Goods Transport Insurance

Complete guide to coverage and obligations

Types of insurance, mandatory and optional coverage, claims management: everything you need to protect your goods during transport.

Types of transport insurance

Carrier liability insurance
Mandatory insurance covering the carrier's liability in case of loss or damage to goods. Capped at EUR 33/kg (shipments < 3t) or EUR 20/kg (shipments ≥ 3t) for domestic, and 8.33 SDR/kg for international (CMR).
Ad valorem insurance
Optional insurance taken out by the shipper covering the goods at their actual value. Recommended for high-value goods.
Damage insurance
All-risks or named-risks coverage protecting against breakage, theft, fire, and water damage during transport.
Cargo insurance
Insurance covering transported goods, taken out by the sender. Can be a per-voyage policy or a blanket (floating) policy.

Legal compensation limits

RegimeCapLegal basis
Domestic transport (< 3t)EUR 33/kg (max EUR 1,000/package)General standard contract (Decree 2017-461)
Domestic transport (≥ 3t)EUR 20/kg (max EUR 3,200/t)General standard contract (Decree 2017-461)
International transport (CMR)8.33 SDR/kgGeneva Convention 1956
Delivery delayTransport priceLimited to the transport cost

Claims management

1
Record the damage
Enter precise and substantiated reservations on the transport document at the time of delivery.
2
Notify the carrier
Confirm the reservations by registered letter within 3 days (domestic) or 7 days (CMR) of delivery.
3
Compile the file
Gather evidence: photos, expert report, invoices, consignment note, delivery receipt.
4
File the claim
Contact the insurer within the contractual deadlines (typically 5 working days) with the complete file.

Frequently asked questions

Is transport insurance mandatory?

Professional liability insurance is mandatory for the carrier. Ad valorem insurance (covering the goods at their actual value) is optional but highly recommended for valuable goods.

What does carrier liability insurance cover?

It covers the carrier's liability in case of loss, damage, or delay. Compensation is capped (EUR 33/kg for shipments < 3t domestically, 8.33 SDR/kg under CMR), which is often insufficient for valuable goods.

When should I take out ad valorem insurance?

Whenever the value of your goods exceeds the legal compensation caps. For goods worth more than EUR 33/kg (< 3t) in domestic transport, ad valorem insurance is essential.

How do I file a transport claim?

Enter precise reservations on delivery, confirm by registered letter within 3 days (domestic) or 7 days (CMR), compile a file with evidence, and notify the insurer within 5 working days.

Does Affretium verify carrier insurance?

Yes, Affretium automatically verifies that each carrier has valid professional liability insurance. You are alerted before expiration to avoid any risk.

Ship with complete peace of mind

Affretium verifies the insurance of all your carriers and alerts you in case of expiration. Focus on your business.