Cargo Claims — Report Damaged or Lost Cargo

Cargo Claims — Report Damaged or Lost Cargo
File a Claim

Cargo Damage & Loss Claims

 Time-Critical Notice

Cargo claims must be filed within the timeframes set by international conventions: 3 days for visible damage (ocean freight), 7 days for non-visible damage, and 1 year for total loss. Report all damage immediately — before moving or disposing of damaged cargo. Failure to meet these deadlines may extinguish your right to claim.

Submit Your Claim

Fields marked * are required. We aim to respond within 4 business hours.

What to Do When You Discover Damage

Critical Steps in the First 24 Hours

1

Do Not Move or Dispose of Damaged Goods

Preserve all damaged cargo, original packaging, and container dunnage exactly as found. This evidence is essential for your cargo surveyor and the insurance claim process.

2

Photograph Everything

Take detailed photographs of: the container exterior and interior (before unloading), damaged cartons in situ, individual damaged items, packaging condition, and any visible moisture or contamination.

3

Note on the Delivery Receipt

When signing for cargo from the carrier or port, note any observed damage on the delivery receipt or sea waybill. 'Subject to count and condition' or specific damage descriptions protect your claim rights.

4

Contact Marwest LLC Immediately

Call us on {{ $company->phone ?? '+1 (737) 378-1467' }} or email {{ $company->cargo_email ?? $company->email ?? 'Cargo@marwestllc.com' }}. We will arrange for a licensed cargo surveyor to inspect the damage and prepare a survey report.

5

Submit This Claims Form

Complete and submit this form within the applicable claims timeframe. Attach photographs and any relevant shipping documents to your email.

6

Cooperate with the Surveyor

Our appointed cargo surveyor will contact you to arrange inspection. Provide full access to the damaged cargo and all relevant documents — bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and delivery receipt.

Claims Information

Understanding Your Rights

Hague-Visby Rules

International ocean cargo liability is governed by the Hague-Visby Rules. Carrier liability is limited to approximately $2 per kg or 666.67 SDR per unit (whichever is greater). This is why cargo insurance — covering the full cargo value — is essential.

Your Cargo Insurance

If you arranged marine cargo insurance through Marwest LLC, we manage your claim with the insurer. Your policy covers all-risk physical loss and damage at the insured value — significantly better than carrier liability limits.

Time Limits

Notice of damage: 3 days (visible), 7 days (non-visible). Formal claim: within 1 year of delivery date (Hague-Visby). These are absolute deadlines — missing them extinguishes your right to claim.

Claim Support

Our Cargo Claims Commitment

24h Initial Claim Response
Licensed Cargo Surveyors Appointed
All-Risk Insurance Coverage Available
18+ Years Claims Experience
0 Unresolved Valid Claims
100% Client Advocacy