Have You Suffered Losses from Holiday Cargo Theft?

The holiday season is right around the corner. A joyous time for many, but for retailers, it’s also a critical period, accounting for around 30% of yearly sales. However, this festive season comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to cargo risks. Cargo theft, pilferage, and delays are more common during this time of year.

We’re here to share practical tips on how shippers can minimize risks and losses.

Picture this: as holiday cheer fills the air, cargo thieves are making their plans to snatch their early presents. Why? Because during this time, the shipping volume of desirable goods skyrockets, and demand soars. Everything from electronics, clothing, food, to perfumery and cosmetics becomes a hot target for thieves, thanks in part to those pesky IMO class #3 labels on container panels.

Reducing Risk & Losses – Your Action Plan

Action Plan 1: Document

Before your cargo embarks on its journey, snap pictures of it fully loaded in the container and ensure the containers are properly sealed with the seal numbers matching the bill of lading. In case of cargo theft during transit, this evidence will prove that your cargo was loaded as specified in the packing list and bill of lading.

Action Plan 2: Manifest Smartly

When creating your bill of lading, make sure you manifest your cargo in the smallest actual quantity. Instead of saying “2 pallets,” specify “3000 boxes.” This can help you avoid package limitations when you need to claim losses from the shipping line.

Action Plan 3: Port-to-Port Shipments

For port-to-port FCL ocean shipments, remember that the shipping line is legally liable for any pilferage that occurs from port to port. Here’s what you can do:

– Pick up your container as soon as it’s discharged at the port of destination. Organized theft groups are active during this season, and they target shipments left unattended for extended periods.

– Have the trucker inspect the container from the outside to ensure the seal is intact and that the container’s doors haven’t been tampered with before delivery. Any issues should be documented in the delivery order, and the shipping line should be invited to a joint cargo survey at your warehouse.

– Choose trucking routes that avoid high-theft metropolitan areas, and opt for secure locations with robust security services, sturdy fences, and ample lighting.

Action Plan 4: Door-to-Door Shipments

If your cargo is shipped door-to-door under the carrier’s bill of lading, ensure that the container arrives with the manifested seal intact. If not, request the shipping line to participate in a joint cargo survey. Don’t open the container or unload the cargo prematurely. Remember, it’s not your responsibility to determine where your cargo was pilfered during transit.

Action Steps to Prevent Delays

Cargo delays can be a buzzkill, especially during the holiday rush when timely deliveries are crucial. Here’s what you can do:

Action Step 5: Prioritize Essential Shipments

Ship your most critical products first. If some items are more time-sensitive than others, get them on their way ahead of the rest. Your bottom line will thank you.

Action Step 6: Split Your Shipments

Consider splitting your shipments under multiple bills of lading, especially if you’re shipping numerous containers together. This way, if one bill gets delayed, the others still have a chance to arrive on time.

Action Step 7: Opt for Longer Transit Times

When booking shipments, think about securing a shipment with a longer transit time. Choosing a less congested route can reduce the chances of your cargo getting delayed.

The holiday season is both a challenge and an opportunity for businesses. By planning ahead and understanding your rights when cargo is lost or delayed, you can navigate these challenges with confidence. Partnering with the right cargo claims experts, like Recoupex, can greatly increase your chances of success and peace of mind during this festive season.

Recoupex is a hub of transport lawyers – experts in cargo claims. We assess your case quickly. We have successfully recovered claims from Maersk, Sealand, Hapag-Lloyd, Mediterranean Shipping Company – MSC, CMA CGM, and other carriers.

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