Choosing the Right Insurance Coverage for Your International Move

The unfortunate collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore was a tragic incident caused by a cargo ship colliding with the bridge. Here are the key details:

On March 26, 2024, the container ship Dali lost power and collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore at a speed of approximately 9 mph (8 knots). The impact resulted in the bridge buckling and collapsing into the water within moments, leading to the submergence of several vehicles and a construction crew into the river below.

Regrettably, six individuals from the construction crew are presumed to have lost their lives, while two others were successfully rescued.

Prior to the crash, the ship’s crew issued a mayday call, enabling authorities to halt traffic on the bridge promptly, likely averting further casualties.

Investigations revealed that the Dali was owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and managed by Synergy Marine Group. The ship had undergone 27 inspections since its construction in 2015, with two minor “deficiencies” being identified during those inspections.

While advancements have been made in shipping safety over the past decade, serious incidents involving large vessels such as container ships and car carriers remain a significant concern. Some key issues include:

– The increase in ship sizes has elevated the values at risk and the environmental impact of incidents; however, regulations and safety systems have not consistently kept pace.

– Cargo fires, particularly stemming from mis-declared dangerous goods and lithium batteries, pose a growing risk on container ships and car carriers.

– Commercial pressures for swift turnaround times at ports may lead crews to bypass crucial safety checks and verifications.

– Incidents like the capsizing of the car carrier Golden Ray have been linked to stability and cargo securing issues.

Although the overall number of severe shipping accidents has shown a long-term decline, the repercussions of incidents involving massive modern vessels can be catastrophic, as evidenced by the Baltimore bridge collapse.

Continuous enhancements in ship design, cargo handling practices, and safety management systems will be essential for bolstering shipping safety moving forward.

International Moving Insurance: Protecting Your Belongings Overseas

When preparing for an international relocation, purchasing the right insurance coverage is crucial. You’ve likely already been in touch with a relocation specialist or logistics team, who has emphasized the importance of securing insurance. But with various options available, it can be overwhelming to determine the best fit for your family’s overseas shipment.

This guide will explore the key international moving insurance options, helping you make an informed decision.

Total Loss Insurance

Total loss coverage ensures you are fully protected if your entire shipment is destroyed or lost. For instance, if a stack of containers collapses, this policy would provide reimbursement for the declared value of your belongings.

To obtain total loss insurance, you’ll need to provide a detailed list of the insured items. While the inventory list created by your movers is critical for customs clearance, it may not be sufficient for insurance purposes, where more specificity is required. If you’re including valuable items, you may need to provide sales receipts or professional valuations.

Total loss insurance is typically less expensive than all-risk cargo insurance, as it covers either the entire loss or nothing at all.

All-Risk Cargo Insurance

All-risk cargo insurance provides coverage for both total loss and partial damage to your shipment. This is important because, despite the shipping company’s best efforts, it’s impossible to guarantee your belongings will arrive at your new home undamaged.

Your personal items may be handled multiple times during the international shipping process, including random inspections, storage, and final delivery by smaller vehicles. Each transfer carries the potential for damage.

With all-risk cargo insurance, you’re protected against these risks. However, to obtain this coverage, you’ll need to have your shipment professionally packed by the moving company.

Insuring Vehicles and Other Valuables

Automobiles, motorcycles, and other licensed vehicles should be insured separately, regardless of whether they’re shipped in a container or via roll-on, roll-off (RO-RO) transport. Your relocation specialist can help determine the best shipping method and ensure the proper insurance coverage for your vehicle.

Understanding International Moving Insurance Policies

Unlike domestic insurance policies, which are governed by state laws, international moving insurance must be truly global in scope. These policies are typically offered through the shipping company, as they don’t sell directly to consumers.

One advantage of this approach is that the policy can reimburse you for the replacement cost of damaged or lost items at your destination, rather than the original purchase price in your home country.

When reviewing policies, be cautious of those that seem too inexpensive, as they may only cover a portion of the move. Valid international moving insurance should provide full coverage from door to door, protecting against loss, damage, and weather-related incidents.

Remember, the accuracy of your insurance information is crucial. Only cover items that are legal to ship to your destination country, and ensure the valuations are reasonable.

While we hope you never have to file a claim, having the right international moving insurance in place can provide peace of mind and protection for your belongings during your overseas relocation.

Trusted International Moving with SDC

When it comes to protecting your belongings during an international move, choosing the right shipping partner is just as important as securing the proper insurance coverage.

SDC International Shipping has decades of experience facilitating smooth, stress-free relocations around the globe. As a leader in the industry, we have the expertise to guide you through every step of the process, from packing and customs clearance to full insurance coverage.

Unlike some shipping providers that only offer limited protection, SDC’s comprehensive international moving insurance policies give you the peace of mind knowing your valuables are safeguarded from door to door. Our all-risk cargo coverage ensures you’re protected against loss, damage, and unforeseen circumstances, no matter the destination.

But SDC is more than just an insurance provider – we’re a trusted partner dedicated to making your international move a success. Our personalized relocation services, skilled packing teams, and global shipping network ensure a seamless transition to your new home overseas.

Don’t leave the safety of your belongings to chance. Contact SDC International Shipping today and let us handle the details, so you can focus on embarking on your next adventure.