When goods are in transit—whether over sea, land, or inland waterways—risks like fire, collision, theft, or natural calamity are always present. Marine insurance is designed to provide financial security during such unforeseen events.

But even after getting covered, many companies suffer avoidable losses because they delay filing a claim. A late report, missing survey, or outdated documentation can mean the difference between full recovery and total rejection. That’s why timely action is non-negotiable in marine insurance.

Top 5 Reasons to File a Marine Insurance Claim Without Delay

1. Meet Legal Timeframes (Avoid Time-Barred Claims)

Most marine insurance policies require you to notify the insurer within a defined period, usually 3 to 7 days from the incident. Missing this window can make your claim legally inadmissible, no matter how valid.

2. Preserve Critical Evidence and Allow Surveys

Post-incident inspections (conducted by appointed marine surveyors) help determine the cause and extent of damage. Delayed intimation can mean missing evidence or denied survey rights, weakening your claim.

3. Faster Forwarding & Recovery Arrangements

Incidents like stranding, overturning, or break of bridge may require rerouting. Marine insurance often covers forwarding costs, but only if insurers are informed in time. Quick filing ensures approvals for necessary logistics.

4. Avoid Claim Denial Due to Proximate Cause Confusion

If there’s a delay, it becomes harder to prove the “proximate cause” of loss. For example, was the damage caused by seawater during a storm or by improper unloading afterward? Filing promptly protects your claim integrity.

5. Uphold Utmost Good Faith and Policy Conditions

Marine insurance contracts operate on utmost good faith. Any delay, misreporting, or omission can be seen as a breach, reducing your chances of a favorable outcome.

What BTW Insurance Services Offers

  • Marine Cargo Insurance Advisory
  • End-to-End Claim Filing Support
  • 24×7 Incident Reporting Channels
  • Immediate Surveyor Coordination
  • Document Drafting & Compliance Support
  • Guidance on General Average, Forwarding Charges & Salvage Rights.

FAQ’s

1. What types of incidents are covered under marine insurance?

Fire, collision, sinking, overturning, theft, explosion, earthquake, stranding, and even washing overboard, among others.

2. How long do I have to file a marine insurance claim?

Typically, between 3–7 days from the date of the incident, though this may vary by policy.

3. What documents do I need to submit?

Survey report, bill of lading, invoice, packing list, photographs, incident report, and insurance certificate.

4. Can I claim forwarding expenses or salvage costs?

Yes, provided you notify the insurer in time and get pre-approvals as per policy terms.

5. What happens if my claim is rejected?

BTW Insurance Services helps analyze rejection reasons and assists with compliant re-filing or legal support if applicable.

Contact Information

Let your focus stay on operations—leave marine risk and claims to us.

📧 Email: info@btwvisas.com
🌐 Website: www.btwvisas.com
📍 Offices: Pune | Mumbai