Let’s face it: even with the best planning, things sometimes go wrong in international freight shipping. Containers fall. Water leaks. Wooden crates collapse. When your shipment arrives damaged, it’s a stressful situation—but it’s one that almost every logistics professional will face eventually.

Having handled cargo claims across ports and clients, I want to share some hands-on advice for dealing with freight damage—not just by the book, but based on what actually works.

1. First Rule: Don’t Panic—Document

Your first instinct might be to get mad, but what you really need to do is document everything. Take clear, timestamped photos from multiple angles. Capture the condition of the container seal, pallet, and inner packaging.

Make sure your consignee does this at the time of unpacking, not days later. Otherwise, your claim might be denied due to lack of timely evidence.

2. Notify All Relevant Parties—Fast

Once damage is discovered, notify:

• The shipping line
• Freight forwarder
• Cargo insurance provider
• The consignee or buyer

Time is everything. Many shipping lines have a narrow window (often 3 to 7 days) for damage claims. Late notifications = denied compensation.

3. Understand the Type of Damage

Not all damage is treated equally. Here are common types:

• Visible damage: Broken crates, torn shrink wrap, etc.
• Hidden damage: Goods look fine outside but are damaged internally.
• Water damage: Condensation, rain leakage, or seawater intrusion.
• Contamination or odor: Especially with mixed container loads.

Each type requires different evidence and claim processes, so be specific when reporting.

4. Insurance: What It Covers and What It Doesn’t

Many clients assume cargo insurance is all-powerful. It’s not.

Standard policies often exclude damage due to poor packing, inherent vice (product defects), or acts of God. Also, if your Incoterm is EXW or FOB, you need to confirm who bears insurance responsibility—buyer or seller.

Pro tip: Encourage clients to get All Risk coverage when possible, and always clarify deductible terms in advance.

5. Learn From It

After each damage incident, we do an internal “post-mortem.” Was the packaging inadequate? Was there poor communication with the warehouse? Did the container show signs of stacking pressure?

Use these insights to avoid repeat incidents. Logistics is part science, part detective work.

In international freight shipping, cargo damage is frustrating but not unusual. The key is to respond methodically—not emotionally. Clear records, quick action, and honest analysis are your best tools.

At the end of the day, experience turns these challenges into part of your professional strength.