Marine Open Declaration Insurance
The Marine Open Declaration Policy offers flexible coverage for businesses with frequent shipments, consolidating multiple shipments under a single policy.
- Continuous Coverage
- Competitive Pricing
- Comprehensive Protection

What is Marine Open Declaration Insurance?
Overview: The Marine Open Declaration Policy is a flexible and comprehensive insurance solution designed for businesses that engage in regular shipments of goods. Unlike traditional policies that require separate coverage for each shipment, this policy allows for multiple shipments to be covered under a single policy. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that have fluctuating shipment volumes or frequent shipments throughout the year.
Key Features of Marine open declaration Insurance

Difference between Marine Specific Transit, Marine Open Declaration & Marine Annual Sales Turn Over Insurance
Feature | Marine Specific Voyage Insurance | Marine Open Declaration Policy | Marine Annual Sales Turnover Policy |
---|---|---|---|
Coverage Scope | Covers a single, specific voyage or transit. | Covers multiple shipments under a single policy up to a declared value. | Covers all shipments during the policy period based on annual turnover. |
Policy Period | Valid only for the duration of a specific voyage. | Typically valid for one year, but only for declared shipments. | Typically valid for one year, covering all shipments within that period. |
Flexibility | Limited flexibility; covers only the declared voyage. | Flexible; allows declaration of shipments as they occur. | Highly flexible; covers all shipments without the need for individual declarations. |
Premium Payment | Single premium payment for the specific voyage. | Premiums are adjusted based on the value of shipments declared. | Premiums are calculated based on the estimated annual sales turnover. |
Documentation | Requires individual policy issuance for each voyage. | Requires declarations for each shipment, usually on a monthly basis. | Minimal documentation; no need for individual shipment declarations. |
Best Suited For | Businesses with infrequent or irregular shipments. | Businesses with regular shipments but varying volumes. | Businesses with high and consistent shipment volumes throughout the year. |

Difference between Marine Specific Transit, Marine Open Declaration & Marine Annual Sales Turn Over Insurance
Feature | Marine Specific Voyage Insurance | Marine Open Declaration Policy | Marine Annual Sales Turnover Policy |
---|---|---|---|
Coverage Scope | Covers a single, specific voyage or transit. | Covers multiple shipments under a single policy up to a declared value. | Covers all shipments during the policy period based on annual turnover. |
Policy Period | Valid only for the duration of a specific voyage. | Typically valid for one year, but only for declared shipments. | Typically valid for one year, covering all shipments within that period. |
Flexibility | Limited flexibility; covers only the declared voyage. | Flexible; allows declaration of shipments as they occur. | Highly flexible; covers all shipments without the need for individual declarations. |
Premium Payment | Single premium payment for the specific voyage. | Premiums are adjusted based on the value of shipments declared. | Premiums are calculated based on the estimated annual sales turnover. |
Documentation | Requires individual policy issuance for each voyage. | Requires declarations for each shipment, usually on a monthly basis. | Minimal documentation; no need for individual shipment declarations. |
Best Suited For | Businesses with infrequent or irregular shipments. | Businesses with regular shipments but varying volumes. | Businesses with high and consistent shipment volumes throughout the year. |
Risk Management | Limited to the specific voyage covered. | Provides continuous coverage but requires accurate declaration. | Comprehensive coverage for the entire year without the need for individual shipment oversight. |
Cost Efficiency | Potentially higher cost per shipment due to individual policies. | Cost-effective for regular shippers with varying shipment sizes. | Cost-effective for businesses with consistent shipment volumes and values. |
Claim Process | Claims are processed based on the specific policy for the voyage. | Claims are processed for declared shipments under the policy. | Claims are processed under the annual policy, covering all shipments. |
Customization | Customizable for specific routes or cargo types. | Customizable for declared shipments but within the overall policy limits. | Less customization; covers all shipments under a broad policy framework. |
Who Should Buy a Marine Open Declaration Insurance?
Importers and Exporters
Businesses engaged in international trade need Marine Open Declaration Insuranceto protect their goods during overseas transit, covering potential risks across borders.
Manufacturers
Companies that produce goods and ship them to distributors or customers, both domestically and internationally, require insurance to safeguard their products against damage or loss during transportation.
Logistics and Freight Forwarders
Companies responsible for organizing and handling the shipping of goods need Marine Open Declaration Insuranceto ensure that their clients' goods are protected throughout the journey.
Retailers
Retailers that import products for sale often need Marine Open Declaration Insuranceto cover the goods from the point of origin to their final destination, protecting their inventory and investment.
E-commerce Businesses
Online retailers who ship products globally or domestically benefit from Marine Open Declaration Insuranceto protect against the risks associated with transporting goods to customers.
Wholesalers and Distributors
Businesses that purchase goods in bulk and distribute them to various locations need insurance to cover the transit risks involved in moving large quantities of products.
Project Owners and Contractors
Those involved in large-scale projects, such as construction or infrastructure development, often need Marine Open Declaration Insuranceto cover the transportation of materials and equipment, ensuring their projects stay on schedule and within budget.
How does Marine Open Declaration Insurance functions?
- Agreement: The business and insurer agree on a coverage limit for a specified period, typically one year.
- Coverage Period: The policy covers all shipments within this period, providing ongoing protection.
- Declaration Process: Each shipment is declared to the insurer, including details like value, transport mode, and destination.
- Flexibility: Declarations are made as shipments occur, allowing the policy to adapt to varying shipment volumes.
- Instant Coverage: Declared shipments are immediately covered against risks like damage, theft, or loss.
- Customization: The policy can include specific clauses tailored to the business’s needs.
- Based on Declarations: Premiums are calculated on the total declared value of shipments during the policy period.
- Adjustments: At the end of the term, premiums may be adjusted based on the actual value of declared shipments.
- Filing Claims: If a loss occurs, the insured files a claim with necessary documentation.
- Settlement: The insurer compensates the insured based on the declared value, following policy terms.
Review & Renewal: At the term’s end, the policy is reviewed, and renewal options are discussed, with potential adjustments for the next period.

Why should you buy Marine Open Declaration Insurance from GoInsureIndia.com?
Expertise in Marine Insurance
Specialized Knowledge: GoInsureIndia.com has extensive experience in marine insurance, offering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of businesses involved in regular shipping. Our expertise ensures that you get the most suitable coverage for your specific requirements.
Comprehensive Coverage Options
Wide Range of Protection: We offer policies that cover a broad spectrum of risks associated with marine transit, including damage, theft, and loss. We also provide options to customize your policy with additional clauses tailored to your business needs.
Flexible and Convenient Policy Management:
Easy Administration: Managing your Marine Open Declaration Insurance is straightforward with GoInsureIndia.com. Our user-friendly platform allows you to declare shipments, adjust coverage, and handle all insurance-related tasks with ease, saving you time and effort.
Dedicated Relationship Manager
Personalized Support: GoInsureIndia.com provides you with a dedicated relationship manager who will be your single point of contact for all your insurance needs. This ensures personalized service and prompt assistance whenever required.
Quick and Efficient Claims Processing
Prompt Settlements: In the event of a claim, GoInsureIndia.com is known for its efficient claims processing, ensuring that you receive compensation quickly and without unnecessary delays. Our streamlined process minimizes disruption to your business operations.

Why should you buy Marine Open Declaration Insurance from GoInsureIndia.com?
Expertise in Marine Insurance
Specialized Knowledge: GoInsureIndia.com has extensive experience in marine insurance, offering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of businesses involved in regular shipping. Our expertise ensures that you get the most suitable coverage for your specific requirements.
Comprehensive Coverage Options
Wide Range of Protection: We offer policies that cover a broad spectrum of risks associated with marine transit, including damage, theft, and loss. We also provide options to customize your policy with additional clauses tailored to your business needs.
Flexible and Convenient Policy Management:
Easy Administration: Managing your Marine Open Declaration Insurance is straightforward with GoInsureIndia.com. Our user-friendly platform allows you to declare shipments, adjust coverage, and handle all insurance-related tasks with ease, saving you time and effort.
Dedicated Relationship Manager
Personalized Support: GoInsureIndia.com provides you with a dedicated relationship manager who will be your single point of contact for all your insurance needs. This ensures personalized service and prompt assistance whenever required.
Quick and Efficient Claims Processing
Prompt Settlements: In the event of a claim, GoInsureIndia.com is known for its efficient claims processing, ensuring that you receive compensation quickly and without unnecessary delays. Our streamlined process minimizes disruption to your business operations.
Types of Coverage under Marine Open Declaration Insurance - Institute Clause/Coverage
Clauses | Coverage Type | Jurisdiction | Exclusions | Ideal For | Typical Perils Covered |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICC-A (International Cargo Clauses A) | All Risks | International Shipments | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | High-value goods requiring broad protection | All perils except those specifically excluded |
ICC-B (International Cargo Clauses B) | Named Perils | International Shipments | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Goods exposed to moderate risks | Fire, explosion, theft, earthquake, etc. |
ICC-C (International Cargo Clauses C) | Basic Named Perils | International Shipments | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Basic goods with minimal risk | Fire, explosion, vessel sinking, collision, etc. |
ITC-A (Inland Transit Clauses A) | All Risks | Inland Transit | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | High-value goods during inland transit | All perils except those specifically excluded |
ITC-B (Inland Transit Clauses B) | Named Perils | Inland Transit | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Goods exposed to moderate risks during inland transit | Fire, explosion, theft, earthquake, etc. |
ITC-C (Inland Transit Clauses C) | Basic Named Perils | Inland Transit | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Basic goods with minimal risks during inland transit | Fire, explosion, overturning, collision, etc. |

Types of Coverage under Marine Open Declaration Insurance - Institute Clause/Coverage
Clauses | Coverage Type | Jurisdiction | Exclusions | Ideal For | Typical Perils Covered |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICC-A (International Cargo Clauses A) | All Risks | International Shipments | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | High-value goods requiring broad protection | All perils except those specifically excluded |
ICC-B (International Cargo Clauses B) | Named Perils | International Shipments | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Goods exposed to moderate risks | Fire, explosion, theft, earthquake, etc. |
ICC-C (International Cargo Clauses C) | Basic Named Perils | International Shipments | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Basic goods with minimal risk | Fire, explosion, vessel sinking, collision, etc. |
ITC-A (Inland Transit Clauses A) | All Risks | Inland Transit | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | High-value goods during inland transit | All perils except those specifically excluded |
ITC-B (Inland Transit Clauses B) | Named Perils | Inland Transit | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Goods exposed to moderate risks during inland transit | Fire, explosion, theft, earthquake, etc. |
ITC-C (Inland Transit Clauses C) | Basic Named Perils | Inland Transit | Inherent vice, delay, inadequate packaging | Basic goods with minimal risks during inland transit | Fire, explosion, overturning, collision, etc. |
Institute Cargo Clauses (Air) | All Risks | Air Transit | War, inherent vice, delay | High-value goods transported by air | All risks except those specifically excluded |
Institute War Clauses (Cargo) | War Risks | International Shipments | General exclusions apply | Goods in war zones or high-risk areas | War, civil war, revolution, rebellion, etc. |
Institute Strikes Clauses (Cargo) | Strikes, Riots, Civil Commotions | International Shipments | General exclusions apply | Goods in areas prone to strikes or civil unrest | Strikes, riots, civil commotions, etc. |
Institute Theft, Pilferage, and Non-Delivery (TPND) Clauses | Theft, Pilferage, Non-Delivery | International and Domestic Shipments | General exclusions apply | High-value or easily marketable goods | Theft, pilferage, non-delivery |
Institute Frozen Food Clauses (A) | All Risks for Frozen Food | Frozen Food Shipments | Inherent vice, temperature control failure (unless caused by insured peril) | Frozen food requiring maximum protection | All risks except those specifically excluded |
Institute Frozen Food Clauses (B) | Named Perils for Frozen Food | Frozen Food Shipments | Inherent vice, temperature control failure | Frozen food with limited risk exposure | Fire, explosion, collision |
Institute Container Clauses | All Risks for Containers | Containerized Cargo | General exclusions apply | Shipments using containers | All risks except those specifically excluded |
Institute Cargo Clauses (Disbursements) | Disbursements | Cargo Disbursements | General exclusions apply | Shipments with significant disbursements | Disbursements due to insured risks |
Non-Institute Clause/Coverage
War and Strikes Coverage
- Coverage: Covers risks related to war, strikes, riots, and civil commotions, which are typically excluded from standard policies.
- Ideal For: Shipments to or through high-risk regions.
Frozen Food Coverage
- Coverage: Designed for temperature-sensitive goods, covering risks related to temperature control failures.
- Ideal For: Businesses shipping perishable goods like frozen food.
High-Value Goods Coverage
- Coverage: Provides enhanced protection for valuable items such as electronics, jewelry, or machinery.
- Ideal For: Businesses transporting high-value goods.
On-Deck Cargo Coverage
- Coverage: Covers goods stowed on the deck of a vessel, which are more exposed to risks.
- Ideal For: Oversized or heavy goods that cannot be stored below deck.
General Average Coverage
- Coverage: Ensures that all parties in a sea voyage share the loss if part of the cargo is sacrificed to save the vessel, compensating the insured for their share of the loss.
- Ideal For: Shipments exposed to significant maritime risks.
Pair and Set Clause
- Coverage: Provides compensation if one item in a pair or set is damaged, considering the reduced value of the remaining items.
- Ideal For: Goods that are part of a matched pair or set, such as luxury items or machinery components.
Debris Removal Clause
- Coverage: Covers the costs associated with removing debris after an insured event, ensuring the insured is not burdened with these additional expenses.
- Ideal For: Shipments involving potentially hazardous or bulky cargo.
Concealed Damage Clause
- Coverage: Covers damage that is not immediately apparent upon delivery but is discovered later, typically within a specified period.
- Ideal For: Goods susceptible to hidden damage, such as electronics or machinery.
Sue and Labor Clause
- Coverage: Requires the insured to take reasonable steps to prevent or minimize a loss, with the insurer reimbursing the costs of these actions.
- Ideal For: Shipments where the insured can intervene to mitigate potential losses.
Institute Replacement Clause
- Coverage: Provides coverage for the cost of replacing damaged or lost items with new ones, rather than just compensating for the item’s depreciated value.
- Ideal For: High-value goods where replacement with new items is crucial, such as industrial equipment or high-end consumer goods.
Waiver of Subrogation Clause
- Coverage: Prevents the insurer from seeking reimbursement from third parties who may be responsible for the loss.
- Ideal For: Shipments involving long-term partnerships or contracts where maintaining good relationships is key.
Accumulation Clause/200% Accumulation Clause
- Coverage: Extends coverage beyond standard limits if goods unexpectedly accumulate during transit due to delays or accidents, with the insurer’s liability increasing up to 200% of the original conveyance limit.
- Ideal For: High-value shipments where unforeseen accumulations could occur, particularly at transshipment ports or during delays.
Aircraft Clause
- Coverage: Ensures that terms like ‘ship,’ ‘vessel,’ and ‘seaworthiness’ in the policy also apply to air transport.
- Ideal For: Shipments involving both sea and air transport or goods transported entirely by air that need specific coverage.
Airfreight Replacement Clause
- Coverage: Covers the costs of airfreighting damaged goods or replacement parts for repair, even if the original shipment was by sea.
- Ideal For: High-value goods requiring timely repairs or replacements.
Brands Clause
- Coverage: Ensures that if branded or trademarked goods are damaged, the brands or trademarks must be removed before the goods are salvaged or sold.
- Ideal For: Luxury goods, electronics, or any branded products where maintaining brand reputation is crucial.
Container Clause
- Coverage: Assumes that the container carrying the insured cargo is fit for use, with coverage ensuring integrity unless the assured is aware of any issues.
- Ideal For: High-volume shipments in containers where container integrity is crucial to avoid water damage or other issues.
Container Demurrage Charges Clause
- Coverage: Covers the costs of demurrage charges or late penalties for the late return of containers, particularly when delays are due to insurer instructions.
- Ideal For: Shipments requiring detailed inspections post-arrival.
Cutting Clause
- Coverage: Specifies that if a portion of an item like a pipe or sheet is damaged, the insurer will pay the proportionate value of the cut portion.
- Ideal For: Shipments of materials like pipes or steel, where even minor damage can render the entire piece unusable.
Deck Cargo Clause
- Coverage: Covers insured goods carried on deck under specific conditions, with limited coverage compared to under-deck cargo unless specifically extended.
- Ideal For: Oversized or heavy goods that must be stowed on deck.
Deductible Clause
- Coverage: Specifies that deductibles are generally applied to eliminate smaller claims but not to major perils or unforeseen events.
- Ideal For: Policies where significant events are covered, ensuring that deductibles do not reduce the claim payout.
Difference in Conditions Clause
- Coverage: Provides additional coverage when goods are purchased CIF or on similar terms, ensuring that the buyer is fully protected without creating double insurance.
- Ideal For: Buyers purchasing goods CIF or on similar terms, who want to ensure their insurance coverage matches their needs.
Errors and Omissions Clause
- Coverage: Ensures that the assured is not penalized for unintentional delays, omissions, or errors in reporting.
- Ideal For: Shipments where there is a risk of errors in reporting or description, particularly in complex logistics scenarios.
FOB and FAS Purchases Clause
- Coverage: Provides insurance coverage from the moment goods leave the supplier’s premises, even if purchased on FOB or FAS terms.
- Ideal For: Buyers purchasing goods FOB or FAS, ensuring that their goods are covered from the point of departure.
General Average in Full Clause
- Coverage: Ensures that for claims involving General Average contributions and salvage charges, the insured goods are covered for their full contributory value.
- Ideal For: High-value shipments where the full contributory value needs to be protected in General Average situations.
Letter of Credit Clause
- Coverage: Ensures that the insurance coverage meets the specific requirements outlined in a Letter of Credit.
- Ideal For: Shipments financed through Letters of Credit, where specific insurance terms must be met.
Loading and Unloading Clause
- Coverage: Extends coverage to include loss or damage to goods during loading and unloading operations.
- Ideal For: Shipments involving complex logistics, where goods are at risk during handling operations.
Packers Clause
- Coverage: Extends coverage to include goods in transit to a packer’s premises, while being packed, and awaiting shipment.
- Ideal For: Shipments requiring professional packing, particularly when warehouse-to-warehouse coverage does not typically include these stages.
Presentation Packing Clause
- Coverage:Covers the reasonable costs of repairing or replacing the presentation packing of goods if damaged during transit.
- Ideal For:Goods where the presentation packing is an intrinsic part of the product, such as perfumes or luxury items.
Repacking Clause
- Coverage: Covers the cost of reasonable repacking expenses if the original packing is damaged during transit.
- Ideal For: Goods intended for onward sale, where damaged packing could prevent further distribution.
Seals Clause
- Coverage: Ensures that claims for theft, pilferage, or non-delivery of a whole package will be honored even if the container’s seals appear intact.
- Ideal For: Goods intended for onward sale, where damaged packing could prevent further distribution.
Duty of Assured Clause
- Coverage: Outlines the responsibilities of the assured to minimize loss, including taking reasonable steps to protect the cargo from further damage.
- Ideal For: All shipments, as it enforces the principle that the assured must take steps to mitigate loss.
Fumigation Clause
- Coverage: Covers the costs associated with the fumigation of goods, especially when infestation is discovered during transit or upon arrival.
- Ideal For: Agricultural products, foodstuffs, or other goods susceptible to infestation.
Held Covered Clause
- Coverage: Allows coverage to continue if the insured inadvertently fails to report a change in risk, provided they notify the insurer and pay any additional premium.
- Ideal For: Cargo shipments where the nature of the goods or the voyage details may change after the insurance is arranged.
Increased Value Clause
- Coverage: Allows for additional insurance if the value of the goods increases after the policy is issued.
- Ideal For: Goods that may appreciate in value during transit or require increased coverage due to changes in market conditions.
Machinery Clause
- Coverage: Provides specific coverage for machinery items, ensuring that coverage applies even if the machinery is partially damaged.
- Ideal For: Shipments of heavy machinery or industrial equipment.
Pollution Hazard Clause
- Coverage: Provides coverage for liability arising from pollution caused by the insured cargo, including the cost of cleaning up spills and legal expenses.
- Ideal For: Shipments of chemicals, oil, or other hazardous materials that pose a significant pollution risk.
Unseaworthiness and Unfitness Exclusion Clause
- Coverage: Excludes coverage if the loss arises from the unseaworthiness of the vessel or the unfitness of the transport method, unless the assured can prove they were unaware of the condition.
- Ideal For: Situations where there’s a concern that older or less reliable vessels or transport methods may be used.
Common Exclusions under Marine Open Declaration Insurance
Willful Misconduct
No coverage for losses due to intentional acts or negligence by the insured.
Inherent Vice
Excludes damage due to the natural characteristics of the goods, such as spoilage or corrosion.
Ordinary Leakage and Weight Loss
Normal shrinkage, evaporation, or loss in weight during transit is not covered.
Insufficient Packing
Damages due to inadequate or improper packing are excluded.
Delay
Losses solely caused by delays in transit are not covered.

Common Exclusions under Marine Open Declaration Insurance
Willful Misconduct
No coverage for losses due to intentional acts or negligence by the insured.
Inherent Vice
Excludes damage due to the natural characteristics of the goods, such as spoilage or corrosion.
Ordinary Leakage and Weight Loss
Normal shrinkage, evaporation, or loss in weight during transit is not covered.
Insufficient Packing
Damages due to inadequate or improper packing are excluded.
Delay
Losses solely caused by delays in transit are not covered.
War and Strikes
Excludes damages from war, strikes, riots, and civil commotions, unless separately insured.
Nuclear Contamination
No coverage for damages from nuclear reactions or radioactive contamination.
Unseaworthiness
Losses due to unfit vessels or transport, if known by the insured, are excluded.
Loss of Market
Financial losses from market fluctuations or missed opportunities are not covered.
Temperature Variations
Damage from temperature or humidity changes is excluded unless specifically covered.
Customs Rejection
Losses due to goods being rejected or confiscated by customs authorities are not covered.
Insolvency of Carrier
Excludes losses if the carrier becomes insolvent and cannot complete the delivery.
Wear and Tear
Ordinary wear and tear of goods during transit is not covered.
Pollution Damage
Excludes damages due to pollution, unless caused by a covered peril.
Pre-existing Damage
Damage that existed before the start of the transit is not covered.
Common Conditions/Warranties under Marine Open Declaration Insurance
Packing Warranty
Goods must be properly and securely packed. Poor packing can void coverage for damages.
Seaworthiness of Vessel
The vessel must be seaworthy and fit for the voyage. If unseaworthy, coverage may be void.
Legality
Shipments must comply with all laws. Illegal goods are not covered.
No Deviation Clause
The shipment must follow the agreed route. Unauthorized deviations may void coverage.
Prompt Notice of Loss
Loss or damage must be reported promptly to ensure valid claims.
Duty of Assured (Sue and Labor)
The insured must take reasonable steps to minimize losses during transit.
Proper Documentation
All required documents must be provided for a claim. Incomplete documentation can lead to claim denial.
Carrier’s Limitations
Recognize the carrier's liability limits when filing a claim, but this doesn't affect the insurer’s obligations.
Trade Sanctions Clause
Goods must not be shipped to or from sanctioned countries. Violations void coverage.
Insurable Interest
The insured must have a legal or financial interest in the goods at the time of loss.
Notice Timeline to Carrier by Mode of Transit
- Relevant Section: Section 106 (Indian Railways Act)
- Notice Period: Within 6 months from the date of booking. For non-delivery claims, notice should be lodged within 90 days from the date of dispatch.
- Addressing the Notice: Notice should be sent in writing to the General Manager or Chief Commercial Superintendent of the concerned Railway Administration via Registered Post A/D.
- Relevant Section: Section 16 (Carriage by Road Act 2007)
- Notice Period: Within 180 days from the date of booking. For overseas claims, notice must be given within 7 days from the time of delivery if the damage is not apparent.
- Additional Notes: The person giving notice must be the same as the person filing a suit to avoid technical defenses by the carriers.
- Relevant Section: Hague/Hague Visby Rules, Rotterdam Rules, Carriage of Goods by Sea Act
- Notice Period: Notice and a Steamer Survey/Joint Survey should be arranged immediately upon discovery of loss or damage. For latent damage (damage not apparent at the time of receipt), notice should be given within 3 days of removal from the port.
- Additional Notes: No notice is required if the cargo was subject to a joint survey or inspection at the time of receipt.
- Relevant Section: Multi-modal Transportation of Goods Act
- Notice Period: Notice should be given at the time of handing over the goods to the consignee. If the loss or damage is not apparent, notice should be given within 6 days after the goods are handed over.
- Proof of Service: Proof of service of notice must be furnished.
- Relevant Section: Rule 27(2), Chapter 3, Second Schedule (Carriage of Air Act of 1972)
- Notice Period: Notice must be given within 7 days for baggage and within 14 days for cargo from the date of receipt.
- Additional Notes: No notice is required in case of non-delivery if there is an admission of the loss.
- Relevant Section: Notification dated 30 March, 1973 (Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation)
- Notice Period: Same as for international carriage—within 7 days for baggage and 14 days for cargo from the date of receipt.

Inco Terms
Incoterm | Seller’s Responsibility | Buyer’s Responsibility | Insurable Interest (Seller) | Insurable Interest (Buyer) |
---|---|---|---|---|
EXW (Ex Works) | Minimal | Full Responsibility | None | From Pickup |
FCA (Free Carrier) | Delivery to Carrier | Transport after Delivery to Carrier | Until Delivery to Carrier | After Delivery to Carrier |
CPT (Carriage Paid To) | Transport to Destination | Risk After Delivery to Carrier | Until Delivery to Carrier | After Delivery to Carrier |
CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) | Transport and Insurance | Risk After Delivery to Carrier | Until Delivery to Carrier | After Delivery to Carrier |
DAP (Delivered at Place) | Delivery to Place | Risk After Delivery at Place | Until Delivery at Place | After Delivery at Place |
DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) | Delivery and Unloading | Risk After Unloading | Until Unloading | After Unloading |

Inco Terms
Incoterm | Seller’s Responsibility | Buyer’s Responsibility | Insurable Interest (Seller) | Insurable Interest (Buyer) |
---|---|---|---|---|
EXW (Ex Works) | Minimal | Full Responsibility | None | From Pickup |
FCA (Free Carrier) | Delivery to Carrier | Transport after Delivery to Carrier | Until Delivery to Carrier | After Delivery to Carrier |
CPT (Carriage Paid To) | Transport to Destination | Risk After Delivery to Carrier | Until Delivery to Carrier | After Delivery to Carrier |
CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) | Transport and Insurance | Risk After Delivery to Carrier | Until Delivery to Carrier | After Delivery to Carrier |
DAP (Delivered at Place) | Delivery to Place | Risk After Delivery at Place | Until Delivery at Place | After Delivery at Place |
DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) | Delivery and Unloading | Risk After Unloading | Until Unloading | After Unloading |
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Full Responsibility | Minimal | Until Delivery | From Delivery |
FAS (Free Alongside Ship) | Delivery Alongside Ship | Transport Onward | Until Alongside Ship | After Alongside Ship |
FOB (Free on Board) | Delivery On Board | Transport Onward | Until On Board | After On Board |
CFR (Cost and Freight) | Transport to Destination | Risk After Delivery On Board | Until On Board | After On Board |
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) | Transport and Insurance | Risk After Delivery On Board | Until On Board | After On Board |
Tips for Using Incoterms Correctly
Ownership and Payment
Incoterms do not cover ownership transfer or payment terms/methods.
Contract of Sale
Incoterms should be expressly incorporated into the Contract of Sale.
Appropriate Term
Choose the term suited to the type of goods and transport (e.g., airfreight).
Transport Responsibility
Clarify who arranges transportation—domestic or international.
Specificity
Specify the location (Point/Port/Place) clearly
Compatibility
Ensure the term fits with the payment system (e.g., LC) and is suitable for containerized goods.

Tips for Using Incoterms Correctly
Ownership and Payment
Incoterms do not cover ownership transfer or payment terms/methods.
Contract of Sale
Incoterms should be expressly incorporated into the Contract of Sale.
Appropriate Term
Choose the term suited to the type of goods and transport (e.g., airfreight).
Transport Responsibility
Clarify who arranges transportation—domestic or international.
Specificity
Specify the location (Point/Port/Place) clearly
Compatibility
Ensure the term fits with the payment system (e.g., LC) and is suitable for containerized goods.
Key suggestions to make the best Marine Open Declaration Insurance plan
Evaluate Goods and Routes: Identify the types of goods you ship, their value, and the routes they take. This will help determine the level of coverage needed and any specific risks that should be addressed in the policy.
Consider Historical Data: Review past incidents or claims to identify common risks associated with your shipments.
Select Appropriate Clauses: Based on your risk assessment, choose coverage types and clauses that best fit your needs, such as All-Risks Coverage, Named Perils Coverage, or specialized clauses like War and Strikes.
Consider Additional Coverages: Evaluate whether you need extra protection, such as for high-value goods, temperature-sensitive items, or multimodal transport.
Accurate Declaration of Goods: Ensure that the declared value of each shipment accurately reflects its true value, including cost, insurance, and freight (CIF). This prevents under-insurance and ensures adequate compensation in case of a loss.
Include Potential Accumulations: Consider potential accumulations at transshipment points and ensure they are covered, especially if your shipments involve high-value goods.
Review Common Exclusions: Be aware of what is not covered under the policy, such as willful misconduct, inherent vice, or insufficient packing. Consider additional coverage or endorsements if any of these exclusions present a significant risk to your business.
Address Gaps in Coverage: If necessary, add specific clauses or separate policies to cover risks that are excluded from standard coverage.
Annual Policy Review: Regularly review your policy, at least annually, to ensure it still meets your business needs, especially if there have been changes in your shipping practices or the types of goods you transport.
Adjust Coverage Limits: As your business grows or shipping volumes change, adjust your coverage limits and terms to match your current needs.
Choose a Trusted Provider: Partner with an insurer experienced in marine insurance and with a strong reputation for claims handling and customer service.
Leverage Expert Advice: Consult with insurance experts or brokers who can help you understand your needs and recommend the best policy options.
Keep Accurate Records: Maintain detailed records of all shipments, declarations, and any communications with the insurer. Proper documentation is crucial in the event of a claim.
Ensure Compliance: Make sure all shipments comply with the policy terms, including proper packing, route adherence, and timely declarations.
Familiarize Yourself with Procedures: Know how to file a claim, including the required documentation and timelines. This ensures a smooth and timely claims process.
Plan for Emergency Actions: Have a clear plan for what to do in case of an incident, such as notifying the insurer immediately and taking steps to mitigate further loss.

FAQs on Marine Open Declaration Insurance
Hassle-Free Coverage for Frequent Shipments
Simplify your logistics with Marine Open Declaration Insurance from Go Insure India. Designed for businesses with frequent shipments, this policy consolidates multiple shipments under a single coverage, ensuring seamless protection and reduced administrative hassle.