Goods in transit insurance is a standard feature of professional courier services -- but "standard" does not mean "unlimited." Understanding what a courier's policy actually covers -- and what it does not -- protects you from an expensive surprise if something goes wrong.
What goods in transit insurance covers
A standard goods in transit policy covers loss of or physical damage to the consignment while it is in the custody of the courier. This includes theft from the vehicle, damage in a road traffic accident, and accidental damage during loading or unloading.
Common exclusions
- Cash, cheques, credit cards, and negotiable instruments
- Jewellery, precious stones, and fine art above a low sub-limit
- Fragile items not properly packaged (damage from vibration often excluded)
- Perishables that deteriorate due to delay rather than physical damage
- Consequential losses -- i.e. profit lost because your goods arrived late
- Goods declared at a lower value than their actual worth
Coverage limits and declarations
Couriers publish a maximum coverage amount -- commonly 10,000 to 25,000 pounds per consignment. If your goods exceed this value, you must declare the additional value at the point of booking and pay an additional premium. Failing to declare full value can void your claim entirely.
Enhanced insurance for high-value goods
For consignments that exceed standard limits, reputable couriers offer enhanced insurance as a bookable add-on. This extends the coverage ceiling and may remove some standard exclusions. The premium is small relative to the cost of the goods -- and relative to the cost of an uninsured loss.
Read the exclusions list, not the headline figure. A 25,000-pound policy that excludes your product category is worth nothing.
Making a claim
Notify the courier immediately if goods arrive damaged or do not arrive at all. Photograph the damage before unpacking further. Retain all packaging, as insurers often require it for assessment. Claims made late or without contemporaneous evidence are regularly declined.
What Eagon Transport offers
All Eagon Transport bookings include goods in transit cover as standard. Enhanced insurance is available at the point of booking for high-value consignments. Our team can advise on the right level of cover for your goods.