Cargo claims are a major headache for any shipping business. In 2026, stakes are higher than ever—laws are strict, and reputations are everything. Here’s a tough, step-by-step guide for shipowners to prevent cargo claims and keep your operation running smooth.
P&I Insurance Coverage: Complete Maritime Protection & Indemnity Guide
P&I (Protection & Indemnity) insurance provides third-party liability coverage for vessel owners, protecting against claims from other vessels, cargo owners, crew members, and environmental damage. This comprehensive guide explains P&I coverage types, the P&I club mutual insurance system, cost allocation mechanisms, and how P&I differs from H&M insurance in maritime operations.
Tips for Avoiding Lawsuits in the Shipping Business
Lawsuits are a headache. As a tough shipowner, I do my best to steer clear of court. Here are simple tips to help you avoid legal trouble and keep your business strong.
Maritime Liens & Vessel Arrest: Complete Legal Guide for Enforcement
Maritime liens are statutory claims securing payment for maritime services, claims, or liabilities against a vessel. When a vessel owner fails to pay maritime claims, creditors can arrest (seize) the vessel through admiralty courts to secure payment. This comprehensive guide explains maritime lien types, priority hierarchy, vessel arrest procedures by jurisdiction, and enforcement mechanisms.
Marine Insurance Claims & Coverage Disputes: Complete Industry Guide
Marine insurance claims involve complex procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving cargo damage, vessel damage, and liability claims. This comprehensive guide explains how marine insurance works (H&M and P&I coverage), the step-by-step claims process, common coverage disputes, and how to effectively navigate insurance claim resolution through negotiation, expert determination, and arbitration.
Vessel Collision Liability & Maritime Insurance: Complete Legal Guide
When maritime vessels collide, determining who pays for damage involves complex legal analysis of fault, comparative negligence, and insurance coverage. This comprehensive guide explains how maritime collision liability is determined, what insurance covers the costs, and how these disputes are resolved through claims procedures and arbitration.
Cargo Claims Under Maritime Law: Hague-Visby Rules, Carrier Liability, and Seaworthiness Standards
The Hague-Visby Rules form the international legal framework governing cargo claims in maritime shipping. This comprehensive guide explains carrier liability, seaworthiness obligations, carrier defenses, and the practical procedures for pursuing or defending cargo damage claims. Whether you’re a shipper, cargo owner, carrier, or insurance professional, understanding these rules is essential for managing maritime cargo risk.
Essential Maritime Laws Every Shipowner Should Know
As a shipowner running a family business, knowing the law keeps your company safe. Below are the main maritime laws every shipowner in America should know. I keep this simple, clear, and direct.
Denied Cargo Claims: How to Fight Unfair Carriers and Recover Losses
Don’t be taken for a ride. That’s what happened to me. Year after year, running a water transport company in the States, watching competitors try to skate free after destroying cargo. Watching big carriers hide behind fine print and deny legitimate claims. I’ve learned the hard way: the law is on your side if you […]
When a Spouse is Injured Offshore: Loss of Consortium & Family Rights
The phone call no one expects to receive comes at the worst possible moment. Your husband has been injured on the rig. Or worse, you learn he won’t be coming home at all. In those first few hours and days, you’re not thinking about legal claims or settlement amounts. You’re thinking about how you’ll pay […]