--- title: "Marine Cargo Insurance" url: "https://vimcover.com.au/marine-cargo-insurance/" type: "page" published: "2023-06-29T12:51:20+10:00" modified: "2026-09-22T11:17:25+10:00" author: "Brad Smith" --- Excellent 5/5 on Google Table of Contents [Toggle](#) # Marine Cargo Insurance Australia **Your goods are out of your hands for days, even weeks, and vulnerable to theft, rough seas, accidents and weather. Marine cargo insurance is designed to safeguard the worth of your goods as they travel from one port to another.** At VIM Cover, we can assist Australian importers, exporters and freight operators to compare marine cargo insurance quotes from a number of different insurers, ensuring that you are covered for what you are shipping, how you are shipping it and where it is going. We are an independent broker — our job is to give clear advice, explain your options in plain English, and make sure your marine freight insurance is structured properly from the start. ## We help you make sure: - Your goods are protected against loss or damage in transit, anywhere in the world - Your cover is as you ship — one voyage or all year long - Your policy meets the contractual and trade-terms obligations of your buyers and sellers [Call 1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) ![GoogleReview Profiles](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GoogleReview-Profiles.png) **5/5**from Australian business owners Independent brokers Support at claim time ## Get a Marine Cargo Insurance Quote ## Our Insurers We compare cover from leading marine insurance companies to find you the right protection at the right price. ![NTI Logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/nti.png) ![hollard logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hollard.png) ![QBE Logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/QBE.png) ![Vero logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/vero.png) ![Zurich Logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/zurich.png) ![allianz logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/allianz.png) ![Blue Zebra Insurance Logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/bzi.png) ![CGU logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/CGU.png) ![High Street Underwriting Agency Logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/highstreet.png) ![Mecon Insurance Logo](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mecon.png) The COVER ## What is marine cargo insurance? Marine cargo insurance – also known as marine and transit insurance- protects your goods against physical loss or damage while they’re being transported by sea, air, road or rail. It is used when importing goods to Australia, exporting goods to overseas markets and moving freight within Australia. Around 90% of Australia’s international trade moves by sea, so marine and cargo insurance is one of the most important covers for any business that ships goods. If a container is lost overboard, a pallet is damaged in a storm, stock is stolen from a warehouse, or freight is dropped during loading, a marine cargo policy covers the financial loss so it doesn’t fall on your business. We help you choose the right marine transit insurance for your goods, your routes and how often you ship — so you’re covered where it counts, without paying for cover you don’t need. [Get a Quote](#quote) [1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) ![Marine Cargo Insurance Australia](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Marine-Cargo-Insurance-Australia.jpg) The Risks ## Why your business needs cargo cover insurance After your products are out of your hands, you can’t do much to control them. If you don’t have the proper cover, you’re taking a risk. Marine cargo insurance responds to situations like: - Financial loss - cargo that's damaged, lost or stolen comes straight off your bottom line - Contractual obligations - Incoterms and trade contracts often make you responsible for insuring the goods - Domestic transit risk - road and rail freight within Australia is also at risk, not just overseas shipping - Business disruption - if the shipment is lost, production, orders and cash flow can all be delayed The right policy turns a damaged or missing shipment from a serious hit into a manageable claim. [Get a Quote](#quote) [1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) ## Who needs marine cargo insurance? We arrange marine cargo insurance for any business that moves goods, including: ### Trade & manufacturing - Importers and exporters - Manufacturers - Wholesalers and distributors ### Freight & logistics - Freight forwarders - Logistics and transport operators - Businesses arranging marine transport insurance for regular shipments ### Retail & specialised - E-commerce businesses shipping internationally - Food and beverage suppliers - Businesses moving high-value or fragile goods If your goods spend time in transit, marine freight insurance is worth considering. [Get a Quote](#quote) [1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) What's Included ## What does marine cargo insurance cover Marine cargo insurance coverage is built from several parts, tailored to your goods and how they travel. A typical policy can include: [https://vimcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/](https://vimcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/) ### [Loss or damage in transit](https://vimcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/) Physical loss or damage to your goods while being shipped by sea, air, road or rail — including theft, fire, rough seas and accidents. This is the core of every policy. [https://vimcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/](https://vimcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/) ### [Natural disasters and extreme weather](https://vimcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/) Damage caused by storms, floods, earthquakes and other events outside your control. ### Theft and piracy Cover for cargo stolen in transit or storage, including goods moving through higher-risk trade routes. ### General average contribution If cargo is sacrificed to save a vessel in distress, your policy covers your share of the shared costs — a standard part of international shipping. ### Sue and labour costs Reasonable costs you incur to prevent or reduce further loss, such as repacking or redirecting goods. ### Loading and unloading Damage that occurs while your goods are being handled at ports, warehouses or distribution centres. ### Third-party liability Protection if your cargo damages someone else’s goods during transport. ### Warehouse to warehouse Extended cover for inland transit and storage — from the origin warehouse all the way to the final destination. *The cover, limits and exclusions are different from policy to policy — we’ll explain the detail before you make your decision.* [Get a Quote](#quote) [1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) Our Expertise ## Single voyage or annual cover - which do you need? The first thing you’ll need to decide when you’re dealing with marine cargo insurance is how your policy is set up. We’ll help you pick the right fit: ### Single voyage cover Covers one specific shipment from start to finish. Ideal for one-off or occasional consignments, with a single premium paid at the start of the journey. ### Annual (open) cover Covers all your shipments over a 12-month period under one policy. Ideal for regular importers and exporters — more convenient and usually more cost-effective than insuring each shipment separately. ### Own goods or customers’ goods? If you are shipping your own goods, you will require a marine cargo policy. For carriers or transport operators who are transporting other people’s goods, you will need goods-in-transit / carriers cover. We will ensure that you have the correct one. [Call 1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) [Get a Quote](#quote) ![GoogleReview Profiles](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GoogleReview-Profiles.png) **5/5**from Australian business owners Independent brokers Support at claim time COMMON QUESTION ## All-risk or named-peril cover? Marine policies also vary in terms of their scope of coverage. **All-risk cover** (ICC Clause A) is the widest cover available, covering all risks of physical loss or damage, with specific exclusions such as war, strikes and inherent vice.**Named-peril cover** (Clauses B and C) covers only the specific events listed in the policy, usually at a lower cost. The right choice depends on the value and sensitivity of your goods, and we’ll explain the trade-offs clearly so you can decide with confidence. [Call 1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) [Get a Quote](#quote) ![GoogleReview Profiles](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GoogleReview-Profiles.png) **5/5**from Australian business owners Independent brokers Support at claim time PRICING ## How much does marine cargo insurance cost? No single price – premiums vary depending on what you’re shipping and how. The main factors insurers consider are: - The value of your cargo - The type of goods (higher-value or fragile items usually cost more to cover) - The route and destination - The transport method (sea, air, road or rail) - How often you ship - The cover level and any add-ons you choose As an independent broker, we compare marine insurance companies to find the right level of cover at a competitive price, rather than quoting a one-size-fits-all figure. The most reliable way to obtain a number is to ask for a quote. [Call 1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) [Get a Quote](#quote) ![GoogleReview Profiles](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GoogleReview-Profiles.png) **5/5**from Australian business owners Independent brokers Support at claim time ![Stars Large](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Stars-Large.png) “Excellent in helping me with my new policy.” **– Sam West** Why VIM Cover ## Why businesses choose VIM Cover for marine shipping insurance Shipping is complicated enough without second-guessing your insurance. From sending one container annually to moving freight weekly, the right cover ensures the value of your goods is protected and your business continues to operate when things go wrong. We are independent insurance brokers and we do not use one insurance company or one product. We compare marine insurance companies against a panel of insurers and explain the differences, as the cheapest policy is not always the best one. The right choice will depend on your goods, your routes, your trade terms and how you ship. We also believe in plain-English advice. We’ll explain what’s covered, what’s optional, what isn’t covered and what insurers will want to know — so you’re never left to decode a policy document on your own. - Clear policies with no hidden surprises - Real support from quote through to claim - Real support from quote to claim - Cover for domestic and international freight [Call 1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) [Get a Quote](#quote) ![GoogleReview Profiles](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GoogleReview-Profiles.png) **5/5**from Australian business owners Independent brokers Support at claim time Tailored To You ## Marine cargo cover structured around your business Every business ships differently, and your cover should reflect that. We take the time to understand what you move, where it goes, how it travels and the trade terms you work under. Then we help shape a marine cargo policy tailored to your specific risks rather than a generic, off-the-shelf product — reducing the chance of coverage gaps and making sure your protection is in place when you need it. [Get a Quote](#quote) [1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) ![Man tailoring Cyber Insurance](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Tailored-Cyber-Insurance.jpg) MAKING A CLAIM ## What you'll need to make a claim Marine claims move faster when the paperwork is in order. If a shipment is lost or damaged, you’ll generally need your commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, photos of the damage and a written statement of the loss. As your broker, we manage the claim on your behalf and guide you through exactly what’s required, so you can focus on your business. **Related cover:** [Transport & Logistics Insurance](https://vimcover.com.au/logistics-insurance/) · [Truck Insurance](https://vimcover.com.au/truck-insurance/) · [Business Insurance Package](https://vimcover.com.au/business-package-insurance/) Reviews ## Trusted by Australian businesses We are responsive, easy to deal with and results-oriented, which is why businesses select VIM Cover. We strive to get the right cover at the right price and we support it when it counts. ``` EXCELLENT Based on 36 reviews Posted on Google B Gardam Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot recommend Danielle at vim enough. I had trouble renewing my insurance due to claims history. She worked hard and got me a new policy under difficult circumstances. Thanks danielle. Posted on Google Joe Meintjes Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Have used VIM cover for a number of insurances. They have been very helpful, responsive and most of all competitive. Posted on Google Greg Pritchard Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The team at Vim Cover are great to deal with!!! Posted on Google Ciri Stanek Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Friendly staff who worked really hard to find the right cover for us. Thanks, Tyson and Carmine! Posted on Google M B Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When it comes to renewing your insurance policies it’s certainly worth going through the right broker as they have the skill set and resources to save you a significant amount. I found VIM Cover , Australia to be the best by far. On Wednesday 5th June 2024 I contacted VIM Cover Australia after finding them on Google. I was after a competitive and sensible price for my Insurance cover. I spoke to Tyson one of their team members and his professional help and customer service was excellent. Tyson was able to beat any other quotes I was given plus offer me more value for the price given. We selected my insurer to be through Zurich and I saved myself over $150 per year. I would highly recommend VIM for their professional advice, help and customer service. Thank you Tyson for making my inquiry a great and straightforward experience. I look forward to sharing my experience with family and friends and would highly recommended your services to anyone. If there was an option I would have left a ten star rating. Posted on Google Cassie Cross Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Loved working with the team. The process was fast and incredibly easy. Thank you so much! Posted on Google Laura Evans Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with VIM cover was nothing but professional. The employees were able to explain clearly what my cover involved and came in with a competitive price. I would highly recommend their services and look forward to dealing with them in the future for other insurance purposes Posted on Google sam west Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Adam was excellent in helping with my new policy, very helpful throughout the whole process! ``` ``` ``` FAQ ## Frequently asked questions Is marine cargo insurance mandatory? It’s not legally required, but it’s often written into trade contracts, and Incoterms may place responsibility for insuring the goods on either the buyer or seller. Most businesses take it out because the cost of an uninsured loss can be significant. What's the difference between single voyage and annual cover? Single voyage cover insures one specific shipment, while annual (open) cover insures all your shipments over a 12-month period under one policy. Regular importers and exporters usually find annual cover more convenient and cost-effective. Does marine cargo insurance cover international and domestic shipments? Yes. Cover can be used for goods transported overseas by sea or air, and for goods transported domestically by road or rail within Australia. What is general average, and am I covered for it? General average is a maritime principle where cargo owners share the cost when goods are sacrificed to save a vessel. A marine cargo policy will usually cover your portion, and you won’t be left with an unexpected bill. How much does marine cargo insurance cost? It depends on your cargo value, the type of goods, the route, transport method, how often you ship and the cover you choose. The best way to get an accurate figure is to compare insurers. What's the difference between marine insurance and transit insurance? They’re closely related — marine insurance covers both international and domestic movements, while transit insurance usually focuses on domestic transport. Many businesses combine both for consistent protection wherever their goods travel. ## Related Guides [!\[Comprehensive Light Truck Insurance Guide for 2025 VIM Cover\](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Comprehensive-Light-Truck-Insurance-Guide-for-2025-VIM-Cover-1024x683.png)](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/food-truck-insurance-guide-2026/) ### [Comprehensive Food Truck Insurance for 2026](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/food-truck-insurance-guide-2026/) Brad Smith September 3, 2025 [Read More »](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/food-truck-insurance-guide-2026/) [!\[Confident light truck owner standing by his fleet, highlighting the importance of having reliable light truck insurance.\](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Light-Truck-Owner-Featured-1024x683.jpg)](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/light-truck-insurance-guide-2026/) ### [Comprehensive Light Truck Insurance Guide for 2026](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/light-truck-insurance-guide-2026/) Brad Smith August 15, 2025 [Read More »](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/light-truck-insurance-guide-2026/) [!\[Car salesperson selling trucks at a car dealership\](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/FLEET-INSURANCE-1024x670.jpeg)](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/fleet-insurance-explained-how-it-works-for-your-business/) ### [Fleet Insurance Explained: How It Works for Your Business](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/fleet-insurance-explained-how-it-works-for-your-business/) Brad Smith December 21, 2024 [Read More »](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/fleet-insurance-explained-how-it-works-for-your-business/) [!\[Truck on the road\](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Blue-Truck--1024x682.jpg)](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/reviewing-truck-insurance-vim-cover-importance-revealed/) ### [Reviewing Truck Insurance: VIM Cover Importance Revealed](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/reviewing-truck-insurance-vim-cover-importance-revealed/) Brad Smith April 9, 2024 [Read More »](https://vimcover.com.au/blog/reviewing-truck-insurance-vim-cover-importance-revealed/) How It Works ## Arranging marine cargo insurance doesn't need to be complicated. **1 / Tell us about your goods** – what you ship, where it goes and how it travels. **2 / We compare the market** – we assess your risks and gather suitable options across our insurer network. **3/ You choose your cover** – we explain the options and set up the right policy for your shipments. **4 / We’re here at claim time** – if something goes wrong, we manage the claim on your behalf. #### Get clear advice, tailored options, and cover structured properly from the start. [Call 1300 003 555](tel:1300003555) ![GoogleReview Profiles](https://vimcover.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GoogleReview-Profiles.png) **5/5**from Australian business owners Independent brokers Support at claim time ### Get a domestic of international cargo insurance quote