How do I file an insurance claim?
Filing an insurance claim typically involves filling out the insurance provider’s claim form and providing proof of loss, and depends on who is insuring your package:
- If the package is below the included-coverage threshold (see previous “Should I Insure It?” section), you need only to file with the carrier.
- If you bought supplemental insurance only for the value of the package over the included coverage threshold, you will have to file with both the carrier and the supplemental insurance provider
- If you are dealing with a single party (e.g., you insured the entire declared value through either the carrier or a third party), you need only to file with the insurance-providing party. This is how ShippingEasy’s arrangement with Shipsurance works—when you buy supplemental insurance within ShippingEasy, Shipsurance will insure the package for the full amount, making it simple to file a single claim with them if the package is lost. For more information see http://bit.ly/ShipsuranceCosts.
Insurance Proof of Loss
If the item was delivered damaged, you will need to provide proof; be sure your recipient understands your specific insurance provider’s requirements for this before receiving the package, as in some cases the damage must be reported when the package is signed for by the recipient. Also, the recipient should not discard the damaged item until the claim is paid.
If the item is not delivered, proof of pickup from your facility should be all that is required. If the item is stolen after the carrier can prove delivery, you may not be covered—be sure to understand your insurer’s policy on this. Many third-party insurers will only insure “trackable” packages.
Insurance Proof of Value
For most eCommerce shipments and most insurers, being able to demonstrate a purchase price equal to or above the declared value should be su cient proof of the item’s value. Again, double check with the insurer on their requirements.
Filing timeframe for insurance
All insurance providers have requirements for both how long you must wait before filing a claim, and the time limit on when a claim can be filed. For the complete rules—which can vary widely by shipping method—refer to the following pages:
Insurance settlement timeframe
This is the amount of time it takes for the insurer to reimburse you once you’ve filed a claim and all the required supporting documentation. The timeframe varies based on the insurer; ShippingEasy’s partner, Shipsurance, is a leader in this area, with average turnaround times of five (5) days.
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