5 Steps to Recover Cargo Claims Without a Data Logger

Only 30–50% of fresh produce exporters actually use data loggers. Many exporters skip them due to the cost involved or the buyer’s carelessness (aka no data logger found during destuffing).

What most shippers don’t realize is that shipping lines rarely share their own data logger. This is a standard practice, and you should not insist for months for them to be kind and share this info. They won’t.

So when your reefer cargo arrives damaged without your own data logger, it can feel like an impossible situation. But here’s the truth: you can still recover your claim.

While a data logger is a valuable tool, it’s not the only way to prove your case. Here’s how to protect your claim:

✅ Gather Evidence

Keep harvest certificates, pre-cooling, stuffing & packaging records. Take pictures of sound cargo and proper packaging, and stuffing during loading operations.

On arrival, capture photos or videos clearly showing the nature of damage (reefer container leaking, pulp temperature, defrost signs, etc.) and extent of loss (one carton of grapes with mold or half of the container rotten).

✅ Act Fast

Notify the carrier within 3 days of the cargo delivery date and invite them to a joint survey.

✅ Mitigate Losses

Segregate, repack, salvage, or destroy — and document everything.

✅ Stay Persistent

Follow up with the shipping line’s claim handler regularly. Don’t let your claim “die quietly” in time bar.

✅ Seek Expert Help

If you failed to recover claims in the past, do not have the time or knowledge to pursue the recovery process yourself, ask for expert help (e.g. Recoupex)