Types of Contracts in Marine Insurance
- Author :
- TATA AIG Team
- ●
- Last Updated On :
- 04/12/2024
- ●
- 2 min read
Any business carries some amount of risk. There is a higher risk involved when the goods are being transported from one place to the other. The risk multiplies for businesses exporting and importing goods, and it makes marine insurance in India one of the most important shields to have.
A marine insurance plan ensures adequate coverage if the goods get harmed or lost during transit. However, many business owners often find choosing marine insurance plans confusing. There are many aspects that one needs to look at while buying marine insurance, and the most important part is understanding the contract and its inclusions/exclusions well.
Therefore, it is necessary to know the features of a marine insurance contract and the clauses of a marine insurance policy.
What is a Marine Insurance Plan Contract?
Many business owners consider that a marine insurance contract is a very complicated proposition and is not easy to comprehend. But, they must remember that having a marine insurance contract is essential to ensure they have a financial cushion in case there is a mishap or an unexpected event.
A marine insurance contract is a legal agreement between the insured and the insurer under which the insurer agrees (as per the terms of the agreement) to pay the insured in case of losses or damages to the cargo during a marine journey. The contract also includes any incidents that might occur in other transportation modes.
Any transportation of goods by roadways and airways is also covered under the essentials of the marine insurance contract. Remember, the classification of the contract of insurance and the clauses of a marine insurance policy are covered under the Indian Marine Insurance Act of 1963.
Purchasing a marine insurance contract is crucial for businesses dealing with international goods transit via the sea route. This is because marine accidents are very widespread and can cause major dents in a company’s finances. Thus, getting a customised marine insurance policy that covers all the standard essentials of a marine insurance contract and more is a complete no-brainer.
Features of a Marine Insurance Contract
Here are some of the top features of a marine insurance contract that you must know and understand:
Proposal and acceptance
Payment of the required premium
Insurable interests
Contract of indemnity
Utmost good faith
Contribution
Subrogation
Marine insurance claims
Types of Marine Insurance Contracts
Here are the four different types of marine insurance contracts:
Cargo Insurance
This type of marine insurance also known as cargo insurance covers the goods and cargo that are loaded on the ship while being transported. It also provides coverage against losses and damages to cargo and goods that are being transported via railways, roadways, seaways, or airways. This is a classification of the contract of insurance.
Hull insurance
Under this insurance, the equipment, vessel, and vehicle are covered. The hull in the insurance plan is a reference to the vessel’s body. The main classification of ocean-going vessels is ocean steamers, sailing vessels, builders, etc.
The hull insurance provides coverage against losses and damages to the items loaded on the vessel and the body of the vessel. The coverage is provided for the items and vessel body that are termed as the vessel owner’s responsibility and come under their purview.
Liability insurance
Marine liability insurance covers losses and damages that incur due to collision or crash of the ship carrying the goods.
Freight insurance
This type of marine insurance contract provides coverage to a carrier, also known as the freight forwarder. The carrier has the legal responsibility for the goods being transported. Under freight insurance, the value of the goods is normally decided based on their weight, if a claim arises.
Advantages of a Marine Insurance Policy
If you are in the business of transporting cargo or goods, marine insurance ensures that your goods are safe while they are in transit. Many shipments are not allowed to ferry without a valid marine insurance contract.
Here are some top advantages of a marine insurance policy contract:
It provides a financial backup for the business owner in case there is an unrecoverable loss or mishap.
It offers business owners coverage against a list of mishaps.
There are various plans offered as per the needs of the consumers.
It is helpful in risk management and risk mitigation.
Conclusion
Marine shipping includes planning, execution, dealings, and installation of various tools to mitigate the risks during transit. Having a marine insurance contract ensures that the policyholder has an adequate financial backup in case there is a loss or damage to any property, such as goods or the vessel.
Tata AIG offers marine insurance in India with features including cargo protection against loss, theft, or damage, compliance with legal requirements, and more.
Disclaimer / TnC
Your policy is subjected to terms and conditions & inclusions and exclusions mentioned in your policy wording. Please go through the documents carefully.