Shipping Insurance Options and Claims

Shipping Insurance Options and Claims

Protect your shipments with insurance and know how to file claims when things go wrong.

Why Insure Shipments?

Coverage Protects Against:

• Loss during transit
• Damage to contents
• Theft
• Weather damage

When to Consider Insurance:

• High-value items
• Fragile products
• Irreplaceable goods
• Customer expectations

Insurance Options

Carrier Insurance:

AtoShip Insurance:

• Available for all carriers
• Often lower cost than carrier
• Simplified claims process
• Coverage up to $10,000

Adding Insurance

During Label Purchase:

1. Enter package details
2. Check "Add Insurance"
3. Enter declared value
4. Review insurance cost
5. Purchase label with insurance

Insurance Cost: Typically 1-3% of declared value:

$100 item: ~$1-3 insurance
$500 item: ~$5-15 insurance
$1000 item: ~$10-30 insurance

What's Covered

Covered Events:

• Package lost in transit
• Visible damage on delivery
• Missing contents
• Water damage
• Crushing

Not Typically Covered:

• Improper packaging (your fault)
• Prohibited items
• Perishables spoiled
• Delay (not damage)
• Consequential damages

Declared Value vs Insurance

Understanding the Difference:

Important:

• Declared value doesn't mean coverage
• Must purchase additional insurance
• Keep value accurate (fraud = denied claim)

Filing a Claim

When to File:

• Package marked delivered but not received
• Package visibly damaged
• Contents damaged inside
• Package lost (tracking stopped)

Claim Timeline:

How to File a Claim

Step 1: Gather Documentation

• Tracking number
• Photos of damage
• Original packaging photos
• Proof of value (invoice, receipt)
• Description of contents

Step 2: File in Dashboard

Dashboard → Shipments → Find Label → File Claim

Step 3: Submit Required Info

• Select claim type
• Upload documentation
• Describe the issue
• Enter claimed amount

Step 4: Wait for Review

• Initial review: 3-5 business days
• May request additional info
• Decision: 10-15 business days

Claim Documentation Tips

Photo Requirements:

• Outer packaging (all sides)
• Inner packaging
• Damaged item(s)
• Shipping label visible
• Date stamp if possible

Proof of Value:

• Original purchase receipt
• Invoice to customer
• Appraisal for unique items
• Comparable item listings

Claim Outcomes

Possible Results:

Payment Methods:

• Credit to AtoShip wallet
• Direct deposit (for approved amounts)
• Original payment method

Preventing Claims

Best Practices:

1. Pack properly (see packaging guide)
2. Use appropriate box size
3. Add cushioning
4. Tape securely
5. Take photos before shipping

High-Value Items:

• Double-box fragile items
• Use signature confirmation
• Consider splitting shipments
• Communicate with recipient

Insurance for Different Items

Electronics:

• Always insure (fragile + valuable)
• Photo serial numbers
• Use anti-static packaging

Jewelry:

• Insure full value
• Use discreet packaging
• Require signature
• Consider registered mail

Artwork:

• Specialty insurance may be better
• Document condition before
• Custom crating recommended

Carrier-Specific Claim Process

USPS Claims:

• File at usps.com or through AtoShip
• 60-day deadline
• Photo ID may be required
• Domestic claims easier than international

UPS Claims:

• Inspection may be required
• Keep all packaging
• File online or through AtoShip
• Professional packaging helps approval

FedEx Claims:

• Similar to UPS
• Inspection possible
• Keep damaged items 5 days
• Track claim online

Appealing Denied Claims

If Claim Denied:

1. Review denial reason
2. Gather additional evidence
3. Submit appeal within 30 days
4. Escalate if needed

Common Denial Reasons:

• Insufficient packaging
• Exceeds coverage
• Late filing
• Insufficient documentation

Insurance Best Practices

Summary:

• Insure items over $100
• Document contents before shipping
• Photograph packaging process
• Keep receipts and invoices
• File claims promptly
• Keep damaged packaging