For importers and carriers
Cargo insurance in transit
On the way, cargo is exposed to many threats: road accidents, derailments, storms, theft, damage during loading and transshipment. A carrier's liability is often limited and does not cover the full value of the goods. Cargo insurance protects the owner's interests along the entire route. In the Insurance Center calculator you enter the cargo value, insurance terms, type of transport and territory of carriage, then compare offers from licensed insurance companies in Kazakhstan.
Who it is for
- Importers and exporters working with suppliers from other countries.
- Trading and manufacturing companies shipping goods across Kazakhstan.
- Freight forwarders and logistics operators insuring their clients' cargo.
- Companies whose contracts or banks require the shipment to be insured.
Why insure cargo if the carrier is liable
The carrier is liable for the safety of the cargo within the limits set by law, international conventions and the contract of carriage. These limits are often calculated by weight rather than the real value of the goods, so for expensive products the compensation may be far lower than the loss. In addition, the carrier is released from liability in circumstances it could not prevent, such as natural disasters. The cargo owner's own policy does not depend on the carrier's fault and saves you from lengthy claim disputes.
Insurance terms
Broad protection
- All risks — covers loss of and damage to cargo from any cause except those expressly excluded by the contract
- Suitable for electronics, equipment, fragile and expensive goods
Basic protection
- With particular average — damage from listed events: wreck, collision, fire, natural disasters
- Free of damage — mainly total loss of cargo; an economical option for raw materials and bulk cargo
Type of transport and territory
The calculator takes four types of transport into account. Road transport is the most common, but it carries the risks of traffic accidents and theft at parking areas. Rail suits large consignments, where the risks during sorting and transshipment matter. Air transport is fast and is usually used for valuable cargo. Sea transport involves long transit and weather risks. The territory — within Kazakhstan, the CIS or international — affects the length of the route, the number of transshipments and the cost of the policy.
What to check
Check when the insurer's liability begins and ends: from the sender's warehouse to the recipient's warehouse, or only during carriage. Clarify the requirements for packaging, securing, security and temperature conditions, as well as the list of exclusions for your type of cargo.
Packaging matters
Inadequate packaging is one of the most common causes of disputes. Use packaging suited to the nature of the cargo and the type of transport, and keep photos of the loading: they will help confirm the condition of the goods at the time of dispatch.
When a claim may be refused
- The damage was caused by the natural properties of the cargo, shrinkage, spoilage or inadequate packaging.
- Delayed delivery, which in itself is not damage to the cargo.
- The event is not included in the chosen terms, for example damage under the "free of damage" option.
- Missed notification deadlines or lack of documents confirming the loss.
What affects the cost
| Parameter | How it affects the price |
|---|---|
| Cargo value | The basis for calculating the insurance premium |
| Insurance terms | "All risks" costs more than the basic options |
| Type of transport | Road, rail, air and sea have different risk profiles |
| Territory | International routes are longer and more complex |
| Nature of cargo | Fragile, valuable and dangerous goods are assessed more strictly |
What to prepare
You will need details of the cargo and its value (invoice, specification), the route with points of departure and destination, the type of transport, information about the carrier, a description of the packaging and the transit dates. For regular shipments — information on the expected volume for the period.
How to get a policy through Insurance Center
Online quote
Enter the cargo value, insurance terms, type of transport and territory.
Compare offers
Compare the prices and terms of insurance companies and choose a suitable policy.
Sign and pay
Pay for the policy before the carriage starts and receive it by email.
What to do in an insured event
- On receipt, inspect the cargo in the presence of the carrier and record any damage in the transport documents.
- Draw up a damage or shortage report and take photos and videos.
- Notify the insurance company immediately and send a claim to the carrier.
- Keep the damaged cargo and packaging until they are inspected by the insurer's representative or a surveyor.
- Submit a claim with the invoice, transport documents and reports.
How to choose a programme
For expensive and fragile goods, choose "all risks". For raw materials and cargo that is rarely damaged, basic terms may be enough. For regular shipments, discuss an open cover contract, and for international routes make sure the policy covers all stages of delivery.
This material is for reference only; final terms are determined by the insurance rules and the contract.
How Insurance Center helps
Insurance Center compares offers from licensed insurance companies in Kazakhstan, helps you choose terms for your cargo and route, and supports you during claims settlement. Get a quote online or call +7 727 225 40-40.
