. Some of the most common occurrence’s marine liability insurance can cover include 


  • Accidents - If an accident occurs while the goods are in transit, marine liability insurance can help cover the costs of any resulting damages. For example, if a vessel sinks or is damaged by an act of piracy, the policy holder can be reimbursed for any losses. 
  • Pollution - Marine liability insurance can also cover costs associated with pollution should an accidental spillage occur while transporting goods.
  • Storm damage - Marine liability insurance can provide coverage for any losses incurred due to unexpected storms or weather conditions while in transit.

2. Cargo Insurance


Cargo insurance is a type of policy designed to protect the goods that are being transported by sea. It’s essential for businesses who use shipping containers and vessels as this coverage can provide them with financial protection and peace of mind. Some of the most common occurrences cargo insurance can cover include


  • Damage- If goods are damaged while in transit, cargo insurance can provide coverage to help offset any losses incurred. 
  • Theft- Cargo insurance can also provide coverage for instances where goods are stolen during transport. 
  • Non-delivery- In cases where goods fail to arrive at their destination, cargo insurance can provide coverage for any losses incurred.

3. Hull Insurance


Hull insurance is designed to cover any damage caused to a vessel or its contents while in transit. This type of insurance can be particularly beneficial for businesses that own and operate their own vessels as it can provide them with coverage should any unexpected incidents occur. For example, if a vessel is damaged due to an accident or bad weather conditions, the policy holder can be compensated for any losses incurred. Additionally, hull insurance usually covers any legal costs associated with the incident as well as repairs to the vessel or its contents.

4. Product Liability Insurance


Product liability insurance is designed to cover any potential liabilities associated with the goods being shipped. This type of insurance can be particularly useful for businesses that are shipping hazardous materials or sensitive equipment as it can provide them with coverage should something go wrong during transit. For example, if a product is damaged due to an accident or faulty packaging, the policy holder can be reimbursed for any losses as well aslegal fees associated with the incident.

5. Worker's Compensation Insurance


Worker's compensation insurance is designed to cover any medical costs and legal liabilities associated with employee accidents while in the workplace. This type of insurance can be particularly beneficial for businesses that employ staff to manage their shipping container operations as it can provide them with protection should something go wrong. For example, if an employee is injured during the loading or unloading of a container, the policy holder can be reimbursed for any costs associated with medical treatment or legal fees.

Other Types of Insurance


There are other types of insurance that may be important to consider when operating with shipping containers. These policies will vary depending on the type of business and the goods being transported, but some examples include: 


  1. Freight insurance- Protects against losses due to lost or damaged freight. 
  2. Motor truck cargo insurance- Pays for any physical damage, destruction, or loss of goods while in transit. 
  3. Builder’s risk insurance- Designed to cover any damage caused during the construction of a shipping vessel.

How Much Does Container Insurance Cost?


The cost of container insurance can vary depending on the type and amount of coverage you select. Generally speaking, liability and hull insurance policies are typically more affordable than product or worker’s compensation insurance. However, all types of coverage should be considered when determining which policy is best for your business. In the United States, most insurers will consider factors such as the type of shipping containers being used, the value of goods being shipped, and the amount of coverage desired when determining your insurance premium.

Get a Shipping Container Operations Insurance Quote Today


We are a trusted Shipping Container Operations Insurance agency offering competitive rates and comprehensive coverage for your shipping container operations. Whether you're a small business or an international corporation, we have the resources to provide the best protection tailored to suit your needs.


We work with different leading insurance carriers, making sure to find the perfect plan for you. Our agents are knowledgeable and experienced in shipping container operations and can help guide you through the process of obtaining a quote.



Get started today with an insurance quote for your shipping container operations.

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If you are preparing to start a Shipping Container Operations at your business, be sure to consider safety issues, legal requirements, and additional coverage options so that you can find the best possible coverage for your budget and needs. 

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