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1.
Pay close attention to the condition of the packaging.
Make
a written notation on the delivery receipt if there appears to be
any irregularities, even if they are minor. Be as specific as
possible.
2.
Contact a surveyor to assess the loss/damage immediately.
The
consignee should promptly notify a surveyor as soon as loss or
damage is discovered. The consignee should refer to the back
of the original certificate for a surveyor in their area. They may
also use any surveyor who is approved by Lloyd's of London or the
American Institude of Marine Underwriters. Surveyors are neither
settling agents nor affiliates with the insurance company. Rather
they are independents who report the facts to the insurance company
and have the responsibility to determine the amount of the loss.
Usually the insurance company will pay surveyors directly for their
services. However, in situations when a surveyor requires up-front
payment, the insurance company will reimburse the claimant.
3.
Verify that the seal numbers on marine containers match the document
numbers.
Also
be alert when a seal is broken to the possibility that cargo may
have been pilfered.
4.
Retain all products and packaging until you are advised otherwise by
the Insurance agent or surveyor.
5.
Retain all
copies of the shipping documents.
Generally
the following documents will be required to settle a claim.
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|
Shipping Documents
Necessary to Submit Claim |
| |
| 1. Proof of Insurance: Original
Certificate of Insurance |
| 2. Commercial Invoices |
| 3. Non-negotiable copy of bill
or air waybill (front and back) |
| 4. Claim statement (an
itemization of loss/damage claimed) |
| 5. Copy of letter(s) to
carrier(s) giving noticed of claim |
| 6. Carrier's reply(s) (if any) |
| 7. Delivery receipts with
exceptions noted |
| 8. Survey report (when
applicable) |
| 9. Packing list |
| 10. Repair estimates (when
applicable) |
6. Write to all carriers
placing them on notice of claim.
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|
Time Limitations for
Placing Carriers on Notice |
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| Ocean: |
As soon as
practicable (maximum 1 year from date of discharge) |
| Air: |
7 days
from the time of delivery, for visible damage |
|
14 days
from the time of delivery, for concealed/hidden damage |
|
120 days
from the date goods should have been delivered for
non-delivery |
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7.
Additional documents may be required at a later date by the agent, the
surveyor, or the insurance company.
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